Symonds likely to miss out on Zimbabwe tour

Andrew Symonds is in danger of being axed from the Australian Test squad for the forthcoming tour of Zimbabwe, according to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald.

Symonds looked as if he was back in favour after playing in the opening two Tests in Australia's 3-0 drubbing of Sri Lanka last month. However, he now may be overlooked in favour of a specialist batsman, with Michael Clarke the most likely to take his place. Trevor Hohns, chairman of selectors, indicated that Symonds was not viewed as a front-line batsman by the powers that be: "He was retained in the Test squad for Sri Lanka because of his allround package."

Brad Williams is another who could be dropped, with Glenn McGrath being back and available for selection after ankle surgery. The selectors will have to decide between Williams and Shaun Tait for the fourth fast-bowling spot behind McGrath, Jason Gillespie and Michael Kasprowicz.

Kasprowicz came back onto the international scene in Sri Lanka due to an injury to Brett Lee. He impressed with 12 wickets in the three-match series, and Hohns backed him to carry on succeeding despite the imminent return of McGrath. "I don't think they're similar, they're different types of bowlers. It just depends how the captain views it," he said. "Michael certainly made the most of the recent opportunities he's had and that's a fantastic thing for him because he's worked so hard for many years. Michael's probably bowling better than he has ever done in his career."

There is still some debate whether Australia will take 13 or 14 in the tour party, but Hohns said that a squad of 14 would be the ideal number in case of injuries.