Cricket

Krejza, Watson recalled to Oz Test squad

Sydney, Dec 8 : Injured spinner Jason Krejza and all-rounder Shane Watson have been recalled to Australia’s 12-man squad for next week’s first Test against South Africa beginning in Perth.

Off-spinner Krejza has been selected subject to fitness after missing the second Test win over New Zealand in Adelaide due to an ankle injury, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

The 25-year-old hasn’t played a Test since taking 12 wickets on his debut in the final Test against India in Nagpur last month. Watson edged him out in the opening match of the NZ series in Brisbane.

Kolkata Knight Riders zeroing in on NSW batting sensation Warner

Kolkata Knight Riders zeroing in on NSW batting sensation WarnerSydney, Dec. 8 : In form New South Wales batsman David Warner has caught the attention of Indian Premier League scouts, and could turn out for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the second season of the Twenty20 competition next year.

Warner has blasted Tasmania for 165 not out (from 112 balls) and 97 (from 54 balls) over the past eight days - the latter innings contributing to NSW''s thrilling tie with the Tigers at Bellerive Oval yesterday.

Coach Nielsen says Oz team to focus on reverse swing against Proteas

Tim NielsenSydney, Dec. 8 : Australian cricket coach Tim Nielsen has admitted his pacers need to improve their ability to reverse swing, and is confident of an improved old-ball performance against South Africa.

Nielsen concedes Australia''s pace bowlers have been sluggish in identifying the precise moment to abandon conventional swing for reverse, and have paid a heavy price.

"We will play the conditions as they present themselves, and change our plans quickly if we need to," Nielsen said.

Proteas aiming to beat Aussies for the first time since 1992: Coach Arthur

Perth, Dec. 8 : South African cricket team coach Mickey Arthur has said that his team is aiming to become the first team to defeat Australia on home soil after 16 years.

The West Indians were the last team to inflict such a defeat in 1992-93.

The Proteas, who arrived in Australia on Sunday for a Test Series against Australia, appear well equipped to challenge the hosts.

Speaking to reporters at Perth Airport yesterday, Arthur spoke of the growing confidence within his squad ahead of the first Test at the WACA Ground on December 17.

ICC keeping a close watch on India, Pak in run-up to 2011 World Cup

Mumbai, Dec. 8 : The International Cricket Council (ICC) is keeping a close watch on the developments in the Indian subcontinent in the run-up to the 2011 World Cup.

According to sources, if the existing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad fail to subside in the wake of last month’s terror attacks, the ICC could have a rethink on whether to allow the tournament to take place in the region.

The toughening of stand by the Government of India towards Pakistan, following the terror attacks in Mumbai, is being viewed with some kind of seriousness in Dubai, the headquarters of the ICC.

Symonds prepares for a feisty summer against the Proteas

Symonds prepares for a feisty summer against the ProteasBrisbane, Dec. 8 : Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds is preparing for another feisty Test summer against the South Africans, following last year’s run-ins with Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh.

According to the Daily Telegraph, there is no love lost between Symonds and South Africans, whom he has labelled as "humourless".

Several of the Proteas top players have vivid memories of clashing with Symonds during Australia''s 2006 tour of South Africa, and some privately admit they cannot stand the controversial all rounder.

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