Published: Jan 19, 2014, 01:01 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 19, 2014, 01:04 PM (IST)
Jan 19, 2014
Perth Scorchers coach Justin Langer feels that his side are in control of their own fate before going into their final Big Bash League (BBL) game against the Melbourne Stars on Monday.
The Melbourne Stars have not lost a game all season and Langer’s side must ensure of a victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on January 27, to book themselves a semi-final game to be played at Western Australian Cricket (WACA) Ground, reported The West Australian.
Perth Scorchers, who already had been assured of a semi-final berth, thanks to a five run win over the Adelaide Strikers on Thursday night, will need another win in their final league game, provided they have to earn a home advantage in the soon to be played semi-finals.
Langer, who was present at the club’s fan day event at the WACA said that he was happy with the support his side received throughout the tournament and also hoped that his side reaches and plays the final at their home ground.
“It is brilliant.We have seen incredible support for the Scorchers, it is only growing as well,” said Langer.
“It’s nice that they come out and keep supporting us on match day and for us to be able to return the favour and let them be out on the WACA and have a good time is great. I think cricket is alive and well in Australia at the moment so it’s nice to see us getting such great support and I know the players appreciate it,” added Langer.
“Again we have got destiny in our own hands. If we beat the Stars next Monday then we will have a home semifinal so that’s really exciting and we’re looking forward to that,” said Langer, who was optimistic of his side’s chances against the Melbourne Stars.
Langer said that veteran South African player, Alfonso Thomas could have a vital role to play in the final and added, spinner Michael Beer could play, provided the conditions were ideal.
Also Nathan Coulter-Nile and Shaun Marsh may be included in the Perth Scorchers’ side, provided they are not required for national duty, which gives Langer a lot more to think about for now.
“We are going to work really hard physically this week. We will manage it and make sure they are ready to go for that important game next Monday,” concluded Langer.
