Watson clinging onto Adelaide hopes

All-rounder still uncertain for 2nd Test; Starc presses claims.

SYDNEY: Shane Watson hopes to be fit to bat but will not be able to bowl if selected to play in this week’s second Test against South Africa.

The 31-year-old missed the drawn first Test in Brisbane last week because of a calf strain, but was named in a 13-man squad for the Adelaide match, which starts on Thursday, and given a chance to prove his fitness.

“At the moment every day is just about trying to get through and hoping that my calf continues to progress really well,” said Watson during training. “The most important thing is to be able to run consistently without really hurting it, so bowling at this point of time is out.”

Australia’s team management have given conflicting messages about whether he would be considered only as a batsman for the Test.

Meanwhile, left-handed top-order batsman Rob Quiney, who scored nine in his one innings on debut at the Gabba, is again on standby to replace Watson in the team. The other question mark over the Australia line-up is which three of four pace bowlers in the squad will start the match.

Meanwhile, left-armer Mitchell Starc, who missed out at the Gabba, is pressing Ben Hilfenhaus for his place in the side.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 20^th, 2012.