Test Match Special Where now for Ben Stokes' England?
Nov 24, 2025
Mark Chapman hosts a lively discussion with former England coach Paul Farbrace, who shares tactical insights, Simon Katich, an ex-Australian opener analyzing batting strategies, and Ryan Campbell, a former wicketkeeper offering coaching perspectives. They react to the shocking two-day Ashes Test and debate England's failure to adapt. The role of coaches during batting collapses is explored, alongside discussions on selection stability and England's preparation for pink-ball conditions. They also assess the likely adjustments both teams will make moving forward.
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Project Calm When Batting Wobbles
- Coaches should stay calm and avoid escalating panic inside the dressing room.
- Paul Farbrace said the coach's role is to project calm and rely on experienced players to steady the innings.
Aggression Must Respect Conditions
- Simon Katich argued England's aggressive rhetoric forces them into risky play even when conditions demand caution.
- He warned that refusing to respect conditions will repeatedly backfire for this England side.
Earn Time Before Attacking Starc
- Batters need to earn early time in the middle before unleashing shots against steep bounce.
- Katich advised letting Mitchell Starc come to you and grind through the first overs on the back foot.