Ravi Shastri tipped to become next England head coach as McCullum questions swirl: 'Who knows how to beat Australia?'

By Admin

25 Dec, 2025

Introduction
The future of England’s men’s cricket team is once again under the scanner following another disappointing Ashes campaign in Australia. With head coach Brendon McCullum facing mounting criticism, discussions have intensified around potential successors. Amid this debate, former England spinner Monty Panesar has put forward a high-profile name   Ravi Shastri   as the ideal candidate to lead England forward, especially against their fiercest rivals, Australia.

McCullum Under Pressure After Ashes Setback
Brendon McCullum, appointed by ECB managing director Rob Key in 2022, initially transformed England’s Test cricket alongside captain Ben Stokes. The aggressive ‘Bazball’ philosophy delivered immediate results, with England winning 10 of their first 11 Tests and revitalising fan interest in the longest format.

However, that momentum has faded. England have failed to win marquee five-match series against Australia and India, losing 16 of their next 33 matches. The ongoing Ashes tour has been particularly damaging, with England trailing 0-3 and the series effectively decided within just 11 days. This collapse has raised serious questions about tactical adaptability and the long-term sustainability of the Bazball approach in challenging overseas conditions.

Monty Panesar’s Case for Ravi Shastri
Speaking to journalist Ravi Bisht on his YouTube channel, Monty Panesar argued that England need a coach who understands how to beat Australia on their own turf something few in world cricket have achieved. According to Panesar, Ravi Shastri fits that profile perfectly.

“You have to think: who exactly knows how to beat Australia? How do you take advantage of Australia’s weaknesses, mentally, physically, and tactically? I think Ravi Shastri should become England’s next head coach,” Panesar said, underlining the need for experience, tactical clarity, and mental strength.

Shastri’s Proven Record in Australia
Ravi Shastri’s credentials are hard to ignore. During his tenure as India’s head coach, India achieved two historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy wins in Australia. The 2018/19 series marked India’s first-ever Test series victory Down Under.

Even more remarkable was the 2020/21 triumph, when India bounced back from the infamous ‘36 all out’ in the Adelaide pink-ball Test. Despite a squad riddled with injuries, Shastri’s leadership and belief helped India outthink and outfight Australia, resulting in another iconic series win. His ability to manage adversity and deliver results in hostile conditions stands out as a key strength.

McCullum’s Response and Uncertain Future
Despite the growing speculation, McCullum has stressed his desire to continue in the role, while conceding that his future is no longer in his control. Contracted with the ECB until the conclusion of the 2027 ODI World Cup   which also includes the next home Ashes series   McCullum admitted that decisions regarding his position rest with the ECB.

“I don’t know. It’s not really up to me, is it? I will just keep trying to do the job, try to learn the lessons that I haven’t quite got right here and make adjustments,” McCullum told reporters in Melbourne.

Motivation Remains Despite Criticism
Calling the role a “pretty good gig,” McCullum said he remains motivated despite the heavy criticism. He emphasized the enjoyment of working with players, travelling the world, and trying to play exciting cricket while pushing the team to achieve meaningful results.

He also reiterated that while outcomes have not always gone England’s way, progress has been made since he took charge, and he remains committed to extracting the best from his players.

Conclusion
As England reflect on another bruising Ashes tour, the debate over leadership, strategy, and adaptability continues. Ravi Shastri’s name entering the conversation highlights a growing belief that proven success in Australia could be the missing ingredient for England. Whether the ECB opts for continuity with McCullum or considers a change in direction, one question remains central   who truly knows how to beat Australia?