Just weeks ahead of the blockbuster Test series against India, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has sacked its leading data analysts, Nathan Leamon and Freddie Wilde. The decision reportedly came from head coach Brendon McCullum’s emphasis on gut feeling and intuition, and a move away from their previously data-driven strategy.
The five-match Test series against the Indian side is the beginning of the new World Test Championship cycle for both the teams. The series will kick off at Headingley on June 20, and the exit of Leamon and Wilde is expected to reshape England’s behind-the-scenes preparations for the marquee contest.
"Two of England's senior cricket analysts, Nathan Leamon and Freddie Wilde, are leaving the set-up in a move that suggests the national side will place less emphasis on data moving forward," a news media outlet reported.
"Leamon and Wilde – England's senior data analyst and white-ball analyst respectively – are both winding down their involvement with the national team.”
"Neither will be involved in England's white-ball series against West Indies at the end of the month, which marks the start of Harry Brook’s reign as captain in both limited-overs formats," the report further stated.
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McCullum hasn't been a firm believer in data-only approach, which he feels is more suited for T20 format compared to longer version.
"The England hierarchy believe that analysis is more important in franchise cricket than the international game, where players tend to have fewer easily exploitable weaknesses," the report stated.
McCullum also feels that lesser number of support staff also leads to an uncomplicated atmosphere.
"As part of this approach, England players are encouraged to take more responsibility for their preparation and performance and there has been a reduction in the number of support staff on match days to de-clutter the dressing room," the report added.
In fact, England's approach has been to contrary to India's where Rahul Dravid's era saw more and more emphasis on data.
"While players are always free to consult the analyst themselves, the management emphasise that players should largely rely on their instincts.
"Insiders who have worked across the IPL and the national team believe that franchise teams now use data far more prominently than England."
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