England batted like morons against Pakistan: Swann

Jan 21, 2012 |

Dubai

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England off-spinner Graeme Swann has said that side batted like morons in the first Test played against Pakistan here, and deserved to lose.

“We resembled cricketing dinosaurs in the way we failed to respond to Pakistan's bowling. We were caught on the hop by opponents who were sharper on the first day and there was no clawing it back,” Swann writes in an article for The Sun.

“I think most of our problems were mental. Maybe we didn't adapt — and not just the batters, the whole team,” he adds.

Describing Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal as a fine bowler, Swann said England’s batters had faced up to him before, and doubts about his bowling action should not have taken center stage.

“He is a fine bowler, don't get me wrong, but the same bowler we handled at home in 2010. The teesra 'mystery' ball with which he teased everyone was shown to be no more than a gimmick. So he's exactly the bowler he was before — he bowls a very good off-spinner and a good doosra,” said Swann.

“We have to combat those two deliveries and I'm sure we'll find a way before the Second Test on Wednesday,” he added.

“It's not up to us to say it is not a fair delivery. We have to play the ball that comes down and if there is anything wrong with his action, I'm sure the ICC would pick up on it,” Swann said.

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