Former England captain Nasser Hussain has emphasized the consequences of spoken words, following England pacer Ollie Robinson sledging Australia opener Usman Khawaja during the recent Ashes 2023 match. Hussain expressed his views while speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the second Test of the five-match series scheduled to be held at Lord’s on June 28.
While acknowledging the emotions that come with playing professional cricket, Hussain mentioned that he did not believe in giving batters a verbal send-off after showing them the way to the pavilion. He also commented on Robinson’s subsequent press conference, stating that doubling down on the verbal aggression was not necessary.
He added that words have consequences, as Robinson would face a similar treatment when he goes out to bat. The former captain also stated that while it is vital for England to fight back in the upcoming matches, it is important to maintain a level of emotional control on the pitch.
Hussain’s comments come on the heels of England’s two-wicket loss to Australia in a thrilling encounter at Edgbaston. The format is renowned for its fierce rivalry, and the sledging that comes with it, but it is essential to maintain an element of sportsmanship, said Hussain.
The second Test will be crucial for England, as they seek to level the series and push back against their Australian counterparts. The battle between the two teams will be intense, but the words spoken both on and off the pitch will have significant consequences, and it is important to strike a balance, concluded Hussain.
