England coach Brendon McCullum is unafraid to unleash the full power of his spin quartet in Visakhapatnam for the second Test against India, should the pitch favour the spinners. The much-anticipated second Test of the five-match series is set to kick off on February 2.
Acknowledging a risky move that paid dividends, the former New Zealand batter confessed to taking a chance on Tom Hartley, a decision that played a crucial role in England’s 28-run victory in the first Test.
Debutant Hartley etched his name on history with a stellar performance, securing seven wickets to orchestrate a spectacular comeback against India in Hyderabad.
Reflecting on Hartley’s impactful debut, McCullum shared his insights on SENZ Radio, describing the selection as a calculated risk based on the belief that the young bowler’s abilities would shine in Indian conditions. Commending Hartley’s resilience, McCullum highlighted Captain Ben Stokes’ remarkable handling of the debutant, a leadership move that contributed significantly to England’s Test win.
Despite a challenging start where Hartley conceded two sixes in his first two Test deliveries, Stokes’ decision to provide an extended bowling spell boosted the youngster’s confidence. McCullum drew parallels with the early career of Nathan Lyon, emphasizing the importance of backing talented players when conditions are conducive to their skills.
In McCullum’s eyes, selecting players based on skillsets and character requires boldness, and Stokes’ leadership, evident in his unwavering support for Hartley, sent a clear message to the squad. The strategic decision allowed Hartley to find his footing, learn from initial mistakes, and ultimately emerge victorious in the first innings.
In the ever-evolving landscape of cricket, McCullum concluded that taking calculated risks, such as placing faith in a relatively inexperienced player like Hartley, is an integral part of achieving success on the field.
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