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Gilly keeps options open

Source: The Australian - October 10, 2006

Adam Gilchrist welcomes the competition for the role of his opening partner in this month's Champions Trophy.

Queensland paceman Shane Watson, who is being groomed for the vital No.6 batting role in the Ashes series, was trialled as an opener in last month's one-dayers with West Indies and India in Malaysia.

While Gilchrist enjoyed a well-earned rest at home in Perth, Watson scored an impressive 79 against India and 18 against West Indies at the top of the order.

New South Wales left handers, Phil Jaques (two and 25) and Simon Katich (36, 22, nine and 25), also opened in Malaysia as did Matthew Hayden, who made 49 and 54 to boost his hopes of a World Cup recall.

While Jaques and Hayden are not part of Australia's 14-man Champions Trophy squad, Katich and Watson have made the journey and will be keen to score heavily in two practice matches, in Mumbai on Thursday and Sunday, ahead of the opening Group A game with a qualifying side tomorrow week.

"We've got several options, it's as simple as that," said Gilchrist.

"We're just trying a few combinations, not just in the opening role but the whole balance of the team and which way we want to go with the number of bowlers, the number of batters, and who bats where.

"There's probably a bit to sort out with the opening spot and it proves there's good competition around," added Gilchrist, a dual World Cup winner.

"Kat was applying himself well again, Matty Hayden is back into the fold, so it has meant they have had some strong competition which will bring out the best in all the guys.

"I'm sure we'll make the right decision."

Australia also plays England on October 21 in Jaipur and India in Mohail eight days later.

The squad trained here overnight and will fly to Mumbai today.

- GREG BUCKLE