Michael Clarke (below, left) is tired of being asked if this is the
beginning of a new era for Australian Cricket but a series victory in Sri Lanka
and a 1-1 draw in South Africa are more than enough evidence to suggest that
they can beat New Zealand on home soil despite their side being much changed
from those games.
After their shambolic collapses against England action was
demanded, including several changes to the side and new young talent to be
promoted. Given the sheer dominance of the visitors (and now No.1 ranked test
side) with both bat and ball that may have been an overreaction but far more
promise has been shown by them since.
Nathan Lyon isn’t the answer to replacing Shane Warne (it
might be an impossible task) but his impressive debut (dismissing Kumar
Sangakkara off his first delivery, and taking 5 for 34 in Sri Lanka's first innings)
along with a good showing in South Africa and if he was to make the team it
would be a huge boost.
With David Warner, James Pattinson and Ben Cutting/Mitchell
Stark all likely for their test debut, this should rank as New Zealand’s best
chance of a victory on Wallaby soil in years, but before they get the call it
should be remembered that New Zealand aren’t going great guns.
Ross Taylor’s side have won only 4 of their last 28 tests
and came close to being beaten by Zimbabwe, with only Bangladesh below them in
the Test rankings. Aptly named wicketkeeper Recce Young is still new on the test
scene while this is only the second ever test for fast bowler Doug Bracewell and the batsman
Dean Brownlie.
The strength of Australia has fallen of late but their
bowling average (32.88) is second only to that of England on the list, and
their fortress of the Gabba has seen them go unbeaten since 1988. Given that
both teams are largely using the same mix of experience, the vote has to be
with the home side at odds against quotes.
Advice
2 pts Australia (20/21 Blue Sq)
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