Aussie quick skips County chance to remain "a bit fresh" for WTC final and the Ashes

Boland, who made his Test debut in December 2021 at the age of 32, impressed everyone with his sensational second-innings performance in the third Ashes Test at the MCG. He returned 6/7 from just four overs, earning him the Player of the Match and helping Australia secure the series victory after winning the first two matches of the five.******

World Test Championship final: Both the squads

In his seven-Test career so far, Boland has snared 28 wickets at 13.42. Australia named Boland in the 17-player squad for the World Test Championship final and the first two Ashes Tests against England. However, they are yet to announce their final 15-member squad for the clash against India, prior to May 28.

Currently 34, Boland is focussing on extending his career by giving his body enough rest to remain fit for the demanding schedule of six Tests in two months.

"I did have the opportunity to play county cricket this year, but I prioritized being a bit fresher going into six Tests in two months," Boland told cricket.com.au.

"I know my body, that if I’m at a stage where I’m getting tired, I want to keep my career going for as long as I can. I don’t want to burn out."

In the last Ashes series Down Under, Boland accounted for 18 wickets in three games, only behind skipper Pat Cummins (21 wickets from four games) and star pacer Mitch Starc (19 wickets from five games).

Boland admitted that it would be difficult for all the fast bowlers to feature in all six Tests but expressed his readiness to give his all whenever he gets the opportunity.

"It will be tough for fast bowlers to play all six games," said Boland. "I’m definitely preparing to play. It could be at the start, it could be halfway through, I’m not sure. But I’m planning to play and excited to play whenever they choose me."

Australia will first play the final of the World Test Championship from 7-11 June against India, followed by a five-match Ashes series which starts on 16 June.