Whilst this term has now turned into a satirical jest, disliked by McCullum, and joked about by players and pundits, the style of cricket that it refers to has revolutionised test cricket and seems to overcome every hurdle put in its way. Six test match victories out of a possible seven crowned a historic home summer for England. A team who had won just one out of their last seventeen test matches, including a humiliating 4-0 Ashes defeat, convincingly outplayed New Zealand, India and South Africa as Stokes’ progressive and radical on-field tactics superbly backed up a now flourishing batting line-up, given the license to attack.
Jonny Bairstow, a man whose test match future lay in doubt, scored four sensational hundreds as he spearheaded a rejuvenated England side. Former captain, Joe Root, oozed class as both a player and a man as he not only continued his sparkling form, but showed no spite to his successor, and despite his captaincy struggles, openly backed the new regime throughout the summer. Stokes’ England then became the first team to secure a whitewash in Pakistan, as they brushed them aside 3-0. This series win was made even sweeter by the lack of variation in the pitch. A batsman’s paradise that was somehow exploited by Stokes and his bowlers to take twenty wickets in the match.
After this resurrection of English cricket, the test squad turn their attention to 2023. A home Ashes series awaits Stokes and McCullum, which will be their biggest test yet. First, though, the squad travel to New Zealand in a two-match series, in which they welcome seam-bowling veteran, Stuart Broad back into the side, having missed the Pakistan tour due to the birth of his child. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett look set to keep their place opening batters, with up-and-coming Yorkshireman, Harry Brook, being the most-anticipated batsman to watch this series. The reliable trio of Broad, Jimmy Anderson and Ollie Robinson will be partnered by spinner, Jack Leach, as England’s four man attack will look to exploit the batsman friendly conditions that they are likely to face.
As for New Zealand, the Black Caps will be without primary bowler, Trent Boult, who has announced his retirement from test cricket. Tim Southee will do the brunt of the bowling, with Neil Wagner offering his unique left-arm pace. Tom Blundell and Daryl Mitchell provided the only real resistance against England last time out, and will hold the key once again with the bat as the out of form Kane Williamson will look to regain his touch ahead of the series.
The day-night aspect of this series will certainly fascinate viewers with the pink ball offering a new dimension to the final session of play. Victory is essential for New Zealand, who seem to be losing their way as a test force, whilst England are flying, and will look to continue their excellent form as they prepare for Australia in the summer.