Moeen Ali has answered England's Ashes call, reversing his retirement from Test cricket for one last mission against Australia.
Australia seamer Mitchell Starc has expressed his desire to play 100 test matches for the Aussies instead of playing in other more lucrative formats of the game.
Steve Smith insists Australia are fully focused on the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India, starting at the Oval on Wednesday, before turning their attention to the Ashes.
Ben Stokes played down fears over his fitness before the Ashes after England wrapped up victory over Ireland by 10 wickets inside three days without him batting or bowling at Lord's.
England's Test summer failed to get off to the best start after the team bus was delayed on its way to Lord's by Just Stop Oil protesters.
Ben Duckett has been backed to thrive long-term in a position that has given England a headache for several years after grasping his second chance at Test cricket with both hands.