COLOMBO, Sept 30: The contrast in terms of experience could not be starker. One is a youngster with just eight Tests under his belt: the other was named one of Wisden’s five cricketers of the last century, and is preparing for his 102nd with 450 wickets to his name.

But wrist-spinners Danish Kaneria and Shane Warne will both play a major part in the Test series between Pakistan and Australia, starting with the first one in Colombo from Thursday.

But, after a false-start on his debut against England two years ago, Kaneria has generated more excitement than his senior colleagues when he has forced his way into the side.

Eight Tests have brought 38 wickets, including four hauls of five or more.

Although 25 of those scalps have come against lowly Bangladesh, Kaneria impressed with a marathon spell against New Zealand in Lahore, taking five for 110 in an innings victory.

Compare that lightning start to a Test career to that of Warne. Including a nightmare one for 150 on debut against India, the Australian managed just 14 wickets in his first eight Tests.

But Kaneria is under no illusions that this series will be his most difficult assignment yet.

“I know I have just started my career and have a long way to go but playing against Australia will be my toughest test,” he said.

“I look forward to this battle and hope it establishes me as a good spinner.”

Warne is widely viewed as being responsible for the rebirth of leg-spin, except in Pakistan where Abdul Qadir gains the credit.—PPI