Star-studded Sheffield Shield round launches final Ashes preparation
In the next five days, Australia's players will experience the luxury of hosting a home Ashes series. This advantage is not just about conditions or record-breaking crowds but the structure of the last full week of warm-up matches.
Every member of Australia's Ashes squad, except Usman Khawaja, will participate in Sheffield Shield matches at the SCG, WACA, and Bellerive Oval this week. Meanwhile, England is conducting a three-day intra-squad game at Perth's Lilac Hill, a venue that has never hosted a men's international match.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan questioned England's preparation, highlighting the stark contrast in conditions compared to Optus Stadium.
Australia’s players have refrained from criticizing England's tactics. Nathan Lyon commented,
“England can prepare however they want to prepare. I am not worried about how they're preparing or anything to do with them until the morning of November 21.”
England’s approach is not uncommon, as tight schedules have made meaningful tour games rare. During Australia's 2023 tour in England, they played no warm-up matches before the Test Championship final but still won that and their first two Ashes contests.
Author’s summary: Australia's squad gains a crucial advantage by playing full Sheffield Shield matches ahead of the Ashes, while England's unconventional preparation raises questions but faces historical precedent.