Australian star Steve Smith has praised Xavier Bartlett, promising the fast bowler a bright future in the game after an impressive start to his international career.
The right-arm pacer, who impressed in the Big Bash League where he finished the 2023-24 season as the top wicket-taker, was given a chance to make his international cricket debut in the recently concluded three ODI matches. series against West Indies. And Xavier Bartlett grabbed that opportunity with both hands.
He finished the series as the top wicket-taker despite taking a break in the second match. The 25-year-old took just 4 for 17 in nine overs on his debut, but went on to score 4 for 21 in the third ODI. The youngster was named Player of the Series for his great performance with the ball.
Steve Smith praises Xavier Bartlett:
After the third and final ODI in Canberra, Steve Smith recalled playing against Xavier Bartlett for the Nets and was impressed by his seam bowling. The star batsman said the pacer’s performance in this series was outstanding and he has a bright future ahead of him.
“I remember seeing him in the Government net before a friendly, probably five or six years ago, and thinking, “This guy has beautiful seams that you don’t see very often.” ”said Smith.
“I just happened to remember that and saw him come out in that series and his bowling was amazing.”He has a seam. The former Australian captain added: “He looks like he has a bright future ahead of him,” he added.
With eight wickets in two ODIs, Steve Smith is mighty impressed with Xavier Bartlett! #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/gjDittDBjy
– cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) 2 月6. 2024 年
Speaking of series, Australia won all three ODI series. On Tuesday (6 February), they defeated the visitors by eight wickets in the third and final ODI. Firstly, the hosts thrashed the West Indies for just 86 runs, catching them in less than seven overs in total.
