In a remarkable display of skill and perseverance, fast bowler Michael Neser scripted a memorable chapter in Ashes history, guiding Australia to a commanding 2-0 series lead against England. The 35-year-old seamer delivered a career-best performance, claiming figures of 5/42 in England's second innings at the Gabba, which paved the way for an emphatic eight-wicket victory for the hosts.
An Unconventional Tactic Born from Khawaja's Advice
One of the most intriguing aspects of Neser's spell was the sight of wicketkeeper Alex Carey standing up to the stumps, a tactic rarely employed against fast bowlers in Test cricket. Neser revealed this strategic move was initially a challenge to his pride. He credited veteran batsman Usman Khawaja for the crucial mindset shift that made it possible.
"The first time I did it, I definitely didn't want to do it as a fast bowler," Neser told ESPNCricinfo. "But Uzzy (Usman Khawaja) taught me to just put the ego aside because it's beneficial for you." He drew inspiration from former South African great Vernon Philander, who successfully used the tactic throughout his career. For Neser, a shorter bowler who relies on accuracy over extreme pace, this approach helps keep batters on the crease and brings the stumps into play more often.
Triumph After a Long Road of Recovery and Resilience
This Gabba heroics marked a sensational return from the wilderness for Neser, whose Test career has been limited to pink-ball matches so far. His journey back to the Baggy Green was fraught with adversity. A severe hamstring injury sustained while playing for Australia A against India last year sidelined him for a grueling 12 months, threatening to end his international aspirations.
"To be honest, after last season when I thought I was bowling superbly...and I did my hammy really badly, I thought that could have been my chance," a reflective Neser admitted. Choosing to forgo county cricket this year, he dedicated himself to a rigorous pre-season focused solely on strengthening his body for the Australian summer. "A big pre-season did me wonders. I feel strong again and I feel like my hammy is back to where it was," he stated, highlighting the payoff of his disciplined approach.
A Historic Feat and England's Bazball Conundrum
With this five-wicket haul, Michael Neser etched his name in the record books as the oldest Australian fast bowler to claim a maiden five-wicket innings in the Ashes. His contribution was pivotal in dismantling England's much-talked-about 'Bazball' approach. Alongside his bowling colleagues, Neser was instrumental in squeezing the English batting, drawing out their slowest strike-rate in a first session during this era, which even left the normally boisterous Barmy Army subdued.
The victory was also set against the backdrop of a controversial selection call, with Australia dropping their lone specialist spinner, Nathan Lyon. Neser's performance justified the team's faith in their pace arsenal. Now, with 99 fewer Test caps than teammate Mitchell Starc, Neser has proven his worth on the biggest stage, turning a dream he "lives and breathes" into a match-winning reality for Australia.
