Winged Bird might miss tour
JACKSON Bird has had two sets of scans on his injured hamstring, placing him in extreme doubt for the South African cricket tour.
The Tasmanian seam bowler broke down playing Queensland at the Gabba and will meet with Cricket Australia officials in Melbourne today to discuss his short-term future.
Bird’s injury has reopened the issue of Chadd Sayers’ international future.
The South Australian swing bowler has never played a Test but this could be his chance.
South Africa have shamelessly campaigned for lively Test decks this summer, opening the door for crafty swing bowlers like Vernon Philander to shine.
There is a feeling that Sayers could do well on the same surfaces but Australia have always had reservations about picking medium-paced swing bowlers so Sayers’ selection cannot be taken for granted.
Tasmanian captain George Bailey felt Sayers could prosper in the four Test series if given the chance.
“He is very skilful,’’ Bailey said.
“You might have a fluke year once. To do it year in year out with different wickets, different conditions, under lights, Dukes balls, Kookaburras.
“He is obviously doing something right.
“The order they have got is pretty good.
“I reckon South Africa would probably suit him.’’
Former Innisfail police officer Luke Feldman took nine wickets for the match.