Nathan Coulter-Nile in line for Ashes debut after impressive show in India

Australian pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile has served a serious case for himself ahead of the upcoming Ashes series. The Ashes is arguably the biggest fixture in the Australian international cricket calendar. And to be a part of it, and make his Test debut in it, it would be quite an achievement for Coulter-Nile. In the ongoing ODI series against India, Nathan Coulter-Nile has bagged 9 wickets in the four ODIs thus far.

More importantly, he has managed to tame the Indian skipper Virat Kohli. Coulter-Nile has dismissed Kohli on three occasions in the four matches thus far. Needless to say, he has his case served for the Ashes. At least, his fellow teammate Kane Richardson feels so. Richardson, as per the recent quotes in cricket.com.au, mentioned that his name would now be a notch higher compared to the other bowlers waiting in the list.

“He’s been amazing. He’s been amazing getting Kohli out three out of the four games. He’s pushing his case for higher honours in Test cricket this year, I think. If there’s any injuries or you’re resting and rotating, he’s probably the next one in,” quoted Kane Richardson.

“When you sat down a month ago and thought about the Ashes, you probably wouldn’t think of him being next in. (Jason) Behrendorff and (Chadd) Sayers and those kinds of guys are probably at the top of your mind and you forget about him because he hasn’t played. But when you actually watch him go about his work, he’s a serious bowler. It’s pretty good for Australia to have someone like that waiting in the wings,” he added.

Knack of taking wickets

When asked if Steve Smith will throw the ball to Nathan Coulter-Nile every time Virat Kohli comes in to bat, Richardson remarked that this decision is solely up to Smith and he would know it better. All that he hopes is that Coulter-Nile manages to keep himself fit in the longer run.

“You’d have to ask Smithy but it seems that way. He’s just got a knack of taking wickets and he is one of those bowlers who just finds a way to get people out no matter the conditions. Hopefully he can stay on the park because if you keep him fit along with the other bowlers around Australia, it’s pretty exciting,” conceded Richardson.