England's preparation slammed after Jofra Archer takes nap in dugout
What's the story
Former head coach of Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri, has slammed England's preparation strategy after star pacer Jofra Archer was spotted sleeping in the dugout during the 3rd ODI. The incident took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, as England faltered in their run-chase of 357. Shastri said he was disappointed that England had a solitary net session on their tour.
Criticism
Here's what Shastri said
Shastri, who was commentating alongside Kevin Pietersen, used the incident to highlight England's lack of preparation. "From what I've heard, England have had just one net session this entire trip, if not any. If you're not prepared to do the hard yards, you're not going to improve," he said. This criticism came as TV cameras caught Archer sleeping in one corner of the England dugout during the match.
Additional criticism
Pietersen criticizes Banton's golf practice
Pietersen also slammed Tom Banton, who was added as a replacement for the injured Jacob Bethell for the 3rd ODI. He disclosed that Banton was spotted practicing golf instead of cricket ahead of the match. "The two-hour flight from Dubai across here. He (Tom Banton) was on the golf course yesterday. He wasn't batting, and where have the issues come? The start, 1 for 60, 2 for 80," Pietersen said.
Match commentary
Shastri highlights Archer's nap during match
As the cameras zoomed in on a sleeping Archer, Shastri couldn't help but take a dig. "Precisely the question which I said. Nice time for a nap. It's that kind of a trip for England," he said. This incident and the criticism that followed comes after England's back-to-back defeats in Nagpur and Cuttack, and yet another heavy loss as India won by 142 runs in Ahmedabad.
Performance review
Pietersen expresses disappointment over England's performance
Pietersen was disappointed with England's performance and them not having practice sessions. "I was flabbergasted when I heard that England have not practiced since the first game. Absolutely flabbergasted...I get it, enjoy yourself. These are the best times of your life. Play golf, have the best of your time," he said. The former England batter added that players are paid to score runs and win matches, not play golf.
Spin woes
England struggle against Indian spinners
The English batters failed to tackle India's lethal spin attack all tour, losing both T20I and ODI series. Varun Chakravarthy was especially lethal in the T20I series, taking 14 wickets in five matches and winning the player-of-the-series award. In ODIs, they struggled to deal with Ravindra Jadeja's variations who choked them in middle overs during first two matches. Only Ben Duckett and Joe Root scored 100-plus runs for England in the ODI series.