National selector John Inverarity admits the timing of Australia's domestic Twenty20 competition could compromise the preparation of players vying for a Test berth this summer.
The Big Bash runs from December 16 to January 28, meaning a player called up for the fourth Test against India in Adelaide on January 24 may have gone more than six weeks without a first-class hit-out.
Usman Khawaja and Phil Hughes, who were both dropped for the Boxing Day Test against India, face an uphill battle to force their way back into the side given they will have a diet of just T20 cricket for the next few weeks.
Inverarity is worried that should either injuries or bad form strike the Test team against India, the replacements would not be adequately prepared.
"Of course it's of concern," Inverarity said.
"From the preparation of a Test team, the current situation is not ideal but that's the way it is.
"You've got to deal with it as best you can, it's as simple as that."
Meanwhile, Inverarity called on the nation's best batsmen to work on their bowling skills in a bid to give the Test team greater flexibility down the track.
With all-rounder Shane Watson currently sidelined, veterans Mike Hussey and Ricky Ponting have been called upon in recent times to provide bowling back-up to the four specialist bowlers.
But Inverarity wants batsmen of the future to become even more competent with the ball.
"I think all of us on the selection panel hold the view that it's very desirable to have some of your six best batsmen as decent bowlers," he said.
"You look back at some of the Australian teams when Steve Waugh was amongst the best batsmen but also a very handy bowler.
"All-rounders are like gold and also batsmen who are very competent bowlers - Greg Chappell, Doug Walters, Greg Blewett and here in Western Australia Tom Moody was a prime example.
"It does make a huge difference if a couple of your batsmen are good bowlers.
"We've talked to the national talent managers in each state and we'll certainly be emphasising that."
AAP
Tags: sport, twenty20, cricket, australia First posted December 21, 2011 19:40:16
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