Sanath Jayasuriya confident of countering England's 'Bazball' strategy in Tests
Head coach Sanath Jayasuriya has expressed confidence in Sri Lanka's ability to counter the famous 'Bazball' ploy in the upcoming three-match away Test series against England, starting August 21 in Manchester. The statement comes after Sri Lanka's historic ODI series victory over India, their first such win since 1997. Jayasuriya recalled how Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist terrorized the bowlers with a similar attacking approach across formats.
Jayasuriya compares 'Bazball' to Hayden and Gilchrist's approach
In a pre-match press conference, Jayasuriya drew parallels between England's 'Bazball' strategy and the tactics employed by the Australian team in the late 1990s. He stated, "You get various styles depending on the time. Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist did it too during our time." Jayasuriya further noted that while England tend to be particularly aggressive early on with the bat, his team has strategies ready to counter this approach.
Sri Lanka's plan to tackle Bazball
Jayasuriya said the Lankan bowlers have to hit a consistent line and length. "We have to bowl in the right places, and if they hit the good balls, that's okay. We need to identify the right lengths given the conditions. There will be times when we need to cover the areas of the field where they are attacking, to cut down the boundaries," the former Lankan batter added.
England's Bazball era!
England have been a formidable force in Tests ever since Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took over as the head coach and captain, respectively. The dynamic pair has so far helped England record series win over several tough opponents. England's Bazball approach is not restricted to their batting in Test cricket. The other aspects such as field placements and bowling changes also reflect the same.
1st Test: Can Sri Lanka challenge Ben Stokes-less England?
England will host Sri Lanka in the opener of the three-Test series, starting on August 21 at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. The Brits would be confident, having thrashed West Indies 3-0 at home last month. However, they will be without their regular skipper Ben Stokes. The Lankans, meanwhile, must be at their best to impose a challenge. The series win over England would boost their morale.
