Archive · 11 Nov 2025
England Assistant Coach Defends Minimal Ashes Preparation
England's cricket assistant coach, Marcus Trescothick, is explaining why the team isn't doing many practice games before playing Australia in the Ashes.
He says that nowadays, there are so many games happening all the time that teams just don't have enough time for lots of practice matches before a big series, unlike in the old days.
He mentioned that many players have already been playing in New Zealand, so they are getting some game time there.
Trescothick believes that having good net practice sessions and one main practice game is enough for the team to get ready.
They will also have a few days to practice at the main stadium in Perth to get used to the bouncy Australian pitches.
The coach feels the team is happy with how they are preparing, even though the stadiums are different from what they used to be.
England Assistant Coach Marcus Trescothick defended the team's limited preparation for the Ashes series.
Trescothick cited the packed international schedule as the reason for fewer warm-up matches compared to the past.
He noted that many England players have already been active in New Zealand ahead of the Ashes.
The team has utilized net facilities, a practice match, and will have three days of training at Optus Stadium in Perth.
Trescothick stated that this preparation style is reflective of the 'modern game' and the team is satisfied.
- Who
- England Assistant Coach Marcus Trescothick
- What
- Defended the team's minimal training and preparation schedule ahead of the Ashes series, stating it's typical of the modern game due to a busy international calendar.
- When
- Ahead of the Ashes 2025-26 series.
- Where
- Perth, Australia.
- Why
- To explain and justify the team's preparation strategy in the face of a packed international cricket schedule that offers limited time for extensive warm-up matches.
England's Preparation Strategy
Traditional Preparation Methods
Training Schedule
England's Preparation Strategy
England's current preparation, including a practice match and net sessions, is deemed sufficient due to the demands of the modern, packed international cricket schedule.
Traditional Preparation Methods
In the past, teams had more time for multiple first-class warm-up matches before major series, allowing for more extensive preparation.
Player Involvement
England's Preparation Strategy
Many England players have already been active in New Zealand prior to the Ashes, contributing to their readiness.
Traditional Preparation Methods
Historically, teams would engage in more pre-series first-class games to get players match-fit and accustomed to conditions.
- Coach
- Marcus Trescothick (Assistant Coach)
- Series
- Ashes 2025-26
- Location
- Perth, Australia
- Preparation Method
- Limited practice games and net sessions, with players also competing in New Zealand.
- Trescothick's View
- Current schedule necessitates a 'modern game' approach with less extensive warm-up matches.
- Team Satisfaction
- Satisfied with preparations, including three days of training at Optus Stadium.
Sources
Ashes: Starc Calls For Spicy Wickets To Tame Bazball
Stokes has been in beast mode; most important man on this side: Ben Duckett
Duckett hints at England moving on from 'entertaining, reckless at times' Bazball in Ashes
Australian pitches will suit Bazball, says England assistant coach Marcus Trescothick
