Greg Chappell Critiques England's 'Bazball' in India Series

New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) - Greg Chappell, the Australian cricket great, has critiqued England's 'Bazball' approach during their riveting drawn Test series against India, stating that "positive cricket doesn't mean reckless cricket."

Writing for 'ESPNCricinfo', Chappell lauded the young Indian team for their fearless play while taking aim at the English side, particularly Harry Brook, for not adapting to situations that required persistence rather than flamboyant strokeplay.

Chappell remarked on England's journey in the series, highlighting it as a cautionary tale, notably embodied by the talented yet unpredictable Harry Brook. Although Chappell has publicly praised Brook before, he noted, "Cricket, especially Test cricket, is beyond just shot-making; it is about judgment and recognizing when to attack and when to exhibit restraint."

The series turned when England, from a strong position at 301/3 in pursuit of 374 runs, collapsed following Brook's dismissal on the fourth day of the fifth Test in London. England lost by a narrow margin of six runs, allowing India to level the series at 2-2. "Brook's dismissal was a reflection of the dilemma England faces with the 'Bazball' approach," noted Chappell. He acknowledged that while this approach has rejuvenated the English Test side by bringing in fearless, attacking cricket, it should not become a means to shirk challenging situations.

"All England needed was one batter to stand firm and absorb the pressure. Brook went for the spectacular shot and fell," Chappell pointed out. "Being positive does not equate to being reckless. It's about taking confident, calculated risks."

Greg Chappell emphasized that adopting a more measured approach during tough match scenarios would enable Brook to prove himself as a suitable successor to Joe Root, England's most accomplished run-scorer.

"Brook is evolving, and with experience, he will learn. However, to become the match-winner England desires, he must combine flair with determination. Root did not become England's top run-getter solely with elegant strokes; he achieved it through grit," remarked Chappell, adding that Brook must exhibit a similar resolve to reach his immense potential.

Summing up the series, Chappell noted it would be remembered not just for the result but for the "theatre" it provided, with the two teams engaging in intense on-field verbal exchanges throughout the hard-fought five-day contests.

The series also featured gladiatorial performances from Rishabh Pant and Chris Woakes, who played through significant injuries for their respective teams. "The subplots, the redefinition of roles, tested both sides physically, tactically, and emotionally. However, India emerged as the moral victors, gaining clarity, identity, and purpose," Chappell concluded.