'England Won't Take A Backwards Step...,' Nasser Hussain Confident In Team's 'Bazball' Approach For Ashes 2023
Ben Stokes has brought a revolution in England cricket since taking over as captain
Former England skipper Nasser Hussain has boldly put forth that the Ben Stokes led-side would not retreat from their combative modus operandi, one that marries aggression with an impressive capacity to withstand pressure during the Ashes 2023.
In the wake of a shift in their leadership and coaching entourage in the summer of 2022, England have only conceded defeat in two Test matches, largely due to their explosive ‘Bazball’ approach that has left opponents floundering.
In his column for the esteemed Daily Mail, Hussain defended England's commitment to their distinctive brand of cricket even in the face of tremendous expectations. He emphasized that while failure could fuel criticism, the team's leadership remains firm and refuses to retreat from their assertive tactics.
"Failure will fuel the arguments of those who said this style of play would only work against certain sides and England have been over-hyped, but one thing's for sure — under the current leadership team, they won't take a backwards step,” said Hussain.
Moreover, the English veteran noted that the players prefer to downplay the "Bazball" moniker, despite their record-breaking run rate of five per over, the highest in the history of the game. According to Hussain, this approach is not solely about relentlessly attacking every delivery but also includes the ability to absorb pressure strategically.
"At the same time, they like to play the Bazball term down, as despite scoring at five an over, the fastest run rate in the history of the game, it is not all about teeing off every single delivery,” added the erstwhile cricketer.
Despite the remarkable success of England's playing style thus far, it has faced constant doubt and predictions of its imminent demise. Hussain acknowledged the capricious nature that accompanies the ‘Bazball’ approach, wherein moments of unorthodox shots are juxtaposed with instances of criticism.
Hussian reckons that this uncertainty adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Ashes 2023 as it presents an unknown factor that is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
"The greyness to all of this is why this Ashes series is so intriguing. It's the unknown quantity. Things are not going to be dull," concluded the 55-year-old.
The ceremonial Ashes 2023 will kick-off with the first Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham on Friday. The series will also inaugurate the third cycle of the World Test Championship (WTC).
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