England head coach Brendon McCullum is confident about his team’s bowling lineup ahead of the five-match Test series against India starting June 20. The series marks India’s new era without senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, while also beginning their ICC World Test Championship cycle.McCullum expressed his views on the team’s preparation and bowling attack while speaking to Sky Sports Cricket. “It is important the guys refresh. We know where we want to get to as a Test team,” he said.The England coach highlighted the team’s bowling options despite some unavailable players. “We have a nice, varied bowling attack with Chris Woakes, Sam Cook, Brydon Carse, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue for the high-pace element,” McCullum stated.He praised young spinner Shoaib Bashir’s progress in Test cricket. Bashir has claimed 58 wickets in 16 Tests since his debut last year, averaging 36.39 with four five-wicket hauls and best figures of 6/81.“We know we are going to be tested against India, and they will arrive prepared. They are an outstanding cricketing nation, who will come here with high hopes, and we are looking forward to seeing them,” McCullum added.
Jacob Bethell, 21, has earned his place back in England’s Test squad for the series opener after missing the Zimbabwe match due to IPL commitments. Bethell’s recent performances include three fifties from the number 3 position during the winter tour of New Zealand.McCullum praised Bethell’s development and potential. “Bethell has a good life in front of him. For a 21-year-old, he’s got a real poise, and that allows him to go out there and be present and show off his flair and talent. The world is his oyster. He’s already becoming a leader in the dressing room which is what you want.”Quiz: Who’s that IPL player?The coach also highlighted the promising performances of Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett. “Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett have reminded me of Duckett and Zak Crawley in the Test game. We know how good Duckett is, but the power that Smith possesses is amazing. These guys are fearless, and if you add the craft, then you hope you end up with a rounded player.”England’s team composition has changed significantly since their 4-1 series loss in India last year. James Anderson has retired, while Jonny Bairstow, Ben Foakes, and Ollie Robinson are no longer part of the squad.India has also undergone changes with R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma retiring. Shubman Gill will lead the team for the first time.India, seeking their first Test series victory in England since 2007, has sent several players ahead to compete for India A against the Lions. The remaining squad members will arrive in the UK on Friday.
