Ollie Robinson Joins Australia’s Ashes Preparations
In a surprising twist before the 2025/26 Ashes, England seamer Ollie Robinson has been assisting Australia’s training sessions after being excluded from the England Test setup by Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum.
Background and Exile
Robinson, 31, last represented England 18 months ago. Despite an impressive Test record of 76 wickets at an average of 22.92, ongoing fitness and discipline concerns have sidelined him. With new bowlers such as Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and Matt Potts emerging, Robinson found himself out of both the main Test squad and the England Lions.
Training with Australia
On November 6, New South Wales trained at the Sydney Cricket Ground, where Robinson was spotted bowling in the nets to Australian captain Steve Smith. He also participated in drills alongside Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and spinner Nathan Lyon.
“The right-armer bowled alongside Australia’s Test quicks Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, who were being put through their paces. Australian spinner Nathan Lyon was also present.” — Sydney Morning Herald
Life in Australia
The fast bowler is currently playing in Sydney Premier Cricket with the Sydney University club under a short-term contract, signaling a temporary shift in his cricketing journey.
Author’s Summary
Once a key bowler for England, Ollie Robinson’s exile led him to a surprising new chapter—helping Australia gear up for the Ashes while rebuilding his form in Sydney club cricket.