BRISBANE: England coach Brendon McCullum has called on supporters to remain patient and keep faith in the team’s bold approach despite a bruising start to their Ashes campaign, as Australia cruised to an eight-wicket victory in Perth on the second day of the first Test.
The defeat, sealed in what became the shortest Ashes Test by overs bowled to produce a result since 1888, has intensified scrutiny on England’s aggressive “Bazball” philosophy. The batting group struggled to adapt to the conditions, prompting renewed debate over the viability of their high-risk strategy in Australian conditions.
McCullum, however, remained steadfast in his belief that the team must stay true to its identity. “Keep the faith. Sometimes we get beaten and it looks pretty ugly, but there are times when having that type of mentality allows us to still believe in our abilities when we step out to play,” he told British media.
“There are times we don’t get it right, but we have to believe in what we believe in because it gives us the best chance. Just because we are one down in the series doesn’t change what we believe in.”
England now have several days to reset before the second Test begins in Brisbane on December 4, where McCullum and captain Ben Stokes will hope their approach yields a stronger response.
