Nightmare of the 2023 Ashes series not overwhelming Scott Boland as he prepares for first Test
A heroic display on debut at the MCG will be a match that Scott Boland will never forget. But the pressure to replicate his past efforts in the 2025 Ashes series is not overwhelming the Australian fast bowler.
It has not been the easiest run since that match at the G' four years ago for Boland, with his next meeting against England in 2023 seeing rival batters truly attack his bowling.
Boland claimed just two wickets in the last series, with Australia still retaining the urn. England players have expressed their hope to tear his bowling apart again this year.
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But the lessons that he learned during that 2023 series have paved the way for his revised game plan that could lead to another heroic performance.
"I learned a lot," Boland said, reflecting on the 2023 series.
"I've reflected on that tour a fair bit. It has been two years.
"There will be tweaks to my game plan for what I want to do, but I don't think I need to change too much. I just need to execute a bit better.
Nathan Lyon embraces teammate Scott Boland during the WTC final. ICC via Getty Images
Asked if he has anything to prove, Boland had a simple reply.
"Only to myself," he said.
Even though his form was not at its best two years ago and the taunts from English players are growing louder, Boland is confident in his ability to get the job done.
In fact, he was not afraid to list off the key players that he will be targeting this series.
One of the players who fell to Boland's power in that 2021 series was Joe Root, who is still hunting his first-ever century on Australian soil.
Joe Root celebrates reaching his century earlier this season. Getty
Boland has no plans to see Root squash that troubling statistic this year.
"You always want to take down the best players," the 36-year-old declared.
"In the past, when Joe Root has been captain, you want to try to make sure they have as little impact as you can.
"England have quite a few good batters we'll be looking to do that to."
With Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins both ruled out due to injury, there is a strong chance that South Australian quick Brendan Doggett will be called up for a debut.
Brendan Doggett in action in the Sheffield Shield. Getty
If that is to be the case, Doggett will become the third Indigenous Australian to represent the nation.
It would also mark the first time that two Indigenous Australians - Boland and Doggett - have played together in the Australian Test team.
"Hopefully, Brendan does get the nod and that happens," Boland said.
"Obviously you don't want to be missing two great players like Josh and Pat.
"Our bowling stocks have been really strong for quite a while - no one has been able to break in.
"A new guy or two will get a look in. They're not inexperienced guys. Brendan's played a lot of first-class cricket and he knows his game.
"He knows what he's going to need to do to express his skills out on the big stage.
"He's tremendously fit, and if he gets the nod, it'll be exciting to see him play."
