Murphy wants to learn carrom-ball like Ashwin

Lancashire Australia’s young off-spinner Todd Murphy has expressed his desire to master the ‘carrom-ball’ like Indian legend Ravichandran Ashwin before the World Test Championship (WTC) final from June 7.

Murphy made his Test debut on Indian soil in February–March, taking 14 wickets in four matches. Australia were defeated in that series but Murphy was named in the squads for the WTC final and the Ashes Test series on the basis of his performances.

According to a report published by cricket.com on Tuesday, Murphy said on his preparations, “I am still working on that (carrom ball) but still a long way to go to do it like Ashwin.” It’s kind of easy, and kind of difficult. You just need to believe that you can do it. I would love to add this to my skill set one day.”

Murphy, however, understands the demands of Test cricket and wants to keep off-spin his forte despite learning new skills.

“You’re always looking to add a new quiver to your quiver, but in Test cricket you have to make sure your basics are good and your stock balls are in as good condition as you can,” Murphy said.

Murphy was brought on the tour of India keeping in mind the pitches here, which have proved to be helpful for the spinners. Murphy said that apart from learning tricks from his senior Nathan Lyon, he also improved his bowling by watching Ashwin very closely.

Murphy said, “The best thing about analysis is that you can see it all. I was interested in getting a closer look at his hand and wrist position, just to understand how each ball was coming out and behaving.”

“His skill in those situations is unparalleled. It was amazing how he could vary his bowling throughout his overs.”

India and Australia are to face each other in the WTC final to be held at The Oval ground in London from June 7. With veteran spinner Nathan Lyon at the helm, Murphy has found it tough to get a place in the tie but has said he will continue to hone his skills until he gets the chance.

Murphy said, “Obviously Gazza is (Lion) at the moment and has been doing well for so long. In a way, I hope I don’t get to play any matches on this tour, because that would mean he would be fit.”

He said, “Hopefully I can work hard and develop my skills. If an opportunity comes, I have to make sure that I am ready to take it. I have to be ready all the time. A lot of things can change and they can change fast.”