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Australia’s opening batting experiments will continue during the International Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy as the selectors decide who will partner Adam Gilchrist at the World Cup.

Gilchrist is preparing to return to international action in the tournament after missing the short trip to Malaysia, where Phil Jaques, Matthew Hayden, Simon Katich and Shane Watson were considered for the top of the order.

Hayden was the most consistent with 49 and 54, but Watson produced a superb 79 against India and is a candidate to open during the Champions Trophy. Katich, who held the role for most of last season, again failed to cement his spot in Kuala Lumpur and continues to fight for his position.

“We’ve got several options, it’s as simple as that,” Gilchrist told AAP in India. “We’re just trying a few combinations, not just in the opening role but the whole balance of the team and which way we want to go with the number of bowlers, the number of batters, and who bats where.”

Gilchrist’s position has not been questioned since he stormed back into form during last summer’s VB Series, but he said there was a bit to sort out with the other opening spot. “There’s good competition around,” he said. “Kat was applying himself well again, Matty Hayden is back into the fold, so it has meant they have had some strong competition, which will bring out the best in all the guys. I’m sure we’ll make the right decision.”

Australia came to Mumbai today to continue their preparations for the opening match of the tournament against one of the four qualifiers next week. The squad will play two practice games on Thursday and Sunday.
Source:The News

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