Peter Siddle looking to emulate Glenn McGrath

Peter Siddle reached the milestone of 200 Test wickets in the recently concluded Test series against New Zealand.

©REUTERS / Action Images

 

Australian fast bowler Peter Siddle is looking to emulate legendary pace bowler Glenn McGrath in order to cement his place in the Test side after having a sporadic run over the last two years.

Siddle, who is currently the senior most member in the Australian Test squad has only played eight Test matches over the last two years including just two games in 2015.

With the retirement of Mitchell Johnson and the injury to Mitchell Starc, Siddle is expected to get an extended run, but the 31-year-old does want to take his place for granted. 

“Essentially I am playing for my place,” Siddle said.

“Being out of the side for so long and having a couple of games here and there makes you feel like that.

“I have to get out there and perform well, get the body right.” 

The Australian selectors have currently emphasized on a bowling attack with fast bowlers who can consistently cross the 140 kmph mark.

Citing the example of Josh Hazelwood's success, Siddle is looking to mould his performances on the legendary McGrath.

“Look at his performances. He (Josh Hazlewood) hasn’t got that speed, it’s about skill and going on the conditions.

“Glenn McGrath is probably the perfect example.

“He’s been our greatest fast bowler and he struggled to touch that (140kph) once in his career.

“That’s a good example to go by.

“I spoke to him a lot, trying to build my game on him, how he was consistent, his patience and being able to work batsmen over.” 

In the third Test match against New Zealand in Adelaide, Siddle suffered from back spasms, but went on to hit the winning runs to give Australia a 2-0 series victory.

Revealing that he is currently fit, the Victorian fast bowler is happy to have had a rest ahead of the upcoming Test series against West Indies. 

“It was nice getting a bit of a rest getting back (home) - it was nice finishing the Test match early.

“But the back is good.

“It has pulled up well.” 

In the day-night Test match against New Zealand, Siddle became the 15th Australian bowler to have reached the landmark of 200 Test wickets. 

© Cricket World 2015