'He spends four hours running and bats for 3-4 hours' - Michael Vaughan advocates Kohli-like fitness approach for England players

England's dismal performance in the ICC World Cup 2023 sparked criticism from ex-cricketers. Michael Vaughan, the former skipper, urged the team to emulate Virat Kohli's fitness regimen after their premature exit led by Jos Buttler. The defending champs' early elimination marked a forgettable campaign, prompting Vaughan's advice amid the backlash.

Securing only three wins out of nine matches, the 2019 title holders landed at the seventh position in the points tally. Vaughan highlighted that while 'Bazball'—an aggressive style—might thrive in Tests, England's ODI squad must prioritise fitness. He emphasised the need for players to focus on their physical conditioning for the limited-overs format.

"This relaxed, carefree attitude of the Bazballers has been great but it should not roll into white-ball games. In white-ball cricket you have to be fit, running between wickets and in the outfield. Look at Virat Kohli. He spends four hours running around in the field and then goes and bats for 3-4 hours and masterminds the chase. That is fitness," Vaughan penned his thoughts in a column for The Telegraph.

"English cricket has to set benchmarks and fitness is hugely important for discipline. It shows discipline in life if you are fit and looking after yourself, getting in the gym, pounding the treadmill and doing your miles. Cricket is a running game. I hope Key and the team behind the scenes are making sure that is important and not going back to the old-school days," he added.

Also Check: List of Virat Kohli international & IPL centuries

Jos Buttler credits himself for England’s dismal performance at World Cup 2023

Following England's exit from the ICC World Cup 2023, Captain Jos Buttler pinpointed his own form as a critical factor in their predicament. Despite being a pivotal figure in white-ball cricket, Buttler couldn't secure a single half-century in nine matches. England's struggle extended further as they managed 200-plus totals only four times, resulting in losses in all but their last two encounters.

"My own form has been the biggest concern," wicketkeeper-batsman Buttler said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Coming into the tournament I felt in a great space. So to have not played as well as I can in such a pivotal role is disappointing. My own performance with the bat has hurt us," said Buttler.