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England have experienced a mixed career in progress ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle, maintaining a profit-loss ratio that highlights both its strengths and areas for improvement.
England’s performance in 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 notably inconsistent, highlighted by a disappointing 4-1 defeat in India. In total, England have played 22 matches, securing 11 wins, 10 losses and a draw, earning 114 points with a win percentage of 43.18. While they have recorded dominant wins at home, especially on familiar grounds, their inability to close out tight games has seen valuable points slip away. Key players such as Joe Root i Ben Stokes they have made impactful contributions with the bat, but a lack of bowling depth and occasional errors in strategy have hampered their overall success. As a result, they finished sixth in the WTC standings.
The role of English bowlers in their success
England’s bowling unit has been central to their performances in the 2023-25 WTC cycle, often producing game-changing spells. Chris Woakes he has been an outstanding player, notable for his control and ability to swing the ball, especially in English conditions. Mark Wood‘s raw pace and aggression have been vital, especially on surfaces that favor fast bowling, as he has consistently troubled the top-order batsmen.
rising star Brydon Carse he made an immediate impact, showing his ability to take crucial wickets and sustain the pressure for long periods. Another standout player, Shoaib Bashir, provided a spin option, contributing effectively in select matches. Collectively, the bowlers have ensured that England remain competitive by frequently dismantling opposition line-ups, although occasional lapses in execution have prevented them from taking full advantage of key moments.
England’s top 5 wicket takers in the 2023-25 ICC WTC cycle
5. Brydon Carse
In the ongoing WTC cycle, Carse has emerged as one of England’s most potent fast bowling weapons. In just 5 matches, he has picked up 27 wickets at a remarkable average of 19.85, underlining his ability to consistently trouble the batsmen. His best figures of 6/42 highlight his match-winning potential, especially in pressure situations. Carse’s economy rate of 3.43 demonstrates his ability to maintain a tight grip on the scoring rate, while his strike rate of 34.7 reflects his ability to take wickets at regular intervals. Known for his ability to spin the ball both ways, Carse has become a key figure in England’s bowling line-up, and his solitary five-wicket haul so far suggests there are more impactful performances to come. on the horizon
4. Mark Wood
Wood has continued to impress with his raw pace and aggression, making him a constant threat to the batsmen. In 9 matches, he has taken 29 wickets at an average of 29.00, with his best figures of 5/34 showing his ability to deliver fiery spells that can turn the tide of a match. Wood’s economy rate of 3.47 highlights his ability to control the scoring rate, even while bowling at a fast pace. His strike rate of 50.0 shows that while he may not play as many strokes as others, he is often England’s go-to bowler for breakthroughs. Known for his ability to reverse the swing of the old ball, Wood’s contributions in difficult overseas conditions have added another dimension to England’s bowling attack. His fitness and ability to sustain high speeds for long periods make him a key part of England’s Test success.
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3. Shoaib Bashir
Bashir has been a consistent performer for England, especially as a spinner in an attack dominated by pace. With 49 wickets in 15 matches, he has played a crucial role in making progress in the middles. His best figures of 5/41 are a testament to his ability to bowl impactful 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 five-wicket hauls 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 more freely. 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 Woakes
Woakes has been the epitome of consistency and reliability for England, taking 51 wickets in 12 matches at an outstanding average of 21.88. His best bowling performance of 5/62 shows his ability to excel under pressure, especially in English conditions where his command of swing and seam 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, able to bowl long and maintain the intensity throughout. In addition to his contributions, Woakes has also taken 10 catches, proving his value as an all-rounder in the field. Woakes remains a vital part of England’s Test setup, whether with the new ball or in the middle overs.
1. Gus Atkinson
Gus Atkinson has had a sensational impact for England in the WTC cycle, taking 52 wickets in just 11 matches. His impressive average of 22.15 highlights his ability to pick up wickets consistently while keeping the scoring 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 has been one of the most effective bowlers in the English attack. Remarkably, Atkinson has already claimed three five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket haul, cementing his reputation as a game-changer. His versatility and ability to adapt to different conditions has made him a critical asset for England, whether at home or on tough tours abroad.
Special mention: James Anderson
During the WTC cycle 2023-25, James Anderson, one of England’s most experienced bowlershe made important contributions before retiring midway through the tournament. He finished with 19 wickets and ranked No. 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 breakthroughs. Anderson’s average of 43.15 and economy rate of 2.82 highlighted his crucial role in England’s bowling attack. Although he retired mid-cycle, his experience and ability to control the game made him a valuable asset, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances. His withdrawal was deeply felt in the team as England moved into a new phase without their veteran leader.
