As Ashes 2023 is around the corner, Australia is facing a quandary regarding the choice between playing Hazelwood or Boland. The Australian Legend, Allan Border believes that Boland should be given the chance in Ashes, due to his exceptional performance in World Test Championship Finals.
Boland Scalped 5 wickets in the ICC WTC Finals, one of the highest wicket-takers in the series. He is in outstanding form, though Boland has only played 8 Test matches he has conceived 33 wickets with an economy of 2.31, which is a remarkable feat.
Moreover, Coach Andrew McDonald refused to reveal which two of Boland, Josh Hazelwood and Mitchell Starc would play when asked on SEN Whateley, with the team set to be announced by captain Pat Cummins at the toss.
“I Think He Is The Perfect Type Of Bowler For English Conditions..” – Allan Border
While former England skipper Michael Vaughan expects the attacking home side to charge Boland like a spinner, Border had a blunt message to Ben Stokes’ side if they try that tactic. He stated While talking to a reporter:
“I think Boland’s got to play. His current form is just so good, I think he’s the perfect type of bowler for English conditions. It’s just the way he hits the wicket, he kisses the wicket as I call it, it just stands the seam up. They’re talking about, ‘Oh, they’ll treat him like an off-spinner, and they’ll just charge him. Okay well, good luck with that, because he’s a bit quicker than you think.” Border told SENQ Breakfast with Pat and Heals.
Boland is in-form while Hazelwood would be returning from an injury with little assurance about his preparations and performance, thus Border is concerned with Hazelwood’s ability to remain fit, for the upcoming Ashes 2023.
“I’m just worried about Hazelwood. He’s basically played three or four games in the last couple of years and he’s been injured almost every time. It just worries me going into this Test match in particular. I’d have him (in the squad), he’ll play a role at some stage, but just this first one, you want all your bowlers to be 100 per cent fit and ready to go.” Border said.
“The other guys are fit and raring to go and he can be there (on standby). He’s a handy replacement when we need him later on in the series” Border added.
Also Read: ICC World Test Championship 2023: “India Lost The Match The Moment They Chose To Bowl..”- Basit Ali