McGrath backs Aussie youngsters

Test great Glenn McGrath believes Australia's cricketing 'recession' will have an upside, with a rush of new talent emerging to ensure their struggles are short-lived.

The former opening bowler, who took 563 wickets in 124 Tests, has backed the likes of Ben Hilfenhaus and Doug Bollinger to feed off the success of Mitchell Johnson and re-build Australia's damaged reputation after series losses to India and South Africa.

Ricky Ponting's team head into Saturday's third Test against South Africa at the SCG 2-0 down and looking to avoid the first home series whitewash in 122 years.

"It's definitely a challenge for the Australian team at the moment but I can still see positives," McGrath said.

"There's a lot of opportunity, especially for young guys coming in. They can come in and make their mark and start a career.

"The way Mitchell Johnson's bowled this year (2008) has been sensational. He always had the potential and now he's got the confidence.

"He's done some great work and hopefully the young fellas can work around him and 2-1 would be the perfect way to finish off a series (against South Africa)."

Glenn McGrath is heartened by the astonishing figures of Mitchell Johnson in this series

Buy this photo

McGrath also warned against pensioning off injured pace bowler Brett Lee, who requires an operation on his left foot after sustaining stress fractures and will be out of action for at least six weeks.

"I've got total confidence in Brett. You saw the way he led the way when Shane (Warne) and myself retired - I think he did an exceptional job," McGrath said.

"With stress fracture it's not a good thing and to go into a game not 100% is tough work.

"Hopefully 'Binga' can have a good rest, get the problems sorted and get fit and strong and hopefully come back to his best. It's up to him how much he wants it."

McGrath expected Australia to be 2-0 up - not down - coming into the Sydney Test after boldly declaring the hosts would win every game when asked for a prediction earlier in the summer.

He now expects the cornered Australians to break out of their rut and deny the Proteas a historic series whitewash in front of the SCG faithful.

"It's a big challenge for the boys. The thing Australians do well is when you're doing it tough they get behind you and support you," added McGrath.

"The guys have had it tough and I hope they (the fans) really come out and support the boys and the boys do the business for them."