England’s new style of cricket called Bazball has created quite a stir in the world of cricket. Their performance in the longest format of the game has improved with the new style, and they are currently being challenged by Australia in the ongoing Ashes 2023 Test series. The Ben Stokes-led England team started off the series on a positive note, scoring 393 for 8 on the first day of the match. However, their decision to declare the innings at that score with less than ten overs remaining in the match was met with criticism from commentators such as Kevin Pietersen.
Stokes, who has been advocating for the entertainment factor in cricket with the introduction of Bazball, surprised everyone when he brought in part-time bowler Harry Brook during the Day 2 proceedings of the match against Australia. Commentators were left puzzled, with former England captain and Sky Sports commentator Michael Atherton taking a dig at the style of play called This is Bazball. Atherton’s co-commentator, Ricky Ponting, was surprised by Brook’s early introduction as well.
The match between England and Australia was full of exciting moments on Day 2. The England team got off to a great start with Stuart Broad dismissing both David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne on back-to-back balls. Steve Smith displayed patience with the bat until one delivery from Ben Stokes caused his downfall. By lunch on Day 2, Usman Khawaja was sitting on the cusp of a patient fifty as he was joined by Travis Head at the crease.
The term Bazball has taken the cricket world by storm, and England is here to ensure that entertainment is a priority. However, it remains to be seen whether their new style of cricket will help them win the Ashes 2023 Test series against Australia.
