Tag: JackLeach

Jack Leach, the left-arm spinner for Somerset, has expressed his unwavering determination to reclaim his place in the England Test team after his impressive 12-wicket haul against Durham. Leach, who was England’s first-choice spinner under Ben Stokes’ captaincy, has been sidelined by injuries in recent months, but his recent performance has reignited his hopes of a return to the international stage.

Leach’s 15 wickets in England’s 3-0 Test series win in Pakistan in December 2022 serve as a testament to his abilities. Despite the emergence of Shoaib Bashir, his Somerset teammate, Leach believes he can regain his spot in the pecking order ahead of England’s tour to Pakistan in October.

“I totally understand why Bash has been selected,” Leach said. “I rate him really highly and think he is already a very good bowler with a lot of promise for the future. But there is a tour to Pakistan coming up and if England need me, I am more than happy to go.”

Leach’s long spells against Durham have boosted his confidence, and he feels he is nearing his best form after overcoming a series of niggling injuries. He acknowledges the possibility of England selecting multiple spinners for the Pakistan tour and sees no reason why he and Bashir cannot both make the squad.

“I don’t want to get my hopes up, but I am as determined as I ever have been to play for England,” Leach said.

Somerset’s victory over Durham has kept them in contention for the County Championship title, and Leach is eager to contribute to his team’s success. He believes the upcoming match against Surrey at Taunton will be crucial in their title aspirations.

“We are still right in the fight for the title, which is where we wanted to be at this stage of the season,” Leach said. “I think the pitch against Durham suits our style of cricket. You had to be patient as a bowler, but if you kept putting the ball in the right place you were rewarded.”