A Rising Star in South Australian Cricket
South Australian coach Ryan Harris has voiced his strong belief that Nathan McAndrew is more than capable of playing Test cricket for Australia. In fact, Harris thinks it’s high time the 32-year-old cricketer received the recognition he deserves.
McAndrew recently played a pivotal role in South Australia’s second consecutive Sheffield Shield title. His performance was nothing short of impressive, as he took 3-71 and 3-50 in the final, while also contributing a crucial 60 runs in the third innings. This all came alongside Alex Carey’s century, which helped swing the match in South Australia’s favor.
Harris has consistently been impressed by McAndrew’s consistency and durability. He believes that the Test selectors may be missing out on a valuable asset.
“I think he probably should have already done it by now, to be honest,” Harris said. “The way he does it, he has niggles here and there and just gets through it.”
Harris added that he often checks on McAndrew after matches, as the bowler frequently deals with various aches and pains. However, McAndrew doesn’t seem to be too concerned about these issues, focusing instead on winning games.
“We have got some pretty good cricketers playing up in that Test team anyway, but should he have been given a chance? Maybe. I think he’s shown now for five years, four of those years he’s been the leading wicket-taker if not far off it and he’s pretty handy with some runs as we’ve seen.”
A Bowler Who Excels Against Left-Handers
McAndrew’s performance in the Shield final was particularly notable, as each of his six wickets were taken from Victoria’s top six batsmen, with four of them being left-handers. Liam Scott, who also played a key role in South Australia’s Shield season, praised McAndrew, calling him “one of the best bowlers to left-handers in the country.”
McAndrew finished the season among the Shield’s leading wicket-takers, claiming 38 wickets at an average of 23.42. The numbers speak for themselves, and the praise from Harris only adds to the case for McAndrew’s inclusion in the national team.
Focusing on the Process, Not the Outcome
Despite the growing support for his inclusion in the Test team, McAndrew remains focused on the process rather than the outcomes. He has learned not to chase selection, a lesson he picked up during his time in New South Wales.
“I don’t really look into it, to be honest,” McAndrew said. “I learned a lot about (selection) when I was back in New South Wales. When I was at grade cricket level, aspiring to play for New South Wales, I put so much pressure on myself that every performance … I had to take a five-for every week because then maybe I’d get an opportunity or get on contract.”
McAndrew emphasized the importance of focusing on day-to-day battles rather than chasing the next level. He acknowledged the challenges he faced this year, including vertigo affecting his rhythm for the first half of the season.
“Since Christmas I have got back to my best and am really proud of that, to be honest, it’s been a tough year with some things.”
Realistic About His Chances
McAndrew is also realistic about his chances of making the Test team. He knows that there are three outstanding quicks ahead of him, including Scotty Boland.
“No matter how well I bowl, I am not taking any of their spots, I am not that stupid. Injuries have got to happen for me to get an opportunity, all I can do is keep bowling to the best of my ability.”
McAndrew’s attitude reflects his maturity and understanding of the game. While he may not be getting the recognition he deserves yet, his performances continue to speak volumes. With consistent form and a strong work ethic, it’s only a matter of time before the selectors take notice.
