Injury puts Holland out of action

TEST hopeful Jon Holland remains unavailable for Victoria’s opening Sheffield Shield match as the left-arm spinner recovers from knee surgery.

Holland was forced out of last month’s JLT One-Day Cup after undergoing a procedure to relieve swelling in his right knee.

He has been left out of a 12man Bushrangers squad featuring Test batsmen Peter Handscomb and Glenn Maxwell that will take on Queensland with a pink ball at the Gabba starting on Thursday.

Wicketkeeper Sam Harper is set to play his first four-day game since spending a fortnight in hospital after being hit in the head in February.

Will Sutherland, who impressed with 4-11 against NSW in the one-day tournament earlier this month, is unlikely to be considered for Shield selection until the third round as he completes his Year 12 VCE exams.

Peter Siddle and Aaron Finch are among the experienced hands set to return as Victoria looks to claim its fourth consecutive Shield title.

“We know how much hard work goes into winning the Sheffield Shield and how long the journey is, and the players and coaches are all wellprepared and ready for what is ahead,” chairman of selectors Andrew Lynch said.

“Starting on the road is never easy, so it’s crucial for us to get off to a winning start this week against Queensland.”