Tim David's attacking 'make a dent' mindset brings Australia reward

In a gripping duel between Australia and New Zealand in the first T20I, Tim David emerged as the protagonist, as he put on a finishing showcase. His blazing knock of 31 runs off just 10 deliveries turned the tide in Australia's favour, where they secured a last-ball victory in Wellington. David's entry at the crease, with Australia requiring 44 runs off 19 deliveries, injected sheer dynamism into the game, hammering three sixes and two fours to snatch triumph from the jaws of defeat.

The power-packed hitter displayed a preference for boundary-clearing shots over singles, emphasising his role as a boundary hunter. Moreover, he highlighted the significance of focusing on the process rather than fixating solely on the outcome of the match. His unwavering confidence in his ability to single-handedly alter the game's course positions him as a potent weapon for Australia in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024, provided he maintains his scintillating form.

"I was saying to Mitch 'I think we need five or six sixes in 14 balls, or 15 balls' and I didn’t feel like I was going to get it (the target) running twos. My strength is to take the game on and it probably came to a certain stage in that game where I was like 'we’ve got to make a dent here, try and get the runs', so it kind of evolved from there," said David as quoted by cricket.com.au.

I don't think finishing is the hardest position: Tim David

Australia's skipper, Michell Marsh, showered accolades on the 27-year-old following the first T20I and acknowledged the challenges of the finisher's role. However, David countered, highlighting the diverse demands of each batting position. He admitted finding it daunting to face swing while opening and stressed the multifaceted skill set required in cricket, while being in the thick of things during various circumstances.

"I think what he (Marsh) means by saying it's the hardest is that there's not a lot of guys that specialise in that position. But I don't think it's the hardest position. If you put me out there against the swinging ball at the start, where Heady (Travis Head) was, it would have looked a lot different. So, there's different skills set that suit roles," he added.

Also Read: Andrew McDonald sings Tim David praises