Overview

• Speaking on a BBC podcast, Stuart Broad dismissed David Warner’s 4-0 prediction and “moral victory” jibe by calling this Australia’s weakest Ashes team since 2010.
• Australia captain Pat Cummins said he is “probably less likely than likely” to play the first Test because of a back injury.
• Multiple reports highlight concerns over Australia’s unsettled top order and an ageing seam attack navigating five Tests in seven weeks.
• England have not won an Ashes series in Australia since 2010-11, the comparison Broad used to frame his assessment of the current squads.
• England’s selection conversations continue, with Alastair Cook backing Ollie Pope at No. 3 and pace options such as Jofra Archer and Mark Wood returning to fitness.