Steve Waugh Queries ‘Bazball’ Plan for the Ashes 2023
Duckett and Crawley for England [Twitter]
In regards to the 2023 Ashes series, former Australian captain Steve Waugh expressed his belief that the England team is taking a significant risk with their 'Bazball' approach. He anticipates that facing Australia's formidable attack will serve as the ultimate test for the English side.
In an interview with cricket.com.au, Waugh questioned the existence of a backup plan for England and emphasized the need for one to face a world-class bowling attack like Australia's.
Waugh expressed his curiosity regarding England's ability to sustain their aggressive style of play when put under scrutiny against top-quality bowlers and challenging conditions.
"That is the big question mark over so-called Bazball. What is Plan B? Have they got a Plan B? If they haven't then they are going to be found out. They have shown they are good enough to carry this style of cricket off but the ultimate test will be against a world-class bowling attack, which Australia has got. It is exciting but to me the jury is out at the moment. Does (Bazball) hold up under scrutiny against a really good bowling attack in maybe challenging conditions?" Steve Waugh was quoted as saying on cricket.com.au.
Despite harbouring doubts about the efficacy of England's contingency plans, the 58-year-old Waugh acknowledged the unwavering commitment of Stokes and McCullum. He emphasized their determination to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of success in the Ashes series.
"There is no doubt it won't work all the time but I think with (coach Brendon) McCullum and (captain Ben) Stokes they will have the courage to go through with it. They can't chop and change. Have they got a back-up plan? I'm not sure. That might find them out," Waugh added.
As the cricketing world awaits the Ashes clash, the effectiveness of 'Bazball' and England's ability to adapt to different scenarios remain topics of discussion, with Waugh's remarks shedding light on the doubts surrounding the team's strategy.
 "Vaibhav Tripathi")
