Former Australia coach Justin Langer has advised England to stick with their bold attacking style if they hope to reclaim the Ashes later this year.
England have struggled in Australia for decades, winning just one series since 1987 and failing to secure a single Test victory on their last three tours.
Langer believes the only way to change that record is by taking on Australia’s powerful bowling attack head-on.
“Call it Bazball or the aggressive approach, but England must play that way in Australia. No question,” Langer said on BBC Sounds’ For the Love of Cricket podcast.
He recalled how only attacking players found success against legends Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath, noting that passive batting allowed bowlers to dominate.
“It will take courage against Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins, but that’s the only way to win,” he added.
England recently drew 2-2 with India at home, leaving them fourth in the World Test Championship standings. The last Ashes series in 2023 also ended in a 2-2 stalemate.
For Langer, the real concern is whether England have the “killer instinct” to finish off games when opportunities arise.
“England had chances to win in the last Ashes and against India. The question is – can they close it out in Australia?” he asked.
Ashes 2025 Schedule
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1st Test: Perth, November 21-25
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2nd Test: Gabba, December 4-8
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3rd Test: Adelaide, December 17-21
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4th Test: MCG, December 26-30
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5th Test: SCG, January 4-8
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