When Chris Tremlett made his England debut four years ago, fans, pundits and players were expecting him to intimidate opposition batsman with his height, bounce and general aggression.
However, it didn’t quite work out for him and he has since revealed that the aggression he tried to portray back in 2007 ‘was a bit forced’.
It is a different ball game for the 29-year-old now though who is relishing life in the England test team after playing a significant role in Australia over the winter, helping Andrew Strauss’ men to Ashes glory.
Tremlett was also influential in the first test of the English summer last week, taking 4-40 in Sri Lanka’s second innings as they collapsed to 82 all out on the final afternoon at Cardiff, handing England a shock win. Pretty much all free bets were on a draw until 3pm on the final day.
This was down in no small part to aggression from Tremlett as he moved through the Sri Lanka batting line-up and the man himself is pleased with where his game is at right now.
He said: “Fast bowling and being aggressive is something that comes more natural to me. I have grown as a cricketer.”
“I went through a spell where I was in and out of the squad. Now I’m in the team and I am a lot more experienced, a lot more hungry, I know my game and body a lot better.”
England are reaping the rewards for this too, of course. Tremlett’s attributes compliment the swing of James Anderson and the consistency of Stuart Broad extremely well. He is a very significant part of this England team as they aim to be the best test team in the world.
Clearly happy to be involved, Tremlett said: “We showed that we are a team that aren’t afraid of kicking the opposition when they’re down. That’s what we’ll be looking to do in this game.”
The former Hampshire bowler will be hoping for more success this week as England and Sri Lanka compete in the 2nd test of the three match series.
It gets underway at Lords on Friday and if you are looking to place a free bet on the contest, you should note that the injured Anderson is likely to make way for Steven Finn.