Australian cricketers inspiring for Parkes

IF WALES finally end their decade-long losing streak to the Wallabies this weekend, Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath and Adam Gilchrist will have played a part.

In an intriguing twist to the match build-up, Wales’ Kiwiborn centre Hadleigh Parkes revealed he was inspired by the great Australian cricket team of last decade.

Parkes, who has played nine Tests for Wales, will be a central figure for a Welsh side on a six-match winning streak, looking to end a 13-match losing streak to Australia that began in 2009.

“I grew up fascinated by the Aussie cricket side and the amazing era they had. You had to love Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath,” he said.

“I loved the whole team; Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, and all their great batsman. Adam Gilchrist was special.

“There was their rugby team as well at that time with John Eales, George Gregan and Stephen Larkham.

“They are pretty aren’t they?

“They play at a high tempo. They have a lot of plays, they look to bring Israel Folau into it, and it will be a game where the ball is chucked around a lot.” skilful,