ASHES: THE BURNING QUESTIONS

ANTICIPATION is peaking ahead of the Ashes, with a blockbuster battle expected over the next two months. All the talking stops once that first ball is bowled in Perth, but until then there is still plenty to debate.

- BY RORY DOLLARD

Here are five talking points that could make or break the series.

England's new chapter or same old story?

There is no escaping the dire record England have Down Under since they last beat their biggest rivals in their own back yard.

Since that memorable success in 2010-11, England have toured three times and played 15 matches without once tasting victory. Thirteen defeats and two draws is a horrible sequence but one the tourists truly believe will not weigh them down.

Instead they see the 2023 contest at home, the first Ashes of the 'Bazball' era, as the real precedent. They drew that one 2-2 and will need to go one better this time if they are to back up their words.

Stokes v Cummins