'I think that favours Australia' - Former Test skipper Tim Paine feels England's tactic of preparing fast-flat wickets may backfire

The much-awaited first Test of the Ashes 2023 is just one day away as England and Australia get ready to kick off the series on Friday, June 16 at Edgbaston. Ahead of the series, there have been widespread talks around whether England’s ‘Bazball’ play will be successful against the potent bowling attack of Australia.

England captain Ben Stokes had earlier revealed that he has advised curators to prepare fast flat wickets to aid quick scoring for his side. However, former Australia captain Tim Paine has been left surprised by Stokes’s statement reasoning that such wickets will create home-like conditions for Australia, which can backfire for England.

"That's not what I'd be doing. I think that sounds too much like Australian conditions for me, and that has not worked for them. I think that favours Australia," Paine was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Furthermore, talking about the series, Paine said that the key for England's bowling attack will be to get the ball moving. He also said that if they fail to get any assistance from the pitch, Australia can dominate them.

"I think the key is for them is to get the ball moving. That's where their opportunity lies. Whereas if the balls not swinging they might lack a bit of penetration as they're getting older, as greater bowlers as they've been," Paine added.

Moeen Ali marks his return for the first Ashes Test

England have already announced their playing XI for the first Test with fast bowlers James Anderson and Ollie Robinson making a comeback in the team after injuries. They’ve further included, all-rounder Moeen Ali in the XI, who came out of his retirement for his team following an injury to Jack Leach.

On the other hand, Australia are likely to go in with the same playing XI that they played with in the World Test Championship final 2023 against India. The Pat Cummins-led side won the match by 209 runs and will be eager to continue their winning momentum in the Ashes as they set their eyes on winning their first series in England since 2001.