Release the Nighthawk! England’s novel approach to the nightwatchman

England's Stuart Broad – aka the Nighthawk – attempts a pull shot on day two at Bay Oval. Photograph: Marty Melville/AFP/Getty Images

So what is a Nighthawk?

It’s England’s novel new take on the nightwatchman. Historically a nightwatchman is a lower-order batter promoted up the lineup if a wicket falls late in the day to block out deliveries and protect the top order. The Nighthawk is a lower-order batter sent up the order to swing for the fences in an attempt to disorient opponents, add a few runs and generally keep England on the front foot. Stuart Broad has been pegged for the role.