Stuart Broad sees ‘Bazball’ style as winning formula for England in Pakistan
Former England Test cricketer Stuart Broad is confident that England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach will prove effective in their upcoming Test series against Pakistan, part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25.
The first two matches of the series will be played in Multan, starting on October 7. England’s ‘Bazball’ style, which emphasizes attacking cricket, was first showcased in Pakistan during their historic 3-0 series win in 2022. Broad believes the same strategy will succeed this time as well.
In an interview ahead of the launch of Inside Lord’s, Marylebone Cricket Club’s (MCC) new digital platform, Broad expressed his optimism: “I think the style will work in Pakistan, for sure. It was a great tour in 2022, the players enjoyed it, and England’s batting group are excellent players of spin.”
Broad, who retired with 604 Test wickets, praised England’s batting for its positive and aggressive style, saying their ability to find boundaries and counter spin will be key. “England will need to play fast-paced cricket to force results in Pakistan. It generally takes five days to get a result there,” he added.
The 38-year-old also pointed out Pakistan’s recent struggles, which he believes England should take advantage of. Pakistan, who recently lost 2-0 at home to Bangladesh, haven’t been at their best. Broad suggested that England could use this as an opportunity to apply pressure early in the series.
“Pakistan haven’t been playing their best cricket,” Broad noted. “They’ve been struggling, so England should see this as a positive and try to apply pressure from the start. But Pakistan always have world-class talent and players who can turn a game on their own. It won’t be an easy challenge.”
Broad discussed the pitch conditions in Pakistan, mentioning how the surfaces during the last series were slower and offered more spin. However, recent matches have seen pitches with more grass, giving pace bowlers some help. He speculated that Pakistan might prepare greener pitches to test England’s less-experienced fast bowling attack.
While acknowledging that England’s ‘Bazball’ approach hasn’t always delivered consistent results, Broad emphasized its benefits for young players. He highlighted the improvement of players like Jamie Smith under the guidance of coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes.
“It’s been an incredible style for young players, giving them freedom to express themselves. The key to its success is the consistency in selection,” Broad concluded.
