Scott Boland: Blame It On Australia's Pace Depth, The Best In 100 Years Remains A Fringe Bowler

Scott Boland is a cult figure in Test cricket. Boasting a career average of 16.53 (62 wickets) from 14 matches, he stands out as one of the modern era's most effective bowlers in the format. Only George Lohmann and Sydney Barnes, who played over 110 years ago, have taken more Test wickets at a better average -- meaning Boland is statistically the best Test bowler in more than 100 years.

The 36-year-old also achieved a historic hat-trick against West Indies at Sabina Park in July 2025, a pink-ball performance that propelled him to a career-best ICC Test bowling ranking of No. 6. However, the right-arm pacer remains a fringe bowler -- his limited Test match outings directly linked to the strength and depth of Australia's pace arsenal.

Australia's Deep Fast-Bowling Talent Pool

Despite his impressive strike rate and match-winning ability, Boland has appeared in only 14 of Australia's 39 possible Tests since his 2021 debut. Australia's robust pace arsenal directly explains this limited inclusion. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood consistently remain the preferred 'seam trio', creating intense competition for spots in the playing XI.

Mitchell Starc acknowledged this after Boland's recent heroics, stating, “He would have played so many more Test matches in another team. But every time he comes in, he’s 'on the money' ... preparing all the time to play and shows what a wonderful Test bowler he is.” Captain Pat Cummins echoed this view: “He’s spent a lot of time 'running the drinks' ... but we know his quality when he does come in.”

Australian Cricket's Continuing Dominance

Boland's distinct contributions earn high praise from within Australian cricket. Starc, for example, remarked, “He is amazing. Would have played so many Tests in another team. He is never far from the perfect spell.” Captain Cummins added, “He’s had a couple of moments where he just gets on a roll. And today, that was three classic Scotty Boland wickets... Really happy for him.”

These comments illustrate that Boland’s limited Test appearances reflect Australia’s 'embarrassment of riches' in fast bowling, rather than any lack of individual skill or impact.

Australia have maintained their Test dominance, securing a 3-0 win against the West Indies. They currently sit atop the WTC standings for the new cycle.

Boland played a crucial role, taking pivotal wickets and thereby aiding Australia's strength as reigning WTC champions. Boland was also instrumental in Australia’s win over India in the WTC final in 2023, where he took five wickets.

Future Prospects For Australia's Pace Attack

Australia's Test calendar remains busy. With four of the world's top ten Test bowlers — Boland, Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins — donning the baggy green, expectations for continued success are high.

Upcoming fixtures, including the Ashes against bitter rivals England, will test the depth of Australia's formidable pace line-up. Boland may see more regular play, but no one is sure when his next outing will come.