Jake Weatherald ready for Australia Test debut ahead of Ashes battle
Jake Weatherald feels he is ready for a potential Test debut for Australia even though he felt it was a "little bit out of reach at times".
Jake Weatherald
Weatherald is the favourite to slot in at the top of the order as Usman Khawaja's opening partner for the first Ashes Test against England that starts on 21 November.
The 31-year-old has taken the long road to Australia's Test squad after scoring 1391 runs at 53.5 from his past 15 first-class games since his move to Tasmania
"Playing for Australia's the hardest thing to do in Australian sport," Weatherald said. "It was always a goal that felt maybe a little bit out of reach at times.
"But at the same time, I probably got comfortable with myself to know that if I did the right things, at the right time, and I took my opportunities, then I'd be ready to go. It is a pinch-yourself moment.
"As a kid in Australia, you grow up wanting to play professional sport; representing Australia in cricket is the highest honour, and something that I've aspired to my whole career."
When the 15-man squad was announced, Australia's selection chief George Bailey spoke Weatherald's positive approach with the bat that would complement Khawaja.
Weatherald is also confident that he will be able to deal with the scrutiny that surrounds an Ashes.
I think I'm pretty understanding of what I need to do to get ready as a cricketer but also how to deal with the pressure that comes out," he said.
"I've never been a part of it. I've only been from the outside looking in. I'm sure the pressures and things that will come will be intense. But at the same time, I just see it as a great opportunity to be a part of it. And whatever happens, happens. It's just going to be a cool thing to be a part of.
"You know, the media, the Barmy Army, all that sort of stuff is going to be a pretty incredible experience."