Australia at this stage will be represented by Shane Warne, Adam Gilchrist, Brad Hodge and a couple of former champions in Merv Hughes and Dean Jones. The sixth player is still be finalised but word has it that Matthew Hayden might make his way to Windy Hill.
The Essendon team is:
Matthew Lloyd: Claimed Man of the Match honors last year with a brilliant catch but some of his teammates were none too pleased saying he basically contributed nothing for the remainder of the game. Bowls medium pace, batting a big query.
James Hird: Paid the Australians great respect last year donning the cap and jacket for the coin toss with Adam Gilchrist but that is basically where it finished. He had the audacity to slap Shane Warne back over his head for six and is still talking about it.
Dean Solomon: Injured last year but claims to be a talented leg spinner. The caring and delicate way Solomon goes about his football fits well with the gentle art of leg spin bowling. Likes to work the ones and twos with the bat.
Andrew Lovett: First-time inclusion but did OK in junior ranks. Running between wickets is his strong suit. Likes to dance spin bowlers so his battle with Warne should be an interesting one.
Scott Lucas: Another new inclusion who knows only one way with the bat – over the fence at all costs. Bowls mediums and could be difficult to get the ball off if he starts taking wickets.
Brent Stanton: Quality batsman. Nickname is Humphrey (has nothing to say) so sledging not his game. Aussies certain to prey on his young mind.
The game starts at just after 1pm and entry is by gold coin donation. Money raised will go to the Essendon Football Club community program On the Ball and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
