Hayden Slams Archer for Bringing a Pillow to Gabba Game
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has openly criticized Jofra Archer for his unconventional choice of a pillow during the third day of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba. Archer, the 30-year-old fast bowler, was seen arriving with a pillow tucked under his arm, which Hayden described as a “shocking look.” This moment came as England required just four wickets to conclude Australia’s first innings and keep their Ashes series hopes alive.
Australia’s Dominance
Despite losing two wickets early on, Australia reached 450-8 by the session’s close, establishing a 116-run lead. Historically, England has only managed to win a Test in Australia after trailing by over 100 runs on two occasions, the last instance occurring in 1979 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Hayden’s Critique
- Matthew Hayden expressed his disapproval on Channel 7.
- He emphasized the psychological impact of Archer’s behavior on opposing batsmen.
- Hayden stated, “If I was a batsman, I’d be digging in. Forever.”
Second New Ball and England’s Strategy
As Australia resumed batting from a position of 378-6, Ben Stokes, England’s captain, managed to dismiss Michael Neser for 16 runs. With the new ball taken after 80 overs, Gus Atkinson got the edge of Alex Carey, who scored 63 runs. Archer, sharing the new ball with Atkinson, bowled five overs without taking a wicket, conceding 13 runs.
Struggles in England’s Fielding
England faced difficulties in their efforts to break the ninth-wicket partnership between Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. The pair combined for 34 runs in a span of 16 overs. Starc reached 46 runs while Boland added 7 runs to the scoreboard.
Looking Ahead in the Ashes
With England’s performance proving deflating, analysts have raised concerns about their preparedness for the series. Michael Vaughan, a former captain, remarked that the team appeared “jaded.”
Archer’s Return to Test Cricket
Jofra Archer made his comeback to Test cricket this summer after a lengthy absence due to injuries. By the end of the third day’s first interval, he had bowled 25 overs, marking his second-highest total in a Test innings since 2019. His longest uninterrupted spell of seven overs occurred on the previous day, signaling a significant comeback.
