Australia coach Andrew McDonald remains optimistic about Cooper Connolly’s Test future despite a subdued debut, insisting the young batting all-rounder has plenty of time to cement his place in the team’s top six. Connolly was handed a whirlwind debut in just his fifth first-class game, with selectors expecting challenging batting conditions in the second Test against Sri Lanka at Galle. However, the pitch proved more manageable than anticipated, aside from a fiery spell on day three when Sri Lanka unleashed a devastating new-ball attack that triggered a collapse of 7-64.
« He’s just starting out. I think it’s too early to judge anything on that game, » McDonald was quoted by cricket.com.au as saying. « Five overs, the shot that he played—if he had it again, potentially he takes a different option. He’s one we definitely want for the future. When he reaches the point where he can push for a top-six batting role, who knows? But that’s what we see for him. »
McDonald acknowledged that Australia had miscalculated their strategy in picking Connolly over third front-line spinner Todd Murphy.
« We felt as though we had enough coverage with the ball and prioritised runs, » McDonald explained. « Did that play out the way we thought it would? Maybe not. But it was definitely discussed that where we might struggle in this game was with runs. »
Connolly bowled just five overs of left-arm spin and was dismissed for four runs during Australia’s batting collapse, mistiming a shot to backward point.
That proved to be his only opportunity at the crease, as Australia lost just one wicket in their successful run chase to seal the win and a series whitewash.
Despite his underwhelming debut, Connolly remains firmly in Australia’s future plans. Having already played white-ball cricket for the national side, his Test prospects remain uncertain, particularly outside Asia, where his left-arm spin is a less compelling selection choice.
With Sam Konstas and Cameron Green also in contention for the World Test Championship final in June, Connolly faces stiff competition for a batting spot.
Smith also backed Connolly to make an impact in the long run. « He’s got a bright future, there’s no doubting that, » Smith said.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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