Australian fast bowler Scott Boland has declared he is ready to prove his worth on the international stage as he prepares for a crucial Ashes series, reflecting on the lessons learned from a challenging 2023 tour of England.
A Point to Prove After English Onslaught
Following his spectacular Boxing Day Test debut in 2021, where he demolished England, Boland's reputation abroad faced a stern test 18 months later. During the 2023 Ashes series in England, the Victorian paceman finished with figures of 2-231 across the two Tests he played, a stark contrast to his phenomenal career average of 16.53.
This previous struggle has set the stage for his return. His certain inclusion for the first Test in Perth even prompted former England captain Mike Atherton to suggest his presence would "hold no fear" for the English batting lineup, especially as he was replacing the injured Australian skipper, Pat Cummins.
Reflection and Refinement
Speaking in Perth on Monday, Boland confirmed he has spent considerable time analysing his performance from the last encounter. "I learned a lot. I've reflected on that tour a fair bit," Boland admitted.
While he believes his core gameplan remains sound, the bowler indicated that execution will be key. "There will be tweaks to my gameplan for what I want to do, but I don't think I need to change too much. I just need to execute a bit better," he stated. When pressed on whether he feels he has something to prove to the English side, Boland's focus remained internal, replying simply, "Only to myself."
New-Look Australian Attack for Perth
Australia's bowling lineup will have a different feel for the series opener. The team will be without two of its key pillars, with Pat Cummins injured and Josh Hazlewood ruled out due to a hamstring issue.
This means Boland and Mitchell Starc will form the experienced core of the attack, almost certainly joined by uncapped quick Brendan Doggett. Boland expressed confidence in the team's depth, highlighting the strength of Australia's bowling reserves.
"Obviously you don't want to be missing two great players like Josh and Pat," Boland said. "Our bowling stocks have been really strong for quite a while — no one has been able to break in. A new guy or two will get a look in. They're not inexperienced guys."
He specifically backed Doggett, noting his extensive first-class experience. "Brendan's played a lot of first-class cricket and he knows his game. He knows what he's going to need to do to express his skills out on the big stage."
