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Justin Langer confident rookie bowlers are ready for England challenge

London: Coach Justin Langer says he has been delighted with the showings of his rookie fast bowlers and admits some tough decisions will have to be made ahead of Australia's opening ODI against England.

With Andrew Tye rested against Middlesex on Saturday, Billy Stanlake was given an opportunity to impress and succeeded, taking 2-45 and constantly unsettling the batsmen with his pace.

Ashton Agar will play at The Oval.

Photo: AAP

Kane Richardson took three wickets with Michael Neser grabbing two and Jhye Richardson taking one.

Langer confirmed Ashton Agar would start ahead of Nathan Lyon at The Oval on Wednesday but admits the make-up of the pace attack is yet to be determined.

"Traditionally in one-day cricket we have had four specialist bowlers and maybe got 10 overs out of Marcus (Stoinis) and the spinners, but the captain has plenty of options," he said.

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Giant Queenslander Stanlake certainly made an impression at Lord's and Langer said he's also been impressed with his Bulls teammate Neser.

"Billy Stanlake is six foot ten or whatever and he bowls fast," he said.

"He's a very very bright prospect obviously, and over time he'll get stronger in his body and get fitter. He'll be able to play a lot of cricket. He's a huge talent.

"The one I am really impressed with is Michael Neser. He reminds me a bit of Andy Bichel and Michael Kasprowicz.

"Great people in the team, always smiling, and they just compete. My daughters like the BBL and they like Michael Neser because he smiles all the time.

"He's a really good person to have in the team and could easily play in the first game."

Langer also said batting talent could also be a deciding factor in the make-up of the bowling attack.

"For the bowlers, if you can bat a bit at the end, that's why England have been so successful … their batting depth all the way down. I think having that depth is important," he said.

AAP

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