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What is Bouchball and how does it compare to Bazball!


Since the appointment of Brendon McCullum as England's Test coach, the fanfare around his cricketing approach has made headlines across the cricketing world. Under new skipper Ben Stokes, England are yet to put a foot wrong, having won the series against New Zealand and beating India in a one-off Test. All this in the name of Bazball.

image-l709ks4iThe two inventors of Bazball - Ben Stokes (R), Brendon McCullum (L)

Ahead of the first Test, South African players and staff did not pay much heed to Bazball, and focused on playing cricket. Day 2 of the Lord's Test exhibited just that, with their approach being described as 'Bouchball'.


What is Bouchball?

South Africa's calculative, simple and reactive tactics towards cricket is being called Bouchball. The Proteas openers displayed solid, old-fashioned cricket, taking their merry time to score runs, unlike England's batters, who put their faith in scoring at a brisk pace.

Sarel Erwee, in particular, talked about the mental visualisation of his batting during camp organised by Boucher, which helped him perform better, and dull out a rampaging English attack.

image-l709n2pbSarel Erwee scored a blazing 73 on Day 2 of the Lord's Test

After a small collapse, Keshav Maharaj and Marco Jansen dug deep and ensured South Africa toiled hard enough to gain a 124-run lead, despite looking in command in parts.

Bouchball may not be flashy, destructive, or result-oriented but would still get the work done illustrated by South Africa last evening. It is still nowhere complete and will keep fans, critics, and players right on the edge of their seats.


Overexcited English media

Any approach that goes against the England cricket team is now called XYZ-ball by the English media. Too much emphasis is placed on the naming, then discussing the merits and demerits of the strategy.

image-l709tytdEnglishmen during practice ahead of the first Test against South Africa

There was no ShastriBall, or Langerball being talked about when India and Australia thrashed England. 

Bouchball or Bazball should more or less be treated as a decorative accessory to keep fans hooked on Test cricket, nothing more. 


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