Australia’s insecurity over Ashes selection ‘good thing’ for England: Strauss

PERTH - England skipper Andrew Strauss reckons that Australia’s insecurity over their Ashes squad selection could work in his team’s favour.

England’s smooth preparation for the first Test at the Gabba contrasts with widespread debate over the make-up of the Australian side.

“We were quite clear about the majority of our starting XI before we got on the plane, to be honest. But, you know, I think everyone likes stability and security and knowing where they stand,” Fox Sports quoted Strauss, as saying.

“And in Australia’s case, that is not the case - then that could be a good thing for us. From our point of view, I think the players pretty much do know where they stand,” he added.

Strauss further said that his first-choice fast bowlers would not take part in the third warm-up match against Australia A as part of measured plan for the perfect Ashes build-up.

England’s plan is to send the fast bowlers to Brisbane to acclimatize, and to provide a game to every squad member in Australia.

“In some way you have got to be a bit cold-hearted about this and make sure you’re starting XI is as well prepared as possible. I think that is the best way to do it,” Strauss said.

“It is a bit of a challenge for guys to come in if they haven’t played a lot of cricket if there are injuries. But I think guys have got to be prepared to do that if that is the case,” he added.

The first of the five Ashes Tests from November 25 to 29 will be followed by Tests in Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney.

The tour also has two Twenty20 clashes and a seven-match ODI series. (ANI)