'Bazball would work in Australian conditions,' says Marcus Trescothick
What's the story
Marcus Trescothick, England's assistant coach and a former batting great, believes the aggressive style of play adopted by the team under captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum could work well in Australia. Speaking to reporters in Perth ahead of the Ashes series, starting November 21, Trescothick highlighted how the Bazball approach is all about putting pressure on bowlers.
Strategy
Trescothick backs England's aggressive style of play
Trescothick said, "The style of cricket we play is to try and put the bowlers under pressure." He added that "playing on bouncy pitches where the ball comes onto the bat nicely" is something they always talk about. He further emphasized that this suits their style of play. The assistant coach also acknowledged that while Australian pitches have evolved, they still expect them to be quick and bouncy with more assistance for bowlers.
Past performance
England's dismal record in Australia
The Ashes urn has been with Australia since the 2017/18 edition Down Under, which they won 4-0. England lost the 2021/22 series in Australia by a 4-0 margin. The 2019 and 2023 series in England have been drawn (2-2). Notably, England last won a Test in Australia in January 2011. They were routed 5-0 by the Aussies in the 2013/14 series.
Change in approach
Ashes series to begin on November 21
Despite their poor record Down Under, there is hope among cricket fans that Stokes and McCullum's aggressive style of play could turn things around. The Perth Stadium will host the Ashes opener from November 21. The 2nd Test will be held at The Gabba, Brisbane, starting December 4. The series will then move to Adelaide (December 17) before the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne (December 26). Sydney will host the New Year's Test from January 4.
Bazball
More on England's Bazball approach
England have been a formidable force in Tests ever since McCullum and Stokes took over as the head coach and captain, respectively. The dynamic pair has so far helped England record series wins over several tough opponents. England's Bazball approach is not restricted to their batting in Test cricket. The other aspects, such as field placements and bowling changes, also reflect the same.