New Zealand cricketer Glenn Phillips has revealed his desire to be recognized as a genuine all-rounder, admitting that his wicketkeeping duties in the 2023 IPL were his “biggest regret.” The 27-year-old has been showcasing his potential with both bat and ball, and his recent performances aim to solidify his position as a multi-faceted player.
Strong Batting and Bowling Performances
Phillips has consistently delivered impressive performances across formats. During the 2023 World Cup, he contributed significantly with six wickets in ten matches. His bowling prowess further shone through in the recent Test against Australia, where he claimed his maiden five-wicket haul, becoming a crucial factor in restricting the Australian batting line-up.
While his profile also includes wicketkeeping skills, Phillips emphasizes that this role hindered his development as a complete all-rounder. Quoted by Stuff.co.nz, he stated, “I did it [keeping] for the IPL last year â it was my biggest regret.”
Feeling Undervalued as a Bowler
The Kiwi player expressed frustration at not being consistently considered a genuine bowling option. He revealed, “I’ve definitely been caught in moments where I’m not taken seriously and then you have to get into that prove-it mindset again, which is sometimes hard to take.” He highlighted the difference in mindset required for wicketkeeping compared to approaching bowling with the confidence of a genuine all-rounder.
The recently concluded first Test against Australia presented an opportunity for Phillips to showcase his bowling talent. With New Zealand opting against a specialist spinner, he stepped up admirably, claiming his maiden five-wicket haul and restricting Australia’s progress.
Phillips attributed his success to a crucial mental shift. He stated, “It’s the first game where personally, from a mental perspective, I let myself feel that I was there to do a job, rather than to prove I could do the job. I think that mindset change really helped, especially against a side like Australia.”
Can Phillips Cement His All-Rounder Status?
Despite his impressive bowling performance, Australia emerged victorious in the first Test. However, Phillips’ fifer serves as a powerful statement of his bowling capabilities. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see if he can maintain this form and solidify his position as a valuable all-rounder for New Zealand, potentially earning the recognition he desires..
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