With the growing popularity of T2OIs and ODIs, the future of the oldest and longest format, Test cricket looks essentially bleak. However, Legendary all-rounder Ian Botham expressed his belief that England’s bold ‘Bazball’ strategy, led by Ben Stokes, had injected vitality into Test cricket.
Since Brendon McCullum and Stokes assumed roles as head coach and captain respectively, England had revolutionized the traditional format. “You just have to look at the crowds. The crowds are now starting to come back to Test cricket,” Botham noted. He reminisced about past encounters with India, contrasting the bustling stadiums of yesteryears with the decline brought about by the IPL and limited-overs 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),” Botham told ‘SENQ 693’.
England’s success under the ‘Bazball’ ethos, winning 12 out of 15 Test matches, reflected their commitment to entertaining cricket. Botham emphasized the importance of captivating performances, lamenting the days of slow scoring rates. “You are entertainers at the end of the day and if you want people to come to the games, you have to entertain,” he remarked. He celebrated the newfound enthusiasm for Test cricket, evident in sold-out stadiums across all five days.
Botham believed England’s approach had influenced other teams, fostering a more aggressive style of play. “It’s rubbed off (onto other teams),” he suggested. He underscored the significance of maintaining pressure on opponents throughout matches. As England faced India in a pivotal Test series, Botham anticipated further excitement, emphasizing the evolving allure of Test cricket.
