James Pattinson ready for New Zealand tests
Apr 17, 2016 at 2:07 PM
Australian pace sensation James Pattinson is pretty upbeat about the upcoming test series against Trans Tasman rivals New Zealand beginning on the 12th of February. Pattinson, who made a successful comeback to international cricket against the West Indies recently, is looking forwards to the much anticipated series against the Kiwis.
Pattinson off late, has slightly altered his bowling action, in order to prevent him from picking up any serious injuries. “I was a bit rusty early on but I hit my straps in the second innings,” he said. “I’m feeling good, I had no problem bowling in the Shield game after not really having much bowling leading into it. “I’m really happy with the way my body pulled up and I’m just looking forward to getting over to New Zealand,” Pattinson said.
The Victorian pacer however quickly admitted that he wouldn’t be a definite starter in the playing XI for the first test. “We’ve got some great bowlers for the conditions and it’s going to be pretty tough to get into the first Test XI,” Pattinson said. “The conditions are going to be different over there. “It’s great to see Chadd Sayers is in the Test squad after performing really well in domestic cricket for the last few years. “Jackson Bird’s a class bowler – I’m sure the conditions will suit him.”
The pacer was recently withdrawn from a Sheffield Shield Match by Cricket Australia, in order to prepare for the test series. “I went into the game thinking I was going to play the whole game,” he said. “The hierarchy at Cricket Australia and the physios have come together and thought it was best for me to prepare for the Test series. “I got a good hit out so I think the selectors and medical staff are pretty happy with where I’m at.”