SON OF BOOF FIRMS IN AUSTRALIAN ASHES MIX
JAKE Lehmann has surged into the mix for a fairytale Test debut at the Gabba, but if he does, his father won’t play a part in the decision.
‘Son of Boof’ yesterday made a superb 93 to go with his first innings hundred at the MCG, and the 25-yearold’s perfectly timed form, coupled with an impressive record of six first-class centuries in 29 matches, has made him standout like Christmas lights in an underwhelming field for the No. 6 spot.
Cricket Australia have ratified a rule that means national
coach, selector and proud father Darren Lehmann would be forced to excuse himself from a final decision over Jake, should it come to that, due to the potential conflict of interest.
The Australian hierarchy made it clear that the No. 6 and No. 7 keeping spots were wide open and that the opening three Shield rounds were essentially an old-fashioned shootout – and based on that criteria, Lehmann with scores of 103 and 93 off 143 balls yesterday, is the one contender who has stood up.
“Certainly if there’s any time to be making runs, this is it. Jake has certainly thrown his hat in the ring,” teammate Callum Ferguson said. “He’s made good runs in four day cricket for a few years now and really consistently. I dare say (he and Travis Head) would be in the frame. Lehmo backing it up in the second innings, I was really disappointed for him not to get the two hundreds, but he showed he’s a high quality batsman.”