Paine eyes potential Test debut

Tim Paine is hopeful of making his Test debut next month after being called in to Australia's one-day side to replace the injured Brad Haddin. The uncertainty over Haddin's recovery time for his elbow problem means that Paine could easily be kept on in the squad after their games against England, when they will then play two Tests against Pakistan.

"I think it's a possibility," Paine told the Mercury of a potential baggy green. "He [Haddin] is hopeful he'll be right for the two Tests but at the same time I don't think he is going to take any chances with the Ashes very close around the corner.

"That is something that might work in my favour. I'm sure if he's not 100% he won't risk it because I know speaking to him he is obviously very keen to be part of the side that wins back the Ashes so that is something he certainly won't be jeopardising."

Paine, 25, has played 17 ODIs since stepping into Australia's No. 2 wicketkeeping role last year. If he plays the two Tests in July he will be the second Australian gloveman to win a Test call-up due to a Haddin injury, after Graham Manou was a late replacement for the Edgbaston Ashes Test last year.

Paine has been around the playing group regularly over the past year and was part of the ICC World Twenty20 squad, although he didn't play a game in the Caribbean. His strong performances in the one-day team when opportunities have arisen earned him a Cricket Australia contract and he is looking forward to another chance in the starting line-up.

"It is very exciting," he said. "Obviously this is another opportunity to play for your country and do well and if I can do well it puts me in good stead for the future. I'm looking forward to going and being part of the side and being more comfortable around the group. It is going to be very enjoyable."