ECB Set To Appoint Ravi Shastri To Lead England’s Red-Ball Reset After Ashes 2025–26 Failure

Following a significant and humbling Ashes series loss in Australia in 2025-26, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri's name prominently emerged in discussions surrounding the vacant England men's cricket head coach position. The speculation, fueled by England's urgent need for a strategic overhaul and Shastri's proven track record with the Indian team, positioned him as a leading contender for the high-profile role amidst widespread calls for change within English cricket. England Playing XI for Ashes 2025–26 4th Test vs Australia Announced: Jacob Bethell, Gus Atkinson Set To Play At MCG, Jofra Archer Ruled Out Of Series

A New Direction for English Test Cricket

The ECB, under new Managing Director Rob Key, opted for a different strategic direction. In May 2022, New Zealander Brendon McCullum was named the Head Coach for the Test team, tasked with revitalizing England's red-ball fortunes. Concurrently, Matthew Mott was appointed as the Head Coach for the white-ball squads. This clear division of roles marked a new era for English cricket, with McCullum subsequently overseeing the aggressive 'Bazball' approach that has dramatically transformed England's Test team performance.

The Ashes Aftermath

The time to move on from Bazball comes after a critical review of England's performance in the 2025-26 Ashes series, where they suffered a decisive loss to Australia. The series, played in Australia, saw England struggle to adapt to the conditions, with notable collapses in batting and inconsistencies in bowling. The defeat prompted widespread calls for a change in leadership and approach, leading the ECB to undertake a swift and decisive overhaul.

Sources close to the ECB indicated that the review highlighted concerns over the team's ability to consistently execute under pressure and adapt their "Bazball" philosophy to challenging opposition and environments. The comprehensive nature of the Ashes defeat underlined the need for a more pragmatic and structured approach to Test cricket.

McCullum's Tenure Concludes

Brendon McCullum, who took over as England's red-ball coach in May 2022, departs after a tenure that initially brought a wave of success and a revitalized attacking brand of cricket dubbed "Bazball." Under his guidance, England achieved notable victories, including series wins at home and a historic Test series victory in Pakistan. However, the aggressive style faced scrutiny during the recent Ashes series, particularly away from home, where its limitations against a strong Australian side became apparent.

Shastri's Proven Track Record

Ravi Shastri brings a wealth of experience, having served as India's head coach from 2017 to 2021. During his tenure, India achieved significant milestones, including two historic Test series victories in Australia (2018-19 and 2020-21) and reaching the final of the inaugural World Test Championship. His coaching philosophy emphasizes mental toughness, fitness, and a balanced approach between aggression and technical solidity. ECB Investigating Ben Duckett Video Amid Allegations of Drinking at Noosa After England's Ashes 2nd Test 2025-26 Loss.

His ability to manage high-profile players and navigate demanding international schedules will be crucial as he takes on the challenge of restoring England's standing in Test cricket. Shastri's direct communication style and strategic acumen are expected to be key assets in the dressing room.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 25, 2025 12:13 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).