Brendon McCullum has finalised his coaching team for the upcoming Ashes series, with Australian David Saker rejoining the England camp as a special skills consultant. This marks Saker’s fourth involvement in an Ashes series against his homeland, having previously been part of England’s coaching setup during the 2010-11, 2013, and 2023 series. His official role will see him working with the England squad from the start of November, when the England Lions arrive in Australia, and he will remain with the senior team for the duration of all five Tests.
Saker, who served as England’s fast bowling coach from 2010 to 2015, played a key role in England’s success during that period, helping them win the Ashes in Australia, defend them at home, and secure a historic series win in India. He later worked with Australia from 2016 to 2019 before rejoining England in 2023 with the white-ball squad. His vast experience in both international cricket and Ashes competition makes him a valuable asset to McCullum’s coaching team.
In addition to Saker, mental skills coach Gilbert Enoka, known for his work with the New Zealand All Blacks, will return to the England camp. Enoka was first brought into the fold during the buildup to England’s Test match against India in July. He has continued to work with both the white-ball and Test teams, including running an hour-long session for the entire squad ahead of the T20 series against New Zealand. His expertise in the mental side of the game is something players like Harry Brook have praised, with Brook describing Enoka’s contribution as “awesome.”
Tim Southee, who has been a special skills consultant since May, will continue his involvement until the end of the first Test in Perth before departing to fulfil playing obligations in the UAE. While McCullum’s coaching team remains largely consistent with previous years, notable absences include assistant coach Paul Collingwood, who has not been involved in recent months.
The appointment of these experienced figures underscores McCullum’s commitment to ensuring England’s preparedness for the Ashes, with a focus on both physical and mental conditioning. With such a formidable coaching team, England will be hoping to continue their recent success against Australia and maintain their status as one of the top teams in world cricket.
