Former England captain Alastair Cook weighed in on the anxiously anticipated Ashes 2023, which are scheduled to begin on June 16. The former leg-spinner declared the Three Lions to be the ‘favorites’ for the crucial series, assuming their bowlers remain healthy throughout.
With Jofra Archer ruled out for the entire English summer and James Anderson recovering from a’mild strain’ to his right groin, England are coping with a number of injuries prior to the series. While Archer is ruled out for the one-off Test against Ireland and the Ashes, veteran fast bowler Anderson hopes to recuperate in time for the pivotal series against Australia.
Alastair Cook emphasized that the English team could win the Ashes in 2023 if they are able to keep their bowlers fit. In addition, he claimed that due to its “confrontational” nature, Brendon McCullum’s “Bazball” strategy will be challenging to oppose.
“It will certainly be amusing. Ben Stokes has played a magnificent game of cricket, and the boys have been brought in, but there are still so many unknowns. But I do know that ‘Bazball’ is too antagonistic and difficult to play against.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Alastair Cook stated, “I’m going to say England is the favorite as long as we can keep our bowlers healthy.”
England adopted ‘Bazball’ following Brendon McCullum’s appointment as head coach.
In May 2022, McCullum was appointed as the head coach, for those unaware. Since then, under Ben Stokes’s leadership, England have won ten of their last twelve Test matches, generating jaw-dropping cricket under the aggressive approach of their head coach.
On June 1, England is scheduled to play a single Test match against Ireland. On Friday, June 16, the Three Lions will begin the eagerly awaited Ashes series against their bitter rivals, Australia. In the crucial five-match Test series, the think tank will hope that the players stay healthy and present a challenge to the opposition.
Home