Batsmen’s fate rests on perfect pitch
FEW batsmen have ever prayed for a spicy WACA deck, but Peter Handscomb’s fate may rest on a return to the fast bowling paradise of old.
Darren Lehmann says the pitch in Perth will decide whether all-rounder Mitchell Marsh gets a call-up for the third Test, although the dilemma selectors face over Handscomb’s future is more complicated than a call between specialist batsman and all-rounder.
No one has said that Handscomb is the man under the gun, but the fact Shaun Marsh has nailed his opportunity at No.6 leaves virtually no other option if selectors want the fifth bowling option offered by Marsh.
Australia’s selectors are in strong form this summer, however, Handscomb v Marsh shapes as the toughest call.
Lehmann says it will come down to conditions and whether it’s the batting paradise Perth highway that’s been rolled out in recent years – where the attack will need all the help they can get – or the Dennis Lillee batter’s graveyard WACA of old – where an all-rounder won’t be so important.
For a batsman as out-ofform as Handscomb, he’d want to be careful what he wishes for, but a lighting-fast, bouncy deck might be his best hope.
“We just want to have the ability to get 20 wickets. If the three and Nathan can do that so be it. If we decide to go with an extra one it would be for that reason. (It’s not about protecting the quicks),” Lehmann said. “We’ve got all the reports back and JL (Justin Langer) has been really impressed with (Marsh).
“His batting has been exceptional all summer and he’s led from the front as captain. He deserves his chance.
“Other people might be unlucky to miss out but Mitchell fills the role we need for this particular Test match.”
Even though Marsh’s potential inclusion is being framed around “horses for courses”, the ramifications run deeper.
Handscomb was backed in 12 months ago as a pillar a new-look Australian team could build itself around.
Since being handed that assignment, Handscomb has built himself a strong Test batting average of 47.
If the axe falls on a player with a body of work as consistent as Handscomb’s – no matter the reasons – then it has the potential to create an atmosphere where no one feels safe.
WE JUST WANT TO HAVE THE ABILITY TO GET 20 WICKETS. IF THE THREE AND NATHAN (LYON) CAN DO THAT, SO BE IT. DARREN LEHMANN