ECB launch review in the aftermath of 4-1 Ashes defeat

Richard Gould, England and Wales Cricket Board’s Chief Executive Officer, has announced that a ‘thorough review’ has been launched to assess the various aspects of England’s shambolic 4-1 Ashes defeat away from home.

“We will take many lessons from this tour and are determined to improve quickly. Our focus is on regaining the Ashes in 2027. A thorough review of the campaign is already underway. This will cover tour planning and preparation, individual performance and behaviours, and our ability to adapt and respond effectively as circumstances require,” his said in a statement.

Gould termed England’s failure to measure up to the hype, billing and anticipation of the Ashes as ‘deeply disappointing’. “This Ashes tour began with significant hope and anticipation, and it is therefore deeply disappointing that we have been unable to fulfil our ambition of winning the Ashes in Australia.’’ he went on. What was your hunch about the eventual scoreline when the series kickstarted in November? Did you get it right? For the future cricket odds can be surfed through with relative ease by clicking on this link.

“While there were moments of strong performance and resilience during the series, including a hard-fought victory in the fourth Test in Melbourne, we were not consistent enough across all conditions and phases of the contest, and Australia ultimately deserved to retain the Ashes,” he added.

Gould also expressed a strong will to implement ‘necessary changes’ in the coming months. England’s next Test assignment is only in June later this year when they come up against New Zealand in a home series. Their next assignment is a white-ball series in the sub-continent, versus Sri-Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. “The men’s team now moves on to Sri Lanka ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which begins in February, and we will implement the necessary changes over the coming months. “As always, we are indebted to the travelling supporters who followed the team through thick and thin. Their loyalty and support have been humbling, and we are committed to repaying their faith with stronger performances in the future,” the statement concluded.

Australia thoroughly outplayed England in all three departments during the marquee series, be it batting, bowling or fielding. With a single victory to show for their efforts over two months, the trio of Rob Key, Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes has come under the
scanner.

Ben Stokes has backed Brendon McCullum’s continuation at the helm despite England’s rout. McCullum, in turn, has accepted the need for improvement but will push back if he is told what to do.

“If I’m asked my opinion he’ll be getting my full support and backing,” Stokes said after England’s five-wicket defeat at the Sydney Cricket Ground. “I absolutely love working with Baz. He’s a great man and he’s a very, very, very good coach. There’s more that goes on behind the scenes than he’ll ever give away or let out. So, yeah, he’s got my full support.’’