Australia are searching for ways to help Scott Boland counter England's aggressive batting after the paceman was targeted in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston. Coach Andrew McDonald admitted surprise at how hard England went after Boland, who conceded runs at 5.65 an over.
England's plan to treat Boland like a spinner worked, throwing him off his usual rhythm and lengths. It was the first time since 2015 that Boland had been hit for more than five runs an over in international or domestic cricket.
McDonald said the team would look at better ways for Boland to handle such aggression. Meanwhile, Australia are considering bringing Mitchell Starc back for the second Test at Lord's, starting next Wednesday.
Starc has been given clearance to support his wife, Alyssa Healy, who captains Australia in the Women's Ashes Test starting Thursday. He is expected to return to London over the weekend and press his case for selection.
McDonald said the decision to omit Starc at Edgbaston was conditions-based, with selectors opting for line and length over left-arm swing. He noted Starc understands he has a pivotal part to play in the remaining four Tests.
