Monday, 2 January 2012

Clarke's Side Same for 2nd India Test


Australia have named an unchanged line-up for the second Test against India in Sydney starting on Monday night, UK time.

As expected, Ryan Harris was left out despite being named in the initial squad, with the bowling unit that performed so well in Melbourne retained.

Captain Michael Clarke has called for more consistency from his young side after their 122-run win in the Boxing Day Test.

"We've played some really positive cricket at times and some cricket we'd like to forget," he said.

"I guess this is another test of our character to be able to back up after such an impressive win in Melbourne. Our preparations have been just as good, which is a big thing for our team.

"Improving our consistency is making sure we're doing the hard work, whether we're having success on the field or not.

"Now it's about the same commitment, the same determination and the same execution as Melbourne to beat this Indian team."
Unit

Peter Siddle, James Pattinson and Ben Hilfenhaus will spearhead the attack once again and Clarke was keen to emphasise the team aspect of the fast bowling unit.

"It's tough to leave Ryan out but we've stuck with the winning team from Melbourne. The way we performed in Melbourne, it's tough to change that team.

"Patto is just starting, he's a wonderful talent don't get me wrong but I'd hate to see us put extra pressure on him.

"He's got a good crew around him as well ... I think we're building a good crew of fast bowlers and they are all just as vital as each other, I don't think there's one that is above the rest.

"They're all very talented and we need every single one of them to continue to perform if we're to go forward in Test cricket."

India will name their starting XI before the toss with Virat Kohli expected to make for Rohit Sharma to make his debut in the middle order.