I was a big fan of Graeme Swann. I loved the fact that in an age of mystery spin and suspect bowling actions, an old-fashioned orthodox off-spinner could rise to the top of the world rankings and create havoc for opposition the world over. But with Swann retired and Panesar not firing on all cylinders, the time has come for England to embrace modern spin bowling in all its many forms. Like the previous comment, some of this rests on the historical nature of English pitches. It's very rare in a country known for drizzle, overcast days and green grass to get the sort of dry, dusty pitch on which spinners thrive. But as with fast bowling, a lot of the problem also stems from an emphasis of control over taking wickets, and a truly great spinner always does both. That's one of the reasons why England have traditionally preferred finger-spinners like Swann and Panesar over wrist-spinners like Ian Salisbury and Scott Borthwick. England have a very good spin coach in Mushtaq Ahmed and should focus on developing the next generation of spinners, specifically those who can turn the ball significantly with variations. Mystery spinners should be brought into the fold early on so that their can refine their craft and continue surprising the opposition. Coaches can help to hone techniques and teach bowlers to use said variations sparingly, but they should not discourage spinners from being attacking just because they go for a few runs. The time for being defensive and bowling tight is over: England's spinners need to be less like John Emburey and more like Shane Warne.
Freelance copywriter, film buff, community radio presenter. Former host of The Movie Hour podcast (http://www.lionheartradio.com/ and click 'Interviews'), currently presenting on Phonic FM in Exeter (http://www.phonic.fm/). Other loves include theatre, music and test cricket.
