Defensive approach pays off for Head

TRAVIS Head says learning that defence can be his best form of attack has been the catalyst behind his rise to a Test debut tomorrow.

The South Australian has played more first- class matches than any 24- year- old in the country, but narrowing the gap between promise and actual performance remains a work in progress.

Head and Aaron Finch are guaranteed their maiden baggy green caps for the first Test against Pakistan in Dubai.

Marnus Labuschagne is also firming for a shock blooding, although veteran Peter Siddle may stop the debutant party from becoming a foursome as he pushes Michael Neser for his spot in the attack.

Worn pitches used in the recent Asian Cup present an ominous challenge for Australia, but Head has worked hard at closing the gap against spin.

“The shift is being a little older and realising if I spend time out in the middle and bat for longer periods of time, I’ll be able to score runs,” he said.

“That’s been the major shift, and the forward defence.

“It’s been really consistent in my game and it’s meant I’ve been able to spend time out in the middle.

“Continuing to work on my game against spin. I have had the opportunity in India a few times. It’s starting to spin a bit and I’m just working really had.

“It’s nice to find that consistency in my game. I can continue to get better.”

It’s anticipated Head will bat at No. 5 for Australia with Tim Paine likely to want to try to split up the left- handers in his line- up by having Mitchell Marsh at No. 4.

Head admits it hasn’t fully sunk in that he is about to make his Test debut. “No, not really,” he said. “I feel in really good condition. I’m playing really well. I feel fit and ready to go.

“I’ll relax now, get the work in, make sure I’m ready and prepared.”