Astle thrilled with recall

Canterbury allrounder Todd Astle is thrilled to have been recalled to the Black Caps squad to face Pakistan nearly four years after his last Test match.

Astle is the only frontline spinner included in the squad with Mitchell Santner injured and Ish Sodhi excluded from the group.

Speaking about the recall Astle told stuff.co.nz: “Yeah, fizzing.

“It’s so cool to get the recall, and to have it at Hagley Oval is a fairytale.”

Astle’s only Test to date was New Zealand’s 167 run victory over Sri Lanka in Colombo where Astle took one wicket and scored 35 from 100 balls in the second innings.

The 30-year-old described his debut as a special moment and admitted that the recall hasn’t really sunk in yet.

Astle added: “That [debut] was just so special to be able to pull on the cap for the first time.

“I got named earlier that morning just before the toss.

“It was all a bit of a whirlwind. Now, having spent a few years plying my trade, trying to get better and earning this recall, it makes it really worthwhile.”

The allrounder said that he was looking forward to getting involved in a scrap with a very good Pakistan team.

He went on: “That’s what excites me.

“It’s a case of going in and showcasing my skills and getting in the fight.

“Trying to do as well as I can and contribute with the ball, especially. That’s when you dream of playing for the Black Caps and doing well. To be that main spinner will be really cool.”

Astle remains committed to improving his game each time he steps out on the field.

He concluded: “You’re always trying to evolve and adapt and add that consistency, and that’s what I’ve been able to do.

“I’ve always tried to get better each game I played and tried to contribute in those games. And I’ve had good form, so you hope in the back of your mind that you get another go. You don’t want to read into things too far in the future, but it’s nice to get the timing of it now.”

 

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