First Test Squad Announced

The Australian selectors have just named the squad for the First Test against Sri Lanka beginning in Brisbane next week. The squad is brimming with experience, but also has a group of relatively new faces in the Test arena. This adds youth and enthusiasm to an already strong contingent of players anxious to get back into the traditional form of the game.

It's great to see both Stuart Macgill and Brad Hogg in the mix. I am really looking forward to keeping to one or both of these guys during this season. Players throughout the world are having trouble "reading" Hoggy, whilst Stuart's record is quite amazing.

Phil Jaques also gets his chance to nail the opening spot, and he could have no better partner than Matty Hayden at this stage of his career.

Great excitement will be generated by the inclusion of Shaun Tait and Mitchell Johnson to back up Brett Lee. Add Stuart Clark and you have one of the best fast bowling groups in world cricket. I'm glad I'm on our side!

I'll be back reglarly to keep you informed of how we are going.