A Test debut with the Ashes wrapped up could stand the young legspinner in good stead for the challenges ahead
It’s not quite as simple as saying the selectors will give Swepson a game because the Ashes are wrapped up – there are World Test Championship points available, a key stated aim of the Australia side – although it’s tempting to say it may not matter what attack Australia put out against this England batting order. But they also need to weigh up the potential benefits of a debut before the tours of Pakistan and Sri Lanka in 2022, followed by India which is now set to be played in early 2023 with the latter two, especially, likely to demand twin spinners at least in some situations.
“We’ve got no doubt that whether it’s the SCG or some time in the future that Swepo is ready. We love everything he’s bringing, his cricket is getting better and better, he’s a great young leader, we’d love nothing more for him to get an opportunity but it will probably be conditions dependent.”
Due to the T20 World Cup where he was part of the squad without getting a game, and the quarantine period that followed, Swepson has played one first-class game this summer – for Australia A against England Lions where he claimed four wickets – meaning he has not been able to build on last season’s stellar return of 32 wickets at 23.40 in just five games which played a central role in Queensland’s Sheffield Shield title. He became a key second-innings matchwinner, marrying wicket-taking threat with an improved economy.
“We love everything he’s bringing, his cricket is getting better and better, he’s a great young leader, we’d love nothing more for him to get an opportunity but it will probably be conditions dependent.”
George Bailey on Mitchell Swepson
His first-class record at the SCG is less flattering, albeit from just two matches, with four wickets at 67.50. Last season he was punished by India during the Australia A warm-up match. However, it is worth noting that Lyon averages 40.94 in Tests at the SCG, and that includes the 10-wicket match haul against New Zealand two seasons ago.
“Once you play one, your next one will be a bit better, and you’ll be more assured of yourself,” Pat Cummins said after the MCG Test. “If Swepson debuted and then suddenly he was off to a subcontinent tour, you’d think that experience is probably a good thing.”
The last legspinner to debut for Australia was Steven Smith in 2010. Swepson’s career certainly won’t follow his path, but at some point in 2022 he will play Test cricket. If that comes next week it would add an intriguing element to an Ashes where every player Australia have used has made an impression.
Andrew McGlashan is a deputy editor at ESPNcricinfo