Could Brendan Doggett Make the Ashes Squad After His Impressive Sheffield Shield Comeback?
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Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Nov 4 (NationPress) South Australia fast bowler Brendan Doggett is convinced that his recent surge of wickets could not have arrived at a more opportune moment, as Australia gears up to unveil its squad for the Ashes series against England.
After being on the periphery of the national team for over a year, Doggett made a significant impact upon returning from a hamstring injury, claiming seven wickets against Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield, which included an impressive 6 for 48 in the first innings.
“This was my first outing of the season with the red ball,” Doggett informed reporters on Tuesday. “The timing to achieve a six-for couldn’t have been better.”
The 31-year-old bowler first received a Test call-up in 2018 during the series against Pakistan in the UAE, and most recently was named as cover for Josh Hazlewood during last year's home series against India.
Doggett was also included in the squad for the World Test Championship final against South Africa in England earlier this year.
That selection came after an outstanding domestic season, where he played a crucial role in helping South Australia secure their first Sheffield Shield title since 1995-96, taking 33 wickets at an average of 24.15 and achieving match figures of 11 for 140 — the best-ever in a Shield final.
Despite his recent achievements, Doggett mentioned he has not yet received any communication from selectors in anticipation of the squad announcement for the first Ashes Test, commencing November 21.
“No news so far,” he stated. “I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for quite some time, so if I do receive a call to join that squad, I’ll be prepared. We’ll see what unfolds.”
Doggett recognizes the intense competition for a fast-bowling spot in the current Australian lineup, which is led by Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood—a trio he deeply respects.
“We boast the finest bowling attack in world cricket, and we have done so for an extended period,” Doggett remarked. “It’s simply fantastic for me to share a dressing room with these world-class bowlers and observe their professionalism and resilience.”
“It’s beneficial for Australian cricket—those players have clinched nearly every trophy imaginable. I could choose to feel sorry for myself, but instead, I embrace the opportunity to learn from these legends.”
“They’re destined to be remembered as the greatest in the game, so it’s quite amazing to share space with them.”