England Captain Slams Criticism of Team’s Work Ethic Following Yet Another Disappointing Defeat

England’s captain, Jos Buttler, has responded to the backlash regarding his team’s preparations after suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to India in their one-day international series.

In the third ODI on Thursday morning, Buttler’s squad endured a disheartening loss, falling by 142 runs. This defeat raises concerns as the team gears up for the Champions Trophy.

Brendon McCullum, the Test coach, recently took the reins of the men’s white-ball side, but his tenure has begun on a rocky note.

This significant defeat comes just days after English commentators slammed the “Bazball death cult.” The loss in ODIs follows a previous 4-1 T20 series defeat to the same opponents, India.

Cricket legends, including Ravi Shastri and Kevin Pietersen, have questioned the training regimen of the England team, implying that the players may not have dedicated enough time to practice while in India.

“I understand it. Enjoy it while you can. These should be the best moments of your life. Play golf, dine out at nice restaurants,” Pietersen remarked recently.

“However, you are paid to score runs. That’s why you earn your salary—to win cricket matches, not to enjoy a golfing holiday. This is a cricket tour, not a golf tour.”

“You train so that when you board a flight, you know you’ve put everything into winning a game of cricket for England.

“I feel terrible that they’ve disrespected both Indian conditions and the Indian team. As an Englishman, I’m absolutely devastated.”

Former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior echoed this sentiment during commentary.

“It’s essential to give yourself the best shot at performing,” Prior noted.

“Many of the younger players should be motivated to hit the nets more and learn from McCullum, who has succeeded in scoring runs in subcontinental conditions.

“Taking those extra steps is what earns you the opportunity to shine on the big stage.”

Despite these critiques, Buttler remains firm that the training intensity throughout the tour wasn’t the issue.

“I’m not convinced that’s entirely accurate,” Buttler stated.

“Our aim is to foster a positive environment, but let’s not confuse that with being lazy or lacking effort.

“There were instances where we didn’t train, but overall we’ve had ample practice throughout the tour.”

England now faces the challenge of regrouping and readying themselves for the one-day Champions Trophy set for later this month.

In their third ODI, Shubman Gill shone with an impressive 112 runs off 102 balls, leading India to a dominant 356 in their 50 overs, as they dispatched England by 142 runs.

Alongside Gill, Shreyas Iyer contributed 78 from 64 balls, and Virat Kohli added 52 from 55 deliveries, while wrist spinner Adil Rashid delivered an impressive performance with figures of 4-64—his best against India.

In a disappointing reply, England was bowled out for 214 in just 34.2 overs.

Jasprit Bumrah, India’s leading pace bowler, was scheduled to play to showcase his fitness ahead of the Champions Trophy but was ruled out due to a lower back injury.

– with AP