While Australia cricketers such as Ricky Ponting knew well why Michael Vaughan was not picked for the Ashes, the latter’s absence does create a hole in terms of experience and tactical acumen as former England coach, Duncan Fletcher, believes.
Fletcher was the coach of the England team that also saw Vaughan as captain when England beat the Australians for the Ashes in 2005. The news that Vaughan is on the verge of announcing his retirement from cricket, Fletcher expressed his disappointment but he also felt that Vaughan was doing the best in the interests of England cricket.
Fletcher praised Vaughan highly for his grit, determination and acumen and for being one of the best players England has produced in contemporary cricket. Fletcher also attributed Vaughan’s downslide to his injuries but also, stated Vaughan was not one to get down because of an injury.
His opening partner, Marcus Trescothick, should know. Trescothick, who later suffered nervous breakdowns on tour, believes Vaughan also had a positive effect on the team and players, always keeping them raring to go goal after goal.
It appears that the cricket world is all set to close the chapter on an era when England made the effort and flourished, albeit briefly.
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