Ian Botham credits Engalnd’s Bazball for reviving Test cricket

Under the guidance of Brendon McCullum and the captaincy of Ben Stokes, England have revolutionised the way Test cricket is being played. The side plays an aggressive brand of cricket in the longest format of the game and isn’t afraid to take up any challenge that lies in front of them. Recently, veteran pacer James Anderson claimed to chase 399 runs in just 60-70 overs against India, which is not just rare but something that the cricketing world has not seen before.

Under Stokes, England have managed to win 15 out of the 24 Test matches they have played. Currently, they are locked level at 1-1 in the five-match series against India, as the third match is slated to begin on February 15 in Rajkot. Meanwhile, speaking about their success in red-ball cricket, former England international Ian Botham lauded England's aggressive style of play, which is popularly known as 'Bazball' and stated it to be the reason for bringing back the fans to watch Test cricket.

“You just have to look at the crowds. The crowds are now starting to come back to Test cricket. Playing against India 20-30 years ago in India, the grounds were heaving. Suddenly, the IPL came along and so did one-day cricket and the crowds then plummeted. People are now coming back and wanting to see (Bazball),” said Botham on SEN Radio.

“You are entertainers at the end of the day and if you want people to come to the games, you have to entertain. They don’t want to see someone score 1.2 runs per hour, you want to see guys just boss the game. You are going to lose one or two games here or there but England have played 15 and won 12. England sells out games across all five days now which was just unheard of. Test cricket is now healthier than it has been for a long time,” the 68-year-old said. 

Meanwhile, England have travelled to Abu Dhabi for a break in between their series against India. McCullum confirmed that the Three Lions won’t be training in UAE and went there to stay away from the ‘heat of the battle’.