Date:23/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/23/stories/2008052353282100.htm

Sport - Cricket

Australia opts to bat against Windies

KINGSTON: Australia captain Ricky Ponting won the toss on Thursday and chose to bat first against West Indies in the opening cricket Test.

Australia goes into the match at Sabina Park without experienced opener Matthew Hayden who has an Achilles’ tendon injury. New South Wales captain Simon Katich takes Hayden’s place. Wicketkeeper Brad Haddin makes his debut following the retirement of Adam Gilchrist. The 30-year-old Haddin becomes the 400th player to represent Australia in Tests.

Leg-spinner Stuart MacGill and right-hand batsman Brad Hodge are recalled to the side.

The West Indies was also hit by key omissions, with captain Chris Gayle, batsman Marlon Samuels and fast bowler Jerome Taylor all missing out.

Gayle has not recovered from a groin strain. Off-spinner Amit Jaggernauth will play in the first of three Tests after an impressive regional record. — AP