“Very similar to what we’ve been doing for the past few years,” Paul Collingwood says of England’s Ashes preparations.

With the highly anticipated Ashes series on the horizon, both England and Australia will be eager to maintain their best form. The five-match series is scheduled to commence on June 16, and fans of ‘bazball’ cricket have been eagerly awaiting the debut of the Ben Stokes-led side’s renowned playing style against the Australians. Australia would enter the series on the heels of their momentous victory over India in the World Test Championship final. However, the situation could be entirely different against England, as they have been in sensational form with the red ball.

The first Test of the marquee series is scheduled to commence on June 16 and will be played at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Steve Smith, a veteran Australian batsman, recently stated that he is looking forward to facing “bazball” cricket.

England’s assistant coach, Paul Collingwood, stated that England would not alter their tactics simply because they are competing for the Ashes.

Similar to what we have been doing for the past several years. We will not approach the match differently simply because it is the Ashes. The guys have had a good time playing this way; they have relished each other’s company on and off the pitch. It is simply a matter of relieving the players of their burden and playing as a group of friends. In a media interaction, Paul Collingwood described Cricket Next as a group of “best friends” who appreciate each other’s company.

“You will be able to maximise your talent if you bring the mentality, value, and skill that you bring to training into the game without fear of repercussions. No way will they ease off the gas just because they are playing Australia. In fact, I know these men, and they will likely attempt to push themselves a bit further,” he added.