(Cricket news) England’s Bazball approach is facing objections from a lot of former cricket players as they have once again failed to capitalize on a strong start to their batting innings at the Lord’s Test. England’s openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett got the hosts a strong start, and together imposed 188-1 at one point, and Nathan Lyon was ruled out of the match with a calf issue.

However, England’s batters tried to take on Australia’s short-ball barrage but couldn’t get much success while trying to hit hard on almost every ball. They ended the day on 278-4, still trailing by 138, and England captains of the past have spoken out against the tactics they used.

Vaughan quoted saying,” That’s the problem with this England side, they don’t realise when they’re on top. They just carry on with this approach. There’s no need for Ben Duckett’s dismissal. If you get beauty on a pitch like this, then you say ‘Well bowled’. But there’s not going to be many beauties bowled on this surface at the minute. Just play sensibly! We can’t mix entertainment with stupidity,” concluded Vaughan. 

Another former England captain, David Gower, acquiesced with Vaughan’s statement of the wickets that fell. “I want Bazball to get more elegant. I’m getting sick of people running down the pitch and missing it when they’re playing well.”

Nasser Hussain a former England player, who has also been an admirer of Bazball in the past, when it was practical and England seemed to be in a good position against the opponents. However, Hussain was dispirited with the shot selection of Duckett, when the risk was taken with no potential of reward. “At times the percentages weren’t in their favour, and in those times Bazball won’t work for England.”

“The pull and the hook shot were not needed when the task can be accomplished even with a delicate touch to the ball. England already got there are 2 men out, OK. But when there are three men out then suddenly the percentages, the risk-taking is not in your favour and the test cricket since ages is a game of steadiness and temperament of patience.”

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