Handscomb happy to keep wicket in Bangladesh

Peter Handscomb who struck a dashing century in the first day of Australia's intra-squad match at Marrara Oval, Darwin said that he is happy to don the wicket-keeper's gloves if he is asked to do so.

The cricketer however maintained that batting is his first priority.

Steve Smith XI was 2-32 at stumps, in reply to the David Warner XI's 6-360 declared, captain Smith unbeaten on 11 alongside Glenn Maxwell (7).

Handscomb (105 from 130 deliveries) teamed up with Western Australia allrounder Hilton Cartwright (81 from 120) to move the Warner XI to a solid total against the Steve Smith XI after they found themselves in early trouble at 2-19, reports cricket.com.au.

With no backup for gloveman Matthew Wade in the touring party for Bangladesh – Handscomb could be the only option as backup wicket-keeper.

Handscomb said he was open to taking the role. "I guess it's an interesting one. I was doing some white ball keeping for Yorkshire in England as well," Handscomb said.

"Ultimately I'm happy to do it if it's good for team balance, if it opens up another position for a batter or a bowler to come into the side.

"But first and foremost I've always said that batting is my No.1."

Handscomb believes his performance on Monday will serve him well.

"Spending time out in the middle is awesome preparation for any tour but especially up here in Darwin on a wicket like that, which is hopefully something similar to what we'll get in Bangaldesh.