Enormous uncertainty surrounds the prospect of Marcus Harris retaining his position as David Warner‘s opening partner for the first Ashes Test, but a timely century has done the Victorian a huge favour.
Harris has compiled a very patient century on day three of Victoria‘s Sheffield Shield fixture against NSW, scoring 137 from 361 balls at Sydney’s Drummoyne Oval as the visitors set the hosts 339 to win.
However, a very simple catching opportunity was grassed by NSW youngster Matthew Gilkes at gully when Harris was on 66, with the left-hander trying to drive through the covers but edging a Sean Abbott delivery.
Harris was eventually dismissed when he was caught by Nathan Lyon at deep backward point off the bowling of Abbott while cutting a short ball.
Former Test batter Peter Handscomb also punished the NSW bowling attack, garnering 115 from 292.
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Warner and Harris are Australia’s incumbent opening batters, having combined at the top of the order against India at The Gabba in January.
But Harris’ shaky form in the Test arena – he averages just 23.77 from 10 matches – and Will Pucovski‘s precocious talent mean his place in Australia’s XI is very unstable.
Captain Tim Paine revealed on SEN radio in October that, if Pucovski hadn’t suffered another concussion, he’d have “no doubt” the 23-year-old would open with Warner in the Ashes, while also stating that Harris was considered the next man in line.
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Usman Khawaja has re-emerged as a contender to open against England, thanks to consecutive Sheffield Shield centuries over the last fortnight.
Harris’ Sheffield Shield ton against NSW included eight fours and a six.
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The 29-year-old made several centuries for Leicestershire in English county cricket during this year’s Australian winter.
The first Test of the Ashes is scheduled to begin on December 8 at The Gabba.
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