Brendan Doggett is poised to make his Test cricket debut for Australia this Friday in Perth, stepping in as the first fast-bowling debutant in four years following Josh Hazlewood’s hamstring injury. The news, initially shared by teammate Travis Head in a tense moment during a domestic match, has set the cricket world abuzz.
Last Wednesday, Doggett found himself in the chilly confines of the Bellerive dressing room in Hobart, nervously awaiting his turn to bat. It was then that Head informed him of Hazlewood’s injury, suggesting he “better get ready for the first Test in Perth.” The comment sent Doggett’s mind racing, as he recounted to reporters in Perth on Monday.
While official confirmation is pending, Doggett is expected to become Australia’s 472nd Test cricketer, marking a significant milestone both on the cricket field and culturally. He will be the first fast bowler to debut for Australia since Scott Boland in December 2021, a testament to the durability of Australia’s leading pace trio: Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Hazlewood.
The Challenge of Filling Big Shoes
The prospect of filling the void left by Australia’s renowned fast bowlers is daunting. Doggett, however, approaches the challenge with a mix of humor and humility. “I probably don’t take as many wickets as them,” he joked, acknowledging the formidable reputation of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood. Doggett describes himself as a “little bit skiddier” but aims to bring his unique style to the game.
Australia’s cricket hierarchy had hoped to avoid this scenario until after the Ashes. The age and fitness of their key players have been a concern, with strategic planning sessions in May focusing on keeping the quartet fit through the series. Yet, with Hazlewood sidelined, the depth of Australia’s pace bowling will be tested in Perth.
Doggett’s Form and Fitness
At 31, Doggett is in the form of his life. Over the past 13 matches, he has claimed 63 wickets at an average of 20.12, including seven five-wicket hauls. His recent performances for South Australia, Australia A, and Durham underscore his readiness for the Test arena.
“The last 18 months to two years for me has easily been the most successful I’ve been in terms of numbers, but also just confidence in my body, confidence in my game,” Doggett commented.
Scott Boland, who made a seamless transition to Test cricket after a decade in first-class cricket, serves as a blueprint for Doggett. Boland expressed confidence in Doggett’s abilities, highlighting his skill as a fast outswing bowler capable of long spells.
A Cultural Milestone
Doggett’s debut also represents a cultural milestone for Australian cricket. He will join Scott Boland as one of only two Indigenous Australians to play Test cricket, a significant moment for representation in the sport. In 2018, both players opened the bowling for an Aboriginal XI, commemorating the 150th anniversary of an Indigenous tour to England.
“It’ll obviously be really special for him and his family and the Australian Indigenous community,” Boland said. “I think this gives a real pathway. They can see that there’s two guys playing, and hopefully they want to take that step into playing cricket.”
Looking Ahead
While Pat Cummins is a potential candidate for Brisbane, Hazlewood’s recovery may take longer. Regardless, Doggett has earned his opportunity, and his performance in Perth will be closely watched. The Test will not only assess Australia’s bowling depth but also inspire future generations of Indigenous cricketers.
As the cricketing world awaits Friday’s match, Doggett’s debut promises to be a significant event, both on and off the field, showcasing the evolving landscape of Australian cricket.
