Ashes 2025-26: James Anderson reveals roadmap for English bowlers to sizzle in Australia

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The countdown to the Ashes 2025–26 has officially begun, with Australia and England set to renew cricket’s fiercest rivalry from November 21 in Perth. As excitement surges, discussions around team combinations, bowling strategies and conditions have intensified. Touring Australia has traditionally been England’s toughest challenge in Test cricket, with the hard pitches, extra bounce and unforgiving conditions testing even the most seasoned cricketers. With another demanding five-Test series approaching, former pace spearhead James Anderson has stepped forward to outline the roadmap he believes England’s bowlers must follow to succeed down under.

Speaking on the BBC’s Tailenders podcast, Anderson shared detailed insights on how England should approach the conditions they will face. The 704-wicket veteran, who himself mastered the art of swing and seam in all terrains, stressed that Australian pitches do offer assistance—provided bowlers maintain accuracy and discipline.

“The pitches will have a little bit of movement in them, they have done in the last two tours we’ve been there. So you do need accuracy, as well as pace,” Anderson explained, highlighting that control remains just as vital as raw speed.

Anderson believes England must deploy extreme pace wisely, particularly with Jofra Archer and Mark Wood returning to full fitness. He suggested unleashing both in the opening Test at Perth, known for its steep bounce and pace-friendly nature.

“I think if you’re going to play them together, potentially the first Test at Perth, where it’s fast and bouncy, you want to get off to a good start in the series—so hit them straight away with proper pace,” he added.

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Beyond the opener, Anderson recommended a rotation plan to keep England’s quickest bowlers fresh. He sees opportunities for Brydon Carse and Gus Atkinson—two emerging fast bowlers who bring both speed and control.

“After that I imagine they’ll try and play one of them, and rest and recover the other. That leaves space for Brydon Carse or Gus Atkinson. They’re still quick enough, but they’ve got skill as well, and probably a bit more control than the others,” Anderson elaborated.

His assessment points toward a modern, flexible fast-bowling blueprint built on variety, relentlessness and intelligent workload management.

Anderson emphasised that England’s best chance of winning the Ashes lies in the sustained excellence of their bowling attack—a department that has often faltered in Australia due to inconsistency and limited penetration. A mix of pace, precision and adaptability, according to Anderson, will be essential to counter Australia’s strong batting unit and challenging home conditions. Early breakthroughs, tactical rotation and disciplined spells will be the foundation of England’s campaign.

“They’re going to have a big part. If England are going to win this series, or have a chance, then the bowling attack has got to be relentlessly good,” asserted Anderson.

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