by from_the_stands » Sat Dec 13, 2014 1:27 am
At the halfway mark of the Shield season, my report on players on my A list.
Josh Hazlewood - 3 fc wickets @ 46.33 this season (one game). He's the next bowler off the rank, although James Pattinson is ahead of him in the queue (fitness permitting). Hazlewood had a stellar BBQ Cup tourament, and is surely eyeing off a WC gig. With the crowded Test schedule the way it is, I wouldn't be surprised to see Hazlewood getting his baggygreen sooner rather than later. I reckon he'll be included in the Ashes squad next year.
Fawad Ahmed - 18 fc wickets @ 30.72 (5 games). The leggie has been instrumental for Vics in their remarkable ascendancy to the top of the Shield table. He's the leading wicket taker for the Vics thus far, and third overall. With Lyon bowling as well as he is at present, the adopted bushranger might have to wait for the Sydney Test. Should his Shield form continue after the BBL break, I reckon this geeza is a shoe in as Australia's second spinner for the Ashes.
Joe Burns - 439 fc runs @ 54.87 (5 games). Ultimately, I now think that this guy will eventually replace Chris Rogers at the top of the order. The selectors would appear to want Roger for the Ashes, but if he keeps failing, he might be pensioned off for either Ed Cowan, or this bloke.
Nathan Coulter-Nile - 4 fc wickets @ 20.00 (1 game). I do like this bloke. There are a few blokes ahead of him in terms of getting a test gig. He's a big chance to play in the World Cup. Him and Hazlewood are banging on the door. With Ryan Harris expected to retire after the Ashes, NCN might have to wait until next season to get his baggygreen.
Chris Lynn - Been out injured. For me, he's the long term replacement for Michael Clarke.The idea of Lynn, Smith and Mitchell Marsh batting at 4,5 & 6 for Australia for years to come gets more more excited than Paris Hilton.
Chadd Sayers - 12 fc wickets @ 31.50 (5 games). Admittedly, I've gone a bit cold on this bloke. I reckon his chances of a Test berth are remote.
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