The safe option?

Australia is in a selection conundrum going into the first test next week following the premature end of Bryce McGain’s first test tour.

Jason Krejza, the only other specialist spinner on the trip, is being belted around by India’s brightest new talents and outbowled by part-timer Michael Clarke, and it is seems the fast bowlers are taking the wickets so far on tour.

The other dilemma is the batting order. It seems Phil Jaques is going to be unluckily chopped for Simon Katich, who outbatted Jaques in the Windies and also has a terrific record against India, with his first test century in 2003 and a 99 against them in their triumphant tour of 2004. He also offers his left arm wrist spin, with which he has taken 6/65 (Albeit against Zimbabwe).

As likely as Australia is to play Krejza, it won’t be playing to their strengths. Australia’s pace battery is actually quite formidable. Brett Lee, Stuart Clark, Mitchell Johnson and Shane Watson, backed by Doug Bollinger (Who was immensely dangerous during the Australia A tour), and Peter Siddle, who has proven a handful at times with his accuracy.

Maybe Australia needs to forget the spin option and focus on its pace battery. It worked for the West Indies during the 80’s, why can’t it be a viable option now particularly when we have part time spinners who can roll their arm over if needed? Why shouldn’t the best bowlers play even if they are all fast men?

It’s something to think about come Thursday next week.