One day after former Australian fast-bowling great Glenn McGrath revealed that Australia’s experienced pace attack are still kicking around so they can be part of a long-awaited Ashes triumph in England, the coach who raised them has called for them to keep leading the way as a new generation waits in the wings.
The fearsome Australian fast trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood still rank among the best bowlers in the world – but are all getting on a bit. McGrath accepted that change is coming and expects Australia’s bowling attack to continue adapting over the next few years
At the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai, McGrath pointed to a number of fast-bowling prospects who could help bolster Australia’s bowling depth. It included promising youngsters like Spencer Johnson for instance, Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett, Will Sutherland, Jack Edwards and Brendan Doggett as those who could fill into the team whenever needed.
But McGrath insisted the domestic Sheffield Shield competition in Australia is ultimately still the best judge of whether young bowlers are fit to make an international step up Impressive form at state level – he believes – will be a major factor in discovering Australia’s next Test stars.
Over the next 14 months, Australia will play at least 20 Tests in a daunting schedule that could stretch their pace depth more than ever before. With the senior quicks increasingly succumbing to injury in recent years, it is vital that reliable backup options are brought through.
McGrath also excited about future of Australian batting, including 17-yr-old Ollie Peake. The 19-year-old, who recently made his Men’s ODI debut for Australia – becoming the youngest specialist batter to do so- began displaying signs of his talent in a promising career ahead.
McGrath, who watched Peake closely during the training camp, believes the teenager now has what it takes to prosper under varying conditions. He also warned that international cricket was a different challenge, but he believes Peake possesses the characteristics to maintain his place in Australia’s plans for years.
And with Australia fielding one of its oldest squads in memory, McGrath said there are likely to be numerous chances for up-and-coming players. As long as Peake continues to develop as he has, and seizes his moments when it matters, a strong case could be made for him to place himself firmly among the contenders for the next frontier level domestic selection opening (sub-continent tours in years ahead).
