ENGLAND ARE ON A JACK HIGH
JACK LEACH is a man who likes to fly under the radar. But now John Emburey believes that it’s time the quiet man of the England bowling attack was fully appreciated.
The left-armer celebrated his 100th Test wicket during England’s recent series in Pakistan.
An achievement that was largely overlooked as England’s unique brand of attacking cricket swept the hosts aside.
Leach said at the time it was more than he thought he would ever achieve in his nation’s colours.
Emburey, though, believes there’s plenty more to come from a 31-year-old who is now more central to England’s plans than ever.
“The most important thing is that England are always looking to play a spinner,” says the former off-break bowler, who took 147 wickets for his country between 1978 and 1995.
“Just knowing that you’re going to play is huge for a spinner.
“How big a role he is going to play in New Zealand will depend on the pitches.
“But even if the pitch isn’t turning he will still be a crucial player.
“It’s not easy being a spinner these days but Jack has really adapted to his role in this side. He has clearly spoken to Ben (Stokes) and Brendon (Mccullum) about the kind of role that they want him to play.
“I think England really appreciates the part that Jack plays in this side.”
Leach hardly has the happiest memories of New
Zealand. His last visit here, in the winter of 2019, ended with the Somerset man contracting sepsis.
It’s not the first battle that Leach, who suffers from Crohn’s disease, has had to overcome in his career.
After that New Zealand tour he didn’t play another Test until January 2021.
As he prepares for England’s first Test of 2023, however, he can look back on a year that saw him take 46 wickets for Stokes’ rejuvenated side.
Graeme Swann and Derek Underwood – England’s two most prolific spinners – might be some way off in the wicket-taking stakes, but Leach’s current strike rate means he could overtake Emburey’s own tally by the end of the year.
“You shouldn’t underestimate what a huge achievement it is for an England spinner to take 100 wickets in Test cricket,” said Emburey (left).
“This is a big year for England and a big year for Jack, too.the Aussies are coming and they’ll look to get after him.
“But he has proved, time and again, that is far easier to say than do.”