England's batting coach Marcus Trescothick has publicly defended the cricket team's limited preparation schedule ahead of the highly anticipated Ashes series, facing down criticism from legends like Ian Botham. The tourists have gathered in Perth for their final preparations before the first Test at Optus Stadium on November 21.
Modern Game Demands New Approach
Trescothick addressed concerns about England not playing traditional warm-up matches against state teams, a practice followed during previous tours in 2013 and 2017. "It's the way of the modern game nowadays," Trescothick stated during Tuesday's training session at Lilac Hill in Caversham.
The coach explained that with the current volume of international cricket, teams no longer have time for multiple first-class preparation games. Instead, England will play a three-day match against their England Lions squad starting Thursday, followed by three days of preparation at Optus Stadium itself.
Confidence in Conditions and 'Bazball' Approach
Despite questions about whether Lilac Hill's slower conditions adequately prepare players for Optus Stadium's expected fast and bouncy pitch, Trescothick expressed complete confidence. "We're very happy with what we're getting," he said, highlighting the quality of training facilities available.
The coach also backed England's aggressive 'Bazball' approach, developed under coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, to succeed on Australian pitches. "Playing on bouncy pitches where the ball comes onto the bat nicely is something that we're always talking about trying to get back at home, because it suits our style of play," Trescothick explained.
Key Players Show Positive Signs
Several positive developments emerged from Tuesday's extended training session. Pace bowler Jofra Archer appeared to be operating near top speed during his centre wicket work, while Mark Wood also showed good rhythm despite heavy strapping on his left leg.
Trescothick expressed particular confidence in star batter Joe Root, who seeks his first Australian century during his fourth away Ashes tour. "The way he's gone in the last couple of years would explain he's been very comfortable," the batting coach said of Root's development under the current leadership.
When asked about England's chances of reclaiming the Ashes for the first time since 2015, Trescothick responded with clear conviction: "There's no reason why not." He pointed to the team's consistency and strong Test record over recent years as reasons for confidence against the Australian side.
England's managing director of men's cricket, Rob Key, oversaw preparations for the first time since arriving in Australia overnight, adding to the sense of building anticipation before cricket's greatest rivalry resumes in Perth.
