Jon Lewis is not the first England coach or captain to fall victim to the ruthless scrutiny that follows a heavy Ashes defeat, and he certainly will not be the last.
The series, which ended in February with a 16-0 thrashing, saw England’s women placed under a microscope of pressure, criticism and attention like never before.
Much of that came down to England’s below-par, and often meek, performances, but a considerable amount was also down to their attitude and the perception they displayed to their fans and the media.
Since his appointment in November 2022, Lewis has been the driver of England’s external messaging, constantly preaching about aggression, fearlessness and entertainment.
The peak of his tenure came in the summer of 2023, when Heather Knight’s side fought back from 6-0 down in the home Ashes to draw 8-8. It was a series that had record crowds in grounds including Edgbaston, Lord’s and The Oval and showed England were capable of competing with, and beating, the world’s best.
But after three T20 disappointments (the Commonwealth Games in 2022 and World Cups in 2023 and 2024) and an away Ashes humiliation, endless talk of processes and style was wearing thin with England followers – they just wanted to win something meaningful, something that has not been achieved since the 50-over World Cup win at Lord’s in 2017.
The next global tournament is approaching in India at the end of the summer, which will be the first major assignment for England’s next coach.
Before then, home series against West Indies and India, where there will be plenty for the side and the management to learn and put right from Lewis’ tenure.
Source link : https://www.bbc.com/sport/cricket/articles/czxn2w40045o
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Publish date : 2025-03-21 14:32:05
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