They need to move slowly, according to one of England’s greatest cricketers and former captain Michael Vaughan. They need to apply this approach as they prepare for the second Test of the Ashes series. Vaughan believes that while the aggressive “Bazball” style has brought excitement, it may not be the best strategy against a formidable Australian bowling attack, especially in conditions that favor seam movement.
Vaughan’s remarks come as England prepares to take on Australia in Brisbane later this week. The team faces the challenge of the extreme heat, and the unique format of the celebrated day-night Test. He encouraged England’s batters to find the moments they need to tone down their aggressive instincts. Rather, they should take on a more “old school” approach in-game.
“I’m not too sure that’s a sensible way to go with the ball zipping around. Play the old school way,” Vaughan stated, highlighting his concerns about the current approach of England’s batting lineup. He understood that entertainment is just as important to success as education. The team has struggled mightily to win five-match series of late.
As the players prepare to acclimatize to the extreme conditions at the Gabba, Vaughan has been critical. One of his biggest concerns is over the impact of the extreme heat on England’s bowlers. He prefers that his team has a bowler capable of chugging through the most overs in an innings. This is crucial to his success with the recently fluctuating line-up of injured fast-bowler Mark Wood missing the forthcoming Test.
Given all of the above, Vaughan supported the decision for captain Ben Stokes to bowl a few overs up top. He stated, “England will get 20 wickets if they bowl well with the seam bowlers,” emphasizing the importance of creating pressure on Australia’s batting lineup.
Australia has a phenomenal record in day-night Tests, winning 13 out of 14 games. More comforting is the fact that they’re undefeated in three meetings against England. Vaughan mentioned the need to be aware of the game when up against a match-winner like Mitchell Starc. Starc’s record in day-night matches is nothing short of superhuman, with 81 wickets at an average of 17.09.
When his colleague Mitchell Starc comes into the attack, he’s the aggressor and needs to take wickets. Vaughan’s observation rang true, advocating that England should make it their mission to annoy Starc by taking a more sensible approach to their batting. He went on to highlight the importance of leaving deliveries outside off stump, making sure that there were no chances for Starc to pounce on an error.
Vaughan would want Will Jacks or Shoaib Bashir to win 3, 4 or 5 wickets at the Gabba. He argues that in order for England to fully maximise their arsenal of pace bowlers, they should be doing more to increase their chances. He again stressed the need for improved game awareness to combat the hurdles in front of Australia’s batting-destroying bowling battery.
“This England side dance down. They run towards the danger,” he said, reflecting on their aggressive playing style. He warned against being too reckless, encouraging players to use common sense and avoid danger when conditions are bad.
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