Key batsman speaks out on the eve of the all-important third Test.
Ian Bell beleives the under-fire England top-order is getting what it deserves after the side has fallen to two heavy losses to open the current Ashes series.
After being outplayed in most aspects of their game in Brisbane and in Adelaide, Bell said the team had a meeting and did not hold back as they prepare to remain alive in the series.
“So we had a long talk after the game. This was no discussion for the sake of it; it was an honest appraisal of where we’ve gone wrong and what we have to do to put it right,” Bell said.
“And yes, there were some strong feelings. The batsmen haven’t been giving the bowlers a chance.
“Of course the confidence has taken a blow. But we believe in ourselves and in each other and, hand on heart, I know we can come back into this series.
“I’d be disappointed if everyone in the room didn’t feel the same way.”
Bell, who was outstanding for the England side during their home summer series has struggled so far in Australia, scoring just 115 runs at 38, with his innings of 72 not out in the first innings in Adelaide distorting thee final figures.
The 31-year-old said it was up to him and the rest of the top seven to give their bowlers a target to defend in Perth otherwise they will face the indignity of handing the Ashes back to Australia after just three games.
Bell added that while Mitchell Johnson is one of the biggest reasons why England is behind 2-0, he reminded his teammates he is not infallible.
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