Title contenders England faced an early exit from the Champions Trophy 2025, suffering a narrow defeat to Afghanistan by eight runs in Lahore on Wednesday. Following a disappointing start to their campaign with a loss against Australia in Group B, the subsequent defeat to Afghanistan sealed their fate.

In a recent commentary on his YouTube channel, R Ashwin critiqued England's mentality during the Champions Trophy. He remarked, “I watched Jos Buttler’s post-match interview after the Afghanistan match. He was quite open in expressing uncertainty about his future leadership goals. They experienced a dismal performance in the 2023 50-over World Cup, and now they find themselves eliminated from the 2025 Champions Trophy. Additionally, they have failed to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Given these circumstances, it appears that England is at a pivotal moment.”

He further referenced a statement made by Ben Duckett following their initial ODI loss in India, where Duckett stated, “We don’t mind if we lose 3-0 to India, as our goal is to defeat India in the Champions Trophy final.” Ashwin concluded, “This illustrates their mindset. Is it truly so simple to enter a major tournament and emerge victorious in the final?”

R Ashwin destroys England and questions the sub-continent approach

Ashwin raised concerns regarding the approach of England's batters during their tour of Pakistan. He remarked, "There appears to be no consistent strategy in your batting. You have been promoting Harry Brook as a rising star, yet his performance is faltering. He is now facing significant pressure to deliver match-winning innings."

He further noted, "The situation with England in this Baseball era warrants serious reflection."

Ashwin referenced Ravi Shastri's insightful observation that England must approach sub-continental tours with greater seriousness.

Continuing his critique of England's apparent disinterest in competing in the sub-continent, he stated, "The World Cups that England secured in 2019 (ODI) on home soil and in 2022 (T20I) in Australia do not reflect any significant achievements in the sub-continent. In contrast, teams like Australia and South Africa travel extensively, prepare thoroughly, and perform admirably. England, however, seems to regard sub-continental tours merely as a formality. Is it not time for England to genuinely reassess their approach?"

Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after being omitted from the third Test. His retirement decision sparked controversy, particularly as Australia ultimately won the series.

Read Also: Shahid Afridi Challenges Wasim Akram on Live TV Over Call for Mass Changes in Pakistan's Champions Trophy Squad

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