Australian cricket's newest batting hope, Jake Weatherald, has declared he would welcome the infamous sledging from England's Barmy Army as one of the greatest moments of his life. The 31-year-old Tasmanian is tipped to make his Test debut, partnering Usman Khawaja at the top of the order against England in the highly anticipated First Ashes Test.
A Debut Built on Form
Weatherald's selection comes on the back of a blistering start to the Sheffield Shield season. The left-handed batter has scored three half-centuries in just six innings, continuing his form from last season where he finished as the competition's leading run-scorer. His consistent performances have finally broken down the door to Test selection after 18 months of knocking.
This opportunity means Weatherald will become Khawaja's fifth opening partner since David Warner's retirement in January. He secured his spot by beating out Sam Konstas, who made his own debut in last year's Boxing Day Test but failed to make the squad for this first Ashes encounter.
Embracing the Ashes Theatre
Despite the daunting prospect of relentless taunts from the travelling English supporters, Weatherald appears unfazed. In an interview with the ABC, he expressed a refreshing perspective on the iconic Ashes banter.
'Being sledged by the Barmy Army would be one of the greatest moments of my life,' Weatherald stated. 'It would be funny. I'll just take it on for what it is and every moment is going to be a cool experience.'
Meanwhile, the Barmy Army has already identified its primary target for the series. Stand-in Australian captain Steve Smith is set to bear the brunt of their taunts, with fans certain to reference his involvement in the 2018 Sandpapergate scandal.
Smith in the Firing Line
James Whitehouse, co-founder of the Barmy Army Perth Supporters, confirmed their plans. 'We thoroughly expect to get hammered by the Aussie fans, but we'll give it back,' he said. 'The fact that Steve Smith is captain is going to be a nice one for us, because let's face it, he's got it coming again.'
This focus on Smith is hardly surprising given his dominant record against England. The 36-year-old almost singlehandedly won the 2019 Ashes series, averaging over 110 across four Tests. He has scored 12 Test centuries against England and captained Australia to a dominant 4-0 series win in 2017-18.
Smith himself has reflected on his first Ashes series as his 'toughest' one yet, recalling a strong England side and his own development as a young player batting down the order.
The stage is set for a fiery contest as England seek their first Ashes victory since 2015 and their first series win in Australia since 2010-11. The First Ashes Test begins at Perth's Optus Stadium on November 21.
