Ahead of the final Ashes Test in Sydney, former England speedster Stuart Broad shared a pointed critique of Gus Atkinson’s presence on the field. While evaluating England’s pace attack during their tour of Australia, Broad suggested that the young fast bowler needs to put significant work into his on-field demeanor.
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Gus Atkinson's body language is not of a Test-match bowler: Stuart Broad
Broad’s analysis centered on the psychological aspect of the game, noting that Atkinson’s current body language doesn't yet reflect the commanding presence typically expected of a frontline Test-match bowler. He implied that developing a more imposing or resilient persona could be key to Atkinson’s growth as he navigates the high-pressure environment of international cricket.
“Atkinson has amazing attributes. He still averages under 25 with the ball, he wobbles the seam, he can swing it, he’s tall, he’s consistent, but his body language is not of a Test-match bowler in the battle. He was work to do on that,” Broad told Sky Sports.
“That doesn’t matter so much when you’re playing teams you should dominate and beat, but not against top teams, so his areas of improvement aren’t attributes or mental ability to cope with pressure, but letting your team know you are leading this group,” Broad added.
Hamstring injury rules Gus Atkinson out of fifth Ashes Test
England's bowling woes deepened on Monday as 27-year-old Atkinson became the third frontline pacer to be sidelined during the Ashes series. A hamstring injury has officially ruled him out of the fifth Ashes Test, following the mid-series departures of fellow fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer, who were also plagued by injuries.
The setback concludes a difficult tour for Atkinson, who struggled to make an impact on the Australian pitches. He appeared largely ineffective, claiming only six wickets at a costly average of 47. Stuart Broad, whose legendary career saw him claim 604 Test wickets, expressed a desire to see more competitive fire from the young bowler, noting that his performances have lacked the necessary spark.
In a piece of seasoned advice, Broad emphasized that Atkinson must refine his psychological approach to the game. He suggested that as a fast bowler, Atkinson should never allow the opposition to sense that they have gained the upper hand. According to Broad, maintaining a resilient and defiant presence is essential to preventing batters from feeling comfortable at the crease.
“I read a piece about Tiger Woods, who would never look at the floor when golfing. His eyes would always be above the horizon, which is really strong for body language. When I was under pressure or struggling I would keep my eyes above the horizon because then someone couldn’t tell if I’d bowled a good or bad ball. You’re constantly in the battle and your opposition cannot feel like they are getting on top of you,” Broad concluded.