First Ashes Test, Brisbane
Dates: 25-29 November Start time: 0000 GMT Coverage: Listen live to Test Match Special on BBC 5 live sports extra, Radio 4 LW and online (UK only). Watch live on Sky Sports 1, highlights on ITV 4

Australia legend Shane Warne has followed tradition by predicting a home win in the Ashes.

"One thing's for sure, it's going to be an action-packed summer full of entertainment - a nice change from previous summers of cricket. For the record, I think Australia will win the series - by one Test," he said.
Full story: Herald Sun

Former England seamer Matthew Hoggard is revelling at the prospect of an England victory in Australia for the first time since 1986/87.

"You can feel it, sense it," he stated. "Australia are on the back foot and isn't it wonderful? Their fans expect England to win and let's rub their noses in it. After all those years of Warne and McGrath telling us what they were going to do to us and then bowling us out, this is our turn."
Full story: Daily Star

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has urged Andrew Strauss not to be guided by his infamous decision to bowl first at Brisbane in 2002.

"By stumps Australia were 360-odd for two," he recalls. "So, yes, not my best move. I only arrived in Australia on Monday, but already I've been reminded of it by everyone from the taxi driver to the bloke behind reception. I can laugh now, but I wasn't laughing then.

"Strauss must make a dispassionate call based on the conditions as he sees them."
Full story: Daily Mail

Australia vice-captain Michael Clarke fears he will be dropped if he does not make sizeable scores in the Ashes.

"We're all under pressure. We all need to perform. I'm no different to anyone else," he said.
Full story: Adelaide Advertiser

Australia batsman Mike Hussey has admitted he is relieved to be included in the team for the first Test after some modest recent form.

"The pressure is going to be on again on Thursday and I've got to score runs. That is just the bottom line," he stated.
Full story: Perth Now

Australia's Simon Katich is relishing his opening partnership with Shane Watson.

"We both didn't really open much, apart from one-day cricket," said Katich. ''Both of us have adapted really well. We really enjoy walking out there as a team, rather than just going out there on your own when you're in the middle order."
Full story: Sydney Morning Herald

The England team have come under fire for failing to appear at an official Ashes lunch attended by more than half of the Australia side.

Master of ceremonies Ian Healy, the forthright former Australia wicketkeeper, criticised the absence of the tourists.

Full story: Courier Mail

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