Australian bowler Michael Neser has made a strong case for his inclusion in the Ashes squad with a remarkable performance for Glamorgan. Despite being sent back to county cricket between the third and fourth Tests to work on his bowling, Neser showcased his batting prowess by scoring an unbeaten 176 against Leicestershire.
Neser’s knock came at a critical juncture for Glamorgan, as they were reeling at 7-93 on day three. However, the Queensland-born player led the team’s recovery, helping them reach a commanding total of 9(dec)-403 before the close of play on Wednesday. His innings included an impressive 25 boundaries and two sixes, with his fourth first-class century coming off a powerful shot over mid-wicket.
Reflecting on his performance, Neser expressed his delight at his career-best score, saying, It means a lot. To put that together is quite special. He also credited the team’s positive mindset and their ability to handle the challenging conditions. Neser’s batting partner, Mitchell Swepson, also contributed significantly to Glamorgan’s revival, scoring 69 runs and forming a crucial 123-run partnership for the ninth wicket.
This magnificent innings follows Neser’s previous century against Sussex in his last match before entering Australia’s Ashes camp in May. Despite his exceptional batting form, the 33-year-old is yet to feature in a Test during this year’s Ashes series. He finds himself behind the likes of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland in Australia’s bowling attack.
Neser is set to rejoin Australia’s Test squad in Manchester this weekend, with a full training session scheduled for Sunday. His best chance of appearing in a Test match is likely to be at The Oval for the series finale. If Hazlewood returns at Old Trafford next week, selectors might opt to rest him from back-to-back Tests, potentially offering Neser an opportunity to showcase his skills.
One of Neser’s competitors for a spot in the final Test could be Scott Boland, who has also been knocking on the selectors’ door with impressive performances. Another player who has caught the eye with his recent batting display is Glenn Maxwell, who made 81 runs in 67 balls on his debut for Warwickshire. Maxwell’s contribution helped set up Warwickshire’s comprehensive innings and 46-run victory over Kent.
Overall, Neser’s stunning knock reaffirms his value as an all-rounder and sends a strong reminder to the national selectors ahead of the crucial Ashes Tests. With his exceptional batting form and promising bowling capabilities, it remains to be seen whether Neser will get the opportunity to don the Baggy Green and make his mark on the Ashes series.
