The second Test match of their 3-match bilateral series on Thursday, July 21, at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, witnessed England defeating West Indies by a margin of 241 runs. Now with an insurmountable lead in hand at 2-0, they will all confront the guests for their last clash in Edgbaston, Birmingham commencing on Friday, July 26.
England would like to slot in seam bowler Matthew Potts to rest some of their other fast bowlers before this game. Given that James Anderson has retired now is the best time to try out Potts even though he has already played six Tests.
Here are three reasons why England should include Matthew Potts in the third Test against West Indies:
#3 To give Chris Woakes some rest
One of the key reasons for bringing in Potts instead of Chris Woakes is to make sure that the England fast bowler is rested a bit. He has played both Tests against the West Indies this summer, and maybe it’s time for him to sit out some matches.
With Sri Lanka visiting home in August, Woakes will be very important for England. That implies they have to allow him to rest according to their workload management plan.
#2 He can add some variety to the attack
Potts swings it in the air, and he can also seam it on the pitch; add that to his having two of these vices to tackle with fresh thoughts. This might furnish some relief for skipper Ben Stokes as this facility is in shortage now that James Anderson has bid farewell to the game leaving behind an empty spot in their team directory.
The West Indies should take note of this kid who is famous for having steep bounce by delivering shorter balls without thinking twice if they want to be ahead of him.
#1 He is in fine form in county cricket
Potts is performing well in the county cricket as he heads into this series, which is impressive to selectors. This means that he has a brilliant and practical disposition of players and their selectors.
I believe he will be able to do wonders on the tour. It is with great confidence that he has delivered an exquisite collection of bowling figures in his last five innings which include; 4-71, 2-38, 4-29, 0-51 and 0-25.
Despite his six Test appearances, the selectors should offer this opportunity to test his wares and use him when he is on a good run. It is an undeniable truth that if someone is picked based on present-day performances, chances are he is not going to disappoint.
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