MURPHY'S LAW

A Sydney 'green top' could dash spinner's hopes that it's finally his turn to shine

- BY RORY DOLLARD

AUSTRALIA'S Todd Murphy is crossing his fingers that spin finally gets a chance to shine in the Ashes.

Seamers have dominated the series so far, with a meagre total of nine wickets falling to spin across the first four Tests while pace bowlers have helped themselves to 129. And the pitch at Sydney looks green ahead of the New Year Test.

England have yet to select Shoaib Bashir, who travelled as first-choice spinner but has fallen behind batting all-rounder Will Jacks (above) with the latter taking four wickets at an average of 61.50.