The 30-year-old holds the rare record of scoring a double ton against his own country, making 219 for Leicestershire against the Australians in 2005, despite Matthew Hayden 'advising' him to get out to 'benefit the national team!' Ironically, Rogers' debut at his home town in Perth hinges on the extent of Hayden's recovery from a right hamstring injury.
"I've been waiting for this moment for a while. If it does happen next week, I do think I'll be ready," said Rogers, who missed out on a Test spot to Phil Jaques in November after being laid low by appendicitis. "I probably couldn't script it better. To be at the WACA with a home crowd -- it would be pretty amazing, I reckon."
Asked if the national selectors had asked him to be prepared for a Test call-up, he replied, "No, they keep it pretty close to their chest. I think they'll probably give Matty as much time and as many chances as they can to be fit. I am hoping for a phone call, but I will wait till I get it before I get too excited."
Rogers was trapped leg before by Harbhajan Singh in the second over after lunch for 60. "It was a good wicket, and I was disappointed when I was dismissed," he revealed. "It was pretty frustrating. But that's the way it goes. You can get out at any moment. But I thought I batted quite well and felt like I got some good time in the middle, which is the key."
His take on the Indian bowling? "Pathan bowled particularly well and swung the ball. With the Freemantle doctor (at the WACA), he'll be a huge threat," Rogers answered. "(Ishant) Sharma bowled really well and got the (first three) wickets, really hit the deck hard. I think that will be a key for them at the WACA."
His state of mind coming into this match, fully knowing that Hayden's spot might come up for grabs, was relaxed, Rogers said. "You have got to have the belief," the left-handed opener offered. "You know that you made a lot of runs last season, and if you do fail, you know it has come with you trying your best against a top-class opposition. I was fairly relaxed, I enjoyed it, and hopefully, I did myself proud."