As England prepare to face Zimbabwe in a one-off Test at Trent Bridge, attention shifts to what could be a defining period for the Bazball era. This low-key fixture marks the beginning of a summer that will test the mettle of Brendon McCullum’s coaching philosophy and Ben Stokes’s captaincy, with five home Tests against India followed by a daunting Ashes series down under.
The buzzword “Bazball” has become shorthand for England’s aggressive and fearless approach under Stokes and McCullum. But now, with 2025 poised to deliver back-to-back heavyweight series, this philosophy faces its toughest examination. England are ranked second in the world, boasting 22 wins from 34 Tests in the past three years. Yet, as history often shows, legacies in English cricket tend to be judged by Ashes cycles and this one is entering a critical phase.
Stokes’s own evolution mirrors that of his team. Having revealed that he’s temporarily given up alcohol and invested in an alcohol-free spirits company, the England captain is clearly in a mindset of personal discipline and focused recovery. After undergoing hamstring surgery, his return to match fitness is key not just for his bowling contribution but also for the leadership spark he brings on the field.
The Test against Zimbabwe serves as a launchpad more than a true challenge. The tourists recently lost to a team of rookies, and bookmakers have England as heavy favourites. The result might be a foregone conclusion, but the performances of individuals could shape selection decisions for the summer ahead.
One player at the heart of selection debates is Jacob Bethell. After impressing in New Zealand last winter and spending the spring at the IPL, Bethell is widely expected to return for the India series. His availability raises questions over the futures of Ollie Pope and Zak Crawley. Pope remains vice-captain, but his recent form particularly against India and Australia has dipped, while Crawley has grown in stature during those same high-pressure series.
If Bethell is considered for an opening slot, Crawley’s place could come under threat. Yet it’s Pope who arguably needs runs the most to cement his position. Either way, performances in this Zimbabwe match may have limited influence on decisions that are already in motion.
More crucially, England’s bowling resources are under scrutiny. Injuries to key players like Mark Wood and Jofra Archer have opened doors for others. Sam Cook debuts with impressive domestic credentials, joining Gus Atkinson, last year’s breakout quick, with the new ball. Josh Tongue also returns after a lengthy injury layoff, adding pace and variation to the attack. With Brydon Carse nearing full fitness and Chris Woakes set for a county comeback, a strong showing from this new-look pace unit would be a timely boost.
Still, the focus ultimately returns to Stokes. He has not played for Durham this season, and this Test provides a bridge from rehab to full-match sharpness. If needed, he may even turn out for the Lions against India A next month. The man who vowed to “cause chaos” on his return might, for now, need to embrace a more measured approach. But with a pivotal summer ahead, this moment feels like the calm before a potential storm.
