Ben Dwarshuis Likely to Replace Mitchell Starc in Tri-Series

Ben Dwarshuis in all likelihood is expected to replace the injured Mitchell Starc in the upcoming Gillette Tri-series next month as per selector and former Australian opener, Mark Waugh.

Dwarshuis has been named in the 14-member squad which is slated to take on New Zealand and England in their home territory.

“It’s a little bit surreal. I got the call this morning from Mark Waugh letting me know that I had been picked and I was a bit sceptical at first,” Dwarshius said on Monday.

“It was very much out of the blue. Personally, I think I’ve been bowling pretty well, but it still came as a big shock to get the call from Mark Waugh.”

Waugh was of the opinion the left-arm seamer will bring variety to the attack and has proved himself as a strong contender for the Sydney Sixers. Waugh revealed selectors wanted the variety the left-armer would bring, and believed the 23-year-old had proven himself as a strong opening bowler for the Sydney Sixers.

Dwarshuis has bagged 18 wickets at an average of 23.69 which has put him on the 4^th position for top wicket-takers.

With just one KFC Big Bash League match remaining this summer, Dwarshius’ 13 wickets at an average of 23.69 puts him equal fourth among the top wicket-takers.

“He’s put on five or six kilometres in pace, he’s been hovering around the low 140s (kph) every game, and with the bowling attack you need variety in one-day cricket,” Waugh said.

“And he offers the left-arm variety. All the other bowlers are right-armers. With no Mitchell Starc there I think it’s important, we have that variety. He can swing the new ball, and he’s bowling quick. That’s the reason he got the nod. He’s been good for the Sixers, not taking a lot of wickets but with an economy rate of around six.”

Meanwhile, Dwarshuis credited Geoff Lawson for his increase in pace.

“I’ve managed to pick up an extra yard of pace. I’ve come in with a longer run-up. I did a bit of work with our bowling coach, Geoff Lawson, during the off-season to extend the run-up and give myself a bit more time, a bit more momentum at the crease.

“I’ve added about five kilometres to my bowling, which makes the difference between getting hit for four or occasionally getting a top edge when they try and play an aggressive shot. A bit of extra pace and more bounce would be the main difference that I’ve made this year.”

Here’s the Newsfeed:

COA to Review India’s Performance in South Africa Following Conclusion of Tour

ICC Announce Venues for Women’s World T20 2018