Aussie legend Glenn McGrath comes up with a funny new name for England’s ‘Bazball’ style of play after Ashes’ losses – and reveals why he’s ‘confused’ about Bairstow stumping
- Glenn McGrath labeled England’s style of play as ‘Cazball’
- Believes Ben Stokes’ men have been too brutal in Ashes
- Australia only need a draw in the Third Test to keep the urn
Australian cricketing legend Glenn McGrath has come up with a creative new term for ‘Bazball’ ahead of the third Ashes Test – and it’s sure to ruffle a few feathers in England.
McGrath, 53, believes the hosts have paid the price for their overly casual approach to the series – and has boldly rebranded their style of play as ‘CazBall’.
The former champion paceman also revealed he remains conflicted over the now-infamous dismissal of Jonny Bairstow from Lord’s on day five of the second Test, which has sparked much debate.
“Originally I would have liked to have seen Pat Cummins withdraw his appeal after Alex Carey left Bairstow dumbfounded when the Englishman strayed from his fold,” McGrath wrote in a statement. column for the BBC.
“But the more I think about it, the more I think it was the right decision by Cummins. I think it’s a sign of something deeper in England’s mentality.
Australian cricketing legend Glenn McGrath has come up with his own version of ‘Bazball’ ahead of the third Ashes Test – and it’s sure to ruffle a few feathers in England
The former champion paceman also revealed he remains conflicted over the now-infamous sacking of Jonny Bairstow from Lord’s on day five of the second Test (pictured)
Under coach Brendon McCullum, England think they are changing Test cricket for the better – but the reality is they are 2-0 down in a homegrown Ashes series because of ‘Bazball’
Bairstow’s dismissal epitomizes what we’ve seen from England in this series.
“It’s been Casual Ball – CazBall if you will, not Bazball.”
McGrath, who managed 563 Test wickets in a brilliant career, also expects the Aussies to endure an intimidating atmosphere during the third Test at Headingley as the hosts try to keep the series alive.
A draw is enough for Pat Cummins’ men to keep the urn.
“The Australians are going to make it, there’s no doubt about that, with all the rumors that it will boost England, but don’t rule out having the same impact on Australia,” McGrath said.
“They will feel like they are being attacked from all sides and will come together as a team.
“Of course they will have to be focused because England are going to come hard. I expect real Ashes cricket.’
McGrath, also known for his 5-0 series predictions in favor of Australia throughout his playing career and into retirement, pointed out that his bold prediction remains on track – ‘so far, so good’.
Play in the third Test begins at 8pm AEST on Thursday from Headingley.