Star-studded Sheffield Shield round launches final Ashes preparation
In the next five days, Australia's players will experience a unique advantage in hosting a home Ashes series. This is not just about the playing conditions or record-breaking crowds, but the crucial final week of warm-up matches before the Test series.
Every member of Australia's Ashes squad, except Usman Khawaja, will participate in Sheffield Shield matches across key venues: the SCG, WACA, and Bellerive Oval this week. Meanwhile, England's squad will compete in a three-day intra-squad match at Lilac Hill in Perth, a venue that has never hosted men's international cricket.
Controversy over England's preparations
Former England captain Michael Vaughan recently criticized England's preparation, highlighting the sharp contrast between conditions at Lilac Hill and those at Optus Stadium where the Tests will be played. Despite this, Australia's players have refrained from publicly questioning England's tactics.
"England can prepare however they want to prepare," said Nathan Lyon. "I am not worried about how they're preparing or anything to do with them until the morning of November 21."
Background on tour preparations
England’s approach is not unusual given the congested international cricket calendar, which has reduced opportunities for meaningful tour matches. For example, when Australia toured England in 2023, they played no warm-up games before winning the Test Championship final and their first two Ashes matches against England.
Key points:
- Australia's Ashes squad, excluding Usman Khawaja, is active in Sheffield Shield matches this week.
- England plays an intra-squad game at a non-international venue ahead of the series.
- Preparation methods by England have drawn questions but Australia remains focused on their own preparation.
Summary: Australia's focused Sheffield Shield involvement contrasts with England's intra-squad setup, underscoring their contrasting approaches ahead of the 2025 Ashes series.