Former Australian pacer Worrall remains unfazed by England call-up speculations
What's the story
Former Australian cricketer, Dan Worrall, is opting to ignore the incessant speculation of a possible call-up to the England team this Ashes year. The 33-year-old pacer has played three ODIs for Australia in 2016. He joined Surrey as a local player in 2022 on his British passport. After completing a three-year residency period, Worrall will be eligible for England selection when they face Zimbabwe next month.
Career focus
Worrall remains focused on Surrey
Worrall, who has English roots through his father, was born in Melbourne and played state cricket for South Australia. Despite the buzz surrounding a potential England call-up, he remains committed to performing at his best for Surrey. "I haven't thought about it," Worrall said, as per BBC. "Everyone else keeps talking about it, but I'm going to go out and do my best for Surrey."
Career transition
Worrall's journey in English cricket
Worrall has had stints as Gloucestershire's overseas player in 2018 and 2021, before retiring from Australian cricket three years ago to move to the UK. Since moving, he has taken a total of 139 wickets at an average of 21.17 in Surrey's three consecutive County Championship victories. This phenomenal performance has prompted former captain Alec Stewart and ex-Australia opener David Warner to tip him for a potential England debut.
Strategy insights
Worrall's thoughts on England's strategy
Worrall, who is known for his accuracy and ability to move the ball around, acknowledges England's strategy of preferring high pace under skipper Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum. He could be in contention with Chris Woakes or uncapped Essex seamer Sam Cook for limited spots in the England squad. Nevertheless, he remains unfazed by speculation of a potential call-up from England director of cricket Rob Key.
Personal views
Worrall's perspective on speculation
However, Worrall has been indifferent to the ongoing speculation of a possible England call-up. "Nothing has progressed as far as I'm concerned," he said. "If anything is happening in the background, it is, but that's for everyone else to deal with and speculate about." He added such speculations don't bother him too much and he will continue to give his best wherever he plays.