TEST CRICKET MATCH.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 20115, 28 November 1928, Page 13

TEST CRICKET MATCH.

THE AUSTRALIAN SELECTION.

MAILEY DISCUSSES PLAYERS. RYDER'S CHOICE WISE MOVE. (By Arthur Mailey—Copyright.} SYDNEY, Nov. 20. In choosing 12 players without nominating the 12th man, the selectors have done a wise thing. It appears to mo there are two aspirants for that position—Oxenham and Hendry. Oxenha.m has not yet played against the Englishmen, and therefore cannot bo sure of his selection unless his performance with tho Queensland team against England next week-end warrants it. Still, on the other hand, if it is true the Australian selectors advised tho New South Wales selectors not to pick Oxenham for the game which finishes to-day, they may still advise the Queensland selectors to keep him in the dark until tho first test match, and uso him as another mystery bowler. The team, with tho exception of specialists in the field, is well chosen. One of tho most important positions in the field, cover-point, is neglected. Andrews and Richardson, who are probably the best fieldsmen in Australia in that position, are not in the side, and tho fact that both can also field at silly point suggests that their absence will be keenly felt. The bowling combination is probably the best to be had at present. Much depends on Jack Grcgoiy in this department, but ho will have to reproduce his best form to bo effective on the Brisbane wicket. The northern wicket is not too sympathetic to fast bowlers. It will be interesting to see how Ron Oxenham bowls against the Englishmen. I don't think thero is a bowler in Australia who has such a deceptive flight as tho Quccnslander. His length is invariably good, and the variation of flight compels batsmen to be on the lookout, for something different. His is the most interesting selection of (ho whole team.

Bradinan's selection was very pleasing, and certainly well earned. It is to be hoped that he is not dropped down to 12th man. Apart from his batting ho is a great outfield, and also able to bowl leg breaks well enough to smash troublesome partnerships.

If Australia wins the toss and the wicket is inclined to wear during the last innings there is a possibility that Ironmonger will be a very effective bowler. The batting strength of both sides suggests that big scores will be amassed, and if such is the case the Brisbane wicket is sure to wear.

While the selection of Ryder may be a surprise to the general public it is nevertheless a wise move. Ryder's experience against the Englishmen should be of great value to the side. I believe he could have been chosen to captain his State, but for diplomatic reasons* declined. He is like both Woodfull and Richardson—a great fighter and willing to make sacrifices for his side.