England will continue to stick to their attacking regime for the upcoming New Zealand Test series but Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope should not get too comfortable exclaims former cricketer now commentator Nasser Hussain. Nasser Hussain Warns Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope as there is no room for complacency in England Squad.
Despite mixed performances in England’s recent Test series in Pakistan, both Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope have retained their spots in the squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, but former England cricketer Nasser Hussain warned both the batter to not “not get too comfortable” citing their recent Test form.
Zak Crawley’s and Ollie Pope’s poor performance in recent times concerns Nasser Hussain
Vice-captain Ollie Pope struggled during England’s 2-1 defeat to Pakistan last month, averaging 11 and recording a top score of 29, while Zak Crawley was unable to build on his 78 from the first innings in the opening game in Multan.
England have named Warwickshire all-rounder Jacob Bethell in their squad for the three-Test tour of New Zealand with Jamie Smith set to miss the trip due to the birth of his first child, meaning Jordan Cox will keep wicket .Hussain emphasized the message England’s selectors are sending to Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope—two key players who struggled in Pakistan.
Nasser Hussain Wants Zak Crawley & Ollie Pope To Prove Their Worth In New Zealand
As England gears up for the New Zealand Tests, Hussain, a former England captain and now analyst for Sky Sports, emphasizes that neither Crawley nor Pope should rest on their laurels. Speaking on the Sky Sports Cricket podcast, he underscored the importance of maintaining pressure on the two batsmen.
“England have made some commendable selections recently,” Hussain remarked
“In the last couple of years, they’ve had some unexpected choices that have turned out remarkably well. You look at these players and think, ‘Why did England pick him?’ No one has looked out of place. But will they always get a free pass? No, it can’t be a closed shop. I want them to remember that their spots are not guaranteed forever. Look at Keaton Jennings, Haseeb Hameed, and Rory Burns—players knocking on the door with impressive performances in County cricket!”
After England’s 2-1 series defeat in Pakistan, captain Ben Stokes defended Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope, labeling them the best available, sparking discussions among Hussain and fellow commentator Michael Atherton regarding the nation’s batting talent depth.
Atherton pointed out, “The inclusion of Bethell can be seen in two lights. Perhaps he is the star of the future, and what they’re betting on is significant development in his game. This could be spot on because many selections have reaped rewards. However, choosing a player who averages just 25 in first-class cricket with no centuries raises some questions about the depth we truly possess.”
Successful selections of young players such as Rehan Ahmed and Shoaib Bashir have paid dividends in Pakistan, placing Bethell on the radar for selectors next.
Atherton further elaborated, “When Rob Key announced the list of centrally contracted players, it was meant to showcase the extensive talent pool we have. But if the next best batsman has a record like Bethell’s, it makes one wonder about our true batting depth. Are we willing to take chances on individuals who might just be potential rather than proven performers”
The England and Wales Cricket Board has recently released the updated contract list for the men’s team, with notable omissions being Ben Foakes and Ollie Robinson, while several new players have secured central contracts for the first time.
Atherton expressed reservations about multi-year contracts, stating, “With sports evolving swiftly, it’s vital for players to remain motivated. Keeping contracts year by year will maintain that urgency.”
Conversely, Key suggested that longer contracts reflect the players’ commitment to the national side, particularly as many are being lured by opportunities in franchise cricket.
Hussain added, “It’s essential to retain control over our players amidst the temptation of franchise offers. Keeping fast bowlers like Mark Wood is increasingly important.” He also addressed Robinson’s exclusion, suggesting it might motivate him to elevate his game for England’s future endeavors.
“Ollie has impressive stats; I’d be disheartened if he wasn’t capped again. His talent is undeniable,” Hussain concluded.
England’s Test tour of New Zealand starts with Warm up-game vs NZ Cricket XI: November 23-24 (Queenstown) followed by First Test: November 28-December 2 (Christchurch), Second Test: December 6-10 (Wellington) and Third Test: December 14-18 (Hamilton).