'They disrespected Test cricket' - Michael Vaughan slams Team England
What's the story
Michael Vaughan, former England captain, has criticized the English team for their "overconfidence" following a historic defeat against Sri Lanka in the third and final Test at The Oval.
Notably, the loss was the only blemish on an otherwise flawless home Test season for England.
Despite winning five consecutive Tests this summer (three against West Indies and two against SL), Vaughan believes that complacency crept into their game.
Disrespectful approach
Vaughan accuses England of disrespecting Test cricket
In his column for The Telegraph, Vaughan accused the English team of disrespecting both Test cricket and their opponents.
He wrote, "I felt that they disrespected Test cricket, and disrespected Sri Lanka in the third Test by being over-aggressive with both the bat and in their field placings."
This criticism comes after England were bowled out for a meager 156 runs in their second innings, allowing Sri Lanka to chase down a target of 219 runs comfortably.
Warning issued
Vaughan warns England ahead of future Tests
Vaughan also warned the English team about their upcoming challenges in 2025, stating that such an approach would not work against stronger teams like India or Australia.
He observed a pattern of complacency in the team after periods of success and hopes this defeat serves as a wake-up call.
"There is no way they will get away with playing like this against India or Australia," Vaughan cautioned.
Intensity lacking
Vaughan criticizes England's lack of intensity
Vaughan further criticized the English team for their lack of intensity and concentration during crucial moments of the match.
He described their performance as "flimsy and cocky."
The former captain also pointed out that England's middle-order collapse in the first innings, where they went from 261/3 to 325 all out, was a turning point in the match.
Cherishing victories
Vaughan urges England to cherish winning
Vaughan encouraged the English team to never lose their appreciation for winning, regardless of the opponent's strength.
He emphasized that the joy of a Test win should be a weekly goal for every Test cricketer.
This advice comes after Sri Lanka secured only their fourth Test win on English soil, with opener Pathum Nissanka scoring an unbeaten century in the fourth innings.