Despite acknowledging the challenge ahead, Murphy remains focused on bolstering his fundamentals before venturing into the complexities of the carrom ball.
The 22-year-old Murphy has traveled to England as part of the Australian squad, which is currently gearing up for the upcoming World Test Championship final against India, followed by the five-Test Qantas Ashes Tour.
Murphy’s commendable performance in India, where he claimed 14 wickets across four Tests with an average of 25.51, provided him with an opportunity to closely observe and analyze Ashwin’s mesmerizing bowling technique.
R. Ashwin practicing the Carrom Ball //Getty Images
The carrom ball, renowned for its ability to spin either way or travel straight, captivated Murphy’s attention. He expressed his admiration for Ashwin’s expertise, stating:
I am still working on that but I am still a long way off being able to do it the way Ravi Ashwin can. It is simple in a way, and yet so difficult. It is just about being confident that you can execute it. I’d love to be able to add that myself one day. If you have a delivery that goes the other way it just poses different challenges for the batsmen.
He further expressed his aspiration to incorporate the carrom ball into his repertoire, recognizing the strategic advantages it presents to challenge batsmen.
However, Murphy understands the significance of refining his stock ball and maintaining strong fundamentals in Test cricket which has given huge success to Nathon Lyon, who, for years has made his stock ball, a tremendous weapon of his choice.
He understands that while adding new variations to his arsenal is crucial, ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of his primary delivery takes precedence.
During the India tour, Murphy extensively studied videos of Ashwin’s bowling, meticulously observing the hand and wrist positions at the point of delivery. He sought to comprehend the intricacies of Ashwin’s craft, studying the subtle variations he introduced throughout his overs. Murphy expressed his appreciation for the availability of such analytical tools, highlighting their role in facilitating a deeper understanding of the game.
Nathan Lyon, Australia’s seasoned first-choice spinner, currently holds a prominent position in the team, leaving Murphy uncertain about the number of Test matches he will participate in on the tour.
Despite this, Murphy maintains a team-oriented mindset, emphasizing the importance of contributing to the squad’s overall success. He intends to maximize his value by persevering through rigorous training and continuously honing his skills. Should an opportunity arise, Murphy aims to be well-prepared to seize it.
Murphy recognizes the dynamic nature of the sport and the potential for swift changes in team compositions. His dedication and readiness to adapt to varying circumstances position him as a valuable asset for the Australian squad.