New Delhi: No 1 in the Test rankings a decade ago, England bowling coach David Saker has agreed to return to the Ashes. He has agreed to return to the team after being voiced by Test captain Ben Stokes. The 56-year-old Sekar is currently working with the England white-ball team in Bangladesh but has agreed to link up with the red-ball team during the summer. He will be reprising the role he played from 2010 to 2015, including the last two Ashes wins (2010-11 and 2013). As an Australian native he played in the same role for his home country between 2016 and 2019.
Ben Stokes insisted
“I don’t think I will see more Tests, but I am working on the Ashes,” Sekar told reporters in Dhaka. “Ben said I wanted you in the Ashes.” Rob Key had already hinted about it, but being so busy I wasn’t sure I could do it. Once Stokes carried it, it became an easy decision. I have been involved with both sides in the Ashes and the cricket is very exciting. This is the biggest test event.
Dressing room atmosphere is a big thing
He further said- “It was great fun working with England for the first time.” “I am looking forward to the opportunity to have the Ashes with this group as they are the best team in the world to watch at the moment. Brendon McCullum will pick a winning team, he’ll explain what he wants from the players and then it’s my job to make sure they can do that.” “Also creating an atmosphere in the dressing room that is enjoyable. It seems like a small thing, but the dressing room environment is a big thing in international cricket.”
Mark Wood and Jofra Archer may be included
England’s fast bowlers for the Ashes could include the two fastest bowlers in Mark Wood and Jofra Archer. “To win the Ashes and big series, you need a good battery of fast bowlers and that is definitely the case with England,” Sekar said. You can say the same about the Aussies, but playing at home is always an advantage for a bowling group. “It is exciting if we can have Jofra Archer and Mark Wood available. The key is to have a bunch of fast bowlers ready to be selected, so it becomes difficult for the selection committee to decide.”
