Scott Bolandthe Australian pacer, known for his accuracy and relentless accuracy, was drafted into the squad for the all-important pink ball Test. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 vs India at Adelaide. Boland replaces Josh Hazlewoodleft out with a “low grade left side injury” Already part of Australia’s 13-man squad, Boland’s inclusion adds depth and experience to the pace attack.
It marks Boland’s return to the Test arena after his last appearance during the competition Ashes 2023where he made keynote speeches. His ability to take advantage of conditions that favor seam movement and bounce makes him a perfect fit for Adelaide’s twilight spectacle, where the pink ball helps the bowlers move.
IPL link: A lesser known chapter
Although Boland is now a famous Test player, few people remember his brief but remarkable appearance Indian Premier League (IPL). Still in 2016 Rising Pune Super Giants (RPS)captain by iconic MS DhoniHe secured Boland’s services for INR 50 lakh. Although his opportunities were limited, Boland made his IPL debut against Mumbai Indians.
In his two matches for RPS, Boland bowled seven overs, taking two important wickets – Carlos Brathwaite and Sanju Samson. His economy rate of 7.71 and strike rate of 21 highlighted his efficiency in the shortest format. However, he cut short his IPL journey due to tactical adjustments after two games. Since then, he has not featured in the tournament despite growing into an elite bowler in Test cricket.
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A perfect Test career for Australia
Boland’s real claim to fame came later when he made a stunning Test debut during the 2021/22 Ashes series. Boland toppled England with figures of 6/7 on their home ground at the MCG and established himself as a bowler of the highest order.
Since then, his home Test record has been phenomenal. In just six Tests in Australia, Boland took 28 wickets at an average of 12.21 and an economy rate of 2.20. His ability to hit the right areas relentlessly along with his fine seam movement and steep bounce made him a batsman’s nightmare. Australia have won five of Boland’s six Tests at home, drawing the other. His consistency and impact, especially in high-stakes games, underlines why he is an invaluable asset to a pink-ball Test.
Scott Boland’s reign over India
Boland’s prowess was on full display during the screening World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2023 against India. Stepping in for the injured Hazlewood, Boland was the standout as Australia secured a 209-run victory.
In India’s first innings, Boland removed the in-form Shubman Gill delivery with a beauty and then work Shrikar BharatHe helped restrict India to 296. However, his most impressive performance came in the second innings where he dismantled India’s top order. Boland again sent Gill out of the game and followed it up with a crucial goal Virat Kohli 49 for, effectively ending India’s hopes of a comeback.
His compatibility figures 5/105 He played an important role in Australia becoming the World Test champion. Boland’s ability to perform under pressure makes him a significant threat in the upcoming Adelaide Test, especially against a batting line-up like India’s who rely on aggressive scoring.
A tough test for the Indians
Boland’s bowling style, built on metronomic precision and subtle variations, poses a unique challenge to Indian batters. Players accustomed to quick scoring and boundary hitting will find it hard to resist Boland’s disciplined lines and lengths, especially in conditions that require patience and precision. Known for extra zip and movement under lights, the pink ball in Adelaide will likely play to Boland’s strengths. For India, dealing with his relentless pressure will be crucial to their success in this high-stakes Test.
