Rob Key hails Ollie Robinson as ‘World-Class’ after England Test recall against New Zealand

Rob Key backed Ollie Robinson as a ‘world-class’ fast bowler after recalling him to England’s squad for the opening Test against New Zealand at Lord's Cricket Ground. Robinson returns to the national side after more than two years, having last played during England’s tour of India in Ranchi, where he suffered a back spasm.

The 32-year-old was one of the notable inclusions in England’s 15-member squad for their first Test since the 4-1 Ashes defeat. Robinson has endured several injury setbacks throughout his career and also faced criticism over his fitness during the 2021-22 Ashes series. Despite those struggles, Key praised the pacer’s quality and impact in red-ball cricket.

Robinson has taken 76 wickets in 20 Test matches at an impressive average of 22.92, numbers that underline his effectiveness when fully fit and in rhythm.

"We've been pretty transparent with Ollie, when we left him out the last time, both to him and publicly.Ollie Robinson, when he's fit and bowling at a decent pace for him, which is around 82-83 mph, he is world-class. When you look at his record, he is one of the few bowlers right up there statistically, in all the bowlers globally, of all time," said Key as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

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After being left out of England’s Ashes squad, Robinson answered his critics in style by producing a brilliant performance for Sussex, claiming 11 wickets in the County Championship clash against Worcestershire. The experienced pacer has since been appointed Sussex captain and guided the side to three victories in five matches.

Robinson recently revealed that England head coach Brendon McCullum had encouraged him to push for a return to the Test side. Key confirmed the communication between the management and Robinson had remained constant throughout his absence from the national setup.

"We've monitored him a lot. It's been a great move from Paul Farbrace to make him captain, that's got the best out of him. He looks like he's back up to his full fitness, and that's what we required of him. We've spoken to him a lot throughout the start of this summer. He's constantly been messaging as well. Even the other day, he said, 'What do I need to do to impress?' Well, you need to show that you can maintain your skill, your speed throughout the game. That's what we require, and that's what he's done,” said Key.