Published: Jul 26, 2013, 09:29 AM (IST)
Edited: Jul 26, 2013, 09:29 AM (IST)
Matthew Wade is the reserve gloveman for vice-captain Brad Haddin © Getty Images
London: Jul 26, 2013
Matthew Wade has no problems about giving up his wicketkeeping role if he can earn a place in Australia’s Ashes side as a specialist batsman.
The 25-year-old is on tour as the reserve gloveman behind vice-captain and first-choice wicketkeeper Brad Haddin but such have been Australia’s run-scoring problems in falling 2-0 behind in the five-match series that Wade could play in next week’s third Test at Old Trafford as a batsman only.
Wade will try to press his claim in the three-day tour match against Sussex at Hove starting on Friday.
“It’s a huge opportunity for everyone who’s not had a game,” Wade told Sky Sports News on Thursday. The Ashes tour has not started like we wanted, but to get an opportunity to play, which I’ve not had for a couple of months, is great for me.
“I am here as a back-up wicketkeeper but I want to get amongst the runs and push for a spot as a batsman. I’d take a spot where I can get one, wicketkeeper or batsman. If I get a tap on the shoulder to play a game, especially an Ashes game, I’ll take it,” he said.
