by FlyingHigh » Fri Jul 19, 2019 4:20 pm
I reckon Harris and Head deserve first crack, and can only benefit by batting with Smith. Harris did really well last summer given he had to open with Finch for a while. It is time for both, however, to convert those starts into scores, especially Head, or else Hookesy's words about his own 82/83 summer might be applicable here.
Starc will be in the side to start with for sure. If Root doesn't want to bat three and with their top order not setting the world on fire since Cook retired, Starc should be able to grab those couple wickets in the first five overs.
The selectors (and I) like Marnus' character, and I wouldn't be surprised if they fitted him in at 5 or 6 for a bit of steadiness.
My XI would be
Warner
Harris
Khawaja
Smith
Head
Labuschagne
Paine
Cummins
Starc
Hazelwood
Lyon
Bancroft to come in at three if Khawaja injured, Patterson at 5 or 6 if Head or Marnus don't make the grade.
I don't see Carey being good enough to bat in the top six. Seven, as keeper, fine, if and when that time comes.