Trescothick defends Ashes buildup after fresh criticism

Marcus Trescothick has defended England's Ashes preparations after Ian Botham joined a chorus of criticism from former players over the decision to schedule a single warm-up game, saying ex-professionals need to bear in mind that "times have dramatically changed in the way that cricket is done".

- Simon Burnton

England's assistant coach also laughed off attempts from Australian media to compare his use of mints to help the ball swing in the 2005 Ashes with their own players' notorious “sandpapergate” controversy.

England play the Lions tomorrow, their only game before the first Ashes Test starts next Friday. Yesterday Botham, who has said previously that England's schedule “borders on arrogance”, returned to the subject. “It’s not the way I would prepare,” he said. “Historically you have to acclimatise when you come down here. You’ve got to remember there’s 24.5 million people you're playing against.”