Scott Boland’s stellar performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy has left Australian selectors facing a tough decision ahead of the Ashes later this year.
Boland, stepping in for the injured Josh Hazlewood, played three Tests against India and claimed an impressive 21 wickets at an average of 13.19. His exploits have reignited debate over his place in Australia’s playing XI.
Former fast bowler and current South Australia coach Ryan Harris believes Boland’s form could lead to changes in Australia’s bowling lineup, even at the expense of veteran spinner Nathan Lyon.
“Scotty, as we know him, has been the go-to replacement for injuries,” Harris told 2GB’s Wide World of Sports. “But with 21 wickets at an average of 13, the selectors now face tough choices, especially with Josh Hazlewood’s availability uncertain.”
Harris acknowledged Hazlewood’s proven track record but hinted at the possibility of Australia adjusting its approach in different conditions, including Sri Lanka.
The 37-year-old Nathan Lyon, who has played 130 Tests and taken 539 wickets (seventh on the all-time list), could see his position under scrutiny.
“There might be conversations about playing four quicks and, dare I say, leaving out the GOAT (Lyon),” Harris speculated.
He added that stability would remain a priority for the selectors despite external pressures. “The inner sanctum has a plan in place. There’s a lot of cricket ahead – Sri Lanka, the World Test Championship, and even a West Indies tour – which will influence these decisions.”
Harris also backed the selectors, highlighting their consistent success despite occasional criticism. “They’ve shown they can make the right calls, even if it doesn’t always seem that way from the outside,” he concluded.