George Bailey
Today was always going to be a special day for George Bailey.
But thanks to a training mishap to Australian skipper Michael Clarke, it could become even more memorable.
Bailey will today play for his country in his home state for the first time in the one-day international series decider against Sri Lanka at Bellerive Oval.
There's a good chance it will be as captain, with Cricket Australia officials saying Clarke is in ``serious doubt'' for the match due to a sprained ankle.
``It would be a nice honour, but hopefully Pup's scan comes back OK and he can end up playing,'' Bailey said yesterday.
``I'm excited to be playing my first game at Bellerive, there's no doubt about that.
``It will be nice to play in front of friends and family and nice to play at a ground that you're comfortable with. It will be another milestone for me that I'm really looking forward to achieving.''
The former South Launceston batsman from Longford will play his 18th one-day international, having scored more runs (578) since his debut than any other Australian.
The 30-year-old has been the side's consistent figure with the bat this series, topping the run-scoring table with 137 runs at an average of 34.25
``I feel like I've been hitting the ball nicely, but that's very different to going out and scoring runs,'' Bailey said.
``I was happy with how I batted in Melbourne (when he made his highest international score of 89) and the frustrating thing with Adelaide and Sydney was getting a start, starting to build partnerships and then getting out in what was pretty crucial times.
``My role is to make sure I can be there and play that match-winning innings rather than just little contributions.''
He said it was with the bat that Australia needed to improve so it could escape with a 2-2 series result against Sri Lanka, saying building partnerships was the key.
Bailey will get to share the day with his good mate Xavier Doherty, who also made his Australian Bellerive debut against Sri Lanka last summer. The left-arm spinner from George Town has yet to take a wicket in the series.
``Every time you play for Australia is quite special, but to have one of your best mates beside you is a real bonus,'' Bailey said.
``He (Doherty) bowled nicely in Melbourne and okay in Adelaide, and he hasn't bowled since.
``He's anxious to get 10 overs under his belt. I'm sure he thinks they are coming out nicely, and it would be nice if he could out in the middle and have a crack at them.''
