Australia coach Andrew McDonald has thrown his support behind opener David Warner, tipping him for a "significant" role in this summer's Ashes.
Ollie Robinson is set to undergo a scan on a sore left ankle on Monday as the seamer became the latest injury worry for England ahead of a Test against Ireland and the Ashes this summer.
Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has questioned Josh Hazlewood's participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL), suggesting the stint could harm the seamer's Ashes prospects.
England cricket star Stuart Broad has thrown fuel on the fire after dismissing Australia's Ashes victory in 2021-22 due to the prevailing COVID-19 restrictions.
English-born wicketkeeper Josh Inglis will be eyeing a Test debut while opener David Warner has retained his spot in Australia's initial squad for the Ashes.
Ollie Pope would embrace the challenge of being captain in the Ashes if parachuted into the role but insists his main focus ahead of the new season is consolidating his place in England's top three.