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Scott Boland targets Joe Root as Australia eyes Ashes dominance
Australia fast bowler Scott Boland has singled out England's Joe Root as the key player to contain in the upcoming Ashes series, set to begin Friday in Perth. Boland, who claimed 18 wickets at an average of 9.55 during the 2021-22 Ashes on home soil, emphasized the importance of neutralizing Root, who has never scored a Test century in Australia.
History of targeting England's best
Australia has a tradition of focusing on England's standout performers, a tactic employed by legends like Glenn McGrath and former captain Michael Clarke. Boland, who dismissed Root four times in the last home Ashes, acknowledged the strategy's effectiveness. "You always want to take down the best players," he said, noting Root's past influence as England captain.
"In the past, when Joe Root was captain, you want to make sure they have as little impact as possible," Boland told reporters. "England has quite a few good batters we'll be looking to do that to."
Boland's rise and 2023 struggles
Boland's debut series in 2021-22 was historic: 18 wickets in three Tests, including a devastating 6-7 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His career average of 16.53 from 14 Tests places him among the most economical bowlers in history-only George Lohmann and Sydney Barnes, both from the 19th century, boast better records with 50+ wickets.
However, the 2023 Ashes in England proved challenging. Against a revamped England side, Boland managed just two wickets at an average of 115.50. "I learned a lot," he reflected. "I've tweaked my game plan, but the focus is on execution." Asked if he had something to prove, Boland replied, "Only to myself."
Injury opens door for Boland and debutant
Originally slated as a reserve, Boland will now lead Australia's pace attack in the first Test after injuries sidelined captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. He is likely to be joined by Mitchell Starc and uncapped 31-year-old Brendan Doggett, who Boland praised as "not inexperienced" despite his Test debut.
"Obviously, you don't want to miss players like Josh and Pat," Boland said. "But our depth has been strong for years-no one's been able to break in. It's exciting to see new faces step up."
"Balls that would clear the fence in England have a longer journey here. The same goes for their bowlers-hitting 85 meters instead of 65 is a big difference."
Scott Boland on Australia's expansive grounds
Perth's pace and England's adaptation challenge
The first Test at Perth Stadium promises a lively pitch, testing England's aggressive "Bazball" approach. Boland suggested Australia's larger grounds-like the MCG and Gabba-could further disrupt England's batting rhythm, forcing adjustments to shot selection and timing.
Meanwhile, Cummins's recovery progress was noted after he bowled at full intensity in Monday's nets, targeting a return for the second Test in Brisbane.
