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Tait to make Test home debut; Rogers in
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Jan 15, 2008, 18:25

Shaun Tait will make his home Test debut in the third Test against India in Perth Thursday, while Chris Rogers will make his full debut for the injured Matthew Hayden.

Tait has been in the squad for the first two Tests but missed out in Melbourne and Sydney as Australia opted to play a balanced attack of three pacers and spinner Brad Hogg.

But for Perth, renowned as one of the quickest pitches in the Test world, Tait will make up a four-man pace attack. Michael Clarke and Andrew Symonds will back them up with spin. Tait’s only two Tests came on the 2005 Ashes tour but he has suffered a series of injuries since then.

“I don't think there's any doubt that with Tait, (Brett) Lee and (Mitchell) Johnson we can rattle them,” Australia captain Ricky Ponting said of his frightening attack, which also includes seamer Stuart Clark, in a report on Cricket Australia’s website.

“I think what it does give us as far as fast bowling goes is a really good balance and mix.

“Tait will be used in short spells to unsettle the batsmen. I think as we've seen through his career that he's a wicket-taking machine. Brett will also be an impact bowler.

“Having four quicks gives us lots of options as for ways we can use him, and Taity will certainly come into calculations with the new ball.”

Rogers gets his chance after Hayden failed to recover from a hamstring injury. While India may feel relieved as Hayden has scored centuries in the opening two Tests that Australia have won, Rogers’ opportunity is probably overdue.

“We played a game against him on the Ashes tour in 2005 when he was playing for Leicester and he made 250 against us or something, and I was very impressed with what I saw that day,” Ponting added.

“It was only two months ago that it was down to Jaques and Rogers for that first opening spot in the team, and Jaques got the nod. Rogers had his injury setbacks but the games he's played since he's been back in the side have been pretty consistent and he's got some runs, so he deserves his opportunity.”

India are expected to recall their explosive opener Virender Sehwag, who should prosper with his natural game of taking on the fast bowlers on true and bouncy pitches.

“I still have to have a final look at the pitch but in all probability Sehwag will come in and we are considering the option of bringing a third seamer into the team,” India skipper Anil Kumble said.