Top six batsmen will decide series against South Africa: Arthur

Sydney: Australia has asked ground staff in Brisbane to produce identical net conditions to the pitch that will be used at the Gabba, leaving nothing to chance as their batsmen face the world’s most formidable fast bowling attack.

Michael Clarke’s team will attempt to replace South Africa as the No.1 Test nation over three Tests and hopes to do so with two of the contests on pace-friendly wickets in Brisbane and Perth. Pacer friendly wickets are likely to suit the Proteas’ trio of Dale Steyn, Vernon Philander and Morne Morkel, ranked first, second and ninth respectively on the ICC bowling list. Australia’s coach Mickey Arthur is intent on ensuring his batsmen are properly prepared for what will be directed at them from November 9, The Sydney Morning Herald reports. He said the challenge of Steyn and company would be the most imposing confronted by emerging Test openers Ed Cowan and David Warner. “We’ve actually asked that the Gabba nets replicate the middle. It’s going to be about the batters – it’s going to be about which top six can adapt better and which top six is going to be more consistent over a three-Test series,” Arthur said. “I think both top sixes are in for a real baptism of fire and it`s going to be a real good opportunity for some of our top six especially to test themselves against two really world-class bowlers. If they come out on top after that, they can look forward to a really good, long Test career,” he said. ANI