England coach Trevor Bayliss has said his side must put the row surrounding Ben Stokes’s controversial dismissal behind them as they bid to get back on terms in their one-day international series with Australia.
Durham all-rounder Stokes has insisted he did not wilfully seek to obstruct the field during England’s 64-run defeat at Lord’s on Saturday which put world champions Australia 2-0 up with three to play.
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The all-rounder became only the second England player to be given out ‘obstructing the field’.
When asked if it was time the incident was put behind them, Bayliss said Monday: “Definitely. I just thought it was two teams trying to win the match for their respective teams and playing with a bit of emotion. It’s good to see a bit of emotion in a match.
“They argue one way, we argue the other, let’s get on with it.”
Australia batsman Aaron Finch, called up to the squad after David Warner suffered a broken thumb, added: “I didn’t really see it until the other day but it has divided a lot of opinions.
Bright sunshine for England nets in Manchester. Boss Trevor Bayliss sends some throw downs to @sambillings #ENGvAUS pic.twitter.com/kbDlhusBwT
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 7, 2015
“I mean if someone is throwing a ball at you your natural instinct would be to put your hand up and try and defend yourself, so Australia are within their rights to appeal but they don’t make the decisions.
“You can’t change it, it’s time to move on from it I think.”
England have rested wicket-keeper Jos Buttler from the remainder of the series, with Jonny Bairstow called up in his place.
“He’s been in form this year and deserves his opportunity. We’re looking forward to what he can do for us tomorrow,” said Bayliss. “There are areas we need to improve in and we are looking to turn it around.”
