David Saker Named England Bowling Coach for 2025 Ashes Series

Former Australian cricketer David Saker has been named the bowling coach for the England men’s cricket team for this year’s Ashes series, starting on November 21 in Perth, Australia. Saker, who has often worked in this role over the past 15 years returns to the job after it was confirmed that Tim Southee, England’s current fast-bowling coach, will leave after the first match to play in the International League T20 (ILT20).

David Saker will join Tim Southee for the warm-up matches against the Lions in Perth and the first Test, then take over as England’s main bowling coach for the rest of the Ashes series. 

David Saker has been an important part of England’s coaching team for many years, playing a big role in their major wins. As the bowling coach, he helped England win the 2010–11 Ashes series in Australia 3–1, their first series win there in 24 years. He was also part of the team that led England to the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, where England’s strong bowling and smart strategies were key to their success.

England Prepares for Ashes with Reinforced Pace Attack

Although officially brought in as a "Specialist Skills Consultant," former Australian pacer David Saker will focus on working with England’s fast bowlers, sharing his experience on how to succeed in Australia. The rest of the England coaching team stays the same, with former captain Paul Collingwood remaining away from the group for personal reasons.

Saker’s appointment comes as England prepares to tour Australia for the Ashes with a strong fast-bowling lineup, including Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, Brydon Carse, and Matthew Potts. England will also have plenty of backup options, with young pacers Sonny Baker, Josh Hull, and Matt Fisher in Australia at the same time, playing for the England Lions.