Young Australian cricketer Campbell Kellaway has emerged as a promising prospect for the national Test team, showcasing his skills against some of the best bowlers in the game. Following a challenging exchange with veteran bowler Mitchell Starc, Kellaway’s performance has solidified his reputation as a potential opener for Australia.
During a recent match at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Starc, known for his aggressive bowling and sharp tongue, taunted Kellaway with a remark suggesting he might not have aspirations to play at a higher level. Kellaway responded with resilience, ultimately scoring a commendable 51 runs against Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon just weeks later. This innings came after Starc struck Kellaway on the finger with a bouncer, an incident that only seemed to fuel the young opener’s determination.
Kellaway’s recent form further supports the growing belief in his potential. He scored 82 runs for the Prime Minister’s XI against a formidable bowling attack that included capped Test players Josh Tongue, Matthew Potts, and Josh Hull on Saturday at Manuka Oval. This performance follows a strong showing against India A, where he notched an impressive 88 runs, and a match-winning 147 runs against Tasmania.
Kellaway’s adaptability against short-ball tactics has been notably impressive. His ability to counteract the bouncer strategy was on full display when he faced Hull, who, standing at 201 cm and bowling at nearly 140 km/h, attempted to unsettle him with short deliveries. Kellaway responded with confidence, dispatching two sixes and grabbing 22 runs from just two overs.
Reflecting on his experiences, Kellaway appeared on The Grade Cricketer podcast, where he recounted Starc’s mid-pitch sledge and noted the veteran’s eventual recognition of his potential. Kellaway’s rising stock in the sport has not gone unnoticed, as Chris Rogers, the Victorian coach, suggested that Kellaway could be a long-term successor to established player Usman Khawaja.
As Kellaway continues to demonstrate his capabilities on the field, cricket enthusiasts are keenly watching his journey. With each match, he solidifies his position as a player to watch, potentially making his mark at the international level soon.
