by Tony Clifton » Mon Nov 19, 2018 8:16 pm
Pope got games ahead of time. Had a taste. Pleased they stuck with him for four Shield games. He's seen some quality players up close, got exposed in some areas, will be better for it. You're not the finished product as an 18 year old, especially as a spinner. Hopefully this taste guides his next 12-18 months and he's a better bowler next time he gets his chance.
Imagine we'd go 4 quicks in Hobart. I don't really see Andrews or Cormack being anymore effective than Head. Imagine Zampa will be in the 12 though.
The batting is the real concern. How long do we stick with these same guys? We've poured the best part of a decade into Ferguson, Cooper. They make runs often enough to keep their spot, to remind you that they are a good player, but not often enough to help us win anything. Surely it's time for some tough calls. I admire that we've shown faith and were rewarded (sort of) with two Shield finals but this line up has taken us as far as it can.
Smith, Dalton, Davis... give them a chance.
We've won something like 2 of our last 15 shield games. Enough is enough.
This is Tony Clifton! A name to respect! A name to fear!