England captain Jos Buttler has defended his team’s training schedule after former India coach Ravi Shastri criticized their lack of preparation. England suffered a 3-0 ODI whitewash against India, following a 1-4 defeat in the T20I series. The team did not hold training sessions before the second and third ODIs in Cuttack and Ahmedabad, raising questions about their commitment.
Shastri, speaking during commentary in the third ODI, claimed England had only one net session throughout the tour. “If you’re not prepared to do the hard yards, you’re not going to improve,” he remarked.
However, Buttler disagreed, stating that England’s training was adequate given the long tour and extensive travel. “I’m not sure that’s true. We’ve had a reasonably long tour, with some long travel days. There have been a few occasions where we haven’t trained, but we’ve certainly done plenty throughout,” he said.
England’s Training Schedule Under Scrutiny
England did train before the first ODI in Nagpur, but no sessions were held before the crucial second and third ODIs. Similarly, during the T20I series, England trained before the first three matches but skipped sessions ahead of the final two games in Pune and Mumbai.
Jos Buttler insisted that the team maintains a professional environment and refuted claims of a lack of effort. “We try to create a good environment, but that doesn’t mean it’s lazy or lacking in effort. The guys are desperate to perform, do well, and improve,” he said.
Despite these assurances, England failed to capitalize on key moments throughout the tour. Buttler admitted that they were unable to turn small advantages into match-winning situations against a strong Indian team.
Injury Concern Ahead of the Champions Trophy
As England prepares for the 2025 Champions Trophy, which starts on February 19 in Pakistan, Buttler expressed hope that in-form opener Ben Duckett will recover in time from a groin injury sustained during the third ODI.
With the Champions Trophy fast approaching, England must reassess their training methods, tactical approach, and overall preparation to avoid another disappointing campaign in subcontinent conditions.
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