As a batsman you spend so much time with your helmet on and people
As a batsman you spend so much time with your helmet on, and people don’t recognise you quite as much as the others.”Attempting to relax and get away from the euphoria which surrounds this thrilling series has become difficult. “I don’t mind that too much but it does make it harder to refresh your brain and stop thinking about the cricket. I shouldn’t complain though, I don’t get as much of it as some. It is only when they rip it off on scoring a hundred that you see what is behind the mask.Anonymity is something Strauss craves, but during this unforgettable Ashes series – one that has grabbed the attention of a football-mad nation and turned cricketers into superstars – it is not something he can always achieve.”On Wednesday night I went to the local curry house for a quiet meal and got badgered by about 15 people,” Strauss tells me over a cup of coffee at his house in Ealing. The second reason is not one that would interest Kevin Pietersen – anonymity. Helmets are the principal reason why spectators tend to relate to bowlers more than batsmen.
When bowlers are at work it is easy to see their every emotion. Television picks up the frustration of watching the ball edged down to third man for four, the anger of having an appeal turned down and the joy of taking a wicket.
A batsman’s inner thoughts, on the other hand, are generally hidden behind the metal grille which protects their face. In the second innings the impact of another bouncer cut Strauss’s left ear, but, after being patched up by the England physiotherapist, he regained his composure and went on to score his first hundred against Australia. During the Old Trafford Test he was twice hit on the head by Brett Lee. In the first innings the blow had the desired effect, and the Australian fast bowler was able to dismiss the disorientated Englishman before he had added to his score. “John is a highly experienced and respected coach who knows what it is like to beat Australia,” Gavaskar said..
Andrew Strauss has two reasons to be grateful for the protection his England helmet offers him The first is physical. This is another outstanding opportunity to pit my wits and skills against them. It will be a real privilege and a great thrill to work with so many outstanding players during the series.”His appointment was endorsed by the ICC chief executive, Malcolm Speed, after being recommended by the former India captain Sunil Gavaskar. His overall Test record as India coach against Australia includes four wins, four losses and three draws.Wright said: “I’ve enjoyed some tremendous battles with Australia over the years as both player and coach.