England Appoint David Saker as Fast Bowling Coach for Ashes 2025-26

England Cricket has announced the return of David Saker as their fast bowling coach for the upcoming Ashes 2025-26 series against Australia. The decision follows news that Tim Southee will exit after the first Test in Perth to participate in the ILT20 2025, leaving Saker to assume full-time coaching responsibilities.

Saker will work alongside Southee during England’s warm-up against the Lions and the first Test at Optus Stadium, after which he will oversee England’s pace attack throughout the remainder of the Ashes series. Paul Collingwood, who missed England’s summer due to personal reasons, will not be part of the touring staff, while the rest of the coaching and support team remains unchanged.

David Saker: A Familiar Face

Saker is no stranger to England’s setup, having served as fast bowling coach from 2010 to 2015, including during England’s last Ashes triumph in Australia in 2010–11. He has also been part of major campaigns such as the 2022 T20 World Cup, the 2023 Ashes, and the ODI World Cup, bringing extensive experience to the current squad.

Ashes 2025-26 Schedule

The five-Test Ashes series is set to begin November 21 at Optus Stadium, Perth, running through November 25. Remaining fixtures include:

• 2nd Test (Day-Night): The Gabba, Brisbane – December 4 to 8

• 3rd Test: Adelaide Oval – December 17 to 21

• 4th Test (Boxing Day): MCG, Melbourne – December 25 to 29

• 5th Test: SCG, Sydney – January 4 to 8

England, led by Ben Stokes, will aim to regain the Ashes for the first time since 2015. The team faces a daunting challenge, having failed to win a Test in Australia since 2011 and suffering three consecutive series losses (5-0, 4-0, 4-0).

Saker’s return brings hope for a revitalised pace attack as England prepare for one of cricket’s most historic and fiercely contested series.