Post by : Maya Rahman

Australian cricketer Matt Renshaw is concentrating on enhancing his performance instead of dwelling on Ashes series speculations. The left-handed opener, who last appeared in a Test in 2022, is optimistic about his return after his selection to Australia’s one-day squad for the series against India.

With 14 Test matches under his belt, Renshaw has been diligently working to find his form. He believes that concentrating solely on his personal game—not on others—will enhance his chances of success. With a home Ashes series against England set to kick off on November 21 in Perth, Renshaw’s name has again emerged as a strong candidate to partner Usman Khawaja as the opening batsman.

The increased focus comes as current opener Sam Konstas faces pressure due to a lack of runs during the West Indies tour. Analysts are already highlighting Renshaw as a potential replacement for Konstas at the helm of the batting order.

However, Renshaw emphasizes that he is not preoccupied with comparing himself to his peers. “In the past, I would check on other players' scores after my Shield games,” he explained to reporters on Wednesday. “Now, I don’t even consider it. My focus is solely on Queensland’s performance.”

He admitted that preoccupation with others’ performances often distracted him, impacting his mindset. “It’s simple to get carried away with what others are doing,” he noted. “But I’ve recognized that honing in on my own game allows me to stay calm and enhance my performance.”

Renshaw stated that his primary aim now is to contribute to Queensland’s achievements in domestic cricket and be confident that his performances will echo his efforts. He feels this determined approach has led to considerable growth in both his cricketing skills and personal maturity.

Having made his Test debut at just 20 during the series against South Africa in 2016, Renshaw captured the attention of fans and selectors alike with his solid technique and composed batting demeanor. Notably, he scored an impressive 184 runs in his fourth Test against Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground, positioning himself as a potential staple in Australia’s batting lineup.

Yet, a drop in form during the 2017 subcontinent tours resulted in his removal from the team. Since then, he has played only four more Tests, with his last match being against India in Delhi nearly three years back.

At 29, Renshaw shares that fatherhood has significantly altered his perspective on cricket and life. “Having two young children has granted me a newfound balance,” he remarked. “Once I’m home, I’m not consumed by cricket—whether it’s changing diapers, settling the kids in, or soothing them. It keeps me grounded.”

He added that this personal transformation has enabled him to better navigate the fluctuating nature of professional cricket. “In my younger days, I’d go home and scroll through my phone after a poor match. My priorities have shifted now,” he said with a smile.

Renshaw remains optimistic that his diligence and rejuvenated mindset will secure him another opportunity in the Test squad. His consistent domestic performances for Queensland have positioned him well for a moment to shine if selected.

Reflecting on his journey, Renshaw stated, “I’ve experienced both peaks and valleys in my career. But I’ve learned that patience and focusing on my own game leads to progress.”

As the Ashes loom closer, selectors will be keenly observing his current form. Renshaw's reinvigorated confidence, maturity, and experience may well pave his way back into the Australian Test lineup.

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