One of the best wicket-keepers that the game has seen is Adam Gilchrist. The Australian, apart from his skills in the shorter formats, added a different dimension with his performances in Tests. Gilly played in the lower middle order in Tests and was good at taking the attack to the opposition. The fact that he finished with a career strike rate of above 80 is proof of this. It was in 1999 against Pakistan in Brisbane that the player made his Test debut. Here, we take a look at Australia’s playing XI when Adam Gilchrist made his Test Debut.
Openers: Michael Slater and Greg Blewett
Michael Slater and Greg Blewett were the openers in Australia’s playing XI when Adam Gilchrist made his Test Debut. Back then, Slater and Blewett opened the batting in a few games for the Aussies. While Slater played 74 Tests, Blewett finished his career with 46 games.
Middle-Order: Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist
The famed middle-order of the Australian Team was getting groomed at that time. While Justin Langer played at No.3, Ricky Ponting was yet to get his preferred spot. Gilly made his debut while batting at No. 7. He scored 81 runs in his first game and helped Australia win the match by 10 wickets.
All-Rounders: Mark Waugh and Steve Waugh (C)
Mark Waugh and Steve Waugh were the all-rounders in Australia’s playing XI when Adam Gilchrist made his Test Debut. The Waugh brothers added a lot of balance to the Australian setup in both the formats in the 90s. Steve Waugh was the skipper of the squad and Mark Waugh scored a century in the encounter.
Bowlers: Shane Warne, Damien Fleming, Glenn McGrath and Scott Muller
Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath were obviously a part of the bowling attack. They held the attack together during that phase for Australia. While Damien Fleming played 20 Tests for Australia, medium-pacer Muller could be a part of just 2 Tests for the nation.
