ENGLAND coach Trevor Bayliss and captain Joe Root were pleased with what they saw from Somerset's Jack Leach on his Test debut.
The spinner took 2-61 in New Zealand's second innings, scored 30 runs in the match and took a fine diving catch in the deep but couldn't quite force a victory which would have squared the series.
What a feeling this was!! A dream come true to play for England 🏴 plenty of memories this… https://t.co/P3x6rlpXS0
— Jack Leach (@jackleach1991) April 4, 2018
Asked about Leach’s future inclusion, Bayliss said: “He’s the one who holds the position at this stage, and I thought he had a good game for someone playing his first Test - he had good composure.
“The wicket was still pretty good on the fifth day. But he didn’t give much away, and I’m sure in time he’ll improve.”
Root added: “I think it was a very encouraging debut to come in and to bowl like he did, even though he didn’t probably get the rewards he deserved. I thought he stood up to that expectation of leading the attack on occasions.
“He looked massively in the game throughout the day.
“It’s great for us as a side to see Jack come in and perform like he has - at times, he looked like a top-order batter as well.”
Leach was presented with his cap by former England spinner Graeme Swann - see the video below.
“This is the best thing you’ll ever do, playing for England”
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) April 4, 2018
Watch the moment @Swannyg66 presented @jackleach1991 with his first England cap 👏 pic.twitter.com/Ph1YKlrjdh
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