McKay likely to carry drinks: Arthur

Clint McKay’s solid form in his two comeback games from a hamstring injury are unlikely to land the paceman a role in Australia’s World Twenty20 side for their opening Group B clash with Ireland on Wednesday.

McKay claimed 2-14 off three overs on Saturday in a 56-run win over New Zealand in Colombo in a warm-up game. Left-arm quick Mitchell Starc was rested and Pat Cummins led the attack against the Black Caps with a brilliant display, taking 2-13.

Two days later Cummins was given a break and Starc returned to collect 2-32 in a nine-run loss to England in a second warm-up game in Colombo.

McKay was unable to get a breakthrough (0-33 off four overs) but once again showed his variety of lengths and slower balls could be useful in the upcoming tournament.

However Australia coach and co-selector Mickey Arthur has signalled his best combination is Starc, who took 1-17 and 3-11 earlier this month in Dubai against Pakistan, and Cummins.

Pace-bowling allrounder Shane Watson, left-arm wrist-spinner Brad Hogg and allrounders Dan Christian and Glenn Maxwell complete the frontline attack.

Arthur said it was very likely that Cummins would return to the side for McKay for the Ireland game in the only change to the side which lost to England.

“We haven’t sat down and made that decision 100 per cent yet but it’s likely that will be the combination,” Arthur said on Monday night.

“Mitchell Starc bowled extremely well in Dubai. He’s swinging it.

“The best way to stop runs is by taking wickets and those two (Starc and Cummins) are genuine wicket-takers.

“Clint offers some very good variations through the middle overs.”

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