JL backing his men to soldier on
JUSTIN Langer has backed cricket’s “toughest pretty boy” Tim Paine and his pace attack to soldier through the pain threshold as Australia’s moment of truth arrives in Perth.
Australia faces an inaugural, historic series loss on home soil against India if it doesn’t square up on Perth Stadium’s new greentop with searing temperatures likely.
Australia’s experienced core must stand up with Langer crediting Virat Kohli’s unit for playing with more “passion” in its 31-run triumph at Adelaide Oval — India’s first in a Test series opener here.
“There’s certainly some pace and bounce. Hopefully on a wicket which is conducive to a bit of swing and seam, the bowlers will get the job done,” said Australian coach Langer ahead of the second Test starting Friday.
Paine must repeat the bravado of playing with a hairline hand fracture against South Africa last March at the Wanderers. The Australian skipper copped a nasty finger blow from India’s Mohammed Shami on Monday.
“Painey is the toughest pretty boy I have ever met,” said Langer of the 16-Test keeper-batsman, who has had seven operations since his index finger was smashed by a bouncer in 2010.
“Even if it was snapped in about four pieces, he’d still be right. He’s absolutely fine. Obviously he’s had issues with it, but he’s 100 per cent ready to go,” Langer said.
Spearhead Mitch Starc was out of sync at times in the first Test having been given a 16-day break between a firstclass clash against Queensland and the first Test. Fatigue shouldn’t be an issue for the left-armer, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood or brilliant Nathan Lyon, Langer said.
He said Australia’s top six batting time is the key to keeping his attack fresh and firing in a Perth hot-house.
“They’ve had a couple of days off and India are in the same situation,” Langer said. “That is probably the one area where we probably felt we weren’t wearing down the Indian bowlers enough this Test. It will be hot Friday and an important toss to win.”
Travis Head top-scored with 72 in 167 balls in Australia’s first innings against India — the template for his batting comrades.
Langer conceded Australia must settle on the right batting combination with Aaron Finch struggling in the opening slot with Marcus Harris. Usman Khawaja could yet open.