TEST wicketkeeper Peter Nevill has declared new world No.1 Pakistan can expect an emphatic response from Australia this summer, after losing the top ranking.
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Nevill returned Sri Lanka on Thursday for Twenty20 commitments, after being part of the NSW Cricket Country Blitz in the Illawarra.
The Aussies were stripped of the Test cricket crown after a crushing 3-nil series defeat on turning Sri Lankan wickets earlier this month.
It sets up a tantalising battle with Pakistan in December and January, after facing the fallen powerhouse South Africa, starting in November.
“We want to win every Test and every series we play, especially at home,” Nevill said.
“If that gets us the No.1 ranking back along the way then great.
“It shows how close Test cricket is at the moment and it bodes well for an entertaining summer at home, it’s exciting.
“It was disappointing to lose like we did in Sri Lanka, we’ve just got to keep working hard and gain something out of the T20 series.”
Nevill returned to Australia after the Test series, missing the five match one-day battle, but has been recalled for the short format.
The 30-year-old was a late call-up for the Illawarra tour of school clinics, after Nic Maddinson was thrust into the Australia A team.
The Shoalhaven Heads product, also a Warilla junior, piled a stunning 118 off 116 balls as the A-team delivered a thrilling victory over India A, defending 322 in Mackay.
Man-of-the-match Maddinson formed a 229-run partnership with NSW teammate Kurtis Patterson, but it almost wasn’t enough, securing a one-run win with a last-ball run out.
The domestic summer begins in October with the one-day Matador Cup competition.
“We’ll certainly be looking to defend the trophy there and hopefully win the (Sheffield) Shield as well, after going pretty close last season,” Nevill said.
“It’s great to see the NSW boys in form so early in the season.
“We’ve seen glimpses of what Nic is capable of and hopefully this is the season where he pushes for more international cricket. He’s still only young, I don’t think there’s any doubt we’ll see him get more international opportunities.”
The appearance of Nevill and former Test player Ed Cowan has helped launch what looms as a golden summer for Illawarra cricket.
North Dalton Park will host a Sheffield Shield clash between NSW and Tasmania in February, as well as the Australian Country Championships in January.
“It’s great to be down here with the kids, I’m looking forward to coming back for the Shield game,” Nevill said.
