'I just can’t wait' - Cooper Connolly excited to be called up for Test series against Sri Lanka

Australia announced their squad for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka a few days back. Batting all-rounder, Cooper Connolly, was one among the 16 members to have been shortlisted for the series, in which the side will be led by standby skipper, Steve Smith.

The 21-year-old youngster elaborated on the entire experience of the phone call through which his selection was confirmed to him, and the rollercoaster of emotions which followed. He was understandably excited to be among the group of experienced professionals. 

“At 21, I would have been happy to play a couple of ODIs and a T20I for Australia. But to get the nod to go to Sri Lanka, I just can’t wait. It’s such a good group, the coaching staff is amazing, and I feel like I’m going to learn a lot. I saw Tony Dodemaide’s name pop up and thought there’s probably the only thing it could be. (It was a) nice phone call, went straight and told mum and dad, mum was about to cry. I’ll never forget that moment. Dream come true," shared Connolly, as quoted by News18.

Also Read: 'He's going to learn them along the way' - Steve Smith on Sam Konstas

I’m ready to go over there and perform: Connolly

Connolly exuded confidence while speaking in relation to his nascent experience at the highest level. He also spoke on 19-year-old Sam Konstas and his audacious strokeplay against a proven Indian bowling attack in the recently-concluded edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.  

“Some exposure (at the international level) has been quite nice; I’ve also been on the MRF tour in India, which has been really beneficial for my cricket in spinning conditions. I’m ready to go over there and perform. I’ve been picked for a reason so I’ve just got to go over there and embrace it and learn as much as I can. Seeing him play ramps shots off (Jasprit) Bumrah, it’s exciting; I won’t be doing that. He’s brought so much energy to that team, they already had a lot of energy, but he’s just brought something different, the way he plays it’s amazing to be honest. It will be a nice opportunity to get in there and hopefully provide some more energy with him," he added.

The tour to the island nation is essentially a dead rubber for Australia with regard to the current cycle of the World Test Championship. Observing how they go about selecting their XI for both the Tests is set to be a compelling watch.