Ashton Agar takes Test snub in stride, sets sights on ODI success

image-leh0lzf6Agar disappointed with Aus snub [Twitter]

Australian cricketer Ashton Agar, who was a part of the Test squad for the ongoing series against India, has returned to Perth after being sent home early by Cricket Australia. Despite the disappointment of missing out, the all-rounder stated that there was no bitterness involved in the decision and that the selectors communicated the message to him clearly.

The Melbourne born cricketer, who is now 29 years old, acknowledged that the snub could make it difficult for him to make it back into the Test team given that he has slipped down the pecking order. However, he was optimistic about his chances and said that he would try his best to improve his game.

The West Australian acknowledged that being overlooked for two Tests in India was not an ideal situation, but he was trying to make the best of it. He appreciated the clear messaging and communication from the selectors. Agar also advised himself to "chin up" and "walk tall" while focusing on improvement. The southpaw maintained a positive outlook and rejected any feelings of bitterness.

Selector Tony Dodemaide praised Agar for his hard work in India but stated that they felt that he did not pose as much of a threat to India's batters as Matt Kuhnemann. The 29-year all-rounder, who will return to India in Australia's ODI team for a series in March, also mentioned that his lack of red-ball game experience in recent years had made it challenging for him, but he remained committed to competing to the best of his abilities and helping the team. He hoped to get a chance to play and see what happens.

The southpaw expressed confidence in his resilience and stated that he tries to "front up every day with a smile on his face and be part of a team. He believed that he found enjoyment in cricket by focusing on controlling his mindset and suggested that it had helped him bounce back quickly from setbacks. The all-rounder also acknowledged that playing against India in their backyard is hard but he was up for the challenge.