CRANE HAS WRECKING BALL

MASON CRANE has been tipped to make a big impact during his expected Test debut in the Ashes this winter.

Assistant coach Paul Farbrace confirmed that England plan to play two spinners at a couple of the venues in Australia.

That means Hampshire leggie Crane (left) will find himself supporting Moeen Ali after three successive call-ups against the West Indies. And Farbrace is in little doubt that the 20-year-old, who has played 25 firstclass matches including one for New South Wales last winter, has got what it takes to thrive.

“When we get to Australia there will be times when we want to play a second spinner,” said Farbrace. “There are probably a couple of occasions when you want to play two spinners.

“We all think that Mason has got what it takes to be that second spinner, which is why we’ve invested that time in him and having him in the squad over the last few games. I think when he gets that opportunity in Test cricket he will take it because he just has that bit of confidence – and that bit of character – that makes him stand out.

“When he does start playing he will fit in very quickly and the more he plays the quicker he’ll learn, but he’s got all the attributes.

“Mason has spent a bit of time chatting with Shane Warne and that’s great, but he’s the sort of lad that talks to everybody. He’s always asking questions about the game and is driven to be as good as he can be.”