BGT: Boland Reflects on a Perfect Dream Debut at the MCG
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New Delhi, Dec 25 (NationPress) As he prepares for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australian fast bowler Scott Boland reflected on his impressive six-wicket haul during his debut at the iconic stadium, stating it was a day when everything went perfectly.
In the 2021 Boxing Day Test, Boland achieved an astonishing 6-7 as Australia overwhelmed England by an innings and 14 runs, securing the match and successfully defending the Ashes. "It’s amusing. From my childhood, all I ever wanted was to play Test cricket, and then as I walked off at lunch, I thought, ‘Wow, I’m glad that’s over.’"
"I anticipated it would be a tough day. I still can’t quite comprehend it. I bowled only around 24 balls or so. I suppose all those years spent playing for Victoria on less favorable wickets contributed to that success. It all came together on that one day," Boland shared with The Sydney Morning Herald on Wednesday.
Boland steps into Australia's squad following Josh Hazlewood's calf injury that ended his series. Previously, he participated in the Adelaide Test against India, where he took five wickets, leading Australia to a ten-wicket victory.
"I would love to play every match. However, I am content with my role in the team. I recognize that ahead of me are three of the finest fast bowlers in Australia’s history. Test cricket is demanding on the body. I feel there will always be some natural rotation due to minor injuries or general fatigue from extensive bowling."
"Last year was somewhat unusual as those three bowlers managed to play seven Tests consecutively without any issues. It demonstrates their excellence. They were managing to take extra days off by quickly dismissing teams," he added.
Boland concluded by detailing how he prepares to bowl even before he receives the ball in a match. "I can’t afford to deliver any poor balls. My long-time bowling coach for Victoria, (former Australian bowler) Mick Lewis, always emphasized not having any warm-up deliveries at the start of a spell."
"I prefer to bowl a bit during lunch or tea breaks to ensure I’m ready when it’s my turn. You might notice that I always run through my run-up before starting my spell. This is just to ensure my run-up speed is adequate and that I feel comfortable as I approach the first ball."
"Having played 11 Tests now, my goal is to play as many as possible. I want to be prepared for any opportunities that arise, wherever they may be globally. I’ve immensely enjoyed the past three years representing Australia, and I aim to continue for as long as I can," he expressed.
