The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Batty fights the nerves on return to England duty
England spinner Gareth Batty admitted his first Test appearance for more than 11 years was the most nerve-racking moment of a career spanning nearly two decades.
The 39-year-old shared new-ball duties on day two of the first Test against Bangladesh, who were also the opponents when Batty made his previous appearance in the format in June 2005 at Chester-le-Street.
The much warmer climes of Chittagong provided the venue for his comeback and a pitch offering prodigious turn saw him bowl the second over, only the third time since 1928 that England have opened a first innings with a spinner.
Batty was thumped for four first ball but he finished the day as the most economical of England’s three frontline spinners with one for 51, as Bangladesh closed on 221 for five in response to the tourists’ 293 all out.
Batty said of his seventh Test appearance: “You stick the shirt on, it’s an amazing feeling. I was very nervous, I’ve not been like that, I don’t think, ever before in my career because you want to do well and I suppose it’s a human and natural thing.
“But that’s a good thing – you’re alive, if the nerves are jangling and you’ve got an England shirt on.
Batty marked his comeback by snaring Tamim Iqbal, whose fine innings was ended by one that went on with the arm and a bottom edge was snaffled by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow.
Tamim believes Bangladesh remain in a promising position despite the late blow.
He said: “I think we are slightly at an advantaged position at the end of the second day. We still have wickets in hand. We will gain the upper hand if we can bat well in the first session.”