Former Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson believes England must seriously rethink their approach if they want to stay competitive in the Ashes series after a disastrous start. England have already lost the first two Tests by eight wickets each, handing Australia a strong 2-0 lead ahead of the third Test in Adelaide.
England’s task looks tough, especially considering their poor record in Australia. Their last Ashes win came in 2015, and since then they have suffered heavy defeats in every tour Down Under. However, Johnson feels the series is not completely out of reach yet.
According to Johnson, the conditions in Adelaide could offer England a better chance. Unlike the fast and bouncy pitches in Perth and Brisbane, the Adelaide Oval usually provides more even bounce and may bring spin bowling into play. This could suit England’s style better and allow them to compete more closely.
He also warned that Australia, despite being in a dominant position, will not take England lightly. With key players like Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon returning, Australia’s confidence is high. Still, Johnson feels this series does not carry the same one-sided feeling as the 2013–14 Ashes, which Australia won 5-0.
Johnson said a comeback is possible if England get their plans right, though he admitted the psychological damage from the early losses could be hard to overcome. While he does not expect another 5-0 whitewash, he said the risk remains if England fail to adapt quickly.
The former pacer, who troubled England greatly during his career, pointed out some positives for the visitors. Joe Root’s unbeaten 138 in the second Test marked his first Test century in Australia and showed his ability to adjust under pressure. Fast bowler Jofra Archer also impressed with a sharp spell late in the match, even when the result was already decided.
Johnson stressed that adaptability was the key lesson England must take forward. He said both Root and Archer succeeded because they adjusted to the conditions, and the rest of the team must do the same. While England clearly have talent, Johnson questioned whether they can make the necessary changes in time, noting that some of their batting decisions so far have been confusing.
As the series moves to Adelaide, England’s response will decide whether the Ashes remains a contest or slips further out of reach.
After a poor start to the Ashes, England must change their game plan quickly, says former Australia
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