Daniel Hughes asserts he cannot be more ready for a break into the Ashes

New South Wales all-rounder Daniel Hughes recently went on the record to state that he is ready for his break into the Australian squad for the Ashes series starting November 23. Team-mates David Warner and Steve Smith have already heaped praises for the all-rounder who is now in contention for the number 6 spot in the Australian XI.

With the inclusion of Australian captain Steve Smith and opener David Warner in the Sheffield Shield for the preparation of the Ashes, top-scorer for NSW in the last season, Ed Cowan could not find a place in the side for the matches.

The fact that the selectors went ahead with Hughes ahead of Cowan is believed to be due the latter being vocal during payment dispute circus plaguing Australia cricket a few months back.

“I’m ready, yeah. I’m 28 now, I’ve been playing professional cricket for six years, I’m more mature now. I’m ready to go, I’ll never be more ready for an opportunity if I get it.” claimed Daniel Hughes according to Omnisport.

“I was a bit surprised when I heard him [Smith] say that. The whole Ed Cowan thing was a surprise to me as well. He played extremely well last year, has played well for a number of years now,” Hughes commented on Smith taking the responsibility of the axing of Cowan.

Hughes claims that he wasn’t nervous ahead of the game vs South Australia

“I was extremely surprised, but I wasn’t too nervous [playing the opening match]. Opening the batting or batting at six, it was all the same to me, especially down there in Adelaide where the ball was swinging and nipping around the whole game,” stated Hughes while talking about the game at Adelaide.

“Ed has scored lots of runs, I’m in good form … it was nice getting the nod from the captain. But there’s a long list of guys for that number six spot in the first Test. These next two games are going to be crucial.” concluded Hughes hinting towards a possibility of selection of Stoinis and Marsh for the number 6 spot.