Test Match Special The Ashes Preview
15 snips
Nov 17, 2025 
Mark Ramprakash, a former England batter and coach, joins Jack Leach, an England spinner, Ryan Campbell, a former Australian wicketkeeper and coach, and Australian journalist Geoff Lemon for a deep dive into the Ashes series. They discuss the psychological stakes of the first ball, England's preparation, and the challenges of playing in Australia. Key insights include the impact of Ben Stokes' leadership, Australia's bowling dynamics without Cummins, and the unique role of spinners like Nathan Lyon in the contest.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
England's Confidence Versus Australia's Uncertainty
- England enter the Ashes confident because they're settled and have a clear identity built for Australia.
- Mark Ramprakash argues Australia's disarray and missing key players give England an early initiative.
State Teams 'Belt' Touring Sides
- Ryan Campbell recalls scoring 146 in a state game but getting out early in the first innings on tour anecdotes.
- He emphasises state teams used to try to 'belt' touring England to prepare them for tests.
Use Stadium Nets In Final Preparation
- Train at the stadium nets in the days before the Test to experience the actual pitch behaviour.
- Ryan Campbell stresses the next three days of stadium nets are the most important preparation.
