Search

show me:

Broad recalled to England attack

3 minute read

Stuart Broad will resume his longstanding partnership with Jimmy Anderson for the fourth Ashes Test in Sydney.

STUART BROAD of England runs into bowl during the Test Match between England and India..
STUART BROAD of England runs into bowl during the Test Match between England and India.. Picture: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images

England batting coach Graham Thorpe says recalled quick Stuart Broad and allrounder Ben Stokes are like caged lions going into the fourth Ashes Test, insisting his players are up for the SCG contest after being trounced in the first three matches.

In the only change to the lineup which surrendered the Ashes by losing the Boxing Day Test by a innings and 14 runs, Broad replaces fellow seamer Ollie Robinson.

With Robinson and Chris Woakes dealing with shoulder niggles, Broad gets another chance after playing only the second Test of the series so far.

Spinner Jack Leach has been retained despite taking just two wickets at 74 in two Tests and going for more than five runs an over.

Allrounder Stokes will be looking for greater impact after three quiet games where he has averaged a mediocre 16 with the bat and 62 with the ball.

"We've got a couple of caged tigers coming into this match, Ben being one of them, and Stuart Broad is another one," Thorpe said.

"I want them to be able to perform to the best of their ability and seeing them in training that's what I'm seeing."

While Thorpe has encouraged his players to try and relax, he has also stressed the importance of having the right mindset and matching Australia's competitiveness.

"You have to find ways of throwing punches back at good bowling attacks," Thorpe said.

"I've always been one for trying to set up to score and then trust your defence if the ball is in the right area from a batting point off view.

"Trying to keep that as simple for the players and also to show some character, show some fight."

While the series has been lost, Thorpe said the SCG Test provided opportunities for the players.

"Some of them are trying to establish themselves in the team; that's an opportunity," he said.

"Some players are trying to stay in the team; that's also an opportunity as well.

"I'm hopeful that our boys will get their minds absolutely right for tomorrow .

"I feel that they are in a good place."

England: Haseeb Hameed, Zak Crawley, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (capt), Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, Mark Wood, Jack Leach, Stuart Broad, Jimmy Anderson. 12th man to be named.

What’s gambling really costing you?

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au