McGrath Warns England Must Win Adelaide Test to Avoid Ashes Humiliation

Australia could hardly have imagined holding a two nil lead in the Ashes after just six days of cricket, but that is the reality confronting England as pressure intensifies ahead of the third Test in Adelaide. Former Australia fast bowler Glenn McGrath said the situation is already uncomfortable for England and could become embarrassing if they fail to respond immediately.

The series began with England pushing Australia hard in the opening Test in Perth. For long periods, the visitors appeared to have control, only for Australia to produce a remarkable turnaround that shifted the momentum entirely. That victory ignited a surge of confidence within the Australian camp. By the time the series moved to Brisbane for the second Test, Australia looked settled, composed and ruthless.

In Brisbane, England were given what McGrath described as a lesson in how to play Test cricket in Australian conditions. Their challenges became even more evident under the day night format, where Australia exploited conditions far better, controlling each session and exposing vulnerabilities in England’s approach.

McGrath, who observed England closely during the 2023 Ashes in the United Kingdom, said much of Australia had viewed this tour with scepticism. England’s aggressive batting style had been praised at home, but many questioned whether it would translate effectively to Australian pitches, where bounce, pace and stamina tend to determine success. He said the big question was whether England could balance their attacking instincts with discipline, especially when facing experienced Australian bowlers in demanding environments.

So far, the concerns have played out exactly as many Australian supporters predicted. England’s batting has shown flashes of promise, but the big shots have often brought unnecessary risk. Their dismissals at crucial moments have strengthened the perception that they lack patience in conditions that require it. McGrath argued that Australia have not needed to play extraordinary cricket; they have simply executed the basics more consistently and waited for England to make mistakes.

England now enter Adelaide under immense pressure. McGrath said the series is not finished, but England must treat the third Test as a must win match. A loss would not only put the Ashes beyond reach but also cast serious doubt on the long term effectiveness of their current playing philosophy. The former fast bowler believes England still have the talent to turn the series around but insists their approach must be more adaptable. To succeed in Australia, he said, teams must be willing to adjust their tempo, respect the conditions and build innings rather than chase quick dominance.

For now, Australia hold every advantage, from form and confidence to tactical clarity. England, meanwhile, must regroup quickly, answer their critics and rediscover the resilience required to compete in one of cricket’s toughest environments. Adelaide will determine whether the series remains alive or slips decisively away.