MOMENTS OF TRUTH

Vaughan: Time for leadership

- BY RORY DOLLARD

MICHAEL VAUGHAN has warned that “judgment time” is at hand for those in charge of England's Ashes campaign.

One of the most eagerly-anticipated tours in a generation got off to a sorry start in Perth, where Ben Stokes’ side suffered a first two-day loss against Australia in 104 years.

That cranked up the pressure ahead of next week's day/night Test in Brisbane but those responsible for England's strategy - notably skipper Stokes, head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key - have rejected the chance to send senior players to Canberra for a pink-ball practice match at the weekend.