Australia might be without their world-class all-rounder at the Gabba but New Zealand say they have one of their own who is about to take Test cricket by storm – fearless fighter Doug Bracewell.
Black Caps skipper Ross Taylor on Wednesday boldly predicted Bracewell, the nephew of former coach and spinner John Bracewell, would become one of the best all-rounders in the game.
The injured Shane Watson stands with South African veteran Jacques Kallis as the best of the current generation, but the powerful 21-year-old has already made an impression in just one month as a Test player.
He bowled New Zealand towards victory in a memorable debut in Zimbabwe with 5-84 in the second innings this month, before belting Australia A’s bowlers all around Allan Border Field with a lusty unbeaten 73 last week.
Bracewell, who loves to dig the ball in short and intimidate batsmen, was also the pick of the Black Caps bowlers in their tour match with 4-87 on the flat Albion wicket.
Taylor said the youngster would find the bouncy, fast Gabba much more to his liking and backed him to team well with Tim Southee, veteran spearhead Chris Martin and spinner Daniel Vettori to take 20 Australian wickets.
“He’s an exciting talent who not only can bowl fast but is a handy all-rounder,” Taylor said.
“He’s only 21 – I’m sure in years to come will be one of the best all-rounders in the world.”
Bracewell, whose father Brendon also played for New Zealand, was picked more on the gut feel of coach John Wright, who loves his competitiveness, rather than great numbers at domestic level.
“He thinks about his bowling a lot more than I thought he did a couple of years ago,” he said. “That’s impressive for a youngster.
“He had success in his debut against Zimbabwe but I’m sure he’ll be looking forward to what will be more bouncy conditions than the low, slow Bulawayo wicket.”
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