Former Test spinner Greg Matthews has thrown his support behind Jason Krejza to retain his place in the Australian side to take on New Zealand.
With Andrew Symonds making his return to the starting eleven, the final spot in the squad is now between Krejza, who made an impressive debut in India, and Shane Watson, who replaced Symonds on the recent tour of the sub-continent.
Matthews believes that regardless of the conditions in Brisbane, Krejza must hold his spot, not only for the team’s chances of victory, but to bolster Krejza’s confidence.
“If a bloke takes 12 wickets on debut what message are you sending to him if you don’t pick the guy in the starting eleven?”
“The ball might seem around a lot up there (Brisbane) but there are a couple of you-beaut things that Jason can do."
"He can get lots of bounce and that’s what a good spinner should do."
"He can also get good purchase if it’s wet. And if over-rates are a problem, gee whiz, pick the spinner, don’t take the wind out of the boy’s sails.”
Matthews also warned that the Australians will want to be on their guard against their trans-Tasman rivals.
“It’s a pretty good toss to win up there, if they knock us over early, there is a lot of pressure on the Australian’s, some of it self made."
"New Zealand have nothing to lose, McCullum and Vettori are world class players. If they can hit the top of off-stump in Brisbane, then you beaut”
Australia are not expected to finalize their side until the morning of the Test.