Touch and Go for Langer

John Buchanan and his selectors will only pick opener Justin Langer if the Australian medical staff say he is fit to play.

Questioned by reporters at the final day of the West Indies warm up match in Queensland, the Australian coach said:

“For him personally and for us as a team, we want to make sure we make the right decision.I know that he desperately wants to play and we desperately want him to play but he won’t be selected if he is unfit.”

Langer, despite suffering a broken rib courtesy of New South Wales quick Gerard Denton, is desperate to play.

“No doubt, I’m 100 percent certain I can play. I’ll probably be a bit sore for a while. I’m not trying to be a hero but it’s only pain.” said Langer, confirming Buchanan’s characterisation of being ‘a very tough little nut’.

The decision over Langers future is due to be announced on Monday.

If he cannot play, either of Mike Hussey or Brad Hodge, both seasoned campaigners at domestic level, is likely to make their test debut.