Scott Boland believes he is a better bowler now than he was during the 2023 Ashes in England, where he played only two Tests and took two wickets. Since then, the 36-year-old has played four Tests and claimed 27 wickets, gaining more skill and confidence.
“Even though I’m getting older, I still think my skills are improving. I’m learning more about what helps me perform at my best,” Boland said. “I’ve thought a lot about the 2023 Ashes. I bowled well at times but didn’t get rewards. This Ashes will be in conditions I know really well.”
In a pace attack stacked with experienced bowlers over 30, Boland is the oldest. He said head coach Andrew McDonald has encouraged him to keep his body in peak condition for the demands of a long series. Opportunities in Tests have been limited, with Boland usually competing against Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, and often serving as back-up. His most recent Test appearance came in the West Indies, where he took a hat-trick in a rare four-pacer attack. However, he does not expect Australia to leave out Nathan Lyon for the Ashes at home.
“Nathan is one of the best spin bowlers in the world and the glue in our attack,” Boland said. “With Cameron Green back and bowling, the chances of four quicks are slim.”
Boland welcomed the eight-day breaks between the first two and second and third Tests, which he said would help bowlers recover. He recalled the challenge of short turnarounds during last year’s Border-Gavaskar series, where fatigue carried into the next match despite his best efforts to prepare.
Looking ahead to the rivalry, Boland said England’s sledging would not affect Australia. “We’ve been consistent in how we play our cricket. Whoever wins the big moments will come out on top. If they want to sledge, that’s fine. It won’t bother us,” he said.
The home Ashes series begins on November 21.