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‘I’ll Be Ready’ – Doggett Awaits Ashes Call After Six-Wicket Shield Surge

Brendan Doggett has declared himself fit, focused, and fully prepared for an Ashes squad call, following a commanding return to Sheffield Shield cricket that included match figures of 7 for 86 against Western Australia.

The 31-year-old speedster, who claimed 6 for 48 in the first innings at the WACA last week, hasn’t heard from national selectors yet—but he’s not losing hope. With Pat Cummins ruled out of the first Ashes Test in Perth, speculation has intensified over who will join the pace attack alongside Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland. While Doggett is expected to be named as a reserve rather than a direct debutant, his recent form makes him impossible to ignore.

“I’ve Been Waiting for This a Long Time”

“Absolutely. [I’ve] been waiting for this for a long time,” Doggett said in Adelaide. “I feel like if I do get a call to join that squad, I’ll be ready. And then we’ll see what happens.”

Doggett was previously part of Australia’s Test squad for the World Test Championship final and the West Indies tour earlier this year but was withdrawn due to a hip injury. Now fully fit, he’s back—and making a statement.

Strong Return After Injury Setback

His return to first-class cricket came after missing the opening two Shield rounds due to a minor hamstring strain picked up while batting on September 20. An unusual setback for a fast bowler, Doggett admitted: “To get injured batting is unlike me. It was unfortunate. There’s not much I can control in that.”

The recovery was managed carefully by both South Australia and Cricket Australia’s medical staff, with an eye on preserving depth for the Ashes. His triumphant comeback—featuring a first-innings six-for—could not have come at a better time.

“The timing is perfect to take a six-for, but obviously I was just really happy to get back on the park and contribute,” Doggett said.

Next in Line for Australia’s Pace Attack

Doggett has long been viewed as the next cab off the rank in Australia’s fast-bowling pecking order—especially on flatter pitches where swing and aggression are key. His 11-wicket match haul in last season’s Shield final at Karen Rolton Oval was instrumental in South Australia’s first title in 29 years.

He followed that with a strong start to a stint at Durham in the County Championship, taking nine wickets in three matches before another injury prompted an early return. Still, the experience was invaluable.

“The conditions are so different, and it was just a really good learning curve for me,” he said. “The whole purpose was to be in and around the WTC squad, which I was fortunate enough to be included in. I’d love to go back if I had the chance.”

Ryan Harris’ Influence Fuels Doggett’s Ascent

Since Ryan Harris took over as South Australia’s coach, Doggett’s game has evolved. Known as ‘Rhino’, the former Australian fast bowler has instilled greater confidence and clarity in his charges.

“Rhino has had a big impact for me, especially in the last 12 months,” Doggett said. “He’s given me a lot of confidence, passed down his knowledge, and is really passionate about getting the best out of us as players.”

It’s helped Doggett refine his strengths: swinging the new ball, bowling with aggression, and maintaining consistent pace—skills that could prove crucial in English conditions.

Consistent Performer in First-Class Cricket

Over his last 12 first-class matches, Doggett has taken 57 wickets at an average of 20.40 and a strike rate of 39.5. That includes four six-wicket hauls and two five-wicket innings—a testament to his consistency and impact.

Australia hasn’t introduced a new fast bowler to Test cricket since Scott Boland debuted in 2021. With Doggett now fit, in form, and on the fringes, that drought could soon end—whether as a late addition to the squad or as a future mainstay.

One thing’s clear: Brendan Doggett is ready. The selectors just need to call.