In an era when youngsters first gain prominence in T20 leagues across the world, Australian teenager Ashton Agar boasts of a radically different CV. The 19-year-old is yet to make his debut in the shortest format but has already featured in two Ashes Tests.
Agar’s breathtaking 98 on debut in just 101 balls at no.11 created a storm on social media and the rookie emerged as Australia’s new hero.
Agar is likely to have another dramatic debut when Perth Scorchers face the Highveld Lions in the first match here at the Motera stadium on Monday. The left-arm spinner will be seen in the new role of an opening batsman. It was a decision taken by former Australia openers Simon Katich and Justin Langer, the Scorchers’ coach.
Having played on the biggest stage, Agar says he is up for the challenge. “I am going to play with great freedom. That is how I am told to play and I have good fun when I am playing my best,” Agar said in an interview to this newspaper.
Still wet behind the ears, Agar gives an impression he is mentally tough. “Whenever you bat, you have to feel you’re a batsman. You got to have the belief. I need to believe that I can go out there and can do the job for my team. I am going to do it (open the innings) to the best of my ability.”
Wicketless in his second Test and carrying an injury to make matters worse, Agar’s tryst with Test cricket was curtailed. The youngster is determined to earn back his place in the side for the return leg of the Ashes
“I’ve got to play another Test for Australia and I am positive. I know exactly what I need to work on. Bowling wise I need to be accurate and spin the ball hard and batting-wise I need to keep scoring.”
Agar, who hopes to meet his childhood hero Sachin Tendulkar says left-arm spinners will play a big role in the tournament.
Knowing Tendulkar’s odd weakness against rookie bowlers, Agar can indeed hope to have a memorable meeting with the Master.