Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has earmarked Jason Sangha as a key player to follow during the upcoming Sheffield Shield season, especially as the focus shifts towards the Ashes series. Following Australia’s clean sweep against the West Indies, the team’s top order has faced significant scrutiny, with players such as Sam Konstas and Usman Khawaja under particular pressure to perform. Cameron Green struggled initially but improved significantly at No. 3.
Ponting predicts that the batting line-up for the Ashes will largely remain unchanged, suggesting the current players will likely be given another opportunity to prove themselves in the lead-up to the series. The first Test is scheduled to commence in Perth on November 21, with four rounds of Sheffield Shield matches planned beforehand.
Among those to watch closely will be Konstas, alongside seasoned players like Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft, and Matt Renshaw. Renshaw has recently demonstrated his form with a century while playing for Australia A. Similarly, Nathan McSweeney has performed consistently, scoring well in unofficial matches against Sri Lanka A.
Ponting believes that the anticipation around the upcoming Sheffield Shield season will heighten as it presents vital opportunities for players to make their case for Ashes selection. His mention of Sangha reflects admiration for the young batsman, who has revitalised his career outside New South Wales, finishing the recent Shield season with an impressive average of 78.22, including a standout 126 not out in a crucial innings.
However, the challenge lies in finding the right fit for Sangha within a strong batting order that features established talents such as Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Beau Webster, with Josh Inglis also in contention. Should Marnus Labuschagne regain his form, he could further complicate the middle-order dynamics.
With the pressure mounting and limited chances to impress selectors, the upcoming Sheffield Shield matches will be crucial for both established and emerging talents as they vie for a place in the Ashes squad. Ponting’s insights underline the significance of the coming cricketing months as Australia prepares to face their long-standing rivals.