Ashes disaster looms as former Aussie legend slams England’s ‘No accountability’ approach

England’s much-hyped ‘Bazball’ revolution, once hailed as the future of Test cricket, appears to be losing its shine in the ongoing Ashes series. Despite soaring expectations, Ben Stokes’ side has struggled to execute their aggressive approach, with Australia dominating the first two Tests, thanks largely to Mitchell Starc’s brilliant spells that earned him consecutive Player of the Match awards. Except for Joe Root’s lone century at the Gabba, England have looked ordinary and are now facing criticism from former legends.

McGrath Sounds the Alarm: “It Could Get Embarrassing”

Australian great Glenn McGrath has issued a stern warning to England, writing in his BBC column that the Ashes could turn “embarrassing” if England fail to win the third Test in Adelaide. With Australia already leading 2-0 after commanding victories in Perth and Brisbane, England is under mounting pressure to stay afloat.

McGrath noted that even Australia couldn’t have imagined such dominance so early in the series. The turnaround from the first Test set the tone for a clinical showing in the day-night Test at Brisbane, which he described as “a lesson in how to play Test cricket.”

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Concerns Over England’s Approach and Accountability

McGrath criticised England’s unwavering commitment to their Bazball philosophy, suggesting it created a culture lacking accountability. He argued that instead of adapting to Australian conditions, England expected the conditions to adapt to them.

He also questioned England’s batting temperament, highlighting ongoing doubts about their ability to handle pressure in Australia’s challenging environments.

Drawing from his own playing days, McGrath emphasised the importance of accountability and internal pressure within successful teams, qualities he feels England currently lacks.

As England head into the Adelaide Test, their Ashes hopes hang by a thread. With no Test win in Australia since 2011 and momentum firmly in Australia’s favour, Stokes’ men face a defining moment. Victory is essential, not just to keep the series alive, but to restore belief in a playing style now under serious scrutiny.