England’s batters must learn when to park their attacking ‘Bazball’ style and take a more cautious “old school” approach during the second Ashes Test, says former captain Michael Vaughan.
Australia are 1-0 up in the series after England crumbled to an astonishing two-day defeat in the first Test in Perth where the tourists’ shot selection was heavily criticised.
Ben Stokes’ side now face the Aussies in a day-night Test in Brisbane which will be played with a pink ball.
Australia have a formidable record in day-night Tests having won 13 out of 14, including all three against England.
Vaughan told BBC Radio 5 Live’s Ashes second Test preview show there was an “arrogance” about England’s approach in Perth and they need to have better game awareness at the Gabba.
“This England side dance down. They run towards the danger,” Vaughan said.
“I’m not too sure that’s a sensible way to go with the ball zipping around. Play the old school way.
“I’m not saying go into a shell and play like Geoff Boycott or Alastair Cook all the time. But please use your sense when the ball is zipping around slightly.
“They are the great entertainers but they haven’t won a five-match series in the last three or four years. I will give England a tip. It’s not working.”
Vaughan said England, in particular, should look to frustrate left-arm quick Mitchell Starc in Brisbane with a more measured approach.
Starc has 81 wickets at an average of 17.09 in day-night matches and is widely considered the world’s best bowler with a pink ball in hand.
“When Mitchell Starc comes into the attack, he’s the aggressor and has to take wickets,” added Vaughan, who captained England to an Ashes series victory in 2005.
“So if you leave a few outside off stump, there’s no way Starc isn’t going to bowl one straight because he is there to get wickets. It’s having that sense and game awareness.
“Whatever England do, they have to play a lot better. They need a stronger game for longer periods.”
