Scott Boland Poised for WTC Final Showdown Against South Africa

New Delhi, March 31 (NationPress) Following an outstanding display in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series versus India, Australia's fast bowler Scott Boland is gearing up for the forthcoming World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord's.

As the eagerly awaited one-off Test between Australia and South Africa draws near, both teams have commenced their preparations for this high-stakes encounter. Boland, a pivotal member of Australia's bowling lineup, is determined to earn his place in the squad for this prestigious event.

"I've been focused on that match since our qualification in January, so I'm committed to doing everything I can in the next two or three months to ensure I'm ready for that game on June 11," ICC reported Boland as stating.

The 35-year-old played an integral role in Australia clinching the 2023 WTC title, marking their first victory in this championship. Boland's five-wicket haul over two innings was crucial, especially his remarkable second-innings performance of 3-46 at The Oval, where he took down Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, leading Australia to triumph.

Boland has consistently excelled in pressure situations, most recently shining in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series held in Australia. Rising to the occasion in the absence of Josh Hazlewood, who was injured after two Tests, Boland became the third-highest wicket-taker of the series with 21 wickets in just three matches. His standout performance in the final Test in Sydney, where he achieved figures of 6-45 in the second innings, was instrumental in Australia securing a 3-1 series victory and reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after over a decade.

Currently recuperating from a knee injury sustained during the Sheffield Shield, Boland is on the mend as he anticipates a busy cricketing calendar. He faces tough competition from fellow fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc for a position in the playing XI for the final.

"I think it's about figuring out what works and what doesn't. I've only had this knee issue for eight to ten months. I believe we're approaching it correctly. I'll take a short break now," Boland remarked.

"But once I get back into action, I hope to transition smoothly, and if all goes well, I'll be ready for that Test in England and the three Tests in the Caribbean. After that, I plan to take another break and then gradually build my strength and bowling workload before the significant summer cricket season next year," he continued.

The Australian pace trio, who were absent from the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year due to injuries and personal obligations, have since returned to the field in the Indian Premier League earlier this month.

As Australia aims to defend its title and reassert its position as the world's premier Test side, first-time finalists South Africa will be eager to challenge them in what promises to be an exhilarating contest at Lord's.