Perth, Sept 25: Fast bowler Glenn McGrath looks set to be fit to lead Australia's attack in next month's first test against Zimbabwe, officials said here today. McGrath, 33, is making a sound recovery from surgery on his left ankle, a cricket Australia spokesman said. The opening match of two Australia-Zimbabwe tests starts October 09. It is the first time the African country has played a test in Australia. "Glenn and Australian team physiotherapist Errol Alcott visited the specialist yesterday and the specialist is very happy with his progress," the spokesman said. "At this stage he will be continually reviewed before the first test. He has been bowling in the nets for the past week."
McGrath is the sixth highest wicket-taker in test history with 430 scalps at 21.71 from 95 matches.
He is seeking five more wickets this summer to overtake New Zealand great Richard Hadlee and Indian star Kapil Dev on the list of all-time test wicket-takers.
West Indian Courtney Walsh heads the list with 519 wickets, ahead of Australian Shane Warne (491) and Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (459).
McGrath, who has enjoyed much success on the lively Perth pitch, will relish the opportunity of performing on it so early in the season when it is likely to offer more than usual encouragement for fast bowlers.
Bureau Report