England’s training regimen during their recent one-day international series against India has come under heavy criticism, with high-profile commentators questioning the team’s lack of practice sessions. The debate intensified following England’s crushing 142-run defeat in Ahmedabad, which sealed a 3-0 series whitewash. Concerns over inadequate preparation have been raised by former cricketers and analysts, sparking discussions on whether the team’s approach is affecting their performances in the format.
During commentary in Ahmedabad, former India head coach Ravi Shastri expressed his disappointment over England’s training schedule, suggesting that their lack of preparation played a major role in their struggles against India. “From what I’ve heard, England have had one net session this entire trip, if any. If you’re not prepared to do the hard yards, you’re not going to improve,” Ravi Shastri said, as quoted by Wisden.
The controversy deepened when former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen alleged that only Joseph Root trained in the nets ahead of the final one-day international. He further claimed that Thomas Banton, who was flown in from Dubai as a replacement for the injured Jacob Bethell, chose to spend the day before the match on the golf course instead of training. “The two-hour flight from Dubai to here, he [Banton] was on the golf course yesterday,” Kevin Pietersen said. “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 against spin?”
The lack of proper training was evident in England’s performance, as they collapsed from a strong position at 126 for two to 214 all out in Ahmedabad, marking a disappointing end to their first one-day international series under head coach Brendon McCullum. The team’s decline in one-day cricket has been a growing concern, as they have now suffered 16 defeats in 23 matches since the 2023 Cricket World Cup, raising serious questions about their approach to the format.
Injuries further compounded England’s woes throughout the series. Fast bowler Jofra Archer missed the last two matches, while Jacob Bethell, who has now been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, was also unavailable. Jamie Smith was sidelined for the entire series due to a calf injury, while Brydon Carse (toe) and Jamie Overton (hamstring) struggled with fitness issues. The final one-day international saw Joseph Buttler, Mark Wood, and Benjamin Duckett also leave the field at various points due to injury concerns.
Despite the criticism surrounding England’s training methods, it is worth noting that India also opted not to train before the final match. With the Champions Trophy now approaching, England’s squad management will be a top priority as they prepare to travel to Pakistan. Their campaign begins on February 22 in Lahore, where they will face arch-rivals Australia in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
