Published: Sep 21, 2015, 05:06 PM (IST)
Edited: Sep 21, 2015, 05:06 PM (IST)
James Taylor has reasserted the view that most cricketers adhere to even in modern times that Test cricket is the pinnacle of the sport. There are growing concerns among players of yesteryears that Test cricket is taking the backseat in light of the growing monetary influence of T20 cricket. Yet, majority of influential cricketers regard Test cricket in the same, if not greater, light as T20 or One-Day International (ODI) cricket. In light of his selection in the English Test squad for the upcoming challenging tour of United Arab Emirates (UAE) to face Pakistan, Taylor hopes to utilise his abilities against spin bowling to reap rich rewards. ALSO READ: England vs Australia 2015: James Taylor glad to see hosts’ resilience in ODI series
Taylor was absent from the England squad for the Ashes 2015 Tests against Australia, but was part of the ODI team where he contributed significantly. Despite his high opinion of Test cricket, Taylor goes on to clarify that he wears his English cricket shirt with immense pride irrespective of the format he is being selected in.
“It is the pinnacle, Test match cricket, and that is where I want to be. It is enjoyable playing for England, first and foremost. I have really enjoyed the ODI stuff so hopefully it can go well in the Test arena,” Taylor told ecb.co.uk. “I have put in a lot of hard work. This season has been brilliant, it started off slowly but to finish it like this I am over the moon,” Taylor added about his inclusion in the Test side.
