Former England captain Alastair Cook has criticised England’s preparation for the red-ball series against South Africa.
On Friday, the Proteas humiliated England by an innings and 12 runs in the first match of the three-match Test series (19 August).
Because of England’s brilliant run in Summer 2022, the devastating loss has surprised the cricket world. Prior to this series, the Three Lions had four consecutive red-ball victories over formidable opponents such as New Zealand and India.
Cook stated that there were no first-class matches scheduled to prepare the players for this series. The County Championship 2022’s most recent round concluded in July.
Alastair Cook Statement
Former England captain Alastair Cook slammed the England Test team after their innings defeat to South Africa in the first Test at Lord’s. Cook pointed out the series’ lack of First Class games and stated that there were no excuses for this blunder.
“What’s strange is that we normally talk about the touring side coming into a series with insufficient match practise,” Cook explained.
“We always say that England has such an advantage in the first game of a Test series.” We’re talking about the structure of the game, when should cricket be played… it makes no sense that there’s no first-class cricket going on for anyone to play when a Test match series is going on,” he added.
Also read: Shaheen Shah Afridi has been ruled out of the Asia Cup in 2022 (trendtopz.com)
Ben Stokes Statement after defeat
Following the loss in the first match, England red-ball skipper Ben Stokes stated that the players would have benefited from playing first-class cricket, but that they have already played enough cricket.
“We’ve all had a lot of experience with cricket. There may be an opportunity to include a first-class game for the lads to go off and just get out there on the field “Stokes stated.
Follow us on our twitter handle for more latest updates (2) Trend Topz (@TopzTrend) / Twitter.
