Smith licking lips over the pacy WACA wicket

Siddle remains omitted

PERTH, Australia, Nov 12, (AFP): Skipper Steve Smith said Thursday the pace and bounce of the WACA wicket will suit Australia just fine as they bid to wrap up their Test series against New Zealand in Perth.

Smith will be seeking to capture his first Test series win as Australia’s new full-time captain in Friday’s second Test in Perth following Michael Clarke’s retirement.

He named an unchanged team following Australia’s thumping 208-run win over the Black Caps in Brisbane earlier this week.

Smith is cautiously confident, especially given most of the current New Zealand team have never played at the WACA.

“That probably helps us a little bit,” he told reporters.

“It’s a place that takes a little bit of getting used to. I think as a batsman it takes a little bit longer to get in.

“It’s nice to know some of their players haven’t played here and we’ve got a lot of experience here.

“The groundsman thinks there’s going to be quite a bit of pace and bounce, which is going to be nice.”

New Zealand, who haven’t won in Perth since they clinched their last series win in Australia at the WACA 30 years ago, must beat the home

Smith