England’s Test summer couldn’t have kicked off in a better way.
After pulling off a stunning chase against India at Headingley, the buzz isn’t just about the 1-0 lead in the five-match series—it’s about what this means for the Ashes later this year.
And former captain Michael Vaughan is already connecting the dots.
Vaughan Sees Ashes Core Taking Shape
Speaking on The Overlap podcast with Betfair’s Stick to Cricket, Vaughan made it clear: this England side is starting to look settled.
In fact, he believes seven members of the top order are now locked in for the Ashes opener in November.
“That top seven should be the same group walking out in Perth,” he said.
“It reminds me of the 2010-11 team that won in Australia.
That group—Strauss, Cook, Pietersen, Collingwood, Bell, Prior—had experience and consistency.
And this side is building that same vibe.”
Aussies Are Paying Attention
Vaughan even shared that he’d heard from contacts in Australia who are starting to take England seriously.
While he’s not calling them favourites just yet, he said, “The Australian public is watching this England team and thinking, ‘This could be the group to actually challenge us on home soil.’”
Duckett Shines Bright at Headingley
The standout star of the Headingley Test? Ben Duckett, who smashed a brilliant 149 in the second innings.
His performance not only helped England chase down a tough target of 371—it also underlined his evolution into a world-class opening batter.
Phil Tufnell was full of praise, even likening Duckett to Aussie legend Matthew Hayden.
“He left the first two balls! Ben Duckett never leaves anything.
But that knock? It was like watching a mini Hayden—bang, bang, bang.”
Bazball’s Best Call Yet?
Vaughan went a step further, calling Duckett’s inclusion one of the smartest moves from the Bazball era under Brendan McCullum.
“He’s the best all-format player out there right now.
Travis Head and Aiden Markram are close, but Duckett faces the new ball in all formats and delivers.”
Duckett’s role at the top of the order has been critical, and his maturity at the crease is proving that he’s more than just a big hitter.
Cook Highlights Growing Pains for New-Look India
While England is settling into its rhythm, India’s new captain Shubman Gill is still finding his feet.
Former England skipper Sir Alastair Cook spoke about the pressure Gill faced in Leeds, especially during DRS calls.
“When a new leader steps in, it takes time for the team to adjust,” Cook explained.
“It was the same with Ben Stokes—he came in with a clear plan and vision.
Right now, India looks unsettled, especially in how they use DRS.”
He described moments where there seemed to be too many opinions, too much hesitation.
“Everyone’s trying to help, but with eight voices in your ear, it’s overwhelming. It’s not malicious—it’s just confusion.”
Edgbaston Awaits as Series Moves Forward
With momentum on their side, England now heads to Edgbaston for the second Test, starting Wednesday, July 6.
A win there would give them a commanding 2-0 lead—and only deepen the belief that this group could be something special.
As the summer rolls on, the eyes of both fans and Ashes rivals are firmly on England.
If the Headingley heroics are anything to go by, this team isn’t just building for now—they’re building for history.