Pattinson shines as Australians rout Scotland

James Pattinson produced a devastating spell of fast bowling as Australia ‘A’ routed Scotland by 360 runs in their four-day match at the Grange in Edinburgh today.

Pattinson took 4-21 in Scotland’s second innings to give him seven wickets in the match and ensure Australia’s reserves cruised to victory in just two-and-half days.

The Australians included several players who can expect to see action in the forthcoming Ashes series in England, with wicket-keeper Brad Haddin joining bowlers Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon and all-rounder Steve Smith.

But it was Pattinson, also included in the squad for the five-Test Ashes series which starts in July, who took the spotlight.

There was a clear gulf in class between the sides and Australia, who made 372 for eight declared in the first innings, declared on 230 for five in their second innings on Sunday before demolishing Scotland, who had made only 149 in their first innings, for just 93.

Australia started by pushing their advantage on past 450 within little more than an hour of play commencing before deciding that was a large enough lead and handing the crease over to their hosts.

But another meek batting display followed, with only Calum MacLeod (30) notching up a respectable knock.

That was largely down to some hostile bowling from the likes of Pattinson, who claimed seven scalps in total for just 37 runs.

But despite the lack of threat posed by Scotland, Pattinson insisted the fixture was a useful exercise ahead of the Ashes.

“It’s better to play than not to. It was still a good challenge,” he said.

“It doesn’t matter who you play, you still have to come 100 per cent at them.

“Scotland are a team on the up. They have got some fantastic players coming through and I was surprised by what they offered. Their bowling was quite good and their batting showed glimpses.

“It was definitely worthwhile for us. And I’m sure Scotland will take something out of playing against good-class players.”

smg/bc