Waugh's no to four-pronged pace attack

Waugh's no to four-pronged pace attack

BRISBANE, NOV 20: Australian captain Steve Waugh virtually ruled out using four fast bowlers in the opening cricket Test against the struggling West Indies here.

``I think three will do the job.''

Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee and Jason Gillespie shape up as the likely pace trio but selectors are watching the weather conditions.

The new Gabba strip is not expected to play like a traditional Brisbane wicket after curator Kevin Mitchell battled wet weather during the past week.

``It's not your normal Gabba wicket,'' Waugh said.

``It doesn't look as even as normal and it could be hard work for the batsmen.''

Australian selectors will wait until Wednesday to trimone bowler from the 13-man squad, leaving another to carry the drinks as 12th man.

Bookies back Aussies

BRISBANE: The West Indies' woeful leadup tour form has prompted Australian punters to throw their money behind Steve Waugh's team for this week's first Test at the Gabba here.

Australian bookmakers CentreBet on Monday reported unprecedented support for the Australians after the Windies were humiliated by Victoria by an innings inside three days on Sunday in Melbourne.

Australia's quote was today shortened further as Waugh's team shoots for a record-equalling 11th consecutive Test win.

Wet weather has been rated three times more likely to stop Australia's winning streak than the West Indies.