NOTTINGHAM: England coach Andy Flower yesterday praised his “resilient” side after their thrilling 14-run win over Australia in the first Test at Trent Bridge.
Victory put the Ashes-holders 1-0 up in the five-match series with a quick turnaround before the second Test at Lord’s on Thursday.
“We never for a moment thought that this match or the series would be a walkover,” said Flower. “I know we hear the odd thing in the media predicting some funny results but we always knew this would be a tough battle. This is a really good example and I’m sure it will be a tough fight for the remainder of the series.”
There were also concerns as to whether James Anderson, the fulcrum of England’s attack, would be able to recover in time after a punishing first Test where he bowled 13 successive overs Sunday on his way to a decisive match haul of 10 wickets.
“It will have taken something out of all the players involved,” said Flower of what he said was a “sensational game”. But that’s why our guys work so hard on their fitness and they are mentally resilient -- they have shown that.”REUTERS
