England are facing mounting pressure in the Ashes series as they trail Australia 2-0 heading into the third Test in Adelaide. With the series slipping away, the upcoming pink-ball match has become a must-win encounter for Ben Stokes’ side.
Preparation Under Scrutiny
Several decisions taken before and during the tour are now being questioned. England did not bring in a specialist opener after Zak Crawley’s injury, while uncertainty continued over the number three spot. The absence of a backup wicketkeeper and an additional frontline spinner has also raised concerns.
Beyond selection, England’s overall preparation has come under the spotlight. The lack of a specialist fielding coach and the decision to take a mid-series break have been viewed as risky choices given the intensity of an Ashes tour in Australia.
Pressure Reaches the Dressing Room
Captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum have built the team around a relaxed, fearless approach. However, with England under heavy pressure, the management has acknowledged that expectation and pressure cannot be avoided at this level.
Stokes has described the Adelaide Test as the most important of his captaincy so far, signalling a shift in tone as England look to respond.
Senior Players Yet to Deliver
So far, Joe Root has scored England’s only century of the series, while Stokes has taken the team’s only five-wicket haul. Several senior batters have struggled for consistency, while missed chances in the field have proved costly.
Vice-captain Harry Brook has admitted his dismissals in the opening two Tests were poor, while England will be hoping for a major impact from Jofra Archer after waiting patiently for his return.
Adelaide Test a Turning Point
The third Test will be played in challenging conditions, with high temperatures expected in Adelaide. A win would keep England alive in the series heading into the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, while defeat could effectively end their Ashes hopes.
England insist lessons have been learned from the opening two matches. The Adelaide Test will reveal whether those lessons have been absorbed — and whether this side can deliver when it matters most.
Discussion about this post