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England Plans Pink Ball Warm-up for 150th Ashes Test
12 Feb
Summary
- England will play a warm-up match with a pink ball before the 2027 Melbourne Test.
- This match aims to improve preparation following criticism in the recent Ashes.
- Talks are underway for better touring team preparation before future Ashes series.
England intends to play a day-night warm-up match using a pink ball before the historic 150th anniversary Test against Australia in Melbourne. This Test is scheduled for March 11, 2027, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, commemorating the first Test match between the two nations in 1877.
This proactive preparation follows significant criticism of England's inadequate arrangements for the recent Ashes series, which they lost 4-1. Coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged potential preparation errors after the team's early series defeat.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is in discussions with Cricket Australia regarding a reciprocal agreement to enhance touring teams' readiness for Ashes contests. Junction Oval in Melbourne is being considered as a potential venue for this crucial warm-up match.
The 2026-27 winter presents a demanding schedule for England's multi-format players. Following their home summer, they will participate in a 50-over tri-series in Pakistan, followed by a white-ball tour of Australia in November.
Further challenges include a three-Test series against South Africa in December, though its T20 component might conflict with South Africa's SA20 league. England will also face Bangladesh in two Tests in February before likely traveling directly to Australia, with additional warm-up matches anticipated before the South Africa and Bangladesh tours.
