The one-sided ODI series rout that Australia completed against the West Indies may have unveiled the nation’s prospective pace bowler. In his début for the nation, 25-year-old Xavier Bartlett was named man-of-the-series with astounding figures of 8 for 38 in two appearances during the 3-0 rout.
As a result of his BBL dominance in wicket-taking and contribution to the Brisbane Heat’s championship, Bartlett’s stock is on the verge of being considered for a Test career in the near future.
Similar to how fellow paceman Lance Morris has filled in for Australia’s front-line quicks during Test matches, ODI captain Steven Smith anticipated that Bartlett would shortly receive a similar treatment.
“It’s possible, there’s plenty of options out there,” he said. “We’re certainly not short of fast bowlers at the moment, you throw [Michael] Neser in there, [Scott] Boland, obviously he’s been around a lot, Jhye Richardson, he’s played a bit and he’s quality as well.”
Tuesday at Manuka Oval, Smith was effusive in his adulation of Bartlett, who tore apart the West Indies and took 4 for 21 as Australia dismissed them for 86.
“I remember facing him probably five or six years ago in the Gabba nets before a Test match…I thought ‘jeez, this guy presents a beautiful seam’, which you don’t often see,” Smith said. “I just remembered that randomly, and then seeing him come out in this series and bowl the way he did was outstanding.
“He presented that seam I spoke about, swung it and got the rewards so it looks like he’s got a bright future.”
Additionally, batting prodigy Jake Fraser-McGurk made the most of his debut with the national team, demonstrating his immense potential with 41 runs off 18 deliveries during Australia’s easy pursuit.
“It was exciting, wasn’t it? When he hits them, they certainly stay hit,” Smith said. “He’s certainly not short of confidence and it’s cool to see someone come in and at the age of 21, just play with such freedom and no fear at all.
“It’s cool to watch and I’m sure he’s gonna have some learnings along the way and things like that. But the way he’s playing right now, it’s exciting for everyone to watch.”
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