Must-win games for Warriors at home
Veteran batsman Marcus North has identified WA's next two Sheffield Shield games at the WACA Ground as the decisive point in their season.
The Warriors go into their fourth shield game of the season against Victoria today, having earned just two points and going winless in their opening three matches. They host Queensland next week.
North has been a shining light, scoring 444 runs at an average of 111 after being moved up the order.
It is a stunning return to form for the former Test player and WA captain after he had been dropped for the first time in about a decade by coach Justin Langer last season.
North, 34, said the challenge of opening the batting had been the spark he needed.
"That has given me a new life, a new challenge, a new focus," he said. "The challenge for me now is to make sure I continue that and be consistent."
North admitted he had his doubts about whether he could get back to his best and make hundreds at first-class level again.
But with two already under his belt this season, he has not given up hope of an unlikely return to the Australian side in a similar style to Ashes opener Chris Rogers.
"I think that's a fair way off," he said.
"The most important thing for me is to keep doing my job for WA and keep contributing that way.
"I have only had three good games. That dream of playing for your country is certainly something I haven't given up on and I guess only performances will tell."
North was confident WA were close to a much-needed win.
He said they had shown great character in their two draws.
"When you are not getting wins in the column you look for different answers I guess but we have been fighting really hard," he said.
"We have still got a lot of confidence in this group, there are a lot of guys who are finding form.
"We have got two home games, which is going to be a real decisive point in our season.
"If we perform well, to our potential and compete over the next couple of weeks at home, we should be taking some points.
"You are only one win away from getting yourself right in the mix.
"We are well aware of that."
The Warriors' chances of overcoming the Bushrangers received a boost with captain Adam Voges (back) named to return alongside pace duo Jason Behrendorff and Michael Hogan.
Youngster Will Bosisto, Nathan Rimmington and Michael Beer were the players to make way for the trio.
The Victorians will be without their skipper Matthew Wade after the former Test wicket-keeper's appeal against a one-game ban for pitch tampering in their 129-run victory over Tasmania last weekend was dismissed yesterday.
Rob Quiney will captain in his absence, while Peter Handscomb will take the gloves.
TEAMS *
WA *: Adam Voges (capt), Ashton Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Ryan Duffield, Michael Hogan, Shaun Marsh, Mitch Marsh, Marcus North, John Rogers, Sam Whiteman.
Vic *: Rob Quiney (capt), Fawad Ahmed, Dan Christian, Aaron Finch, Jake Haberfield, Peter Handscomb, John Hastings, Jon Holland, David Hussey, Clint McKay, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron White.
