Former Australian captain Michael Clarke weighed in on England’s ultra-aggressive approach, known as Bazball, suggesting it might need reconsideration after their massive 434-run defeat against India in the third Test in Rajkot.
Despite facing heavy scrutiny from cricket pundits and the media in England for their collapse in the third Test against India, Michael Clarke believes that the England team should trust their instincts and not be swayed by external criticism.
In a conversation with ESPN, Michael Clarke shared his thoughts on England’s strategy. Clarke said,
I think it’s one of those things where you live by the sword and you die by it. This is the time for England to come together and Bazball or whatever you call it, if this is how you want to play then you have to back yourselves and not care what other people think. If you think that’s the best chance of beating India then back yourselves.”
England currently trails 1-2 in the test series and will be looking to turn things around in the final two matches.
I think there needs to be game awareness- Aaron Finch on England
Former Australian captain Aaron Finch, also part of the conversation alongside Michael Clarke, concurred that Bazball added pressure on India. However, he emphasized the need for England to enhance their game awareness to maintain a ruthless approach and avoid allowing the opposition to regain control of the game.
I think there needs to be game awareness. They’re getting so far ahead of the game because they’re scoring quickly and that’s just because of their intent. Sometimes, just for a session, just swallow your pride and get the game on your terms. Their openers are giving them a great platform but they’re just not capitalising on it.”
England suffered a collapse on Day 3 of the Rajkot Test, losing their last eight wickets for just 95 runs after being 224/2. This collapse handed India a significant lead of 126 runs. India capitalized on this advantage, batting ruthlessly on the back of Yashasvi Jaiswal’s double ton to extend their lead and leaving England with little chance to make an impact on the remainder of the Test match.
If one is in then I think Ben Stokes would want everyone to be in- Michael Clarke wants Joe Root to continue his Bazball approach
Joe Root’s dismissal, attempting a reverse sweep off Jasprit Bumrah in the Rajkot Test, attracted criticism for his shot selection. However, Michael Clarke stressed the importance of players adhering to the team’s philosophy, emphasizing the collective nature of cricket as a team sport. Speaking on this Clarke said,
For someone like Joe Root, that’s why it’s a big talking point because people feel does Joe really need to play such shots and can’t help continue playing the same way. But it’s a team sport. If one is in then I think Ben Stokes would want everyone to be in.”
Root’s struggle continues in the Test series against India, with just 77 runs in six innings at an average of 12.38. For England to stage a turnaround, he will need to find form quickly, especially with the fourth Test in Ranchi set to begin on February 23.
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