By Tom Mallows
BBC Sport journalist
Published 1 hour ago

England’s Test cricket revolution under captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum continues to inspire players, with all-rounder Will Jacks hailing their "game-changing" leadership after earning a shock Ashes recall.

The Stokes-McCullum Effect

Jacks, who last played Test cricket during England’s 2022 Pakistan tour, revealed how the duo’s philosophy creates instant confidence:
"When you walk into that dressing room, it’s like entering a different dimension. They don’t just welcome you – they arm you with this unshakable belief. For a debutant, that’s rocket fuel."

Key leadership traits:

• Aggressive tactical mindset
• Personalized player development
• Leading through action, not just words
• Creating psychological safety for risk-taking

Jacks’ Red-Ball Redemption

Despite limited first-class opportunities (5 wickets in 74.1 overs this season), the 25-year-old Surrey star’s recall over established spinners signals England’s commitment to their ‘Bazball’ ideology.

Tactical Chess: England’s Ashes Strategy

With the series opener in Perth (21 November), England’s selection suggests:

1. Pace-friendly pitch preparation
2. Multi-dimensional spin options
3. Batting depth through all-rounders

Jacks emphasized adaptability: "Whether they need me to bowl 30 overs or smash quick runs, I’m ready. This is what modern Test cricket demands."

Expert Analysis

Former England captain Michael Vaughan:
"This recall isn’t about statistics – it’s about mindset. McCullum sees something in Jacks that fits their ‘never retreat’ philosophy. That’s how they’ve won 13 of 18 Tests under Stokes."

The Road to Perth

England’s last Ashes triumph in Australia (2010-11) featured similar bold selections. Can this new-generation approach break a 13-year drought? Jacks’ inclusion suggests they’re willing to gamble everything on their revolutionary style.