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England find themselves at a crossroads after a disastrous Ashes 2025-26 campaign that has intensified scrutiny on the team’s leadership. With the Ashes slipping away following three successive defeats, pressure is mounting on head coach Brendon McCullum, whose once-celebrated philosophy is now being questioned by former players and fans alike.
‘Bazball’ under fire after England’s poor show down under
McCullum’s arrival had initially transformed England’s Test side, ushering in an aggressive, fearless brand of cricket that quickly earned global attention. The approach, popularly termed “Bazball,” brought early success and renewed excitement around the team. However, recent results suggest the edge has dulled. England’s inability to challenge Australia consistently has reignited debate over whether the method has been found out at the highest level.
The poor run has also placed captain Ben Stokes and the wider management group under the microscope, with critics arguing that tactical rigidity and mental lapses have cost England dearly in key moments of the series.
Monty Panesar calls for change at the top
Adding fuel to the discussion, former England spinner Monty Panesar has publicly suggested that the time may have come for a coaching change. Speaking in an interaction with KADAK, Panesar argued that England need a strategist with proven credentials against Australia.
“You have to think, who exactly knows how to beat Australia? How will you take advantage of their weaknesses mentally, physically, and tactically?” Panesar said.
He went on to back Ravi Shastri as the ideal candidate to take over the role.
“I think Ravi Shastri should become England’s next head coach,” added Panesar.
Why Ravi Shastri appeals as a candidate?
Shastri’s reputation as a coach was forged during his successful tenure with India, where he oversaw a period of sustained excellence, particularly in overseas conditions. Under his guidance, India became a formidable travelling side, shedding a long-standing reputation of inconsistency away from home.
One of the defining moments of Shastri’s coaching career came when India clinched the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia with a depleted squad, showcasing resilience, tactical clarity, and strong leadership. His partnership with then-captain Virat Kohli was widely credited for instilling belief and aggression in the Indian setup.
