London, July 3: Former Australia wicketkeeper-batter Adam Gilchrist has launched a scathing attack on England’s much-hyped ‘Bazball’ approach, declaring that the aggressive style of Test cricket has “failed dismally” and predicting major changes in the country’s cricket leadership in the near future.
Gilchrist’s criticism comes after England’s disappointing run in the longest format, with the team managing just two victories in their last 10 Test matches. The former Australian great believes the results clearly indicate that the philosophy introduced under head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes has run its course.
Bazball made an explosive start when McCullum and Stokes took charge, winning 11 of their first 13 Tests. England swept New Zealand 3-0 at home, chased down a record 378 against India at Edgbaston and completed a memorable 3-0 series whitewash in Pakistan, where their ultra-attacking batting approach drew widespread praise.
However, England have struggled to maintain that momentum against stronger opposition.They failed to win either of their two recent five-match Test series against India, drawing 2-2 at home before suffering a 4-1 defeat away. The team also endured a disappointing Ashes campaign in Australia, where their aggressive batting repeatedly backfired on seaming pitches.
Gilchrist believes England’s refusal to adapt their style despite mounting evidence has been a major factor behind their decline.
“They have failed dismally, this group, really. Everyone talks about the moments they’ve had, but they’ve won only two of their last nine or ten Tests. They’ve won only two or three series in the last three or four years,” Gilchrist said. (Agencies)
