'If that means missing the series then so be it' - Sean Abbott hints missing the Ashes to attend birth of first child

Sean Abbott has been waiting for his big opportunity to play in the Baggy Green for some time now. And just a couple of months ahead of the Ashes 2021-22, it seems his chance could just come this summer against England. However, the New South Wales cricketer is happy to delay that as he awaits the birth of his first child. 

With Cricket Australia (CA) and team management planning to rotate their star pacers, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood for the summer. This has now created a space where there is a chance for other pacers to get a chance. Abbott has been one of the best domestic cricketers in recent times and with James Pattinson deciding to quit, his chances of making a debut in Test cricket have increased. 

In a recent interaction, he opened up about the current situation and how things are quite difficult. “It’s not as easy as it used to be and that’s the world we’re living in at the minute. That’s just part of things now. It’s a bloody tough one, especially considering the safety concerns around COVID and borders,” Abbott was quoted by Cricket.com. 

Hopefully, we get lucky and things work out: Sean Abbott

While explaining everything related to him getting a chance to make his debut, Abbott explained that he would attend the birth of his first child, even if it means missing his Test debut. The NSW player has been in contention for some time and could be a good option for the Aussies during the Ashes. 

“It’s certainly something I’ll have to keep a close eye on and play well enough to get selected. Should that happen. I have to make sure I’m back in Sydney late-December for the birth of my baby girl. We’ll just have to manage that as best I can and if that means maybe missing some time with the Test squad and an Ashes series then so be it. Hopefully, we get lucky and things work out,” Abbott said. 

The 29-year-old has already played two ODIs and seven T20Is for Australia. He can turn out of a great pick because of his recent records as well as his ability to contribute with the bat as well as the ball.