Overview
- Australia retained the Ashes after racing to a 3-0 lead in just 11 days, intensifying scrutiny of England’s tactics and coaching.
- Monty Panesar publicly backed Ravi Shastri for the England job, referencing India’s 2018–19 and 2020–21 Test series wins in Australia under his tenure.
- Panesar also named former Sheffield Shield and BBL coach Darren Berry as another candidate if England opt for a change.
- England adjusted their XI for the Boxing Day Test, with Jofra Archer ruled out for the series and replaced by Gus Atkinson, while Jacob Bethell comes in for Ollie Pope.
- McCullum remains in charge and said his future is not his decision, as criticism of ‘Bazball’ and questions over England’s preparation, including a reported Noosa trip under investigation, continue.