3 reasons why Australia must recall Cameron Bancroft for BGT 2024-25
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has voiced his support for Cameron Bancroft to make a comeback to the Test team for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). With the high-voltage series just around the corner, discussions about Australia's squad are heating up.
Clarke believes the 31-year-old should be given the opportunity to open the batting in the five-match Test series against India, citing Bancroft’s consistent performances in domestic cricket.
Speaking on Sky’s Big Sports Breakfast, Clarke emphasized the importance of experience, saying:
"I don't think it's fair to pick someone on two games." (referring to younger contenders like Sam Konstas).
He argued that Bancroft, with his wealth of experience and domestic track record, is the ideal candidate for the opening slot alongside Usman Khawaja.
"I think he's a very talented player and I love that he's started the season very well, but just because you get two hundreds doesn't mean you jump someone that's scored 12 hundreds in the past four years, like Bancroft or Harris," Clarke added.
Cameron Bancroft has been among their standout performers in domestic cricket over the past two seasons. Despite this, he was overlooked as a replacement for the retired David Warner. Clarke, however, believes that Bancroft's record makes him a strong contender to return to the Test squad.
That said, here are three major reasons why Australia must recall Bancroft for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
#3 Cameron Bancroft's exceptional domestic form
Cameron Bancroft has been in stellar form in domestic cricket, particularly in the Sheffield Shield, where he has been one of the leading run-scorers over the last couple of seasons. In the 2023-2024 season, he amassed 778 runs, including four centuries, at an impressive average of 48.6.
Even though his 2024-25 Sheffield Shield season began on a poor note with a pair of ducks, his previous record is worth noting. Since 2023, he has averaged 44.2 in the top-order, with seven centuries to his name.
Bancroft's ability to score big and consistently in the top order can be a valuable asset that Australia should not overlook, particularly against a strong Indian bowling attack that will pose a certain threat.
#2 Experience and stability at the top
In a high-pressure series such as the BGT, experience can often be the difference between success and failure. Bancroft's experience of Test cricket coupled with his years of playing first-class cricket, make him a key asset in the top order.
While his Test record may not be as great, his recent domestic form suggests that he has matured as a cricketer. As Michael Clarke stressed the importance of experience, Bancroft should be prioritized based on his skills.
He brings some much-needed stability to Australia's batting line-up, especially given that the series is also crucial from the World Test Championship perspective.
#1 A strong contender for the opening slot
Australia's top order has seen some experiments in the recent past, particularly in the opening position. Since David Warner's retirement, the team has been looking for a reliable opening partner for Usman Khawaja. Steve Smith temporarily filled the role but did not find success.
Travis Head, despite his brilliant form in the middle order, has limited experience as an opener in Test cricket. Cameron Bancroft, on the other hand, has shown his ability to excel in that position through his domestic performances.
Australia will be keen to have a specialist opener than a makeshift option, given the importance and magnitude of this series. Bancroft's recent form and experience make him an ideal candidate to open the innings.
With Bancroft in solid touch, Australia have a golden opportunity to bring a seasoned, in-form player into their squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. His consistent performances in domestic cricket, valuable experience, and suitability for the opening slot make him worthy enough of being recalled.