The Roar
The Roar

Advertisement

Ashton Agar added to Test squad for SCG clash

Ashton Agar has been recalled into the Test squad. (AFP PHOTO/ANDREW YATES)
30th December, 2014
18

Ashton Agar became an overnight sensation in England, now the spinner might be given a chance to dazzle locals in the fourth Test.

Agar received a surprise call-up to Australia’s Test squad for the SCG clash with India, 18 months after his last-wicket heroics at Trent Bridge.

Agar, then 19, famously made 98 and broke several Test records.

It was the highest score by a No.11 batsman and his 163-run partnership with Phillip Hughes was also a record for the last wicket.

National selectors will be more interested in his ability to turn the ball as they mull an XI for the final chapter of the four-Test series, which starts on January 6.

“He’s bowling very well at the moment,” Australia captain Steve Smith said.

“He’s a good addition to the squad. We’ll see how the wicket is in Sydney when we get there and we’ll go from there.”

Agar’s fame was best reflected by the fact his name was trending worldwide on Twitter shortly after the third Test petered out to draw in Melbourne.

Advertisement

The 21-year-old’s addition is the only change to the squad that drew with India on Tuesday at the MCG.

Smith suggested pacemen Ryan Harris, Mitchell Johnson and Josh Hazlewood were “ok” after the third Test.

Selectors may want to rest Harris, who missed the second Test due to a minor quad strain.

But the 35-year-old is keen to go again after earning man-of-the-match honours in Melbourne.

“I’m playing in Sydney, if I get picked,” Harris said.

“I had a couple of good days leading into this Test, which helped I guess.

“I felt pretty good coming in.

Advertisement

“I just lacked a little bit at the end … I couldn’t get the pace, but that’s probably more fitness than anything.”
Australia’s Test squad for fourth Test: David Warner, Chris Rogers, Shane Watson, Steve Smith (capt), Shaun Marsh, Joe Burns, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Ashton Agar.

AAP rf/gc

close