England recall Robinson at expense of Potts for second Test

Ollie Robinson, who last played for England in the final Ashes Test in January, has been recalled for the second Test with South Africa as the hosts bid to level the three match series.  

Sussex paceman Robinson replaces Matthew Potts for the match at Old Trafford which starts on Thursday.  
 “Everything that we’ve seen in training and how he’s (Robinson) been around the group is exactly what we want,” said England captain Ben Stokes.  

 “We all know the quality of bowler he is, because when he’s played for England his skill set is incredible.” 
Stokes added that Potts had taken the news remarkably well after playing in the previous five Tests.  
 “For a 23-year-old to understand the bigger picture and not be throwing his toys out the pram was something that I think shouldn’t be overlooked,” said Stokes.  

England will need a considerably improved performance following the innings and 12 runs thrashing inside three days at Lord’s in the first Test.  

Robinson has 39 wickets in nine Tests at an average of 21.28.  

Following a poor Ashes series, where his approach to fitness were questioned in public by the England coaching staff, Robinson missed the subsequent tour of the West Indies with back spasms.  
He was due to play for a County Select XI against New Zealand in May, only to miss out with a stiff back, before a bout of Covid-19 caused him to spend more time on the sidelines.  

Stokes said he had spoken frankly to Robinson about his attitude to fitness.  
 “I feel that’s something people deserve,” said Stokes.  

 “Rather than just have a conversation to get through it easy, I’d rather let him know exactly where I stand.  
 “It enables him to go away and work on what has been asked of him. All I can say is he’s done that to the absolute extreme.  

 “All the feedback Robbo has got from myself, the coach, the people who have helped him get where he is now, has been nothing but positive.”

(AFP)