Ian Chappell: Unearthing a strong pace attack is the quickest way to turn a team around

AUSTRALIA’s Test team proves the quickest way to turn around the fortunes of a cricket team is to unearth a strong pace attack, writes Ian Chappell.

IF you need proof the quickest way to turn around the fortunes of a cricket team is to unearth a strong pace attack, the Australian Test team provided ample clarification in the 2013-14 season.

Seven victories in eight Tests against the two strongest opponents in the competition was conclusive evidence that good fast bowlers can change fortunes quickly. Nevertheless, while it was the bowlers who started the resurgence, by the time Australia polished off South Africa with just a few balls remaining in Capetown, most of the side was contributing to the success.

There’s no doubt Mitchell Johnson with his pace, bounce and aggression started Australia’s Banzai Pipeline surge at the Gabba. And it was the indefatigable Ryan Harris who rode the final wave to shore at Capetown but in-between time, the batsmen and the captain made considerable contributions.

Michael Clarke is the right captain for Johnson. It was Clarke who told a struggling Johnson in 2009; “Just run up and bowl fast.” Forget swing, don’t worry about line and length, just bowl fast was Clarke’s remedy for what ailed Johnson. He has followed his captain’s instructions perfectly and it’s been a highly successful strategy.

Clarke understands his bowlers. Captains like Graeme Smith and Alistair Cook change bowlers but Clarke has a feel for the best way to dismiss batsmen and he senses the moment when a trundler might achieve success.

This attribute was crucial in the final session at Capetown. With victory hopes ebbing away like the outgoing tide, Clarke turned to his warrior, Harris.

Harris knows no barriers and in this regard he reminds me of Dennis Lillee. Lillee was always the last player to concede defeat; to an opponent or a pitch. Harris is the same and like Lillee, he also has an enormous pain threshold.

If Harris never bowls another ball in Test cricket he can be proud of his hundred wickets but his greatest legacy will be to younger pace bowlers. If any who suffer a setback aren’t inspired to give a little extra after witnessing Harris’ superhuman efforts, then they can be discarded without being a loss to the cause.

If Harris set the bar for the bowlers, then Clarke’s first innings in Capetown did the same for Australia’s batsmen. His courage and determination in defying a barrage from Morne Morkel, sent a strong message to his team-mates; runs aren’t always come by easily and they’re savoured most when they’re hard-earned.

Two batsmen who’ve learned quickly this summer, David Warner and Steve Smith, are another reason for Australia’s amazing turnaround.

Warner’s ability to dominate the start of an innings was always a trump card, as the opposition feared him before he’d even faced a ball. He’s now even more dangerous with consistency and a thirst for centuries added to his arsenal.

Warner, like Smith, has the potential to be a leader in the future but to achieve that status he needs to abort his relentless search for conflict when fielding. Warner can beat an opponent with his bat, he doesn’t need to double up with his mouth.

News_Rich_Media: Fox Sports cricket commentator Brendon Julian says despite Australia's occupying second spot in the ICC Test Rankings, on form they are currently the world's best side.

Warner’s outstanding form has camouflaged Australia’s black hole at number three. Alex Doolan is not the long-term answer and this will become apparent if Warner’s form slips. If Australia can unearth a suitable three and develop a succession plan for Chris Roger’s spot, they’ll be even more formidable.

While Clarke and Harris have set a wonderful example for those tasked with maintaining standards in the future, it’d be unfair to overlook the considerable contribution of Brad Haddin.

He quietly and efficiently set the standard before the resurgence had gathered momentum; when good examples were a high priority. While his batting waned in South Africa his glove work didn’t and it’s no coincidence that Haddin’s keeping was excellent and Australia’s fielding standards were way above those of both England and South Africa.

The platform for Australia’s great resurgence was established by the seniors but the younger players have absorbed the lessons. Australia is once again a Test power and they have three outstanding attributes that should ensure it remains the case; excellent pace bowling, an imaginative captain and an aggressive opening bat.