Australia's Travis Head has come out in defence of Jake Weatherald, saying that he has got what it takes to succeed at the international level. Weatherald has crossed the 20-run mark only twice in his
first eight innings in Test cricket.
Head pointed to the demanding nature of international cricket and also revealed that the left-handed batter displayed several encouraging signs in his first four Test matches in international cricket.
“International cricket is extremely tough. The wickets have been challenging across the board the last few years, that’s well-documented. It’s not an excuse and I think he’s a good enough cricketer for international cricket. I think he showed a lot of glimpses over his first four Tests. It can be a tough way to start your international career. But I think he’s a good enough player to play international cricket,” stated Head, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Weatherald's best knock came in the day-night Test in Brisbane during Australia's first innings when he registered 72 off 78 in an innings which comprised 12 fours and a six. In fact, he ended up being the hosts' second-highest scorer as the Aussies scored 511 in 117.3 overs. However, it has not been a favourable start for Weatherald in Test cricket.
Head and Weatherald have been teammates in domestic cricket. The two have played several matches for South Australia together. Head is currently the vice-captain of the Australian team in the absence of Pat Cummins as their full-time skipper, as Steve Smith is currently leading the red-ball setup.
Coming to the series, Australia have taken an unassailable lead in the series, winning the first three matches. They gave a tough fight to England in the Boxing Day Test, however, the Ben Stokes-led unit prevailed by four wickets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The fifth and final Test is scheduled to get underway from January 4 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
