Published: Jul 13, 2013, 09:28 AM (IST)
Edited: Jul 13, 2013, 09:28 AM (IST)
Ashton Agar scored 98 runs on debut, the highest by a No 11 batsman in Test cricket © Getty Images
Sydney: Jul 13, 2013
After a sensational debut innings in the first Ashes Test for Australia, sponsors are keen to ride on Ashton Agar’s success story with many of them already in talks with his manager Jason Bakker.
According to Sydney Morning Herald, Bakker was busy fielding calls on Friday from bat makers and companies willing to meet him and discuss future prospects. Agar’s manager though stood firm and said that it’s too early and the young bowler needs to back his debut with better performances in upcoming matches.
Bakker who also manages cyclist Cadel Evans compared the excitement around Agar’s debut with the cyclist clinching the Tour de France. He said, “It’s like Cadel winning the Tour de France all over again. It’s crazy. It’s the stuff of fantasy. It’s something that’s unified everyone. There’s no controversy about it; everyone’s behind it. It’s been overwhelming and I really think it’s going to bring a lot of people back to cricket.”
However, brand endorsements and promotions aren’t the only aspects following Agar’s success. The discussions have already begun on his participation in Twenty20 leagues. His manager however cleared that there are no plans of rushing into the T20 leagues.
“If the organisers of the IPL or the Sri Lankan Premier League think that [Agar’s Sri Lankan] background is a bonus, that’s up to them. You can see that he’s a Test cricketer. The IPL and the other stuff, he can look at that another time. It’s all happened so quickly. For me, it’s about developing his game. He’s got five Test matches in England and the only thing on his mind now should be that he’s got to get up in the morning and get ready to take a few wickets.” Bakker was quoted as saying Fairfax Media.
While his batting made the headlines, the left-arm spinner managed to keep up to the fame with a priced maiden wicket of England skipper Alastair Cook and followed it up with the dismissal of Jonny Bairstow. The sparkling debut has ensured a longer run for the teenager in the Test side.
