Stanlake will go from strength to strength, says Lynn
Chris Lynn expects to see more “special things” from Billy Stanlake after the towering quick ripped through New Zealand’s top order in Australia’s tri-nations T20 victory on Saturday.
Stanlake, making his first international appearance for a year, took wickets with his first two balls and removed Tom Bruce in his second over as the Black Caps could only muster 117-9 at the SCG.
The paceman produced a peach of a delivery to bowl Martin Guptill and finished with outstanding figures of 3-15 from four overs, with Andrew Tye taking 4-23 in the opening match of the series.
After making 44 in a third-wicket stand of 77 with Glenn Maxwell (40 not out), Lynn was full of praise for Stanlake’s exploits with the ball as Australia wrapped up an emphatic seven-wicket Duckworth-Lewis win.
“He’s getting quicker, he’s getting taller and he’s swinging the ball,” said Lynn.
“It’s great for him to hit the ground running, because he’s a guy who can get nervous early on so it was great for him to get early wickets.
“We’re going to see him go from strength to strength with that confidence, especially in T20. We’re going to see some pretty special things and we’re going to see some pretty quick spells.”
New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor also tipped Stanlake to do further damage on the international stage.
“Two wickets in [Stanlake’s] first two balls set the tone,” said the former captain.
“It wasn’t a quick wicket but he bowled well with some good pace and he’s going to be someone to watch out for in the future – that’s for sure.”
Australia face England in the second match of the series in Hobart next Wednesday.