Strike team head to Brisbane

England’s front line bowling attack will miss their final warm-up match against Australia A, in a bid to acclimatise to conditions in Brisbane. Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Steven Finn and Graeme Swann will all travel north ahead of the rest of their team who will play in Hobart against Australia’s A side.

Those looking to place an Ashes bet will note that the bowlers have had enough practice time during the two previous warm-up games and the English management feel getting used to the different climate in Brisbane is more important then bowling more overs. Stuart Broad has backed the decision, saying “We've had two fantastic games as a bowling group together. Now it's all about preparation for that first Test match - and I see going up to Brisbane early as a great opportunity to get used to conditions.”

The absence of the first string will give the other bowlers in the squad a chance to impress and maybe put themselves in contention. Tim Brsenan, Chris Tremlett, Ajmal Shazad and Monty Panesar will all make their first appearances of the tour so far in Tasmania.

While the three quickies will probably expect to be carrying the drinks this series, the inexperience of Finn could hand one of them a chance should the youngster struggle. Fan’s favourite Monty, may have a chance of returning to the Test side if England choose to play two spinners at any point during the series. Monty’s chance could come in the Boxing Day Test at the SCG.

Those giving cricket betting tips note how the pitch at Sydney is renowned for its turn and the English management will be watching how Monty performs in the upcoming warm-up match. If the Monty of old turns up, jumping around like a beardy jack-in-the-box, then there could be a very good chance of him playing some part this winter.

If England can beat Australia’s A side by using their second string bowling attack, it will give the whole squad another massive confidence boost. It’s fair to say that this is probably the most confident an England side in Australia has been since they last won a series Down Under 24 years ago. Most see that confidence as being well placed so far, it will be up to the selected players to carry it on into the opening Test.