Made in Northants: The path behind England’s openers
05.06.26, 12:35 Updated 05.06.26, 12:40
Jeremy Blackmore
England’s latest Test reset may have got off to an inauspicious start with the bat at Lord’s on Thursday, as a rampant New Zealand bowling attack made the most of helpful conditions under cloudy skies at NW8, with England’s top order unable to make an impact.
For all that, nothing could detract from the pride felt by Northamptonshire fans watching two homegrown talents, Emilio Gay and Ben Duckett, walk through the Long Room and down the steps of the famous old pavilion to open the batting for their country.
The pair are very different in style, Gay is tall, upright and elegant; Duckett is compact, composed and pugnacious and has embodied the Bazball era.
Both, however, owe much to the wise counsel of David Ripley and Kevin Innes and the coaching team at Wantage Road.
Become a member today.
The Steeler needs its community to support independent, high-quality coverage of Northamptonshire Cricket. Subscribe to a monthly or annual package today to be a part of something special.
Already have an account?