Being appointed Finch’s deputy caught Carey off-guard

James Richardson

South Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey has admitted that being handed the T20I vice-captaincy was a big surprise to him.

Carey was appointed as Aaron Finch’s deputy despite having played just a handful of internationals.

The 26-year-old debuted in the Trans-Tasman T20I series which Australia won under the leadership of the now banned David Warner.

Carey is yet to secure a T20I average having batted three times facing just six balls in total and ending not out on each occasion.

The wicketkeeper put his appointment down to the unique placement and perspective glovemen have in the hell for leather environment of T20 cricket.

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Addressing gathered media at the Adelaide Oval Carey said: “I wasn’t really expecting it to be honest.

“I know as a wicketkeeper in T20s you’ve probably got the best eyes out there to see what’s going on.

“I have been captain of squads growing up, more junior stuff and I suppose with the Redbacks we’ve got Travis (Head) as captain and got some pretty senior guys behind the stumps.

“Without being listed as a captain, as the wicketkeeper you’re always seen as a leader and especially around the State squad as part of the leadership group.

“And to now work with Aaron Finch and be part of the squad that was so successful in the last series (of T20 matches against New Zealand), it’s going to be a really enjoyable tour.

“Hopefully I can learn and keep growing as a leader.

“Playing for your country is one thing, and now being listed as vice-captain is an even bigger honour.

“But first and foremost, just being part of the Australian squad is probably the biggest honour.”

The wicketkeeper is delighted to get to know newly installed Australia coach Justin Langer and is eager to improve his batting as well as fielding without the gloves.

“I don’t have the personal relationship with Justin just yet, that I’d obviously like to build,” Carey said.

“The professional relationship is there, having come across him in Big Bash and state cricket.

“It’s going to be great to get to know him at that level, and really learn from an opening batsman.

“When we play WA they’re always a very hard team to beat, very respectful but a tough team so it’s going to be great to see and learn from Justin.”