Former Australian opening legend Matthew Hayden has delivered a stinging critique of England fast bowler Jofra Archer, branding his decision to bring a pillow onto the field at the Gabba as a "shocking look." The incident occurred on Day 3 of the second Ashes Test, where England's attitude was already under intense scrutiny.
Hayden's Blunt Critique of Archer's Attitude
Commentating for Channel 7, Hayden did not mince his words upon seeing footage of Archer with the pillow. He emphasised that such a casual display sends the wrong message to the opposition batters. "I’m sorry, but that’s a shocking look. If I were a batsman, I tell you what I’d be doing, I’d be digging in. Forever," Hayden stated emphatically.
He further explained that a batsman would see such a relaxed opponent as a prime opportunity to capitalise. "It would be exactly what you need as a batsman, I can tell you. You’d be looking over and thinking, ‘you are never going to sleep on that’," Hayden added, making it clear that he viewed the act as a sign of a lackadaisical approach from the English camp.
England's Struggles on the Field
The pillow controversy unfolded against the backdrop of a difficult match for England. The visitors had conceded a significant first-innings lead of 177 runs. Jofra Archer's own bowling figures reflected the tough day, as he conceded 87 runs in 25 overs while managing to take just the one wicket of Jake Weatherald.
The criticism of England's on-field demeanour was not limited to Hayden. Former England captain Michael Vaughan also voiced his concerns after observing the team on Day 2. Vaughan noted that the side appeared "jaded" and questioned their preparation and concentration levels during fielding drills.
"The art of taking chances is concentration. If you’re not out there on a regular basis practising for many hours, when that chance comes you have to be concentrating to take that opportunity," Vaughan remarked, highlighting a perceived deficiency in England's focus.
Series Context and Fallout
This incident adds to the pressure on the England team, who are already 1-0 down in the prestigious Ashes series. They lost the opening Test match in Perth by a convincing margin of eight wickets. The combination of poor performance and perceived poor attitude, as symbolised by the pillow episode, has sparked a debate about the team's mentality and professionalism while competing on Australian soil.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on how England, and Jofra Archer in particular, respond to this wave of criticism and whether they can overturn the deficit with a more determined and focused display in the remaining Tests.
