Is Scott Boland Excited for the Ashes Series?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Scott Boland is excited about the upcoming Ashes series against England.
- He is comfortable being the 12th man if it benefits the team.
- His recent performance includes eight wickets in the Sheffield Shield.
- Boland is focused on managing emotions when bowling.
- The Australian squad's unity is crucial for success in the series.
Melbourne, Oct 21 (NationPress) Australian fast bowler Scott Boland has expressed his enthusiasm for competing against England in the prestigious Ashes series this upcoming summer at home. The 36-year-old mentioned that he is comfortable being the 12th man and stepping aside for a teammate who earns a spot in the playing XI.
Boland is optimistic about his chances of being included in the XI during the series and is aware that he will be the first option if there are any changes required in the bowling lineup.
"I would be dishonest if I claimed I wasn’t looking forward to the upcoming summer. Each summer, I aim to be part of the team and contribute. I’m still content being the 12th man if I happen to miss out, as I know I’m next in line for any shifts in the squad or if they decide to play four fast bowlers, which is unlikely in Australia.
"There’s nothing quite like being part of the Australian squad for a Test series like this. I mentioned recently that all former players will share their views, and that’s fine. Our focus is solely on our cricket," Boland told reporters at the MCG on Tuesday.
Boland, who took eight wickets against New South Wales in his latest Sheffield Shield match, referenced that game as proof of his ability to dismiss opposing batters even when they seem to have the upper hand.
"It’s not just about showcasing my skills against them. It’s more about my belief in my abilities. I strive to deliver a strong performance as a proud cricketer. That’s my main goal. I realize there will be phases where, even recently, I was conceding five to six runs an over, but I’m improving at managing my mindset around those situations.
"When you’re accustomed to playing Shield games at two runs an over and suddenly find yourself at five or six, it’s a different experience. It’s crucial to manage those emotions, and I believe I did that well the other day, coming back to bowl a quality spell," he added.