NATHAN HAURITZ insists he can establish himself on the world stage and play a major role in helping Australia retain the Ashes. The series gets under way this morning with the first npower Test in Cardiff and Hauritz has already encountered criticism as the Aussies’ sole frontline slow bowler.
The 28-year-old off-spinner may only have played four Tests for his country so far but he has already been condemned as a pale imitation of Australia legend Shane Warne. However, the New South Wales bowler claims it is unfair to compare any of the current side to their recently retired predecessors, such as Adam Gilchrist, Glenn McGrath and, of course, Warne.
He said: ‘Even when I’m 35 and playing my last game people will still talk about Shane Warne – after all he is the best-ever leg spinner. ‘It’s great Australia have had that but there are more guys coming through. ‘For me it’s a great vote of confidence to be the only spinner on tour. Ricky Ponting is a fantastic captain and has always shown faith in my ability.’ And Hauritz, who is expected to make his Ashes debut at Sophia Gardens today, laughed off claims the tourists’ lack of quality spinners will prove to be their Achilles heel. He added: ‘It doesn’t bother me if people think we’re not strong in terms of spin.
When I’m out there it’s just me against the batter, that’s all I’m interested in. I have to just concentrate on what I can do.’
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