Scott Boland’s impressive performance in the Sheffield Shield has bolstered his confidence ahead of the upcoming Ashes series. The paceman delivered a potent spell for Victoria, claiming five wickets against New South Wales (NSW) last Friday. This victory not only showcased his skills but also reinforced his belief in his ability to handle the pressures of Test cricket.
Boland struggled initially during the match, yet he remained focused and made a minor adjustment to his run-up that proved effective. This change enabled him to regain his rhythm and dismantle the NSW tail. “It’s definitely a stepping stone for where I want to get to,” Boland stated on Tuesday. He emphasized the importance of refining his run-up and bowling action. “That gives me confidence if I’m not quite at my best, I can still find it during a day or during a spell,” he added.
The England cricket team has previously witnessed Boland’s prowess, particularly during the Boxing Day Test four years ago, where he delivered a stunning performance with figures of 6 for 7. However, his performance in the 2023 Ashes series was less impactful, taking only two wickets across two Tests. As the Ashes approach, England’s players are expected to target Boland, making his upcoming performances critical.
Boland’s next challenge will be on November 10, 2023, when he faces NSW again, this time at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). He anticipates bowling to notable players like Steve Smith, Sam Konstas, and Kurtis Patterson. Although he is focused on the SCG match, he acknowledges that his thoughts occasionally drift toward the first Test. “I don’t want to take my foot off the pedal there,” he remarked, expressing his excitement for the summer ahead.
In a related event, Boland attended the Melbourne Cricket Club’s announcement regarding its continued support for the National Indigenous Cricket Championships and the MCG training camp for another three years. This initiative aims to promote Indigenous cricket in Australia, with Boland and Jason Gillespie being the only two Indigenous players to have represented the Australian men’s Test team. Gillespie was also present at the announcement with his son, Jackson, who is part of the Indigenous program.
“It’s great. There are not many better places to come, spend a week here, using the facilities,” Boland stated, highlighting the significance of the camp as a vital opportunity for young Indigenous cricketers. He described it as a “great stepping stone” for future generations in the sport.
Boland’s recent performances and his involvement in initiatives supporting Indigenous cricket underscore his commitment to both personal excellence and the growth of the sport in Australia. As he prepares for the Ashes, the pressure will be on to deliver once again on the international stage.
