Oz academy team trains at MRF Foundation

Weatherald is a part of the 12-member Australian Cricket Academy team which is on a 16-day visit to the MRF Pace Foundation here. In keeping with the name of the team he plays for, the Adelaide Strikers, the 23-year-old has an impressive batting index of 159 in the BBL. 

“Test cricket comes with a capital T in it because it tests you. Jake, who is more effective in the shorter formats, is working hard to become a Test player,” said Troy Cooley, head coach of the Cricket Australia’s National Cricket Centre.  Australia’s former opener Chris Rogers felt the explosive batsmen is inching closer to knocking on the doors of the national selectors. 

“He has been in the programme for the last few months, has taken very good strides. I think he will be pushing for Australian selection this year and there is a big future for him. He is a strong, dynamic left-handed batsman,” stated Rogers, who wore the baggy green 25 times. Another youngster who has featured in the BBL, Cameron Green, has also travelled from Down Under to get accustomed to the spin-friendly wickets in the sub-continent. “There is a lot talked (about him). He can bowl quick and bats in the top six as well. There is so much to like about him,” praised the 40-year-old. Speaking about the exchange camp, Rogers remarked it will help players get solutions to tackle various pitches when they travel overseas. 

“It’s a great experience to come here, try and find a few answers in different conditions. It was a great start today (Friday). Hopefully, this is going to help them out,” he said. 

“There is still a bit of a journey for them. I won’t be surprised if I see a couple of guys in the Australian colours in the next two or three years. If they are going to go on to represent the national team, the boys will have to get used to these spinning tracks,” he added. While emphasising on the objectives, Cooley revealed their motivation to play slow bowlers better. “We have done a lot of good work in their states. But, if you want to be an international player, you will have to come over here and play spin,” said the 52-year-old. Rogers was of the impression that his lads are conservative in their stroke-making. 

“I don’t think any of our young players really sweep enough or even use their feet to get down to the ball. It is something we will have to work on.” Glenn McGrath had travelled with the first batch to the same venue as a rookie way back in 1992. The quick bowler was appreciative of what the country has provided in the last quarter of a century. 

“There has been a great relationship between Cricket Australia and the MRF Pace Foundation. We have enjoyed what India has offered us over these years. It’s just the contrast back in Australia. It will be a great learning curve for them,” declared McGrath, Director of Coaching at MRF. 

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