Image source, Getty ImagesAll eyes will be on Perth in the early hours of Friday morning when the Ashes series finally begins.
The first delivery of previous contests has produced some iconic moments – think back to Rory Burns’ first-baller, Steve Harmison’s wide or Zak Crawley driving Pat Cummins for four.
England have enlisted the help of former New Zealand All Blacks mental skills coach Gilbert Enoka, who first started working with Ben Stokes’ side during the summer.
“There is more weight on that moment and we just want people to free themselves from the tension,” he told BBC Radio 4 about how he is helping players prepare for the opening moment.
“They will have a structure or a system that allows them to direct their attention to where it needs to be. If you are a batsman that will be on the ball and if you are a bowler you will have a target or something you want to achieve.
“There is no escaping the tension other than getting excited, reminding yourself where else would you want to be.
“When your mindset is directed with that intent your intention creates the intensity required to execute well.”
Enoka and England coach Brendon McCullum first met when McCullum was in the New Zealand academy system.
The former Black Caps international first brought his compatriot into the England camp in the summer during the Test series against India.
“I have known Brendon for many years,” Enoka said.
“When I finished with [the All Blacks] after the Rugby World Cup, Brendon had been in this job two or three years, came knocking and said ‘I am keen to take this team the next level. Will you help me?’
“He has got players playing a certain style, he has a vision for him and where he wants to take it.
“My job is to help them be clear about that and deliver the structures that enable them to get there.
“If you want to be great you don’t chase motivation you have got to build a system. That is my job.”
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