Former Australian captain Tim Paine believes Alex Carey is “struggling” after yet another low score against India in the World Cup.
The hosts secured victory over the Aussies with 52 balls to spare, clawing their way back from being 3-2 after the first two overs of their battings innings.
Paine, who was Australia’s ODI wicketkeeper before Carey took over in 2018, believes the South Australian could be at risk of losing his spot.
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He explained that the 32-year-old’s confidence could be dented after his infamous run out of Jonny Bairstow in the 2023 Ashes series.
Carey recorded a duck against India on Sunday night and has failed to pass 14 runs since early September, playing eight one dayers in that period.
“He’s been struggling, there’s no doubt about that,” Paine said on SEN.
“It looks (like) a mindset thing. We know how dangerous Alex can be… I don’t think he’s looked the same since the Jonny Bairstow stumping.
“Whether that’s had an effect on him mentally because there was no doubt he copped an absolute barrel over there from everyone.
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“I know it was a really difficult time for him and his family, he couldn’t go out for a coffee without copping abuse.
“I don’t know if it’s rattled him or if his confidence has dropped off since, but certainly his batting – barring one game in South Africa – he hasn’t looked the same.
“And I say that, doesn’t look the same, with his body language and his intent, his intent to go out and take the game on from the start.”
The Australians have backup keeper Josh Inglis waiting in the wings should selectors be forced to make a bold call.
Paine labelled the Western Australian a “damaging” player and also hailed his ability against spin bowling ahead of their next clash against South Africa on October 12.
