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ENGLAND’S cricket stars are gearing up for the Ashes by simulating crowd taunts during training.
Coach Brendon McCullum and the captain have introduced speakers that play recordings of Australian fans hurling insults.
England players are simulating crowd taunts during training as they prepare for the AshesCredit: AFP
Mikel Arteta employed a similar strategy using speakers prior to Arsenal’s match against Liverpool in 2021Credit: Getty
Heaters and fans are also being utilized to mimic the sweltering 40°C heat they may encounter in Australia when the series kicks off on November 21 in Perth.
When asked about the use of sledging during training, fast bowler Mark Wood replied: “Yes. We’ve been called ‘champ’ about 50 times in the last week.”
“So we’re just getting accustomed to it. It's all about preparing for what lies ahead.”
Australians often belittle opposing players by referring to them as ‘champ’ as part of their sledging, a tactic once described by all-rounder Moises Henriques as “a compliment wrapped in a dirty sandwich.”
Wood continued: “I’ve been on a tour where I mostly ran drinks around the boundary, which was a bit intense. I enjoy receiving some banter. I’ve actually found it quite fun.”
“I just try to embrace it and engage with the crowd a bit. If the comments are too far, you can simply ignore them.”
This is not the first instance of a sports team attempting to recreate hostile crowds during training before important matches.
A coach once set up speakers during training ahead of a crucial match at Anfield.
And he shared strategies for preparing for the enthusiastic American fans prior to the match.
Discussing England’s preparation on the Wisen cricket podcast, Wood stated: “Training in the heated tent is invaluable, as it simulates being abroad.”
“They have heaters and fans in the tent. It feels completely different when you step in and out of it.”
“It’s all about getting ready for what’s coming.”
He also mentioned that English players face strict scrutiny at Australian customs, where their gear has been confiscated if it contains any English soil.
He explained: “It’s stringent. You must remove every bit of mud from your cricket boots.”
“No mud or English soil is allowed on their territory at all. So I’ve had a few pairs of boots taken from me.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are England's cricket players simulating crowd sledging?
They are preparing for the hostile atmosphere they will encounter during the Ashes series in Australia, using recordings of Australian fans to acclimatize.
What techniques are being used in training?
In addition to crowd sledging, they are using heaters and fans to simulate the extreme heat they might face during the matches.
What challenges do players face at Australian customs?
Players must ensure that their equipment is free of any English soil, as customs regulations are strict and can lead to confiscation of their gear.
