Australia's selectors sprang a surprise today, bizarrely choosing Victorian captain and all-rounder Cameron White to replace injured legspinner Bryce McGain in the Test squad to face India.
White has been regarded as a limited overs option in recent times, his last flirtation with a spot in the Testside when he toured India as part of the victorious 2004 team.
Since then, White has worked hard to improve his flat leg breaks, but has only been used sparingly as a bowler when in the Australian one-day and Twenty20 teams.
His more lasting impression has been made as an uncomplicated batsman capable of hitting sixes.
Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch, however, said White's experience in India - he recently captained Australia A to a limited overs series victory here - and versatility made him a worthwhile choice.
"We feel that Cameron's right-arm leg spin and experience in Indian conditions, where he has just returned after captaining the Australia A one-day team to a tournament victory, is the correct option and will provide a good balance to our slow bowling attack," Hilditch said today after arriving in India.
"Cameron's bowling has continued to improve over the past year at interstate level and his powerful batting adds extra depth and versatility to the squad.
"He has performed well in Australian colours since his return to the one-day international squad earlier this year and he has now been rewarded with inclusion in the Test squad."
His selection is another setback for NSW wrist spinner Beau Casson, who made his Test debut in the West Indies earlier this year but has since been passed over in favour of McGain, off spinner Jason Krejza and now White.
White will reach India in time to meet the team when they fly to Bangalore on Monday to prepare for Thursday's first Test in the four-match series.
