Hussey not fretting over Test spot

ESPN Cricinfo, Vadodara, India

On the eve of the seven-ODI series, during a transitional phase in his career, at a time when he should be getting acclimatised to India, Michael Hussey woke up to the news that the selectors back home are having a tough time debating his Test spot. So much for a good beginning. Hussey is coming to terms with life as a mortal, so much so that at the back of his mind, he knows how crucial these seven games are. For the moment, the batsman assures he's not losing sleep over his Test place.

"I saw the headline, but I have got these seven one-dayers against India right now," Hussey said. "You know I am sure the selectors will look at the form and performance of all the players and not just mine before they make a decision on the team, but I am not worried about that and I am focussed on these seven ODIs."

From the Bradmanesque perch, Hussey has averaged only 30.40 in his last 15 Tests, during which he scored just one century, that too in a lost cause at The Oval. Five Australian batsmen scored more than him in the series. Before the Ashes, he struggled badly against South Africa, averaging 19.72 in the six Tests at home and away.

In the same period, the last 12 months, he has not done too badly in the ODIs, averaging 40.61 in 27 matches. He will take any help that the upcoming ODIs against India can accord him. "I don't know [if runs here will help secure my place], but any good form and good runs will help," he said. "If I stick to the things I do well, then I can perform consistently for Australia."

Hussey has both the opportunity and extra responsibility in the absence of Michael Clarke. On the one hand, it makes him and Ricky Ponting the only experienced batsmen in the middle order, but it also gets Hussey a promotion. That will give him a chance to add to just the one international century over the last year. And he will know centuries might count when it comes to getting another chance in the Tests.

Australia will return home to play three Tests against West Indies, before taking on Pakistan later in the summer.