Adam Gilchrist suggests the selection of Peter Handscomb ahead of Matthew Wade

Australian wicketkeeping legend Adam Gilchrist has come up with an interesting suggestion ahead of team’s tour to Bangladesh. According to the left hander, it would be good move to give Peter Handscomb a chance as the first choice keeper which will pave the way for an extra spinner in the team. Gilchrist was inducted as the Lord’s Taverners’ national ambassador on Tuesday and he proposed the idea of leaving out Mathew Wade for the Qantas Bangladesh tour.

Gilchrist believes that choosing Handscomb ahead of Wade will be a fruitful move because of Handscomb capabilities as a middle order batsman and a wicketkeeper. Gilchrist who was an opening batsman in his career for the Kangaroos termed the idea as a ‘realistic proposition’.

Gilchrist also pointed out that Matthew Wade needs to be pushed and supported a bit at the selection table to get the best out of him. Wade remains in the plans for Australia in the long term. Handscomb was prolific in Austalia’s intra-squad practice match at Darwin this week where Steve Smith XI took on David Warner’s XI. Handscomb was a part of the Warner XI and proved his worth by scoring a brilliant ton. He also stood behind the timber for his side as the wicketkeeper.

What Gilly said:

“It’s just about balance and what you think is the right balance to get the Test match victory in the conditions you’re going to,” Gilchrist, told News Corp at the Sydney function.

“The opportunity to play the extra spin bowler, and if you can do it not necessarily at the cost of one of your seamers or an out-and-out batter, it becomes a realistic proposition.” added Gilchrist.

“He’s certainly very, very capable with the gloves and a foundation of having been a junior wicketkeeper is going to help him in regards to if he’s going to have to do any long stints with it.” he stated.

“If he’s saying he’s keen and available and happy to do it that tells me he feels he can because he’s got no need to justify his position in the team as a batsman. He’s doing that well and truly.” Gilchrist continued.