Evergreen batsman Adam Voges is adamant age won’t be a barrier as he attempts to realise a boyhood dream by playing in this year’s Ashes series.
Voges is one step closer towards earning a Baggy Green after edging out Joe Burns to earn selection in Australia’s 17-man Test squad for upcoming tours of the West Indies and England.
The West Australian is in the form of his life after plundering 1358 runs at an average of 104 during the Sheffield Shield season.
At 35 years of age, Voges knows time isn’t on his side.
But after watching Mike Hussey and Chris Rogers carve out successful Test careers late into their 30s, Voges is aiming to follow suit.
“I’ll be trying to stick around for as long as I can,” Voges said on Tuesday.
“I’ve played every game for WA for the past two years. Physically I’m in great nick.
“I guess what the selectors have shown is that if you are performing at domestic level, then there are still opportunities regardless of age. So that’s really exciting.”
National selector Rod Marsh said pure weight of runs pushed Voges into the Test squad.
Marsh said Voges was in such commanding form this summer that he would often wonder how on earth the bowler would be able to dismiss him.
And with six seasons of county cricket under his belt, Voges said facing England on their home turf won’t hold any fears for him.
But if Voges is to earn a Test call-up, he knows it may come at the expense of long-time WA teammates Shaun or Mitch Marsh.
“Yeah, there’s every chance Shaun and I will be vying for the same spot, or Mitch even as well,” Voges said.
“It will be a bit of friendly banter, and the competition will keep us going.
“We’re all very good friends. If all three of us get picked, that’s the ideal situation. But there’ll be plenty of support if guys miss out.”
Voges was informed of his Test call-up on Monday morning, but there was a slight delay in getting him the news.
“I missed Rod’s call,” Voges said.
“At 7.30 in the morning and with kids running around, the last thing I’m doing is answering my phone.”
