England Must Shift Strategy to Revive Ashes Hopes, Says Johnson

Former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has urged the England cricket team to change their mindset if they wish to recover from a poor start in the ongoing Ashes series. England finds themselves down 2-0 after suffering consecutive defeats by eight wickets in both Brisbane and Perth, with the third Test set to begin at the Adelaide Oval on December 13. The situation is dire for England, who have not won the Ashes since 2015 and have faced significant losses in their last three series in Australia, including 5-0 and 4-0 defeats.

Changing Tactics for a Comeback

Johnson, who took 313 wickets during his Test career, believes there is still a glimmer of hope for the beleaguered visitors. He pointed out that conditions in Adelaide may differ from those in the previous matches, potentially favoring England. “You don’t generally see the same bounce and carry, which might suit England,” Johnson noted in a column for The Times. He emphasized that spin could play a more significant role in this match.

Despite Australia’s commanding position, Johnson warned against complacency, stating, “Australia are obviously in a very strong position, but they won’t be complacent.” He added that the current series does not have the same feel as the 2013-14 Ashes series, which Australia won 5-0, but acknowledged that with key players like Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon returning to the team, Australia has strong momentum.

Johnson remains optimistic about England’s potential for a comeback, saying, “If England get it right, it’s not like they can’t come back.” He cautioned, however, that significant psychological damage may have already been inflicted. “I don’t think it will be 5-0, but clearly the potential is there,” he remarked.

Spotting the Silver Linings

Johnson highlighted some positive aspects for England, particularly in the performances of captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum. Batter Joe Root scored an impressive unbeaten 138 in the second Test, marking his first century in Australia in the longest format. Additionally, fast bowler Jofra Archer delivered a fiery spell late in the match, showcasing his potential even when victory was out of reach.

“It was by being adaptable that they (Root and Archer) were able to do what they did, and if they take away anything from the last Test, they have to take that,” Johnson explained. He expressed uncertainty about whether England could genuinely adjust their plans in time. “Some of England’s batting left you scratching your head. They have got the skills, no doubt,” he observed.

As the players prepare for the crucial third Test, the pressure is mounting on England to reassess their tactics and mindset quickly. Johnson concluded, “I don’t know what conversations they will have behind closed doors, but they need to adjust tactics and mindset fast.”