Scott Boland is optimistic that Brendan Doggett will inspire a new generation of Indigenous cricketers as both players stand on the cusp of making history. They could become the first pair of Indigenous cricketers to represent Australia in the same Test match when the team is announced for the Ashes opener in Perth.
With injuries sidelining Josh Hazlewood and captain Pat Cummins, the door is open for Doggett, who is set to join Boland and Jason Gillespie as the only Indigenous players to don the Australian men’s Test cricket jersey. Doggett proudly carries his Indigenous heritage from the Worimi people, highlighting significant representation for Australia’s Indigenous community.
Boland expressed his hopes for Doggett’s selection, emphasizing the importance of representation in sports outside AFL and NRL, which are more prominent in Indigenous communities. “Hopefully Brendan does get the nod, and that happens,” he shared. “It’ll obviously be really special for him and his family, and the Australian Indigenous community.”
Historical context adds depth to their imminent achievement. Boland and Doggett are following in the footsteps of an Indigenous side that toured England in 1868, being the first to represent Australia overseas. Boland and Doggett participated in an Aboriginal XI tour commemorating this landmark, underscoring their role as part of a storied legacy.
Both players are aware of the impact that their participation could have on sparking interest in cricket within Indigenous communities. As Boland noted, the visibility of Indigenous athletes in both cricket and other sports can inspire young children to pursue their dreams in cricket, aiming to grow the game within these communities.
At 36 years old, Boland has taken 62 wickets in 14 Tests and has proven himself a formidable player alongside the likes of Cummins, Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. He commented on the need to fill the void left by injuries, saying, “Our bowling stocks have been strong for quite a while, and it’s going to be an exciting time.”
Doggett has made a strong case for selection, having been an impressive performer for South Australia, particularly in the Sheffield Shield, where he claimed 33 wickets last season, including 11 in the final that ended a 29-year title drought for the team. His recent performances in the summer, with an average of 14.69 from two matches, have further solidified his position in the team debate.
“I think he brings a real skill,” Boland remarked about Doggett, highlighting his ability to bowl long spells and his fitness. If chosen, Doggett is expected to bring a significant presence to the bowling lineup.
As anticipation builds for the Ashes series starting on November 21, the potential selection of Boland and Doggett heralds a promising new chapter in Australian cricket history, full of hope and inspiration for future Indigenous cricketers.