Finch set to take Warner’s Test spot

AARON Finch is firmly in the mix for a stunning Test debut against Pakistan in a revamped Australian cricket team.

Finch is the most successful white-ball cricketer in history never to wear a baggy green, but that could all change as Australia prepares for its dramatic changing of the guard post the sandpaper-gate scandal. It’s understood Finch’s name has been discussed by selectors and he is a prime candidate to take David Warner’s place at the top of the order in the UAE in October.

Australian coach Justin Langer is set to base the bulk of his selections on the performance of players selected for an Australia A tour of India, due to depart next week.

Finch is not in that number, but selectors appear comfortable with the cricket the 31year-old is getting under his belt in English County cricket.

No decisions have been made and Finch is one of several names in the conversation, but the Victorian is making a strong case on a number of counts. Firstly his white ball form for Australia and in England in recent months has been sublime and he is arguably the premier Twenty20 batsman in the world.

Finch has found a level of consistency in Sheffield Shield cricket that had previously deserted him, and he has scored 1278 runs from his past 19 games at an average of 41.

There may be concerns about Finch opening against a moving ball in Australian conditions, but in the UAE it’s thought he could excel against Pakistan’s spinners and force the initiative with his ability to score quickly. In a team devoid of leadership experience, Finch shapes as a vice-captaincy option or at least a key pillar of support for skipper Tim Paine. Matt Renshaw is set to open for Australia against Pakistan with the Marsh brothers Shaun and Mitchell near certain to take their places if fit.