Bell’s reflective mood after an Ashes rewind

A REWATCH of the dramatic 2005 Ashes has convinced Ian Bell that England’s cricketers will be missing a vital ingredient if they return behind closed doors this summer. The ECB have accepted empty stands are a necessity if there is any hope of getting the international schedule up and running in July, one measure among many in a plan to provide a ‘bio-secure’ environment and contain the risk of coronavirus.

Bell, who played 118 Tests and 169 limited-overs games for his country, knows better than most what it is like to be in the middle as the home crowd builds to a crescendo and took a walk down memory lane to take in the unforgettable series against Australia 15 years ago.

“I’ve had the opportunity to watch some of those great moments from the series in 2005 and what you realise is the importance of the atmosphere and the support,” said the Warwickshire star. “You think of that great

Freddie Flintoff spell at Edgbaston – what would that have been like without the fans and the atmosphere? It’s hard to imagine.

“One of the things you realise when you retire is the importance of that support. It’s part of what makes it so special. It’s not ideal to play without the fans, no doubt, but it seems like something we’re going to have to get used to for the foreseeable future.

“We have to try and get going and if everyone is able to watch at home that’s a great start.”

Another notable change that is likely to be present when cricket returns in the era of social distancing is more reserved celebrations. Triumphant moments are toasted by hugs and embraces, none more enthusiastic than those Bell and company enjoyed as they reclaimed the urn for the first time in 18 years, but that would not meet with current health advice. “Emotion can get the best of you at the best of times, and certainly when you’re playing Australia,” he said. “It would be a challenge to hold it back and something the lads who go out there will have to try their best to do – I would have found it virtually impossible in 2005.

“A lot of adrenaline and emotion flies around in international cricket but player safety is going to be the most important thing and it’s something they will have to control.” Bell, now 38, who missed the entirety of last season through injury, has been helping his son Joseph trial the ECB’s new Dynamos Cricket app, a free digital version of a training programme designed for eight to 11-year-olds. For more information and updates visit www. dynamos cricket. co.uk