Brydon Carse says the thought of playing for England has helped him overcome a three-month betting ban after impressing on Test debut in the innings win over Pakistan in Multan.
The Durham fast bowler was suspended in May for placing 303 bets on various cricket matches between 2017 and 2019, none of which he played.
Carse became eligible again on 28 August and exactly a month later he took two wickets in each innings as England went 1–0 up in the three-match series against Pakistan.
“Definitely,” said the 29-year-old, when asked if pulling on the England shirt during their enforced break was a motivating factor.
“I’ve had some time off to work on some things and improve my fitness in some areas. I’ve come back refreshed and looking to play as much as I can for England.”
Carse, who has played 19 one-day internationals and four T20s for England, was given messages of encouragement from injured Durham teammate Mark Wood ahead of his Test bow, which came in scorching temperatures of almost 40 degrees.
Carse said, “Woody sent me a message the night before the game wishing me good luck and after I fielded the first inning he sent me another message reassuring me.”
“He was saying that from the circumstances point of view it was just as difficult – just gave me a bit of confidence.
Carse was used as England’s bouncer bowler in Multan
Karse: Multan’s victory is very beneficial
“Obviously over the last month I’ve been playing one-day cricket in seven or eight degrees in England, which is very different to coming here, and that has its own challenges.
“It was a special five days. It was hard work, and at times it was tough, but it’s very rewarding to come away with the win.”
Carse was charged with bowling bouncers on the pitch against Pakistan and acting as an enforcer, a job he could carry on to play in next winter’s Ashes series in Australia.
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Highlights of the fifth day of the first test, England won strongly by innings
The 29-year-old added, “It’s good to have clarity on what my role is in the team, just try to hit the wicket as hard as I can and stay consistent.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge this week and the role I have played in the team and long may that continue.”
Pakistan vs England – All Tests Live on Sky Sports
Watch the first day of the second Test between Pakistan and England in Multan live on Sky Sports Cricket and Main Event from 5.30am on Tuesday (first ball at 6am).
