Australia attacked England batters with a barrage of bouncers (cricket.com.au)
England's performance on the third day of the second Ashes Test at Lord's came under sharp criticism from former captain Nasser Hussain, who believed the team's inability to deal with Australia's short-ball strategy led to their downfall. Hussain, known for his blunt commentary, chastised the English batsmen for their imprudent batting approach.
Nasser Hussain highlights recklessness in England's batting approach
As Day 2 unfurled, with the pitch turning nonchalant, the Australian bowlers pivoted their tactics and resorted to short-pitched bowling. England, not having the wherewithal to resist, offered their wickets on a platter. The Aussies, identifying this chink in the English armour, ruthlessly exploited it on Day 3, causing the English line-up to collapse as they lost their final six wickets for a mere 47 runs.
While speaking to Sky Sports, Hussain suggested that England’s failure to play the percentages and make sensible shot selections meant that they lost the advantage they had gained earlier. The consequences of this approach became evident as England's innings unraveled, with Hussain clearly indicating that the damage had been done in the preceding days of play.
"The batting yesterday [Thursday] after tea, and then following it up today, they [England] just did not play the percentages. The damage was done yesterday," he said. "England got into a really strong position when the sun was out but became happy hookers after tea when every ball had to go," said Hussain.
Drawing attention to the essence of "Bazball”, the former English captain emphasized the significance of adapting to the prevailing conditions as they had done successfully in matches against Pakistan and during the previous summer.
"If you've got four fielders out on the hook, the percentages are not in your favour and if you keep hooking you'll eventually give your wicket away - and that's what they did," added Hussain.
At the start of Day 3, England began their innings at 278/4, presented with and had the opportunity to erase the remaining 138-run deficit. However, their innings came to an abrupt halt at 325, with Australia extending their lead to a commanding 221 runs by the end of the day's play.
 "Jatin")
