McGrath fitness worry may test Aussies

AUSTRALIAN selectors yesterday opted for bowling cover ahead of Friday’s second Ashes cricket Test, amid doubts over Glenn McGrath’s ability to get through back-to-back Test matches with a heel problem.

South Australian speedster Shaun Tait and Queensland left-arm quick Mitchell Johnson were named in a 13-man squad for the Adelaide Test as insurance for McGrath. There was no room for leg-spinner Stuart MacGill.

The 36-year-old McGrath left the field several times during Sunday’s fourth day of the first Gabba Test to have his left heel treated with painkiller.