World champions, most people refer to them as. England has been one of the most consistent performers across formats in the last couple of years and when you see their history and growth as a cricketing nation, you wouldn’t expect a 4-0 drubbing that they got in the recent Ashes 2021/22 series. They saved themselves by a kitten’s whisker from being whitewashed 5-0 in the recent series down under.
Ashes is considered one of the greatest rivalries in the history of the game and after such a pathetic performance, someone had to take the blame. And it turns out that former England spinner and lower order batsman Ashley Giles is to blame, as he was released from his position at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) earlier today.
ECB sacks Ashley Giles
While some news reports suggest that Giles was ‘sacked’ from his position as ECB managing director, others say that he has voluntarily stepped down. This comes in following an ECB board meeting to review the men’s Ashes performance which ended in a 4-0 loss for England. Obviously, there had to be news of a ‘stepping down’ or ‘sacking’.
Former England captain Andrew Strauss has been appointed as an interim replacement and the ECB is currently on the search for a full-time replacement as well. Head Coach Chris Silverwood is also likely to be scrutinised after their dismal performance in Australia and we may soon hear an update on his position as well.
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“I’m extremely grateful to Ashley for his commitment and contribution to England men’s cricket over the last three years. He’s highly respected throughout the game and has made a huge contribution to the ECB and England Men’s cricket. Off the back of a disappointing men’s Ashes this winter we must ensure we put in place the conditions across our game to enable our Test team to succeed,” said ECB CEO Tom Harrison yesterday, 2nd Feb.
Giles took over the job as director in 2018, following Strauss itself. He’s done well but the team seems to have hit a low right now and tis is probably the right decision by the ECB. Following the Ashes loss in Australia, England also lost the T20I series 2-3 in West Indies, while the latter hasn’t even been playing great cricket of late.
Ashley Giles statement
“The past couple of years have been incredibly challenging and I’m proud of what we’ve been able to deliver in the toughest of circumstances. This has undoubtedly protected the future of the game in England and Wales. Despite these challenges, over the past three years, we have become 50-over World Champions, the top ranked T20I side in the world, we remain 4th ranked Test team and our under 19s have just reached the World Cup final for the first time in 24 years. I wish all our players and staff great success for the future. I’m now looking forward to spending some time with my family before looking at the next challenge.”
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