Greatest Australian Test XI of all time
Among the first entrants in the Test arena, Australia have consistently been the team to beat in the golden history of the traditional format. From 808 Tests thus far, they have notched a record 382 victories at an unparalleled win-loss ratio of 1.768. The cornerstone of their phenomenal legacy in the game stems from a firm domestic circuit.
Also Read: Greatest West Indies Test XI of all time
The Sheffield Shield, comprising of the six states in the country, has churned out world-class cricketers on a regular basis. Forming an all time Australian Test XI inevitably means that there are numerous viable contenders to choose from for each spot. Let us assemble such a formidable lineup which can dominate almost every star-studded team in the purest format of the game.
#5 Openers
The powerfully built Matthew Hayden cut an imposing figure at the crease. While his stroke-play could have a brutal effect on opposition bowlers, it was his seemingly endless reservoirs of concentration that enabled him to play significant knocks across a wide variety of surfaces. The left-hander played 103 Tests and piled on 8625 runs at an average of 50.73 with 30 centuries and 29 fifties.
Connoisseurs of the game would prefer the technically proficient Arthur Morris to take up the second opener's slot. However, Justin Langer gets the nod for his unbridled grit and battling instincts. There is also the small matter of his proven opening combination with Hayden. The southpaw's average of 45.27 might seem relatively underwhelming. However, almost each of his painstakingly compiled 7696 runs set the platform for the more flamboyant middle-order.