Liam Dawson intends to gain inputs from Shane Warne to secure Test spot

England all-rounder Liam Dawson intends to learn from Shane Warne, who was also his Hampshire team-mate, in order to cement in a berth in the Test scene. The left arm bowler has admitted to the fact that he is not one of those naturally gifted cricketers.

But Dawson has complete faith in himself and the player believes that he can be successful by mixing up hard work with his cricket intelligence. England coach Trevor Bayliss also has a similar say.

Liam Dawson who sealed the first test against South Africa for England, by picking up the last Protea wicket has played a number of matches with the legendary Shane Warne. They both represented South Coast County Club, Hampshire.

Liam Dawson just has the experience of playing in two Test matches under his belt and he looks forward to renewing his contract with the iconic leg spinner. Shane Warne, however, has involved himself in the series as he is commentating for the host broadcaster.

What he had to say:

“I will try and catch up with him over the course of this series and have a chat with him about bowling,” Dawson said Tuesday. “That would be brilliant to do. “Someone who is that good, been that successful and a legend of the game, you can only pick their brains. “You might pick up something that might give you a little edge when you are out there.” Added Dawson.

Dawson in his two Tests has scored a half-century and taken six at 38 runs each. He has also scored 3 ducks. So it is safe to say that his small Test career had its share of highs and lows.

“People probably watch me and think ‘you know, he is not the best cricketer’ but I have got to use my cricket brain,” Dawson said. “That has always helped me for Hampshire.”

According to Dawson he made a slow and shaky start to the Test match against South Africa but made a good comeback in the second innings. His spell supported ace spinner Moeen Ali appropriately and the latter bowled amazingly to seal the victory for England.

“I pride myself on being smart and clever … I’m always trying to get into a battle and enjoy it,” Dawson explained. “Test cricket is suited to that. It is hard. “I have only played two Test matches, and it is extremely hard, but it is so rewarding when you get a win.”

Liam Dawson expressed his disappointment of not performing well in the first inning. He will hope to retain his place in the line-up for the second Test at Trent Bridge.

“That is what disappointed me most about the first innings, when I didn’t do that well at all,” he said. “I was very annoyed. It did frustrate me. “I usually deal with nerves pretty well.”

He continued “But this time I was just too nervous and I have got to handle that better next time – and I think I will be better for it. “It is natural, but I think it did have an impact on the way I bowled in the first innings. “I was nowhere near my best there, but I like to think I bowled well (in the) second innings. If selected for the next Test, I hope I can continue that on.” concluded Dawson.