Sydney, Dec 31 (IANS) Spinner Ashton Agar has become a more consistent bowler, his West Australian (WA) teammate Shaun Marsh said Wednesday after the left-armer was recalled to Australia’s squad for the fourth Test against India, starting Jan 6 at Sydney.
Agar became an overnight sensation in his Test debut in England 18 months ago, when he made 98 – the highest score by a No.11 batsman – and shared a record 163-run last-wicket partnership with Phillip Hughes against England at Trent Bridge.
But he struggled to make a mark as a bowler – the primary reason of his inclusion to the side – and was ultimately dropped. But Marsh spoke of his belief that Agar has developed considerably while playing for their state.
“I think his consistency has been there this year,” said Marsh on arrival here Wednesday.
“It’s something he lacked last year and he’ll probably say that to you. I think he’s bowled fantastically well this year for WA. He’s learning every game he’s playing so, if he does play, he’ll be ready to go.”
Marsh also admitted he was still smarting from his decision to attempt a quick single that had him run out for 99 on the final day of the drawn third Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground Tuesday.
“It was one of those things, that over it was building up every ball and I was trying to get that single,” he said.
“That’s the way it goes. But I’ll take 99 every time I bat.”