Melbourne Stars coach Stephen Fleming has admitted to being surprised leg spinner Adam Zampa has not been involved any of the one-dayers against Pakistan so far.
Zampa was Australia’s leading wicket taker in one-day cricket in 2016 with 30 scalps and the former New Zealand skipper believes there is always room for top class spinners.
“I’m a little bit surprised, when you go from being the leading wicket taker at ODI’s the year before to not get a run, yeah I’m a little bit surprised,” Fleming told SEN radio.
“I understand that’s just around trying to find the balance of the Australian side and how big a role spin is actually playing these days, with the change of rules there’s more of a focus on fast bowling.
“The spinners don’t have their extra protection with the player out, but I still think there’s room for a top class spinner, and I think Adam was certainly that last year.”
Having not played in either match, Cricket Australia announced Zampa has been released from the squad to play in tomorrow night’s Big Bash clash with the Brisbane Heat, before returning to the team in Perth, and Fleming has praised the governing body for making the decision.
“We’re delighted about that decision, I think the easy decision for Darren Lehmann and Cricket Australia would be no he has to stay with the squad,” he said.
“But he has missed out on the first two games and you can actually get into a situation where you only become net fit, so at least tomorrow night he gets a competitive run.”
While Zampa will only bowl four overs, Fleming says it presents an excellent opportunity for him to head back into the Australian team in good form.
“It’s only four overs, but the chance to keep his form going, which was very good before he left us and go over to Perth for the remaining for the One-Day series in good form,” Fleming said.
“I think it’s a common sense decision which they’ve come to.”