Brendon McCullum defends England's training approach amid injury concerns
What's the story
England cricket team coach Brendon McCullum has defended the squad's training approach during the visitor's tour of India, citing injury concerns as a significant factor. The team faced criticism for not practicing ahead of the second and third ODIs. "Guys have come from a lot of cricket and keeping guys fresh is just as important, especially when you have injuries," said McCullum, while defending his team, as quoted by BBC Sport. Here's more.
Performance scrutiny
England's performance and preparation questioned
England's performance on the Indian tour has been under the scanner, with the team losing seven out of eight matches across ODIs and T20Is. Meanwhile, captain Jos Buttler pointed out travel between venues and quick turnaround between matches as challenges in their preparation. The three ODIs were played within a week in three different cities, adding to the team's logistical hurdles.
Criticism response
Pietersen criticizes England's training approach
Former captain Kevin Pietersen had criticized the team for not training before crucial matches during the TV commentary. To this, McCullum said, "We've done lots of training. We have had injuries in the camp so we've backed guys off a little bit to make sure we had a fit team." The coach hoped to have a fully fit squad in Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, considering their experience in India as valuable preparation.
Injury updates
England grapple with injury concerns ahead of Champions Trophy
England are currently battling with a few injury concerns. Opener Ben Duckett injured his left groin in the third ODI and will undergo a scan before England's Champions Trophy opener against Australia on February 22. Meanwhile, all-rounder Jacob Bethell has been replaced by batter Tom Banton following a hamstring injury, and wicketkeeper Jamie Smith has been sidelined since January 28 due to a calf issue.
Recovery hopes
McCullum optimistic about players' recovery for Champions Trophy
Despite the injuries, McCullum is hopeful of the team's recovery. He assured that Smith will be fit to face Australia and downplayed concerns over Brydon Carse's toe issue, Jofra Archer's hand cut, and Jamie Overton's hamstring niggle. "Jamie [Smith] would have been a risk [on Wednesday] but he will be available for the first game," McCullum said. He further added, "With Brydon, hopefully his toe has healed by then and he is available for the first game."
Training defense
McCullum refutes claims of inadequate training
McCullum dismissed allegations that England didn't train enough during the series, and instead spent time playing golf. He emphasized that the team had trained extensively and were striving to keep players fit amid a rising number of injuries. This statement comes as England prepare for another significant assignment in the coming weeks, highlighting their focus on player health and readiness.
Match recap
India win Ahmedabad ODI to rout England 3-0
India routed England 3-0 in the three-match ODI series after claiming a massive win at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The Men in Blue successfully defended 356 with another concerted effort from the bowlers. England were bowled out for 214. Pivotal knocks from Shubman Gill (112 off 102 balls), Shreyas Iyer (78 runs off 64 balls), and Virat Kohli (52 runs off 55 balls) laid the foundation for India's victory. Adil Rashid took four wickets for England, (4/64).