Sheffield Shield star Jake Weatherald has sent a powerful message to national selectors, going above and beyond in his quest for a potential Test debut as Australia prepares to launch its Ashes campaign in Perth.
Marathon Nets Session Makes a Statement
In an impressive display of dedication during Tuesday's optional training session at Perth Stadium, Weatherald emerged as the last batter standing from the nets. The 31-year-old left-hander even outlasted renowned training enthusiasts Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne in a rare sight that caught the attention of the Australian camp.
Staying back to throw him additional balls was none other than former Test great Mike Hussey, who returned to help the aspiring opener. Weatherald had earlier faced a tough initiation against a fit-again Pat Cummins, but persevered through the challenging session.
The Path to Test Recognition
As the Sheffield Shield's leading run-scorer last season, Weatherald represents a strong contender to become Usman Khawaja's sixth opening partner since David Warner's Test retirement in January 2024. The South Australian native, who moved to Tasmania in 2023, finds himself in his first Australian squad and is eager to make an impression.
Weatherald humorously revealed that the established veteran Khawaja still doesn't quite know who he is. "He still calls me Jack," Weatherald said with tongue in cheek. "We'll get there eventually. Hopefully if I get a game, he can call me Jake."
Potential Dual Debuts for Australia
The Perth Test could witness two new faces in the baggy green, with South Australian hero Brendan Doggett almost certain to replace injured quick Josh Hazlewood. If Weatherald also earns selection, it would mark the first time since 2019 that Australia has blooded two Test debutants in the same match.
Reflecting on his experience rubbing shoulders with cricketing idols, Weatherald shared: "Meeting people you admire so much has been a pretty cool experience. Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Patty Cummins - guys you've revered in your career for such a long time, now you're rubbing shoulders."
The aspiring Test cricketer emphasized his approach of staying grounded amid the excitement, focusing on "just trying to crack into what I do well" rather than becoming overwhelmed by the occasion.
Hussey's involvement provides an inspiring parallel - the man nicknamed 'Mr Cricket' didn't make his own Test debut until age 30, yet proceeded to score 19 centuries in a distinguished career that Weatherald would undoubtedly love to emulate.
