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Gilchrist calls for a consistent batting line-up

Source: ABC Sport - January 26, 2006

Acting Australian skipper Adam Gilchrist says he would like the selectors to settle on a regular batting line-up before next year's World Cup.

Gilchrist returns to the side for today's one-day match against Sri Lanka in Adelaide, but Ricky Ponting is being rested.

Gilchrist said he would like to keep opening the batting and has thrown his support behind current partner Simon Katich.

That support has come in the face of consistent calls for New South Wales opener Phil Jaques to be given a place at the top of the Australian order.

Jaques made 94 on debut for Australia in the one-day arena last Friday while deputising for the injured Katich, but has not been given a chance since with Katich recovering.

Gilchrist said there was much to be said for consistency, a quality he said Katich had shown.

"You'd have to ask the selectors what they're going to do with the order and batting positions," he said.

"But Simon's been very consistent I think, since he's come in as opener.

"He hasn't nailed a big score, he knows that but he's certainly been the one that's been the more consistent in getting the team off to a decent start."

Today's match is crucial with all three teams capable of making the tri-series final. Australia heads the table on 10 points with Sri Lanka on nine and South Africa on eight.

All three teams have played four games.