Former Australian cricketer Justin Langer has backed 'forgotten' Marcus North to follow in the footsteps of veteran star Chris Rogers and earn a Test recall despite being in his mid-30s, ahead of winter Ashes.
The 34-year-old North, who scored five centuries over 21 Tests before being dumped midway through the Ashes three years ago, had sunk to such depths last summer that he considered quitting the game after being dropped back to club ranks.
News.com.au reports that North is still in the early stages of re-establishing himself in Western Australia's Sheffield Shield line-up, which was evident in his performance during his side's draw against Victoria, with WA coach Langer describing the innings as the best he had ever seen by a West Australian.
Urging national selectors to consider North as part of their future Test plans, Langer said that Rogers is a shining example to Australian players that if he can make runs, he can earn a recall, adding that North should also be considered as he has scored five hundreds at his age.
Langer further said that if a player performs well in Australia, he should be selected despite his age, adding that if a player can open the batting like North did, he can bat anywhere in the order.
The report mentioned that Rogers' own Test career appeared over when he was dumped at the age of 30 after just one appearance for Australia, although he is now a vital part of Australia's plans for the winter Ashes after he was recalled at the age of 35 for the recent Ashes series in England.
