Former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed his surprise over Ben Stokes’ decision to not give the second new ball to veteran pacer James Anderson on the fifth day of the first Ashes Test against Australia at Edgbaston. Speaking to Cricbuzz, Vaughan mentioned that he can’t recall the last time when Anderson was not given the new ball in English conditions. Despite having very little to do in the game, Anderson could have been a dangerous option in the middle, but Stokes didn’t change his mindset. The Aussies eventually went on to win the match by two wickets.
Vaughan also added that the game was special as both teams played contrasting styles of cricket. England played an aggressive game throughout the course of the match while Australia stuck to their traditional game style. For the Aussies to win at Edgbaston, it is a historic victory.
Both teams will now rest for a couple of days before starting practice for the second Test at Lord’s on June 28. Fans and cricket enthusiasts can expect another thrilling encounter between the two teams.
