England should chase to win 2nd Ashes Test: Michael Vaughan
28 Nov 2025

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has said that his country's best chance of winning the second Test of the Ashes series at The Gabba lies in chasing a total.

The statement comes despite the fact that batting first is usually considered a winning strategy in Day-Night Tests.

Vaughan's opinion aligns with England's recent performances under coach Brendon McCullum since May 2022.

Notably, England suffered a humiliating eight-wicket loss in the series opener.

England's successful chases under McCullum
Chasing success

Under McCullum's guidance, England have successfully chased targets of over 350 runs twice against India.

These two instances (373 and 378) are the highest successful chases in England's cricketing history.

Despite losing to India by six runs while chasing a target of 374 this year, they have also achieved two successful chases in the 290s range.

Vaughan's perspective on England's batting strategy
Game plan

Vaughan believes that England's best chance of winning at The Gabba is to play their expansive game.

"Funnily enough, England's best chance is to lose the toss and chase," Vaughan told AAP.

The former captain added that this current England batting unit seems to perform better when they have a target to aim for, rather than getting confused while batting first.

Vaughan's thoughts on toss and batting 1st
Toss strategy

Despite his opinion on England's best chance of victory, Vaughan is certain that the captain winning the toss will bat first.

He said, "You definitely have to. It's the only guarantee of you batting in daylight."

Vaughan also pointed out that if you bat well, you get a chance to bowl first in twilight conditions on day two.

Vaughan's confidence in England's team
Team strength

Vaughan will be commentating at The Gabba with Kayo Sports.

He is confident that England has the right mix of players to fight back, both with bat and ball.

The bowling attack comprising Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, Brydon Carse and Ben Stokes had a great outing against Australia in the first innings of the first Test.