‘Was really disappointed at the start’ - Michael Neser opens up on surprising snub from Australia’s Ashes squad

Australia and Queensland pacer Michael Neser expressed his disappointment on not being picked in the national squad for the forthcoming Ashes 2023, despite a terrific run in the domestic season.

For the unversed, Neser had a brilliant outing in the recently concluded Sheffield Shield 2022/23. With 40 wickets in the season, the 33-year-old was the second-highest wicket-taker, having taken a four-wicket haul on three occasions and a five-for on two. Moreover, he got 357 runs with the bat at an average of 35.70 and was named ‘Sheffield Shield Player of the Year’ this summer.

Despite his impressive outing for Queensland, Neser’s omission from the squad came as a surprise to many fans and members of the cricketing fraternity. In addition to this, the pacer too was disappointed with his exclusion from the setup but was optimistic about his chances following a conversation with chief selector George Bailey.

“I was really disappointed at the start but I had a very good conversation with George Bailey and he was pretty clear about where I stand. He told me it’s a long tour and they can bring me in at any stage depending on conditions. At least I am over here and playing cricket. That is a positive,” Neser confessed while speaking to The Courier Mail.

“Obviously, I would have loved being part of that squad, but that is how it is. If one of the bowlers goes down or there are suitable conditions I still might be required. It was the best season I have had to date. On a positive note, I do get called in I will be coming in with matches under my belt,” he added.

Neser is currently playing his trade for Glamorgan in the County Championship Division Two. In his most recent outing, the pacer took two wickets against Durham on April 20 in Cardiff. Meanwhile, Australia will play fierce rivals India for the coveted mace from June 7, at the Oval in London, followed by the highly-anticipated series against England, starting on June 16.