Matthew Short making a strong impression for the opener spot after a swashbuckling innings at the top with Travis Head.
Matthew Short believes his performance has put him in the mix for that second opener’s spot. With Fraser-McGurk dropped for the first t20i, Short took full advantage by scoring a 26-ball-41 up the order.
His opening stand with fellow Adelaide mate Travis Head was crucial in Australia posting a total that proved to be enough.
Short’s latest innings has now incited a bit of competition for that opening spot. It felt like an inevitability that Fraser-McGurk would take Warner’s place at the top. Warner himself had endorsed the youngster and all seemed to be on track.
But Short has now thrown a spanner in that plan with some rather feisty performances of his own.
Short has been the country’s most consistent all-format batter at the Australian domestic level in the past two years. he has also been the best batter in the Big Bash, winning consecutive MVP awards.
Short had his doubts that he’d be able to open or not. He had missed the Scotland series on account of the birth of his child. But now that he has got a chance, he intends to leave no stone unturned.
“I only found out last night,” Short said following Australia’s 28-run win. “Obviously, with Davey Warner out, you sort of know that the spot’s opened up.
“But then Jake has been playing the last few games in Scotland, so you never know where you sit. But I’m glad I took that opportunity tonight and played my role to help the team with a win”
“It’s a personal sort of goal of mine. I’ve been in and out of the side recently over the last 12-18 months. Now Dave is out, I’m really trying to take this opportunity and cement my spot in this side.”