Former Australian opener Greg Blewett has backed ODI captain George Bailey to make his Test debut in the first Ashes Test in Brisbane and help bolster the leadership stock behind under-fire skipper Michael Clarke.
While Bailey has been a revelation at the international level of the 50-over game, his first-class average of 38.29 has raised questions over his ability to do the same against the red ball.
However, the Sydney Morning Herald reports that Blewett believes Bailey would be a valuable inclusion for the Ashes in an inexperienced side, saying that the player has done enough to earn a spot for Brisbane and along with veteran Brad Haddin, would provide another wise head in a young line-up.
Blewett further said that if Bailey needs to play in Tests, it is necessary for him to begin with the upcoming Ashes series, adding that the ODI captain has impressed during the one-dayers against India with his batting and leadership both, especially at a time when Australia is facing a leadership void.
