Kent batsman Fabian Cowdrey is enjoying the whole experience of playing and living in Australia with the Ashes taking place.

The 20 year old headed out to Oz at the end of the season to try and work on certain aspects of his game, whilst learning about different cultures.

Lining up for the Sunshine Coast Scorchers near Brisbane, Cowdrey has been playing most weekends, scoring 55 in his first match for the side that have won seven of their opening ten games.

KSN caught up with Fabian shortly after the First Test defeat for England and here’s the Q&A:

How are you enjoying the whole Australia experience?

“I am loving the experience so far. Currently a month into 4 month trip away and everything seems to be coming together. Every opportunity to develop my game has been provided so it’s down to me to put the yards in leading into the 2014 season! I have been learning to cope in scorching conditions, survive ludicrous beach fitness sessions, and face some fiercely competitive Aussie quicks on bouncy wickets.”

Are you getting much of a chance to play cricket?

“Yes, weekend games in top flight Grade cricket is provided, and is a real test of patience, endurance and skill. It is a two day competition out here! A perfect chance to work on Championship style of batting.”

Do you plan to catch up with any of the other Kent boys whilst you’re out there?

“I have already seen Daniel Bell Drummond at the First Test in Brisbane. He was in great form, and seems to be loving Brisbane! I look forward to playing against him and Nashy later in the Aussie season!”

“My brother visits for christmas and we will be heading to Melbourne for the Test Match. Obviously familiar faces will be present in that part of the country, giving me a chance to see Sam Billings who also will be knocking about! A good chance to celebrate a Test win over a beverage…”

“I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to watch The Ashes out here! It will be amazing to see how England go about handling Mitchell Johnson…

We see that you took in some blind cricket the other week. How did you find that experience?

“Admittedly, I was at first sceptical of the opportunity to experience this unknown world of cricket. On arrival, it seemed like a very social event…

That was until we took the field! The ball has a bell in it, allowing the batsman an opportunity to predict its’ line and length. The bowlers all bowl underarm, but they had some rapid bowlers! Within the Queensland side they had Australia’s national side’s main fast bowler, the leader of their strong attack.”

“He bowled underarm rockets off a long run and I felt very fortunate to have the gift of sight, or my shins would have been well and truly torn to shreds!”

“Their keeper enjoyed a sledge letting me know exactly how pathetic I was at the game, and he wasn’t far wrong! It was a completely different challenge and a good life experience…”

“The day made me grateful for the opportunity to play the sport, and also how the game brings many people together. Sight or no sight, these guys loved every minute. It was amazing to witness.”

How much do you think this time in Oz will help your game?

“Well, hopefully it will really improve many aspects of my game. Mentally and physically, Australian cricket has offered a real challenge.”

What are your realistic ambitions with Kent for next season?

“It is not my place to say… I hope to play and contribute handsomely towards a successful Kent side in every form of cricket offered. I’m sure others hold the same ambition.”

 

Main picture supplied by www.sarahansellphotography.com