Paine backs duo against Indian attack

AUSTRALIAN captain Tim Paine has no reservations about Victorian duo Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch being first Test openers against an Indian pace attack he considers never better suited to Australian conditions.

Potential debutant Harris and national white ball skipper Aaron Finch, who only made his Test debut in the UAE against Pakistan last month, are shaping up as the opening combination for the first Test at the Adelaide Oval starting December 6.

It comes despite national coach Justin Langer flagging the returning Usman Khawaja from injury as an option to move to the top of the order, and Bushrangers coach Andrew McDonald suggesting Finch may not open for his state in next week’s Sheffield Shield match.

But Paine is comfortable with whatever scenario plays out, confident selectors have picked the best squad to handle all conditions.

“I think we have a good idea on the way we want to go,” Paine said of Australia’s batting line up.

“I think if ‘Finchy’ plays for us in the Test series I dare say it is going to be at the top of the order. I am not too sure and to be honest I am not too fussed (where he bats in the Shield match), that is Victoria’s decision.

“You would like to think they would help him prepare as best as they possibly could, but at the same time they have got a Shield game to win and they will pick the best side and the best line-up they think will win the game.

Having seen Harris close up at Blundstone Arena this week, where the left-hander contributed 22 and 67, Paine believes the 26-year-old has the game to succeed at the highest level.

“I have always thought Marcus was an excellent player, even when he was playing for WA, he always looked extremely talented and really dangerous. The move to Victoria, I think he has said himself he has matured as a cricketer.”