Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared a strong opinion on England’s approach following their defeat in the Ashes 2025–26 series, raising doubts over whether head coach Brendon McCullum truly feels the need to change the team’s methods.
Ashwin’s Take On McCullum’s Mindset
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin reflected on McCullum’s comments after England lost the Ashes 4-1 in Australia. While McCullum publicly admitted that certain areas required improvement, Ashwin felt the England coach remained firm in his core philosophy.
According to Ashwin, McCullum does not appear convinced that a major shift in approach is necessary. He suggested that England had a genuine opportunity in the series but failed to make the most of it, especially against an Australian side that was not at full strength throughout the contest.
Ashwin pointed out that despite Australia taking an early unassailable lead, England would still feel disappointed about how the series slipped away. He believed the tourists would be left frustrated, knowing they could not fully exploit the situation when conditions briefly tilted in their favour.
Michael Neser’s Impact And England’s Regret
Ravichandran Ashwin also spoke in detail about Australia’s bowling, praising Michael Neser for stepping up when it mattered most. He said, “I wonder what is next for England. If we do a man to man marking, as it’s done in football… The caught and bowled off Joe Root’s bat was fabulous.” Ashwin highlighted how Neser, who was expected to feature only in limited conditions, ended up making a big impact in the Sydney Test with four wickets in the first innings.
He further added that England would be hurting after missing a golden chance against a relatively unsettled Australian attack. Reflecting on Brendon McCullum’s words, Ashwin noted, “England would really say it’s an opportunity welost here and definitely missed our chances. He feels they needs a tweak here and there. I don’t think he thinks the methods need a change.”
Support For Robert Key And Bashir Debate
Ashwin also defended England’s managing director Robert Key, who has faced criticism following the series loss. He said, “As far as I’m concerned, Rob Key has done quite a good job,” adding that criticism often falls on leadership when results do not go a team’s way. Ashwin praised Key’s vision, composure, and long-term thinking.
In the same discussion, Ashwin questioned England’s decision not to play Shoaib Bashir even once during the series. Observing how the pitch turned sharply on the final day in Sydney, he felt Bashir would have been eager to bowl in such conditions.
Ashwin remarked, “He will be thinking I can’t bowl this ball,” suggesting the young spinner might feel let down by the team management. England, meanwhile, continue to wait for a chance to reclaim the Ashes urn, which has remained out of their hands since 2017–18.
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