7 months ago
164
Mahli Beardman
, a 19-year-old fast bowler, has been named as a standby player for
Australia
's
ODI series
against England. Beardman’s selection follows his standout performance in the under-19 World Cup final against India in February.
He has played just one senior professional match.
Australia's leading fast bowlers, including Pat Cummins, will miss the series in England, which has little significance.
Injuries have also sidelined several other pacers such as Spencer Johnson and Nathan Ellis. Beardman’s call-up, despite his limited experience, has surprised many in Australia.
Capable of bowling over 140 km/hr, Beardman has been mentored by Dennis Lillee, a former Australian pace icon.
Beardman expressed his disbelief at the selection call from one of Australia’s selectors.
"I started the morning off with a little message from Tony (Dodemaide)," he said, as quoted by Reuters. "I didn't think it was real, to be honest, I thought it might have been one of the boys pranking me."
If no injuries occur among the bowlers in the squad, Beardman may not get to play in the five-match series starting on Thursday. However, this selection indicates that the selectors are considering the future as senior bowlers like Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc age.
Reflecting on his promotion, Beardman said he was eager to learn from Australia's experienced pace bowlers.
"Mitch Starc and 'Hoff' (Hazlewood), it's just unbelievable knowledge and an invaluable experience, so I can't wait to get over there and soak up as much knowledge as possible," he said.
English (US)