Legendary English cricketer Geoffrey Boycott has voiced his concerns over England’s new-look bowling attack for the upcoming Oval Test against India, describing it as “not threatening.”
Boycott Questions England’s Pace Attack
With star bowler Jofra Archer and captain Ben Stokes, England’s leading wicket-taker in the series, both rested, Boycott expressed his doubts. He stated in a podcast on The Telegraph that the new bowling lineup “does not look threatening” and comes with “big question marks.”
Sensible Decisions: Resting Key Players
Despite his concerns about the attack’s strength, Boycott acknowledged the wisdom in resting Archer and Stokes. Their absence is strategic, aimed at ensuring their long-term fitness.
Jofra Archer’s Needed Break
Archer, playing his first Test in four years after battling intermittent injuries, showed signs of fatigue during the Old Trafford Test. Boycott noted that Archer’s accuracy dropped and his pace with the old ball declined.
Resting him was a “wise” decision to prevent over-bowling, especially after he appeared “knackered” by the end of the last match, according to Boycott.
Ben Stokes’ Vital Recovery
Boycott also sympathized with Ben Stokes’ need for rest and treatment. He emphasized the importance of Stokes’ fitness for the upcoming Ashes series, stating that his absence in Australia would be a “big body blow.” Stokes is considered a “warrior” and crucial for tough contests.
A Look at the New Faces
The new bowling firm for England includes Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson, and veteran Chris Woakes. Boycott assessed each bowler, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.
Jamie Overton: The Oval’s Local Talent
Jamie Overton, whose last Test appearance was three years ago, is considered lively but not super quick. However, Boycott noted his advantage of playing for Surrey at the Oval, giving him valuable home ground knowledge.
Josh Tongue: Battling Back
Josh Tongue is returning from injury and, while possessing a “big heart,” didn’t manage to dismiss top batsmen in his previous Test outings, largely taking tail-end wickets. This raises questions about his ability to challenge India’s main order.
Gus Atkinson: Untested Form
Gus Atkinson was a breakthrough star last year, excelling with both bat and ball. However, a back injury has kept him out of competitive cricket for a while. Boycott stressed that rehab and net practice are not substitutes for match-day intensity.
Chris Woakes: Early Spark, Later Struggles
Chris Woakes is deemed “pretty decent” and likely to take wickets with the new ball. Yet, Boycott expressed concern that Woakes becomes “staid” with the old ball, bowling at around 80 mph with little variation. This limits his effectiveness once the shine wears off.
- Geoffrey Boycott believes England’s new bowling attack lacks a “threatening” edge.
- Resting Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes was a sensible move for their long-term fitness and the Ashes.
- Concerns remain about the match readiness and consistent impact of the replacement bowlers.
Ultimately, Boycott concluded that while the attack doesn’t appear formidable on paper, England has no choice but to rest key players and “hope for the best.”
