Paul Farbrace has told his fellow coaches to show the England team some love to start a new spell of success this summer.
Farbrace left his job as Sri Lanka coach last month to become No2 to Peter Moores in England’s new-look team behind the scenes. His departure caused some controversy in Sri Lanka, particularly as a Test and limited-overs tour of this country is next on the agenda for the World Twenty20 champions.
During Andy Flower’s final months as coach, the England camp was perceived by some to be a joyless place. Farbrace did not comment on that but is determined to make the players feel wanted.
“People need to know they’re backed, that they’re loved and that there is support for them around the team,” Farbrace told Sky Sports. “If you have that, then there is a great chance of being successful. The key is to allow people to express themselves and play naturally. When the best players are playing well, it looks easy for them.
“You have to understand the different ways in which different players play. With any team, having the belief that you can win games, and win big games, is vital.”
Farbrace also called on Alastair Cook to stamp his authority on the team early after a disastrous winter in Australia. The Ashes whitewash, coupled with the departures of Kevin Pietersen, Graeme Swann and Jonathan Trott, marked the end of an era. With younger and less experienced players likely to take their places, England hope the captain will feel confident enough to assume greater control.
Farbrace added: “It’s important Alastair is seen as the leader of the team, in terms of key decisions. The captain has to have control.”
Meanwhile, spin-bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed has left his role with the England team to take up a similar role with his native Pakistan, while fast-bowling mentor David Saker is tipped to keep his job.
The ECB also announced today the venues for next summer’s Ashes series — they are Cardiff, Lord’s, Edgbaston, Trent Bridge and The Kia Oval.
