|
|
| October 27, 2002 | Sunday | Sha’aban 20,1423 |
Langer cleared for Ashes series
PERTH, Oct 26: England will get their first look at some of the players they can expect to meet in the Ashes series when they play their opening first-class match against Western Australia Monday.
Test opener Justin Langer and fast bowler Brad Williams have both been included in the Warriors lineup after returning from international duty.
Langer is certain to play in the first Test in Brisbane while Williams is a likely starter in the one-day series if he does not make the Test side.
England have struggled to find their best form in the first two matches on tour and Langer said they could expect another torrid encounter against his side.
“Cricket is about momentum, and therefore I hope England gain no momentum from this match,” Langer told reporters Saturday.
Langer also sounded a warning for the tourists before the Test series, saying the Australians were already setting their sights on a 5-0 clean sweep.
Australia’s only 5-0 series whitewash against England was in 1920-21 but Langer said they were hoping to do it again this series after settling for 4-1 last year.
“We would like to win 5-0,” Langer said.
Shane Warne has added his support to beleaguered Australian batsman Mark Waugh, arguing for his inclusion in the Ashes series.
“Mark is very crucial to the side, I think stats can be a little bit misleading (as to) your worth to the side,” Warne said.
Meanwhile, there was some good news in the England camp on Saturday with Marcus Trescothick saying he would play against Western Australia.
The opener injured his shoulder while fielding in the two-day match against WA which finished on Friday but hopes to play on Monday if selected. England are not expected to name their lineup until just before the match.—Reuters
|
|
|
