England they’ve had a mixed run going ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle, maintaining a win-loss ratio that highlights their strengths and areas of improvement.
England’s performance at the third edition of the ICC World Test Championship
Despite showing resilience in challenging series against top opponents like Australia, England have struggled to find consistency throughout the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Their performances abroad have been extremely inconsistent, highlighted by a disappointing 4-1 defeat in India. In total, England played 22 games, achieving 11 wins, 10 losses and one draw, earning 114 points with a win percentage of 43.18. Although they have recorded dominant home wins, especially on familiar grounds, their inability to finish close games has seen valuable points slip away. Key players such as Joe Root and Ben Stokes they made significant contributions with the bat, but a lack of bowling depth and occasional lapses in strategy hampered their overall success. As a result, they finished sixth in the WTC standings.
The role of England’s bowlers in their success
England’s bowling unit has been key to their performances in the 2023-25 WTC cycle, often producing game-changing spells. Chris wakes up he was an outstanding player, standing out for his control and ability to swing the ball, especially in English conditions. Mark WoodHis raw pace and aggression were vital, especially on surfaces that favored fast bowling, as he constantly troubled the top-order batsmen.
Rising star Brydon Carse he impressed immediately, showing his ability to take key wickets and maintain pressure for long periods. Another notable performer, Shoaib Bashir, provided a spin option, contributing effectively in select matches. Together, the bowlers ensured that England remained competitive by frequently removing opposition line-ups, although occasional lapses in performance prevented them from taking full advantage of key moments.
Top 5 wicket takers for England in ICC WTC cycle 2023-25
5. Brydon Carse
In the current WTC cycle, Carse has emerged as one of England’s most potent fast bowling weapons. In just 5 matches, he took a scalp of 27 wickets at an incredible average of 19.85, highlighting his ability to trouble the batsmen constantly. His best figures of 6/42 highlight his match-winning potential, especially in pressure situations. Carse’s economy rate of 3.43 shows his ability to keep a tight grip on his scoring rate, while his strike rate of 34.7 reflects his ability to get wickets at regular intervals. Known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, Carse has become a key figure in England’s bowling line-up, and his only five-wicket haul so far suggests more impactful performances are on the horizon.
4. Mark Wood
Wood continued to impress with his raw pace and aggression, making him a constant threat to the batsmen. In 9 matches, he took 29 wickets at an average of 29.00 and his best figures of 5/34 show his ability to bowl fiery spells that can turn the tide of a match. Wood’s economy rate of 3.47 highlights his ability to control his scoring rate, even while bowling at a fast pace. His strike rate of 50.0 shows that while he may not bowl as many overs as others, he is often England’s best breakthrough bowler. Known for his ability to reverse the swing of the old ball, Wood’s contribution in challenging overseas conditions added another dimension to England’s bowling attack. His fitness and ability to maintain high speed over long distances make him a key part of England’s Test success.
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3. Shoaib Bashir
Bashir has been a steady performer for England, especially as a spinner in a pace-dominated attack. With 49 wickets in 15 games, he played a key role in providing breakthroughs in the middle overs. His best figures of 5/41 are a testament to his ability to bowl impressive spells, especially on spin-friendly surfaces. While his average of 40.16 and strike rate of 64.2 suggest room for improvement, Bashir’s three wickets with five wickets reflect his potential to be a match-winner. His economy rate of 3.75 indicates his ability to keep the batsmen in check, allowing England’s pacers to operate with more freedom. Bashir’s adaptability to different pitches, combined with his accuracy and subtle variations, make him a valuable asset for England in the WTC cycle.
2. Chris Wakes
Waakes was the epitome of consistency and reliability for England, taking 51 wickets in 12 matches at a remarkable average of 21.88. His best bowling performance of 5/62 shows his ability to excel under pressure, especially in English conditions where his mastery of swing and movement is second to none. Woakes’ economy rate of 2.98 is a testament to his disciplined approach, making him a difficult bowler to score. With a strike rate of 44.0, he has been a reliable workhorse for England, capable of bowling long spells and maintaining intensity throughout. Adding to his contributions, Woakes also took 10 catches, proving his worth as an all-rounder in the field. Waakes remains a vital part of England’s Test set-up, whether with the new ball or in the middle of the over.
1. Gus Atkinson
Gus Atkinson produced a sensational performance for England in the WTC cycle, taking 52 wickets in just 11 matches. His impressive average of 22.15 highlights his ability to take wickets consistently while keeping his strike rate in check. Atkinson’s outstanding performance of 7/45 is a reflection of his ability to deliver devastating spells, dismantling even the most resilient batting line-ups. With an economy rate of 3.73 and a strike rate of 35.6, he was one of the most effective bowlers in the English attack. Notably, Atkinson has already had three five-catch passes and one ten-catch pass in the game, cementing his reputation as a game-changer. His versatility and ability to adapt to different conditions has made him a key asset for England, whether at home or on challenging overseas tours.
Special mention: James Anderson
During the WTC 2023-25 cycle, James Anderson, one of England’s most experienced bowlershe made significant contributions before retiring mid-tournament. He finished with 19 wickets and ranked number 7 for his side in terms of wicket takers. His career-best performance in the cycle came with figures of 3/32, showing his consistency and ability to make runs. Anderson’s average of 43.15 and economy rate of 2.82 highlighted his key role in England’s bowling attack. Although he retired mid-cycle, his experience and skill in controlling the game made him a valuable asset, leaving behind a legacy of impressive performances. His retirement was deeply felt throughout the squad as England entered a new phase without their veteran leader.
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