Australian cricket great Greg Chappell has criticised England‘s bold “Bazball” strategy during their Test series against India. He praised India’s young squad for their fearless play but noted that England made some costly errors. Chappell specifically mentioned Harry Brook, stating that the 26-year-old failed to gauge when to show restraint and when to take an aggressive approach in key moments.

England, chasing 374, were at 301/3 when Brook’s dismissal triggered a collapse on the fourth day of the fifth Test in London, resulting in a six-run defeat on Monday. The outcome saw India level the series 2-2.

“Positive cricket doesn’t equate to reckless cricket,” Chappell wrote in his ESPNcricinfo column. He emphasized that cricket, particularly Test cricket, requires not just the ability to score runs, but also smart decision-making.

“Brook’s dismissal at The Oval, with the match hanging in the balance, highlighted the challenge facing the England team. The ‘Bazball’ approach – focused on fearless, aggressive cricket – has reinvigorated their Test side. However, it shouldn’t be used as a reason to shy away from putting in the hard work,” he added.

“All England required was for one batter to stay calm and absorb the pressure. Instead, Brook went for the extravagant shot and was dismissed,” he noted.

“Positivity is not the issue.But positive cricket doesn’t equate to reckless cricket. It involves confident, calculated risk-taking,” he mentioned. He added that a more measured approach in tough match situations would help Brook prove himself as a worthy successor to Joe Root, England’s leading run-scorer.

“Brook is developing, and he will learn. However, to become the match-winner England requires, he must accept both the hard work and the glory. Root didn’t become England’s highest run-scorer by only playing elegant shots.

“He earned it through determination. Brook will need to do the same if he is to reach his full potential.”

In his overall evaluation of the series, Chappell noted that the contest would be remembered not just for the outcome but also for the “theatre” it produced.

Throughout the intense five-day battles, the two teams were involved in on-field verbal spats. There were also heroic efforts from players like Rishabh Pant and Chris Woakes, who, despite suffering from significant injuries, continued to play to support their teams’ objectives.

“The subplots. The reshaping of roles. Both teams were challenged physically, tactically, and emotionally.”