Trevor Bayliss, the architect of England's historic 2019 Cricket World Cup triumph, has delivered a frank assessment of the ongoing Ashes series, labelling it "a bit of a disappointment" while suggesting deeper systemic reasons behind Australia's dominance.
The Mental Edge: Forged in Australian Youth Cricket
Speaking from Sydney, where he coaches the Big Bash League's Sydney Thunder, Bayliss pointed to a crucial difference in mentality cultivated from a young age. The Australian, who coached England for five years, believes his homeland's players are often "more robust" and better equipped to handle high-pressure moments.
"I think Australia have been pretty good in the big moments; better at seeing them coming and better at dealing with them when they do," Bayliss stated. He theorised that this stems from a youth sporting culture where finals, not league positions, decide trophies. "You can go through an entire season undefeated and still lose the final. That pyramid system means the cream rises to the top."
A Disappointing Series and Missed Preparation
Bayliss, who tipped a 3-2 Australia win before the series, admitted he expected a far more competitive contest. "I genuinely thought it would go deeper and maybe even get to a decider here in Sydney," he said, reflecting on the 3-1 scoreline with one Test remaining.
While avoiding direct criticism of England's management, the 63-year-old did lament the modern absence of full-strength tour matches against state sides, a tradition he believes toughened up visiting teams. "When I played for New South Wales, we always wanted to mess up the touring teams... We never lost one of those games," he recalled.
Parallels with 'Bazball' and Hope for 2027
Bayliss sees clear parallels between the current 'Bazball' ethos under Brendon McCullum and the aggressive mindset he and Eoin Morgan instilled in England's white-ball side. He clarified that his philosophy was always about a positive, run-seeking mindset rather than reckless abandon.
Praising both McCullum and Ben Stokes, whom he described as a "follow-me type" leader, Bayliss suggested the approach did get into Australian minds during the 2023 home Ashes. However, he always wondered if it would translate as effectively on Australian soil.
Looking ahead, Bayliss offered England hope for the next Ashes in England in 2027, noting the ageing profile of the current Australian team. "I think England will be a big chance... no one ever retires at the top of their game," he said, questioning whether the next generation of Australian players would reach the same heights.
As he prepares to watch the fifth Test at the SCG, Bayliss remains a respected but low-key figure in English cricket history, his OBE hanging on the wall at home on his wife's insistence. His analysis suggests England's challenges run deeper than mere preparation, rooted in the very fabric of how young cricketers are forged in competition.
