Mark Wood has staunchly defended Matthew Mott after the England head coach came under fire for England’s poor performance in the 2023 World Cup, stating that the players “just haven’t been good enough”.
In an interview with BBC Sport ahead of this weekend’s match between England and Australia, Wood defended Mott against suggestions he should resign and take responsibility for the team’s failure in the tournament.
“If players look to others, it’s their responsibility,” Wood said. “We have all the support systems running, we have nutritionists, strength and conditioning coaches, physiotherapists, local Indian coaches looking after the boys. As players, you have everything. ‘We need a coach to start right away – we understand the tactics, we hire analysts – it’s no different than the last seven years I’ve been in England.
“So you can’t blame everything on the coach. Sometimes players need to look at themselves and abdicate responsibility a little.”
Mott rejected suggestions that England’s defeat was due to problems in the dressing room after his team lost to India, their fourth straight defeat in the competition. There was also a suggestion that former captain EoinMorgan should take over after the World Cup.
Strong stuff from Mark Wood.
England’s bowlers have reacted to suggestions that Matthew Mott has fallen out of favor with his players. #BBCCricket #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/VDjkoqk3V4
– Test Match Special (@bbctms) 1. November 2023
Wood also addressed his performance in the tournament, expressing disappointment with his results. The fast bowler took four wickets in six matches in the tournament, averaging 69.75. His best performance was against Afghanistan, where he took 2-50 despite England losing.
“We didn’t do well enough at this World Cup,” Wood said. “I’m frustrated, I’m disappointed in that, you know, I feel like I let some people down at home and stuff, and it hurts me, and it hurts. It also hurts other members of the group.
“So I think you can’t always blame the captain or the coach. Sometimes you look at yourself and say, ‘I wasn’t good enough, what can I do to be better?’ I have to say. It’s not fair to always blame others. ”
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