'Keep faith': McCullum urges England fans while backing Zak Crawley
What's the story
Brendon McCullum, the England head coach, has asked fans to "keep the faith" despite their crushing defeat in Perth. The first Test of the Ashes series ended in an eight-wicket loss for England, making it a two-day affair in the iconic rivalry for the first time since 1921. Despite this setback, McCullum remains optimistic about his team's potential and future performance.
Coach's message
McCullum acknowledges disappointment, urges fans to stay hopeful
After the Perth defeat, McCullum expressed his disappointment over the team's performance but also asked fans not to lose hope. "We are bitterly disappointed for us, but also for all the fans who have turned up here to support us so well," he told the reporters. The coach stressed on the talent within the squad and their belief in each other despite this setback.
Player support
McCullum remains optimistic about Crawley's performance
Despite opener Zak Crawley's poor performance in the first Test, McCullum is still hopeful. Crawley was dismissed for a duck in both innings, taking his average below 31 after his cumulative Test appearances. However, McCullum said, "We believe he is a quality player, particularly in these conditions against this sort of opposition." He added that he expects a strong comeback from Crawley soon.
Do you know?
Crawley enters this club
As per Cricbuzz, Crawley became the fourth England opener to bag a pair in an Ashes Test. The other names on this unwanted list are Trevor Bailey, Dennis Amiss, and Michael Atherton.
Plans
England's strategy for upcoming matches
As England prepare for their next match, a Day-Night affair at The Gabba, there are discussions about sending some players to Canberra to play against a Prime Minister's XI. Former captain Michael Vaughan has suggested using this opportunity as practice with a pink ball. McCullum is considering all options but hasn't made any decisions yet, saying they will assess the situation in a few days.
Captain's call
Stokes urges team to move on from defeat
England captain Ben Stokes has also asked his players not to dwell on the loss. He said they need to "feel it and get rid of it" if they want a chance at redemption in Brisbane. Stokes admitted that while there's disappointment, these emotions have to be "processed quickly" while also learning from them for future matches.
Match
How the series opener panned out
Batting first, England folded for 172, with Mitchell Starc claiming a career-best seven-fer. In response, Australia also lost wickets in a cluster to end their innings at 132. Five of these wickets went to Ben Stokes. England, in their second innings, managed 164/10 thanks to Gus Atkinson (37). Scott Boland trapped four batters. Australia then chased down 205, riding on Travis Head's record-breaking hundred. They won by eight wickets.