Ahmedabad (Gujarat), February 13: England’s training schedule during their recent ODI series against India has been heavily criticized, with prominent commentators questioning the team’s sparse practice sessions, especially after their crushing 142-run defeat in Ahmedabad, which resulted in a 3-0 series whitewash.
On commentary, Ravi Shastri criticized the team’s lack of preparation, stating, “From what I’ve heard, England have had one net session this entire trip, if not any. If you’re not prepared to do the hard yards, you’re not going to improve.” His comments, quoted by Wisden, highlighted the importance of preparation in improving a team’s performance.
The issue of England’s preparations became a major talking point after former cricketer Kevin Pietersen alleged that only Joe Root had trained in the nets before the final ODI. Pietersen further claimed that Tom Banton, who was flown in as a replacement for the injured Jacob Bethell, spent the day before the match on the golf course rather than in training. “The two-hour flight from Dubai across here, he [Banton] was on the golf course yesterday,” Pietersen remarked. “He wasn’t batting, and where have the issues come? The start 1-60, 2-80, and then what happens? None of them can play spin. And how do you improve playing spin?”
England’s lack of preparation showed in their performance, as they collapsed from 126-2 to 214 all out in the final ODI, ending a disappointing series. This defeat also marked the 16th loss in 23 ODIs for England since the 2023 World Cup, raising concerns about their approach to the format.
Injuries also took a toll on England throughout the series. Jofra Archer missed the last two ODIs, and Jacob Bethell was unavailable, now ruled out of the upcoming Champions Trophy. Additionally, Jamie Smith sat out the entire series due to a calf injury, while Brydon Carse and Jamie Overton dealt with fitness issues. During the final ODI, Jos Buttler, Mark Wood, and Ben Duckett also had to leave the field at various points due to injuries.
However, it should be noted that India also did not train before the final ODI.
Looking ahead, England will travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, with squad management being a key priority for the team. They will begin their campaign on February 22 in Lahore, facing arch-rivals Australia in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.