Australia's wicket-keeper Alex Carey has emphasized his close relationship with a group of former keepers, revealing that he has sought advice from them regarding the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) Final and the Ashes series.
One of Carey's key mentors is former Australian keeper Adam Gilchrist, who presented him with his Baggy Green during his Test debut against England in the 2021 Ashes series. Carey considers Gilchrist, among others, as part of a small yet esteemed group of former keepers with whom he maintains regular contact.
"Adam Gilchrist presented my Baggy Green, and he's someone I've always looked up to since I was young," Carey told ICC.
Carey also mentioned the pleasure he derives from connecting with the close-knit community of Australian wicket-keepers.
"Brad Haddin was part of the one-day World Cup, I've worked with Ian Healy, Graham Manou is a fellow South Australian, and recently, Tim Paine and Matty Wade as well. It's great to bounce ideas off these guys, seek their advice, and receive their support. It's a small club, so it's always nice to hear from them," he added.
Another influential figure in Carey's career is Ricky Ponting, with whom he worked closely during the 2019 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and subsequently in the Indian Premier League with the Delhi Capitals.
On the latest episode of The ICC Review, Ponting spoke highly of Carey, stating that the current wicket-keeper has shown remarkable improvement behind the stumps and is "currently second to none around world cricket" among Test keepers.
"It's fantastic to hear those words from Ricky. As a player, I strive to improve with every game and opportunity. Working with Ricky over the past few years, starting in England four years ago and being part of the One-Day World Cup, has been great. It would be wonderful to have a successful tour here," Carey expressed.
Australia's decision to enter the one-off Test without playing a competitive warm-up match has raised eyebrows, with former captain Allan Border and others questioning the move before a crucial stretch of Test cricket.
"Although we haven't played a warm-up match, we are feeling the excitement and believe we will be ready for the Test Championship. The decision to play a warm-up match will be evaluated in hindsight. As a player, I am confident that we will be prepared for the first match, and it will be a topic of discussion after the Test," Carey remarked.
As the Australian team prepares for the high-stakes battles in the WTC Final and the Ashes, Carey's reliance on the wisdom and guidance of former greats showcases his commitment to continual growth and success in his role as wicket-keeper and batter.