Australian captain Michael Clarke says he’d love to see his ODI team deputy George Bailey get his opportunity in the Test team this summer.
Clarke said the fight for the vacant No.6 batting position to face England will come down to performances, with Bailey among the contenders after excelling in India while captaining Australia’s limited overs team on the current tour.
After being ruled out of the Indian tour with a recurrence of his long-term back disc problem, Clarke is hopeful of making his playing return for NSW in Wednesday’s Sheffield Shield season opener against Tasmania in Sydney.
Clarke faces a fitness test later on Tuesday and a decision will be made on Wednesday morning about his availability.
The skipper said Bailey would have his support if selectors decided to go that way.
“I think Bailes has done an exceptional job in the last couple of years in the shorter formats and he’s leading the boys really well,” Clarke said.
“I’d love to see him get his opportunity in the Test team.
“It’s obviously going to come down to performance and who selectors think the right man is for that position but I’ve always enjoyed playing alongside Bailes.
“He’s a great fella and if they select him I’ll be extremely happy.”
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