Stuart Broad has revealed a driving factor behind England’s Test success: they’re scared of coach Andy Flower.
Fast bowler Broad admits England players are too afraid to even pick up the phone when the coach’s number appears on the screen, terrified of what message the authoritative Zimbabwean is about to deliver.
Broad said the England team vying for a record fourth-straight Ashes triumph is an outfit ruled by fear.
But the tough method seems to be working and there’s no complaints from Broad.
In an interview with the BBC, Broad compared Flower to former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson for his ability to put the fear of God into players.
“When his number rings on your phone your heart sinks,” Broad said.
“I don’t think I’ve even answered a phone call first time ever. I leave it two minutes thinking I wonder what this is about and then call Andy. The same as everyone.”
Ferguson’s temper tantrums were infamous, once kicking a stray boot into David Beckham’s head.
Broad said Flower doesn’t often make the paint peel, but is more into a “silent assassin” approach which includes grabbing poor performing batsmen by the grill of their helmets.
“He’s got an assassin-like movement about him,” said Broad.
“He’s never going to stand up and shout the walls down unless you’ve played really badly, but when he says something you know exactly what he means.
“He’s got a fear factor definitely, I can imagine like the United players would have been around Fergie.
“That is good. Coaches need a fear factor. Sometimes you’re in the nets and you’re not batting particularly well and he’ll grab you by the grill and say, ‘what are you doing?! Sharpen up!’ And he’s right.”
Australian coach Darren Lehmann is also known as a straight-forward operator who doesn’t mind delivering some home truths to players.
Lehmann is also respected for his great relationship with players, and Broad insists it’s no different with the England side and Flower.
“He’s great to be around,” added Broad.
“You can have a laugh with him and have a beer with him.
“He also has that softer side to him as well when you need a bit of a lift and I hope he does the job for as long as I play.”
No play was possible on day two of England’s tour match against Australia A in Hobart on Thursday, with rain falling.
There was a break in the weather in the afternoon, but play had to be abandoned because the bowlers’ run up at the southern end – which hadn’t been covered – was too heavy.
