Perth, Oct 04: Australian spearhead Glenn McGrath said today that he is in doubt for next week's first cricket Test against Zimbabwe at the WACA ground here. With only five days remaining to the start of the two-match series, McGrath revealed that he is still being troubled by an injured left ankle. McGrath, 33, bowled in the nets here today but pulled up sore and said he could be ruled out as early tomorrow. McGrath had surgery on the ankle after the winter series against Bangladesh and had been making good progress. But he said the ankle was tender after bowling on the hard practice wickets here. "For a fast bowler, when you've got ankle problems with your front foot, it can be a major problem," McGrath said.
He said he would not play unless he was close to 100 per cent fit. McGrath also indicated he was prepared to sacrifice the first half of the domestic summer to ensure his fitness for a grueling schedule over the next 18 months.
McGrath’s absence together with the suspension of Shane Warne would rob Australia of their top two test wicket-takers, with 921 scalps between them.
The last time the pair were absent from an Australian Test line-up was in last summer's fifth test against England, when Australia lost by 225 runs.
McGrath, 33, will have a clearer idea tomorrow of his prospects of playing in the first big clash of the Australian season. He and physiotherapist Errol Alcott will make an assessment after a nets session.
Bureau Report