‘That’s the goal’: Potential debutant Brendan Doggett unfazed by doubts over Aussie bowling
Potential debutant Brendan Doggett admits the goal is to prove the pundits wrong as Australia wrestles with injury issues ahead of the Ashes.
Doggett is looming for a a call-up after Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott were all ruled out due to injury for the series opener in Perth.
Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc are assured fast bowling spots with Doggett and Michael Neser to battle it out for the third seamer role.
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The 31-year-old was asked at the airport whether he was determined to prove wrong those who believe Australia are a big chance at losing the first Test.
Brendan Doggett speaks to reporters. Nine
“That’s going to be the goal if I do get the opportunity,” he responded.
“We’ve got Scotty and Starcy still there, they’ve done well in the past so I think we’ll be right. I am confident, if called upon I think I am ready to go.”
The 31-year-old has only played two Sheffield Shield matches this season but has 13 wickets to his name.
He took 33 last season, finishing fifth on the wicket-takers list behind Jackson Bird, Corey Rocchiccioli, Fergus O’Neill and Nathan McAndrew.
The Rockhampton-born Doggett played at the WACA in late October, finishing player of the match with 6/48 and 1/38.
He’s hoping for more bowling friendly conditions at Optus Stadium, Perth.
Brendan Doggett. Getty
“I had a bit of success there a few weeks ago so if it’s anything similar it’ll be good,” he said.
“It’s notoriously favoured fast bowlers in the past so I can’t complain.”
England had their own injury concerns leading into the first Test with seamer Mark Wood undergoing scans for a hamstring complaint.
However, in a major boost, the quick has been cleared to play and is expected to line up alongside Jofra Archer.
