As the much-anticipated Ashes series draws near, former England captain Michael Vaughan has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world with his daring statement. Vaughan confidently asserted that the English batsmen would comfortably go after Australia’s rising star, Scott Boland, in the upcoming battle for cricket supremacy.
With the first Test just around the corner, the Australian camp is grappling with a selection dilemma between Boland and the experienced Josh Hazlewood. While Hazlewood’s credentials are well-established, Boland’s recent performances have thrust him into the spotlight and earned him recognition.
Baseball to work against Boland
Boland’s impressive five-wicket haul in the ICC World Test Championship final against India at The Oval caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. However, Vaughan believes that the English batters will unleash their aggressive brand of cricket, known as ‘Bazball,’ and take advantage of Boland’s bowling style.
“They’ll come out dancing. Scott Boland’s length, they’ll be playing him like a spinner,” Vaughan stated during an interview with Fox Cricket. He further explained how the English batsmen would exploit Boland’s predictable line and length, looking to dominate the on-side by stepping down the track.
Boland over Hazlewood?
Meanwhile, former Australian cricketer Mark Waugh weighed in on the discussion, backing Boland to make the cut ahead of Hazlewood. Waugh pointed out that having four tall, right-arm seam bowlers, including Cameron Green, might not be the ideal combination for the Australian team. Therefore, he advocated for Boland’s inclusion to provide variety and balance to the bowling attack.
The notion of Hazlewood potentially missing out on the opening Test would have seemed absurd not long ago, but Waugh’s prediction adds another layer of intrigue to the selection dilemma. Boland’s rapid rise and the desire for a varied bowling attack could see the seasoned Hazlewood on the sidelines for the series opener.
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