AUSTRALIA remain confident of fielding an unchanged side in the second Test against Pakistan at Headingley this week despite two fitness concerns.
Batsman Marcus North, the unlikely bowling hero in the first Test win last week, added to the team’s worries yesterday by sitting out training with a stomach upset. He joined Ben Hilfenhaus on the sidelines, the seamer having also missed practice to undergo further treatment on his shoulder injury.
North, who claimed six for 55 in the second innings of the 150-run Lord’s success, was not thought to have a serious problem while vice-captain Michael Clarke delivered an upbeat assessment of Hilfenhaus’ situation.
Hilfenhaus was hurt diving to save a boundary at Lord’s.
Clarke said: “I don’t think he bowled (on Monday). He is still seeing the physio, but he is certainly improving. He has had a few niggles over the last couple of years so he will be disappointed if he misses the Test match.
“He is in good hands with Alex (Kountouris), our physio. He has spent a lot of time with Hilfy over the last year or so, so I think he will get him on the park. Hopefully he will be right come day one of the Test match.”
The uncapped Peter George is on standby to replace Hilfenhaus while Clint McKay has also been added to the squad as cover.
George, 23, was a late addition to the initial squad as replacement for the injured Ryan Harris while 27-year-old McKay was in Leeds playing for Yorkshire.
North’s only potential replacement is another uncapped player, Pakistan-born Usman Khawaja, but Australia are hoping to avoid change. (Eurosport)