Candidates for third Test rated after the third day of the Sheffield Shield

FOLLOWING day three of the Sheffield Shield round which will have a major bearing on the third Test team, we rate the performances of the main contenders.

Kurtis Patterson drives during his innings of 55 runs during the Sheffield Shield game between the NSW Blues and the Victorian Bushrangers at the SCG , Moore Park . Picture : Gregg Porteous

FOLLOWING day three of the Sheffield Shield round which will have a major bearing on the third Test team, we rate the performances of the main contenders.

KURTIS PATTERSON (NSW)

Patterson remains in the frame for a Test call-up despite being dismissed for 55 against Victoria. He was unlucky to be given out LBW after the ball appeared to hit him outside the line after staying low on a deteriorating pitch. Patterson has averaged 55.4 runs in Sheffield Shield this season, so he is in a strong position for selection. STEADY

NIC MADDINSON (NSW)

Hopes were high for Maddinson to impress, but he was bowled for six by another ball which kept a little low. A Test berth might be beyond him for now. DOWN

Kurtis Patterson could force his way into the Test team. Picture : Gregg Porteous

MOISES HENRIQUES — (NSW)

Dismissed for just two, his small chance of a Test call-up is now minute. DOWN

PETER NEVILL — (NSW)

Nevill scored 26 to continue his modest run of form which is hampering his chances of cementing the Test berth long term. His rival candidate Matthew Wade amassed just six runs for the Vics in his first innings. DOWN

JOE BURNS — (QLD)

His Test chances have surely gone up in smoke after yet another batting failure. Missed a straight one and was lbw for 2 to Chadd Sayers at the Gabba. Burns’ last six scores are 2, 4, 1, 0, 4 and 7. Would be a miracle if he was retained for the Adelaide Test. Confidence looks totally shot. DOWN

USMAN KHAWAJA — (QLD)

Only made 17 before being caught and bowled by Kane Richardson but his Test spot was already secured with his first-innings Shield century. STEADY

Matt Renshaw is a big chance of making his Test debut.

MATT RENSHAW — (QLD)

The big Queenslander’s claims were enhanced with an entertaining 50 off 51 balls after a stoic ton in the first innings. Has now passed 1000 first-class runs. If ever there is a time to select a raw — but ultra-impressive — young batsman, now is that time. UP

JASON BEHRENDORFF — (WA)

The Sydney-born West Aussie seamer took 5-80 against Tasmania in Perth to remind the selectors he could be an option later in the summer. UP

CAMERON BANCROFT — (WA)

Out for 11 after making just two in the first innings. Has blown his audition for an opening gig. DOWN