Alex Carey finds motivation in ODI omission, Improves his red ball cricket
Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey found himself on the sidelines as his team triumphed in the ODI series against India. However, he has channeled that disappointment into a renewed focus on red-ball cricket, and his sights are firmly set on dominating the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Pakistan.
Carey’s exclusion from the victorious ODI squad was a blow, but he has chosen to embrace the setback as an opportunity for growth. “It never makes it easier though to hear you’re going to be left out,” he admitted to reporters.
“You get time to reflect and then sit down and speak to each and every one of them to find out the reasons. And then all you can do is go to work and try to improve in certain areas.”
This positive mindset has already paid dividends. In the first Test against Pakistan in Perth, Carey reached a significant milestone, recording his 100th Test dismissal and contributing a valuable 34 runs with the bat.
The Aussies ultimately demolished Pakistan by a commanding 360 runs, and Carey’s performance behind the wickets played a big role in this astounding victory.
“Any setbacks, I try to use them in my favour, to learn, to grow,” said Carey. He’s clear about his role within the team, emphasizing, “My job is to do the best I can behind the stumps to try to support our amazing bowlers.”
Looking ahead to the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, Carey remains optimistic despite the forecasted rain. “Hopefully the sun can stay out, we’ll go out to work and try to win that first hour of play. I think that’s all we can do,” he said.
Carey’s unwavering spirit and dedication to improvement bode well for his future in red-ball cricket. His performance in Perth was a promising start, and his hunger for success suggests that he’s ready to make a significant impact on the Boxing Day Test and beyond.
Omission from the Australian World Cup squad must have stung, but Alex Carey appears determined to excel in red-ball cricket and reclaim his place in the ODI squad when the opportunity knocks.
Rain clouds may loom over the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan, but Alex Carey remains optimistic. He has fond memories of the MCG, having smashed a magnificent century against South Africa last summer.
This Boxing Day Test could be another stage for Carey to prove his worth with a significant score. Pakistan’s bowling attack might offer him the perfect platform to showcase his talent.