The England and Wales Cricket Board has initiated an immediate review into the Ashes defeat, with chief executive Richard Gould promising “necessary changes over the coming months”. He also suggested that the work of the core leadership group – notably managing director of men’s cricket Rob Key and head coach Brendon McCullum – would be placed under the microscope. Gould said: “This Ashes tour began with significant hope and anticipation, and it is therefore deeply disappointing that we have been unable to fulfil our ambition of winning the Ashes in Australia. “The men’s team now moves on to Sri Lanka ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which begins in February, and we will implement the necessary changes over the coming months. “We are grateful for the courtesy and hospitality shown to us by Cricket Australia throughout the tour.

Source: Irish Examiner January 08, 2026 11:59 UTC