RICHARD GIBSON IN PERTH: Australia's Ashes plans were thrown into chaos on Wednesday when two of their first Test bowlers were sent for scans.

Since making his debut 13 months ago, no England bowler has taken more Test wickets than Brydon Carse. Aged 30, he is a late developer, but also a quiet achiever, happily operating under the radar.

Former cricketer and coach David 'Bumble' Lloyd has lifted the lid on an eventful golfing trip with Sir Ian Botham - which he revealed left the England legend with hurt ribs and a cut arm.

All-time great Botham didn't hold back when he was asked about the team's build-up to the first Test on November 21. Stokes did the same as he replied in Perth on Wednesday.

High drama struck at the NSW vs Victoria Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday afternoon.

The world's biggest podcaster was out of his depth as Crowe waxed lyrical about one of his biggest sporting passions.

One of the greatest cricketers England has ever produced has lashed out at the tourists ahead of the first Test in Perth on November 21.

Ashes away wins are like hen's teeth. And as of next summer, neither country will be indulging in the practice of using the other one's ball in a bid to change that trend.

Australia's media have refused to roll out the red carpet for their guests this winter, with Ben Stokes' England the subject of brutal jesting just 10 days out from the first Ashes Test.

Ollie Pope, recently replaced as England vice-captain, appeared in a dogfight with Jacob Bethell for the final top-six batting berth after passing 50 only once in his eight most recent Test innings.

Tom Morris became one of Nine's most prominent footy voices - but now he has joined other big-name stars in leaving the network.