Robinson ready for hard work after dream England cricket return

Ollie Robinson is set to make his return to international cricket after a 27-month hiatus, having been recalled to the England squad following impressive performances for Sussex, where he has taken on captaincy responsibilities. Robinson's previous international career was marked by a strong bowling average of 22.92, but concerns over his fitness and attitude led to his omission after the 2024 tour of India.

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I don't think I'm a different bowler. I think I've put a lot of work over the last couple of months to get back to the bowler I almost want to be.

Reflecting on his absence, Robinson stated, "I don't think I'm a different bowler. I think I've put a lot of work over the last couple of months to get back to the bowler I almost want to be." He admitted that he is "not quite there" and still has "a lot of hard work to do," but believes his skills have never been in doubt, with fitness and other aspects being the primary focus.

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I'm not quite there - there's still a lot of hard work to do and put in, but I think like people have said my skills have never really been in doubt. It's more the fitness and the other things.

Upon receiving the call from Rob Key, managing director of England men's cricket, and a text from head coach Brendon McCullum, Robinson knew he had to dedicate himself to rigorous training. "That's what I've tried to do over the last few months. And like I said, I'm not the finished article by no means," he added, emphasizing that such dedicated sessions make the effort worthwhile.

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When I got the call from [Rob Key, managing director of England men's cricket] and the text from [head coach Brendon McCullum], I knew that I had a lot of hard work to put in.

New Zealand will resume their innings on day two at 61-6, trailing England by 79 runs. Robinson is prepared to lead the bowling attack as England aims to establish a significant first-innings lead. He carries the words of captain Stokes in his mind: "Stokesy said to me last week 'great to have you back, but just know the hard work's still to be done,' and that's what's constantly in my head at the moment." Robinson expressed his excitement about wearing the England shirt again, despite acknowledging the continued work required.

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Stokesy said to me last week 'great to have you back, but just know the hard work's still to be done', and that's what's constantly in my head at the moment.