England have a big job in their hands as they try to avoid defeat in the second Ashes Test in Adelaide, but amid all the ongoing trouble the day was highlighted by an uncertain tactic. Ollie Robinson of England switched from 140kmph to 90kmph within no time to create panic in the opposition dugout. The tactic though might have done little as England are asked to chase 468 to win the match.
The 28-year-old geared up with his sunglasses in the 35th over of Australia's second innings to bowl off-spin, having been initially enrolled as a pace bowler. The tactic was met with mixed reactions on social media as fans questioned the move as lack of intent while some saw it as a tactical masterstroke. The move was also looked at as added on option in the spin department.
One of the Twitter user came up with a funny remark and took a dig at Kevin Pietersen's tweet on Nathan Lyon, “Can SOMEONE please smack Robinson?!?!! FFS! Off-spinner with zero variations and bowling on world crickets flattest road!!!!”
Another Twittter wrote,” Ollie Robinson is bowling off-spin. Four years of planning...”
The chaotic tactic was seen as a replacement for Root but ended up having mix reaction. England still have work to do in the second Test as they try to avoid back-to-back losses with six wickets in hand after Day 4's play to salvage a draw.
Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne on the other hand compared Robinson’s action to former Australia off-spinner Colin Miller. Robinson was seen practising his off-spin before the start of play while Joe Root was not available at the start of play.
Robinson, who has bowled a total of 26 overs of off-spin for Sussex before, was seen practicing his spin bowling before the day's play. He bowled a tidy first over, going for just the two runs. The Sussex bowler now has work to do with the bat as England find themselves in a vulnerable situation.
