Australia getting worried (for a change)

[kabira]

LMAO...asking players not to play any cricket before WC...this is funny....I am sure they would love to skip 1st round of the WC too World Cup squad members rested Australia order players out of state final Cricinfo staff February 21, 2007 Shane Watson is one of several international players who will not represent their states this weekend ? Getty Images Australia are taking no chances on further injuries ahead of the World Cup and have ordered their squad members not to play for their states in the Ford Ranger Cup final on Sunday. Queensland had named Shane Watson and Mitchell Johnson, while Victoria were expected to play Brad Hodge in the MCG clash. Matthew Hayden was originally included in the Bulls' line-up but was ruled out when he broke a toe during his record-breaking 181 against New Zealand on Tuesday. Andrew Symonds (arm) and Brett Lee (ankle) are already in doubt for the West Indies trip and Michael Clarke is carrying a hip problem, leading the selectors to be extra-cautious with their remaining players. Andrew Hilditch, the chairman of selectors, said he had discussed the situation with Hodge, Watson and Johnson. "All three are being rested on the recommendation of the Australian coach and support staff on the basis that this is in the best interests of the Australian team as they continue their preparation for the World Cup," Hilditch said. John Buchanan, the Australia coach, said it would be disappointing for the state competition but it was a necessary precaution. "Having been a state coach I understand the position of the states and recognise that this is a premier fixture in the domestic calendar," Buchanan said. "But in this case I believe there's a bigger picture and that's the World Cup and the preparation of players in the Australian squad for that tournament." The decision means both teams will need to rethink their line-ups ahead of Sunday's game. Cameron White is still expected to lead the Victoria side as he is not in the World Cup squad.

[yoda]

Re: Australia getting worried (for a change) good move by them. ironically they want their players to rest and we want ours to play. :lmao:

[DesiChap]

Re: Australia getting worried (for a change) This will be their downfall "Fear of losing". Now the other teams are confident of knocking out the Ozzies. I would not be surprised if they do not make it to the semis. I do expect them to make it to semi's along with SAF, Ind and NZ