ROSEAU: Australia coach Mickey Arthur vowed his team will go for the West Indies’ jugular in the third and final Test starting today even if their full throttle assault backfires.
Australia have already ensured to keep the Frank Worrell Trophy, which they have held for two decades, after winning the first Test in Barbados and then seeing the rain-hit second match in Trinidad peter out into a draw.
But Arthur said his side will continue their positive approach, which was highlighted by sporting declarations made by captain Michael Clarke in the first two games.
“I’d rather lose a Test match trying to win it than just play dull cricket, because then you don’t learn anything about your players,” said Arthur. “You want to see players stand up in pressure situations.”
Australia face a selection dilemma after fast-bowlers Peter Siddle and James Pattinson were both forced to return home with back injuries.
That means Ryan Harris, man of the match in Barbados before being rested in Port of Spain, may be recalled, while left-armer Mitchell Starc could also get the nod if the pitch looks likely to favour pace.
In Trinidad, Australia played two specialist spinners in Nathan Lyon and Michael Beer, while paceman Ben Hilfenhaus remains the visitors’ top wicket-taker with eight.
“When you lose two of your quality quick bowlers it does disrupt plans just a little bit but we cater for that.
“Lyon was outstanding and Beer did a really good job. We’ve still got the options of going with seam or spin.”
For the West Indies, Fidel Edwards, who bowled some excellent spells without luck in Trinidad, has some back soreness and is set to be placed by Ravi Rampaul.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 23rd, 2012.
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