SYDNEY - Steve Waugh has given the strongest hint yet that Damien Martyn will be travelling to India with the Australian cricket team next month.

Martyn, for a long time the spare parts man of the Australian team who was only called up when others were injured, was given a ringing endorsement by his captain today.

"Damien Martyn, I think, has been the best batsman in the Australian side for the last 18 months," Waugh said.

Martyn was promoted to open the innings against the West Indies in Adelaide on Friday and he made 69 not out.

His average from three bats this summer is 132, at a strike-rate of 91.66.

Earlier this season, he stepped up to the challenge when needed for the Test team following a buttock injury to Waugh.

The performances followed on from a strong tour to New Zealand last year where he was arguably Australia's leading batsman.

While Martyn would almost earn a berth to India in his own right, the flagging form of Justin Langer will also help his cause.

Either way, Waugh suggest Martyn's on-off Test career could take a permanent look.

"He (Martyn) could no doubt end up playing regularly for Australia - he's unlucky he hasn't played a bit more Test cricket," Waugh said.

"But he'll get an opportunity - he's an excellent batsman."

© 2001 AAP