WISE WORDS SET MATT UP
MATT Renshaw is hoping for a final chat with Matthew Hayden before facing the music in Pune, undoubtedly the biggest challenge of his fledgling career.
The jury is still out on Renshaw’s capabilities against spin bowling and he had not set foot in India before the Australian Test squad arrived.
But his size and Queensland background have led to comparisons with Hayden, the former opener who dominated in Indian conditions.
Queensland teammate Mitchell Swepson, also part of the Australian squad, has vouched for Renshaw’s aggressive capabilities against the turning ball.
And Renshaw, 20, feels he has mastered the sweep shot played so well by Hayden, but wants some final words of wisdom from his mentor.
“I had a bit of a chat with ‘Haydos’ when I was back in Australia and he gave me a few good pointers,” he said this week.
“And then he’s coming over to commentate, so hopefully I’ll catch up with him when he gets here and just bounce ideas off him.
“He had great success with the sweep and I’ve been practising it. I’m not sure if it will come out in the game, but it’s an option that I’ve got and I’ve worked hard on.”
Renshaw might look unconvincing at stages, but his fearless attitude and patient approach to batting inspire confidence.
“That’s one of the big things that we’ve spoken about — that we need to try and bat a long period of time and 150 overs-plus,” he said.
“We saw that with England (in last year’s series in India). They were making 450 and still losing by an innings.
“I think that’s one thing we’ve got to do a fair bit and hopefully that comes about.
“I wouldn’t say I’m fearless. I just try to enjoy it. I’m 20 years old, I’m doing what I love for my country and it’s something that really excites me.
“I just try not to think about it too much.”