Broad rejects England are 'playing with fear'

Bowler Stuart Broad says claims England are "playing with fear" are wide of the mark, despite a poor start to their World Cup campaign.

England have lost three of their first four matches and face Bangladesh in a must-win game on Monday. "I don't think we are playing with fear," said Broad. "We just haven't clicked the way we'd have liked."

England have suffered heavy defeats to Australia, New Zealand and Sri Lanka, with their only win against Scotland.

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'Slim' chance of Pietersen comeback

Kevin Pietersen has little chance of making an England comeback, says former team-mate Matthew Hoggard.

According to Hoggard, Pietersen, 34, is now "too far removed" from the side after his international career was ended in February 2014. Hoggard also criticised incoming England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) boss Colin Graves for opening the door to a possible Pietersen return. "It's a fairly careless statement from the new chairman," said Hoggard.

"It makes stories at a time where England don't need any more bad press. It's an extraordinary statement at an extraordinary time." With England losing three of their first four World Cup matches in New Zealand and Australia, talk of a Pietersen return has irritated bowler Stuart Broad.

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How to get into Cricket

Cricket is a social sport that is becoming more accessible due to a variety of formats - games can be played in a host of environments, ranging from 15 minutes to five days.

It's a team sport, but key skills - batting, bowling, fielding - rely on individual gifts. Traditionally it's been played on a field with 11 players per side. While still popular, there are now many other ways to play newer, scintillating styles - within sports halls, local parks, playgrounds and, in some cases, cages!

• Why get into cricket? It's a game of brilliant intricacy and variety, and the sound of leather on willow is incredibly satisfying!
• Who is it for? Cricket has evolved in recent years and can be adapted for any age, ability, or type of weather.
• Is there a cheap option? For playground cricket, just grab a bat and a tennis ball. You can improvise to create some stumps.
• What if I want a proper workout? Cricket can be explosive, especially if you're a big-hitting batsman or a fast bowler in shorter formats.
• Can I take it to another level? Join a club to receive proper coaching and play competitively.

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