Title: David Saker Returns to Lead England’s Fast-Bowling Unit as Paul Collingwood Remains Absent
As England gears up for this winter’s Ashes series, the absence of Paul Collingwood from the coaching staff has raised questions among fans and analysts alike. The selectors have decided to bring back Australian David Saker to oversee the fast-bowling unit, a move that highlights the team’s commitment to strengthening its coaching ranks.
Collingwood, who famously captained England to its first global title at the 2010 T20 World Cup and played a pivotal role in the 2010–11 Ashes victory, has been away from the backroom staff since the summer due to personal reasons. The 48-year-old, known for his exceptional fielding skills and leadership qualities, will not be rejoining head coach Brendon McCullum’s team for the upcoming tour of Australia and is expected to miss the entire series.
In light of Collingwood’s absence, the England selectors have turned to Saker, who previously held the position of fast-bowling coach from 2010 to 2015. During his first tenure, Saker contributed to England’s last away Ashes victory and has since gained experience working with both England and Australia. Most recently, he was involved during the drawn 2023 series and the successful 2022 T20 World Cup campaign in Australia.
Saker is set to reunite with the squad ahead of their warm-up match against the Lions from November 13 to 15 and will collaborate with Tim Southee for the opening Test in Perth on November 21. Southee, currently serving as a specialist bowling consultant, will depart to fulfill a playing contract in the ILT20 in the United Arab Emirates shortly after.
Taking charge of the fast bowlers for the final four Tests of the series, Saker inherits one of England’s most formidable pace attacks in history. With bowlers like Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Brydon Carse, and Gus Atkinson all capable of exceeding 90 miles per hour, the team is well-equipped for a challenging series. The inclusion of veteran James Anderson remains a topic of discussion as McCullum seeks the right balance of speed and experience.
The rest of England’s coaching staff will remain unchanged, with Marcus Trescothick mentoring the batters and Jeetan Patel focusing on the spinners. Additionally, Gilbert Enoka, renowned for his mental skills coaching with New Zealand’s victorious rugby team, will continue to support the group. Enoka’s “no d**d” philosophy has already made a significant impact on England’s culture, as acknowledged by captain Harry Brook.
Brook praised Enoka’s influence, stating, “He brings a lot of knowledge on the mental side of the game. We’ve just done a session with him, and it’s great to have him around. You can grab him for a chat anytime, and it really helps the group.”
As the England team prepares for another Ashes showdown, Saker’s return brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight. However, Collingwood’s ongoing absence leaves a notable gap in leadership and fielding expertise—challenges that McCullum and his staff will need to address as they aim for their first Ashes victory in Australia in more than a decade.
