Heat of a different kind has followed Chris Rogers home from the Middle East.
After struggling against Pakistan in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Australian opening batsman needs plenty of runs if he is to end his Test cricket career on his terms.
Rogers hopes to reprise his strong performances last summer in the Boxing Day and New Year’s Tests and then bow out with next year’s Ashes tour.
The selectors have kept faith with the left-hander for now, keeping him in the side for the first Test against India from December 4 at the Gabba.
But Phil Hughes is lurking and Rogers can hear the dogs barking.
“I probably haven’t done as well of late as I could have,” he said.
“So if I don’t start well, I fully expect to have my position under pressure.
“Runs are going to be important.
“I try not to worry about it too much, but obviously it (the Pakistan series) is a bit of a black mark on a career.”
Rogers confirmed his Test berth with last week’s Sheffield Shield century against SA.
He expects Hughes to force his way into the Australian team.
“I know Phil is trying to kick down that door and he’ll get his chance soon enough,” Rogers said.
“I’m a big fan of his and hopefully a chance will open up for him.
If captain Michael Clarke fails to prove his fitness, Hughes is a candidate to take his place for the first Test.
Rogers said Hughes would adapt if he came in for Clarke and had to bat lower in the order.
“Ideally, Phil would like to open, but I’m pretty sure he’d take any spot,” Rogers said.
“The Gabba, it’s one of those wickets that feel like a bit of a new-ball wicket all the time anyway.”
While Rogers has a sharp short-term focus to score runs, the 37-year-old would love to retain his Test berth through to next year’s Ashes tour.
“How amazing would that be?,” he said when asked about playing in another Boxing Day Test.
“Melbourne and Sydney last year were probably a couple of the best weeks of my life.
“That would be fantastic to do.
“If all goes well, then I hopefully get to the Ashes and it might be a nice way to finish off.”
