England have lost two consecutive Tests [Source: AP]
Contrary to expectations, England's BazBall approach in the ongoing Ashes series against Australia has backfired on the hosts. Ben Stokes and co are currently trailing the five-match series by 0-2 and have found themselves in trouble for their playing style in both the first and second Tests.
The Lord's game highlighted several discrepancies in England's approach, which Australia cashed upon and took a much-needed 2-0 lead.
Now, ahead of the third Test at Leeds, which gets underway from today, former Australian pacer Glenn McGrath has said that England, more than BazBall, have been guilty of playing 'CazBall.'
In his column for BBC, McGrath, who is the second-highest wicket-taker in Ashes history, explained how the hosts have played causal cricket, especially during the Lord's Test.
Here's what McGrath said
"Now, I am a fan of Bazball. The concept of backing yourself, playing without fear and putting pressure back on the opposition – that I agree with wholeheartedly. But Bairstow’s dismissal epitomises what we have seen from England in this series. It has been Casual Ball – CazBall if you will, not Bazball."
"After a rain delay, Australia’s batters were champing at the bit to get out there. The umpires were on the field, but despite conditions massively in their favour, half the England players, captain included, still had their feet up on the balcony."
Meanwhile, England have announced its playing XI for Headingley Test and made as many as three changes.
