DOGGETT ON DECK
Former Toowoomba junior named in Aussie Test squad
CRICKET: Brendan Doggett is the focal point of the Toowoomba cricket community right now.
Named in coach Justin Langer’s latest Australian Test squad Doggett, a former Souths junior, is a good chance to wear the baggy green against Pakistan.
It’s a special moment for the young fast bowler and something every Toowoomba cricket fan is talking about, according to Brad Spanner.
“It’s really exciting – everyone I have seen since the announcement is talking about it,” the former Toowoomba cricketer and Australian Country player said.
“It’s a great achievement for him. A few years ago he was signing a rookie contract with the Brisbane Heat and now he’s part of the Australian team. It’s been a rapid rise for him.
“He’s a great young man, a good role model for young kids. When he is home he’s often seen around Souths’ home ground talking to the players.”
Doggett is one of four quicks named in the squad alongside Peter Siddle, Michael Neser and Mitchell Starc.
“I don’t know which way Justin (Langer) is going to but it’ll be a hard tour for the quicks,” Spanner said.
“They’re normally batting wickets over there (the United Arab Emirates) and more suited to the spinners.
“Brendan has good pace though and he had a good season for Queensland.
“He took five wickets in the shield final against Tasmania and they were all good players.
“I’d love to see him get a start. It’d be great for him and I think it’d be wonderful for Toowoomba coaches to say to their juniors ‘look in can be done’. That would be special.”