McCullum Keeps Ashes XI Under Wraps Ahead of Perth Test
England coach Brendon McCullum says he has not yet decided on his playing XI for the first Ashes Test against Australia, with selection battles at key positions.
England head coach Brendon McCullum has kept his Ashes lineup under wraps as the series opens in Perth on 21 November.
One of the main talking points is the number three slot: vice-captain Ollie Pope faces competition from 21-year-old Jacob Bethell, who impressed with his maiden professional century in the recent ODI series against South Africa. McCullum praised Bethell’s rapid adaptation to international cricket and hinted that both players are in serious contention.
Bethell, who previously stepped in at number three during last winter’s overseas tour, admitted he wishes he had featured more this summer. He will aim to stake his claim in the upcoming T20 fixtures against South Africa and Ireland, before potentially becoming England’s youngest captain in a T20 match versus Ireland later this month.
Opener Rest and Young Talent
Openers Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith have been withdrawn from this week’s T20s to recover after a long season. McCullum likened their break to giving a champion racehorse time in the paddock, emphasizing the need for rest after back-to-back campaigns.
McCullum also backed fast bowler Sonny Baker, despite his expensive ODI debut. “This is just the start,” McCullum said. “He bowls at pace, can swing the ball both ways, and with experience he will only improve.”
Squad Challenges
England’s record 342-run victory in Southampton showcased their firepower, but back-to-back defeats earlier in the series underlined the challenges of a packed schedule. McCullum acknowledged that training players on match mornings “isn’t ideal” and called for smarter fixtures planning ahead of the winter tour.
McCullum’s decision to withhold his Ashes XI emphasises England’s depth and the high-stakes competition for key roles.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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