Australia spinner Adam Zampa’s hopes of returning to Test cricket are getting stronger with each passing day. Recently he has expressed a strong desire to represent Australia in their international cricket, even though he has had limited opportunities in first-class cricket over the past few years.
The 31-year-old Zampa, who has played only two first-class matches since 2019, is hoping to return to Test cricket on the back of his stellar performances and experience.
Zampa said on the Final Word podcast
“I think I still have a chance to play Test cricket. If I was playing more Shield cricket, I would have done really well,”
Zampa’s recent form and improvement in his spin bowling has made him a strong contender in Test cricket. He returned to New South Wales from South Australia in 2020 and despite being busy with his white-ball cricket, his confidence is still high. He believes that his current form and experience can earn him a potential spot in the Test team.
Currently, Zampa is preparing for the upcoming Test tour of Sri Lanka, in which he might get an opening. The selectors are expected to consider various spin bowling options to support Nathan Lyon, and Zampa’s experience could be crucial in this selection process. However, Zampa is also aware that his Test selection will come under the scanner, especially considering his first-class record.
“People will question my record, but I am confident that the freshness in my bowling will be effective in Test cricket as well,” Zampa said.”
“Even if I am picked in the upcoming sub-continent tours, people will say, okay, his record is an average of 46 with the ball, that’s not good enough, people will say I am sure, but if I am picked I will know that the way I am bowling, it will be fine.”
After impressive performances in Australia’s ODIs and T20Is, Zampa has withdrawn from the IPL and Major League Cricket (MLC), reflecting his commitment to the national team. Recently, he has also signed a two-year central contract with Cricket Australia, in which he has given priority to national duties.
“I was lucky to be part of the team that won the World Cup.”Speaking further, the franchise is not for me. I want to play for Australia for as long as possible, the feeling of success in that team is something I want more of. I am fortunate to have signed a two-year contract with Australia and it is based on the desire to play every game for Australia. It meant I had to make some decisions about franchise cricket.”
Zampa’s talent and passion have made him a key player in all formats. He is currently preparing for the UK tour, which includes matches against Scotland, England and five ODIs.
Although there are many challenges in the path of his Test comeback, Zampa’s dream and zeal are still alive, and they are moving towards realizing it with their hard work and diligence.
