Preview
England vs Australia · Ashes opener preview
The series opener at Lord's. Surface reads, the venue-by-venue splits and the press-conference round-up.
Form, with a defined window
England have won two and lost two of the last four Ashes series. Australia have won two and lost two. The Lord's Test has been historically the most evenly matched, with both captains winning the toss and bowling first.
Availability, named
- England: One change expected, with the young allrounder in for the experienced player.
- Australia: The returning opener is expected to play, with the incumbent on the bench.
Surface and conditions
The Lord's surface is expected to take spin from day two, with the seam movement available on day one. The fourth-innings chase has historically averaged 280 at Lord's over the last five years.
What we're watching
- Whether England blood the young allrounder at seven or stick with the experienced player.
- Whether Australia play the returning opener or stick with the incumbent.
- Whether the seamers are rotated through the first two sessions or held back for the morning session on day two.