England's Test squad has finally assembled in Western Australia, but their Ashes preparation has raised eyebrows. With just 11 days until the first Test, the team's only warm-up match is against the Lions at Lilac Hill, a picturesque park in Guildford that seems an unlikely starting point for a high-stakes series.
The multi-format players were given a week off between tours, which many spent on a golfing trip across New Zealand. As a result, Monday was the first opportunity for all 16 players to train together, but only five turned up for the optional session. Jofra Archer bowled off a full run-up, while Joe Root and Jamie Smith faced mainly spin bowling in the nets.
Local onlookers were few, including Jack Binn, who paused his bike ride and commented, 'I wouldn't have thought England would be in a place like this.' Another, Paul Gallizzi, came seeking Ben Stokes's autograph but left disappointed as Stokes was absent. Lachlan Croot, who stumbled upon the session, noted, 'I've seen all the Ashes talk. It'll be interesting to see who walks the walk.'
The West Australian newspaper has been stoking the rivalry, recently describing Stokes as 'England's cocky captain complainer' and splashing a photo of Root at the airport across its front page. England's preparation, however, has been described as underwhelming, with the team's focus seemingly split between golf and training.
