Sydney, Nov 23: Australian great Glenn McGrath believes England have been left “wounded” after their collapse in the opening Ashes Test, warning that their rigid approach will continue to be exposed unless they rethink their method ahead of the second match.
Reflecting on Australia’s dramatic turnaround in Perth, McGrath said England were in full control at lunch on day two—over a hundred runs ahead with nine wickets in hand—before a string of reckless strokes surrendered the advantage and opened the door for Australia’s bowlers. What followed was a rapid unraveling that, in McGrath’s view, laid bare England’s reluctance to adapt to Australian conditions.
McGrath felt England’s aggressive approach, which worked effectively during the 2023 Ashes in the UK, looked far less convincing on the fast, bouncy surfaces of Australia. “Trying to drive on the up through cover on these pitches is asking for trouble,” he noted, adding that England’s batting “showed a lack of homework and flexibility.” (Agencies)
