Former England bowler Stuart Broad criticized Gus Atkinson for his disappointing performances during the Ashes, where the visitors are trailing 1–3 against Australia. The cricketer-turned-commentator stated that Atkinson has natural ability with the ball, but his body language is not that of a Test-match bowler.
Atkinson was expected to be a key part of England’s plans for the Ashes. However, his series did not go as hoped, as he picked up just six wickets in three Tests at an average of 47.33 and a strike rate of 73. He suffered a hamstring injury during the fourth Test in Melbourne, which ruled him out of the series finale.
His Body Language Is Not That of a Test-Match Bowler – Stuart Broad Slams Gus Atkinson
Stuart Broad stated that Gus Atkinson has the skills needed to succeed, including movement and consistency. However, Broad felt that Atkinson needs to improve his body language and show more leadership when leading the attack during tough moments.
“Atkinson has amazing attributes,” Stuart Broad told Sky Sports. “He still averages under 25 with the ball, he wobbles the seam, he can swing it, he’s tall, he’s consistent, but his body language is not of a Test-match bowler in the battle. He was work to do on that.”
“That doesn’t matter so much when you’re playing teams you should dominate and beat, but not against top teams, so his areas of improvement aren’t attributes or mental ability to cope with pressure, but letting your team know you are leading this group,” he added.
Your Opposition Cannot Feel Like They Are Getting on Top of You – Stuart Broad
Stuart Broad said that Gus Atkinson must not let batters feel they are on top of him. He stated that body language plays a big role, especially when things are not going well.
“I read a piece about Tiger Woods, who would never look at the floor when golfing. His eyes would always be above the horizon, which is really strong for body language,” Broad continued.
“When I was under pressure or struggling I would keep my eyes above the horizon because then someone couldn’t tell if I’d bowled a good or bad ball. You’re constantly in the battle and your opposition cannot feel like they are getting on top of you.”
England Trail 1-3 in Ashes Series Against Australia
England lost the Ashes series against Australia in just 11 days. The Ben Stokes-led team was beaten in the first three Tests as they struggled to compete for long periods.
There was some relief for England in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The match ended inside two days and drew a lot of criticism for the pitch, which offered plenty of help to fast bowlers. As many as 36 wickets fell across the first two days.
Australia were bowled out for 152 in their first innings and 132 in their second. England replied with scores of 110 and 178 for 6, chasing down the target to win by four wickets.
That victory helped England end an 18-match losing streak in Australia and marked their first Test win Down Under in nearly 15 years. However, Australia still lead the five-match Ashes series 3-1.
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