Let's hope Anderson shows better handling skills when his second baby arrives

Former England bowler Bob Willis is unhappy with players on paternity leave while on duty. James Anderson is back in the UK for the birth of his second child, while Graeme Swann and Paul Collingwood are also set to miss some of the World Cup build-up with new father duties. Willis told Sky Sports: "I don't agree with the Mothercare buggy-rolling thinking that modern man has. He should be on the cricket tour, that's his job."
Full story: Sporting Life

A desire to win the Ashes on English soil could encourage Ricky Ponting to continue playing international cricket even if he gets the axe as Australian skipper.
Full story: Sydney Morning Herald

England coach Andy Flower has hailed spin bowler Graeme Swann, describing him as a "canny operator" and "smart cookie" despite all his jokes. "Graeme is really good for our dressing room because it is not exactly the rowdiest place in the world! We want people to influence our dressing room in a positive way and he does that."
Full story: The Sun

With Aussie places up for grabs in Perth, Nathan Hauritz gave the selectors something to think about with a maiden first-class century for New South Wales. The man discarded before the series scored 146 after coming in as a nightwatchman, although he his yet to take a wicket. Team-mate Steve Smith - more of a batter - bagged four for 57 with his leg spin.
Full story: Sydney Morning Herald

With Simon Katich injured, the fight is on to be one of the opening batsmen for the Ashes hosts. Shaun Marsh, pushing favourite Phil Hughes for selection, suffered a golden duck playing for Western Australia in a day/night 45-over match in Brisbane.
Full story: Scorecard on espncricinfo.com

England will come up against four debutants when they play the Victorian Bushrangers in a three-day tour match starting on Friday in Melbourne. Batsman David Hussey, hoping for an Ashes call-up, is also in action.
Full story: Skysports.com

Rumours of Shane Warne coming out of retirement are not going away. The Aussie legend is in Britain for some promotional work but is focusing on keeping warm rather than playing in the Ashes. "Just passed some eskimos and polar bears in London... It's so cold"
Read more: Shane Warne's Twitter feed

Richie Benaud, an Australian legend behind the microphone and with a ball, is upset that Warne is the only one being discussed over a return to cricket. The 80-year-old said: "The really annoying thing about that is that no one's asked me if I want to make a comeback!" (Reuters)

England batsman Kevin Pietersen may be in hot water for speeding on the Great Ocean Road near Melbourne but he has still found time to take a few pictures. "Stunning beaches on The Great Ocean Rd.. Gorgeous drive!"
Read more: Kevin Pietersen's Twitter feed

England spinner Graeme Swann is currently in Melbourne chilling ahead of the third Test. He reveals he is enjoying opal fruits in his hotel room as well as an unusual present from the UK. "My wife's red cross package included foamburst shower gel. I'd forgotten soaping yourself up could feel this good."Read more: Graeme Swann's Twitter feed

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