Former Test and ODI fast bowler Jason Gillespie has delivered a strong message to Australia’s critics – write them off at your peril.
Less than 12 months out from their World Cup defence, Australia have slipped to sixth in the ICC one-day rankings – their lowest point in more than three decades – following their 0-5 series loss to England this month. Australia have now won just two of their past 18 completed matches.
But Gillespie said it would be folly to think the five-time World Cup champions can’t win the tournament again next year.
“Everyone is taking pot shots at Australia at the moment,” he told Talk Sport radio. “But mark my words, come the World Cup I think we’re going to surprise a few people.
“Everyone is talking up England and England deserve to be talked up because they’re playing wonderful cricket.
“England deserve to be favourites, but do not write off Australia. I’m still backing them to win the tournament. I think they can do it and I think they can surprise a few people.
“People would have seen them this tour and everyone will just be laughing and shouting me down … but mark my words, never write off the Aussies. We’re going to be coming hard so look out.”
While Justin Langer’s side were severely undermanned in England, their slide down the rankings began long before the likes of Steve Smith, David Warner and their injured trio of star fast bowlers were out of the side.
