 The selection of Michael Beer for the third Ashes Test match has even surprised a man who was a national selector two months ago. Beer, a left arm orthodox, is chosen for the Perth Test, although it is possible that selectors play all pace attack consisting of four men. Beer's insertion has been met with harsh criticism, from many. Considering the situation of the series, the selection has become even more controversial. Australia trail the series by 1-0, with three Tests to go.
Talking to an Australian Newspaper, Hughes said that he was completely shocked
by the decision. He said that he was a part of the selection structure for five
years but didn't know of Beer. He said given the country's selection process,
Beer must have done something special to gain selector's attention in the matches
he played this year. Hughes went on further to say that when someone told that
a left arm Western Australian has been picked, he immediately thought of Aaron
Heal. He was much surprised after he heard the team and found Beer's name in it.
After the Xavier Doherty debacle, Andrew Hilditch, leading the selection
committee said that a left arm spinner will be a good choice not only for Ashes
but also in the future. Doherty was dropped after just two Tests in which he
took two three wickets and had an appalling bowling average of 102. Steve O'Keefe
who was a part of Australia A vs. England in November, was considered to be
the likely replacement but he was unexpectedly ignored.
Merv Hughes also raised this point by telling the newspaper that Beer wasn't
picked for the tour game three weeks before, instead the selectors chose Steven Smith and Steve O'Keefe. In view of that, he said, it is a huge surprise
as there were some players ahead of Beer in recognition to the national colors.
Hughes however said that he has not followed any matches this year, so he cannot
be sure if Beer is better than O'Keefe and Smith or not.
Hughes defended the selectors saying that everybody was calling for some shake
ups after Adelaide nightmare. And when the changes have been made, everybody
is asking questions. He said such double standards in reviewing selectors' decisions
are not right. Merv Hughes also backed Michael Beer and said he will
be thrilled to watch him do well.
Stuart MacGill, the former Australian leggie, lashed out at selectors for including
Michael Beer, he said that the bowler doesn't have enough first class games (only
five) in the bag to be selected for such crucial series. Michael Beer himself
said that he is delighted but did not see it coming.
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