The Ashes live: Understrength Australia look to dent England optimism in historic Perth Test
Cricket: For the first time in its storied history, the Ashes will start in the west as Australia host England with Perth set to ignite the biggest rivalry in sport
England arrive ready to try their Bazball style for the first time in Australia, full of confidence, they cannot only win a Test but win the series Down Under for the first time since 2010-11.
Australia are without their two biggest weapons in Josh Hazlewood and captain Pat Cummins, with Jake Weatherald to make a debut in a new-look top order.
They will come to cover on a green look Optus Stadium pitch that is hosting it’s first ever Ashes Test.
Can England end their Aussie drought, or can an understrength Australia make a statement and ruin another wave of English optimism at its first shore?
Follow along in below.
Jake Santa Maria is reporting live.
Panesar fires back
It was the bizarre story of yesterday as Smith responded to Panesar’s calls for England to go hard at Smith over Sandpapergate.
Now Panesar has fired back in the war or words.
Ashes Depth chart
As the two sides prepare to meet again, which player could hold the most sway over the next Ashes chapter?
Jackson Barrett has looked through both squads to see who he expects will have the biggest impact this series.
Here’s Mitchell Johnson with his take
he Ashes have always been more than just a cricket series.
It’s a feeling, one that runs through you from the moment you put on your baggy green.
Some early reading
Former Wisden editor and one of the best in the business Gideon Haig wrote a special column in our West Australian Ashes magazine on why this series is so special.
Welcome
Good morning and welcome to the biggest rivalry in world sport as England return to Australia for The Ashes.
The gates aren’t open yet, but fans are already hovering around the ground as one of the most hyped series prepares to get underway.
Will bring you all the build-up and of course get you ready for the first ball which is scheduled for 10.20am.
