Sydney, Nov 30  : The Australian cricket team hierarchy and sports scientists are reportedly engaged in a fierce debate over whether veteran fast bowler Ryan Harris should play the second Ashes Test in Adelaide or not.

Detailed backroom plans have been drawn up with Harris pencilled in for four of the five Tests this summer and the obvious place to rest him is in Adelaide, which would ensure he was fit and fresh for his favourite ground, Perth.

According to News. com. au, however, Australian cricket officials believe that Harris is a central factor in landing another knockout blow to an England side that is already 1-0 down in the series, and the fact that all-rounder Shane Watson is likely to be able to bowl unhindered in Adelaide will take the pressure off the pace attack, especially Harris.

The report mentioned that Harris has an outstanding record against England and since his recall to the team for the second Test at Lord's last July has taken 29 wickets in five matches at an average of under 19 apiece, adding that he was again an imposing figure at Gabba, finishing with match figures of 5-77 from 34 overs.

However, sports scientists argued that although Harris playing the second Test is a no-brainer as he has become Australia's best fast bowler at 34, he has spent more than a decade battling a multitude of injuries, adding that they believe playing Adelaide and Perth Tests in the space of 12 days would simply be too much for the veteran player. (ANI)