Kim Hughes and Geoff Lawson joined the debate over Steve Waugh's future in international cricket, saying that they saw little possibility of Waugh handing over the Test captaincy voluntarily. Waugh wasn't named in Australia's 30-man provisional squad for the World Cup, prompting speculation that his Test career might also be over after the Ashes series. Hughes suggested that the ideal time for Waugh to retire would be after the fifth Ashes Test, but the qualities which made Waugh such a dogged competitor would ensure that he didn't give up Test captaincy so easily.

"He could hold his form for a while longer," Hughes said. "And when you are on big money and are part of a successful team, it might take something from outside to call a stop." The only way, he stated, might be for the selectors to ignore Waugh's claims for the Test series in West Indies in May.

Lawson agreed with Hughes, saying that the signs were Waugh wanted to play well past this season. "But he may not be afforded that privilege," Lawson said. "Australian stars David Boon, Ian Healy and Mark Waugh (Steve's twin brother) were all given a message, because it is difficult to make the decision yourself, and I would be surprised if Steve Waugh is any different."

Waugh himself has ruled out an early retirement, saying he still harboured hopes of realising his ultimate goal – a Test series win in the subcontinent. Australia lost the series in India last year, and will have to wait till September 2004 for revenge.

"It is pretty ambitious to think about that, but if there is one thing that would entice me to keep playing, it is to win in the subcontinent."

The Australian selectors gave Waugh some reason to hope for a recall, naming him to lead New South Wales in a one-day match against England on Friday.

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