SKIP TO MAIN CONTENT

Renshaw to bounce back after Smith call

Matthew Renshaw has vowed to reclaim his Test opening spot after being consoled by Australian captain Steve Smith over his Ashes axing.

Matthew Renshaw of Queensland walks off the field
Opening batsman Matthew Renshaw has been dumped for the first two Ashes Tests. (AAP)

3 min read

Published

Source: AAP


Skip to article content

Consoled by Australian skipper Steve Smith, a shattered Matthew Renshaw has vowed to reclaim his Test opener spot after his Ashes axing.

Queenslander Renshaw's 10-Test career has stalled after being replaced on Friday by debutant Cameron Bancroft in Australia's squad for the first two Ashes encounters.

But after receiving some encouraging words on Thursday night from his captain, Renshaw said he was determined to bounce back in the baggy green.

"Naturally, I'm disappointed not to be playing in the first Test but I've had a good talk with the chairman and coach and know that there will be opportunities for me in the future," he said.

"I certainly congratulate Cam Bancroft and wish him every success.

News that makes sense

Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

"I'll head back to (Brisbane club) Toombul tomorrow where I have enjoyed a lot of Saturdays, and work hard to give myself the chance to earn a spot again.

"The Bulls have some key games ahead and I'll look to make the most of those matches and do my best."

Smith revealed he had reached out to Renshaw after hearing the lefthander had been cut for the start of the Ashes.

"I spoke to him last night actually," Smith said in Brisbane ahead of the first Test starting on Thursday.

"He was obviously disappointed not to be included in the squad and so he should be - you always want to be playing for Australia.

"I think he is an incredibly talented player and has a big future for Australia.

"Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to get the runs on the board that the selectors wanted.

"The Ashes is not a place where you are trying to find your form."

Renshaw has made just 70 Sheffield Shield runs this summer at an average of 11.66.

Western Australia's Bancroft has amassed 442 runs at 110.50.

"When I called him on Thursday night ... I wanted Matt to know that he has my support and I know what he's going through because I've been in his position - now it's up to him," Smith later wrote in his Fox Sports column.

Renshaw said he had been reassured by the support.

"I know I have a lot of support around me going forward and I really appreciate that backing," he said.


Get SBS News straight to your inbox

Sign up now for daily news from Australia and around the world. You can also subscribe to Insight's weekly newsletter for in-depth features and first-person stories.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Stream now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world