Former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne has said that there is no need for the countrys cricket administrators or selectors to ring alarm bells over the lack of spinners, as there is enough talent waiting to be tapped.
Melbourne, Feb.28 : Former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne has said that there is no need for the country's cricket administrators or selectors to ring alarm bells over the lack of spinners, as there is enough talent waiting to be tapped.
Giving his views on the issue after Brad Hogg's announcement that he was retiring from international cricket, Warne was quoted by Fox Sports as saying that though he was surprised, it would give more chance for a new face to make a name for himself.
"When anyone retires it gives an opportunity to different players, whether its (WA spinner) Aaron Heal, (Victorian) Bryce McGain, Xavier Doherty from Tasmania is bowling pretty well, and Nathan Hauritz for New South Wales. There's a few options there for the selectors," Warne said.
With Stuart MacGill still to prove his match fitness following surgery to cure a wrist problem, the spinning berth for the upcoming tour of Pakistan - if it goes ahead - is a problem area for Australian selectors.
And Warne said while MacGill would be the first option if fit, fellow Victorian McGain could be the surprise packet after a consistent first class season.
"MacGill's the best option if he's fit. But if he's not fit for the next tour, the Australian selectors might take three or four spin bowlers and try get them all to work together. I think Bryce McGain has probably been the standout spinner and probably one of the best-performed players in shield cricket this year," Warne said.
Warne also warned selectors not to expect another spinning legend to fall out of a tree in Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth or Brisbane - urging them to be patient as young players developed their craft.
Meanwhile, Hogg has hinted he is preparing to retire from Australian cricket altogether, despite leaving the door ajar to continue his career with Western Australia next season.
Hogg is being strongly linked with the rebel Indian Cricket League format, which would mean he would forfeit all right to play international cricket.
ANI