Sydney: Australia coach Darren Lehmann Wednesday warned stand-in skipper George Bailey to make runs in his bid to cement his place in the One-Day International (ODI) side.
Bailey will likely be the vice-captain for the World Cup if injured skipper Michael Clarke becomes fit to play, but the former’s batting form will be the key in getting him a place in the side, who has not scored more than 25 runs in his last seven ODIs.
“George (Bailey) needs to make runs like everyone else in the side,” Lehmann was quoted as saying by news.com.au.
Lehmann added that the selectors are going to field the best possible side which does not necessarily mean that top names will be part of it.
The coach was a member of Australia’s World Cup-winning side in 1999 and 2003.
“The selectors will sit down and work out what the best side is when they are fit and available. George like everyone else will have to play well to play the final 11. There is no difference between the top player and the 15th player,” Lehmann said.
“We are a squad and one thing I know about World Cups is that you need a squad to win it,” added Lehmann.
IANS