ENG vs AUS: Nasser Hussain Feels Moeen Ali's Injury Could Be A "Turning Point" In 5th Test Against Australia
Published - 28 Jul 2023, 01:53 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:16 AM
Former England skipper Nasser Hussain opened up about all-rounder Moeen Ali’s injury, which he sustained on Day 1 of the fifth Test against Australia in the Ashes 2023 series. Nasser Hussain believes that Moeen Ali’s injury could prove costly for the England team in the Ashes finale.
Moeen Ali sustained a groin injury while batting on the opening day of the last Test at The Oval in London on Thursday, July 27. The injury occurred to the batter while running between the wickets in the second session. He didn’t take the field in Australia’s first innings in the final session.
He Is Their Frontline Spinner – Nasser Hussain
Speaking on Sky Sports after the end of the day’s play, Nasser Hussain highlighted that the surface is offering turn, pointing out that Moeen Ali was the only frontline spinner in England’s lineup.
“I thought Moeen’s injury was a big turning point. Looking forward, we think this pitch is going to spin, and he is their frontline spinner,” Hussain told Sky Sports.
Moeen Ali scored 34 runs off 47 balls with the help of three fours and two sixes. The left-handed batter added a crucial 111-run partnership with Harry Brook for the fifth wicket. England lost wickets at regular wickets and were bowled out for 283 runs in their first innings.
He Is Just Out Of Nick – Nasser Hussain
The cricketer-turned-commentator said that James Anderson looked out of form, highlighting that players are not machines. Hussain stated that Anderson was the No.1 Test bowler a few months ago.
“He is just out of nick. Players are not machines. You highlight it because he is 41 on Sunday but he was the No 1 bowler in the world four months ago. He is just having a poor summer,” Hussain said.
“It was highlighted today because Broad was swinging the ball and he wasn’t moving it. He is a great cricketer because he has overcome spells like this one. Can he do it again at the age of 41?” he concluded.
James Anderson failed to pick any wicket in his seven overs. Chris Woakes was the only wicket-taker in their lineup as Australia’s batters scored 61 runs before the stumps on Day 1.
