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Australian leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson is pinning his hopes on the Big Bash League (BBL) as a final opportunity to stake his claim for a Test return during Australia’s upcoming tour of Sri Lanka in January. With two Tests scheduled on the spin-friendly Galle wicket, Swepson is in contention alongside fellow spinners Matt Kuhnemann and Adam Zampa for a spot in the squad.
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Tight Schedule and Spinning Options
Australia’s domestic Sheffield Shield schedule means no red-ball games are available before the Sri Lanka tour. As a result, the BBL has become the primary platform for players to showcase their form.
While Nathan Lyon is a lock as Australia’s first-choice spinner, Todd Murphy is likely to join him as a second off-spinner. The team may include a third spinner, with Swepson, Kuhnemann, and Zampa offering variations as wrist spinners or left-arm orthodox bowlers.
All-rounders like Glenn Maxwell and Beau Webster may also be considered for their ability to contribute as part-time spinners.
Swepson’s Confidence and Experience
Swepson, 31, previously played two Tests in Sri Lanka in 2022 and has Test experience on the subcontinent, including in Pakistan. Reflecting on his growth as a bowler, Swepson stated:
“I know when to attack, when to hold and defend, and when to play a role the team requires. This is my 10th year playing for Queensland, and that experience has really helped me.”
Swepson emphasized his ability to adjust to subcontinental conditions, noting his focus on achieving the accuracy of finger spinners, which are often preferred in Asian conditions.
Kuhnemann’s Push for Selection
Meanwhile, Matt Kuhnemann, now representing Tasmania to gain more red-ball opportunities, has also positioned himself as a strong contender. Kuhnemann impressed during the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India, and his recent performances in the Shield have bolstered his case.
Kuhnemann expressed his excitement about the potential for selection, saying:
“For me, the pinnacle is red-ball cricket. Whenever a subcontinent tour comes around, all the spinners around the country get excited and come out of the woodwork a bit.”
BBL as a Crucial Stage
Despite the limited connection between T20 performances and Test selection, Swepson remains optimistic about his BBL campaign with the Brisbane Heat influencing selectors.
“I’m not sure they will pick blokes based on the BBL, but bowling well in any format helps.”
Both Swepson and Kuhnemann have been in strong Shield form this season, with Swepson taking 17 wickets for Queensland and Kuhnemann claiming 18 for Tasmania.
Looking Ahead
The Sri Lanka tour represents a significant challenge, with spin playing a decisive role on the Galle pitches. For Swepson and Kuhnemann, their BBL performances could be the final piece in proving their readiness to join the squad, as Australia aims to strengthen its spinning options in subcontinental conditions.
