News

Ashes 2021: Cameron Green welcomes step up for ‘world class’ Alex Carey

Written by Shreyas Vyas

All-rounder Cameron Green has backed ‘world-class’ Alex Carey to come good in Test cricket as it looks likely that the wicketkeeper will replace Tim Paine in Australia’s playing XI for the opening Ashes Test in Brisbane next week.

Notably, Paine stepping away from cricket for an “indefinite mental health break” left Australia without a wicketkeeper for the Ashes series. Green believes that Carey’s ODI experience will help him when he makes his Test debut for Australia.

Cricket Australia confirmed on Wednesday that Josh Inglis had returned to Western Australia, leaving Carey, who has played 83 short format internationals, set to make his Test debut against England at the Gabba next Wednesday.

“Alex has been around for quite a while now in that international set-up and I’m sure all the confidence he’s gained from playing all the one-dayers will hold him in good stead,” Green told reporters in Queensland on Wednesday.

“The experience that he brings, he’s got a really good record in one-day cricket, he’s really held that position down really well. Both the guys they could have gone for are world-class.”

Green made his own Test debut in Adelaide during the India series last December, going on to average 33.71 over four tests with a high score of 84.

“I think heading into the Test summer last year, I was a bit down on confidence — obviously the last few years I hadn’t bowled much and had a few restrictions,” he said.

“So I’m sure this year, I’ve played most bowling games and that will hold me in good stead.

“There won’t be as many nerves flying around this year, I’m really looking forward to it and hopefully, I can help out.”

About the author

Shreyas Vyas