Former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie on Tuesday advised the Aussies to make two changes for the second Ashes Test which will begin on Wednesday (July 28) at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Australian skipper Pat Cummins guided his side to a narrow victory in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston but the former pacer believes that changes need to be made.
Gillespie, 48, wants to see Mitchell Starc in action over Scott Boland, who took only two wickets in two innings in the first Test, or Josh Hazlewood. Meanwhile, the legendary Aussie also wants to see Mitchell Marsh in place of Cameroon Green if the 24-year-old is not fit in time.
"Australia should make at least one change – and possibly two, fitness dictating – despite going to Lord’s with a 1-0 Ashes lead,” Gillespie told the Daily Mail.
“I would advocate recalling Mitchell Starc to the pace attack and, unless Cameron Green is fit and able to bowl, they may look at Mitchell Marsh as an alternative option in the all-rounder role.”
The 48-year-old also said that England’s approach to Boland in the first Ashes Test may force the Aussies to think about changing the team.
“England’s approach to Scott Boland at Edgbaston might influence Australia’s thinking on second Test selection," he added.
“It was a legitimate tactic that England looked to put Scott off his game, which is being disciplined, bowling line and length, bashing that same area on the pitch all day in a bid to hit the top of off-stump.
“They succeeded in hitting him off that by being ultra-aggressive, scoring at more than six an over in the first innings and five in the second."
Gillespie was firm that no one traditionally changes the winning team but considering how long the series is, it would be beneficial to keep the fast bowlers fresh.
“Traditionally, you wouldn’t look to change a winning team but, because this is the most condensed Ashes series in history, of five Tests in under seven weeks, it’s important to keep your bowlers as fresh as possible,” he added.