Nathan Ellis Ready for Crucial Role as Australia Nears T20 World Cup Finals

Nathan Ellis is gearing up for any scenario with the prospect of playing up to five matches in 10 days if Australia reaches the T20 World Cup final. Ellis, despite his strong start and suitability to Caribbean pitches, understands that Australia's established pace attack hierarchy is unlikely to change. However, the reserve bowler is preparing for a significant role as the tournament intensifies.

In Australia's dominant win over Namibia in Antigua, which secured their place in the Super Eight stage, Ellis showcased his versatility by conceding just 12 runs in his three overs. Known for his effectiveness on low-bouncing pitches, Ellis demonstrated his unique skill set by dismissing JJ Smit with a delivery that none of Australia’s taller fast bowlers might have managed.

Ellis acknowledged that the varying pitch conditions in the Caribbean have played to his strengths. He commented on how the uneven bounce allowed him to use his height and bowling style to his advantage. Ellis noted, “Given my stature, my ability to hit the stumps at different lengths compared to Josh Hazlewood or Pat Cummins is beneficial on these surfaces.”

Ellis got his opportunity in place of Mitchell Starc, who was sidelined with a minor calf issue. Ellis believes Starc will recover in time for Australia's next match against Scotland in St. Lucia. With Australia already through to the Super Eight and their position secure, Ellis anticipates returning to the bench as Hazlewood and Cummins are expected to play to maintain their form and fitness.

Expressing his readiness to support the team in any capacity, Ellis said, “Playing alongside these legends is an honour. Whether it’s bowling the first over or the last, or even opening the batting, I’m here to contribute however I can to win the World Cup.”

Australia’s Super Eight schedule will be demanding, with potentially five games in 10 days spread across different islands. Ellis stated the importance of staying prepared both physically and mentally for the tournament's rigours. “Given the tight schedule and intense travel, I need to be ready for any opportunity that comes my way,” he remarked, acknowledging his position in the team hierarchy.

Ellis has also worked on improving his performance in the Powerplay, an area identified by coach Andrew McDonald. Although Ellis did not bowl in the early overs against Namibia, he was effective later in the innings. How he will be utilised in upcoming matches, especially against stronger teams, will be a strategic decision for the coaching staff.

“I came into this team with a reputation as a death bowler, but I aim to be versatile and fit into any role,” Ellis explained. “I want to avoid being typecast and continue evolving to contribute in all phases of the game.”

2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

Australia’s Squad:

- Mitch Marsh (c)

- Ashton Agar

- Pat Cummins

- Tim David

- Nathan Ellis

- Cameron Green

- Josh Hazlewood

- Travis Head

- Josh Inglis

- Glenn Maxwell

- Mitchell Starc

- Marcus Stoinis

- Matthew Wade

- David Warner

- Adam Zampa

Australia’s Group B Fixtures

- June 6: Defeated Oman by 39 runs

- June 9: Defeated England by 36 runs

- June 12: Defeated Namibia by nine wickets

- June 16: vs. Scotland, Daren Sammy Stadium, St. Lucia, 10:30 AM AEST

Super Eight Fixtures (Opponents TBD)

- June 21: vs. D2, Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua, 10:30 AM AEST

- June 23: vs. C1, Arnos Vale Ground, St. Vincent, 10:30 AM AEST

- June 25: vs. India, Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, St. Lucia, 12:30 AM AEST

Semi-finals to follow if Australia qualifies.

Ellis remains prepared for any challenge as Australia moves closer to the tournament's climax, ready to step in whenever needed.