Crocodiles and mosquitoes haunt England ahead of 'killer' series

Ashes is considered as one of the most fearsome rivalries of cricket. Two formidable teams, namely England and Australia take on each other. The sternness shown by both the teams makes it a ‘killer’ series to watch. But before it begins in November this year, England is worried about some ‘killer’ friends who stays not very far away from one of the venues selected.

On Thursday it was announced that Adelaide, Perth and Townsville would host the three pre-Test tour matches in November. While there is no problem with Adelaide and Perth, but seeing the name of Townsville in the list, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) officials have started scratching their heads. Townsville will host the first warm-up match of an Ashes tour.

Tony Ireland Stadium, where the match will be played, is situated just beside the Ross River. The Ross River is the home to many saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. Last year, a humongous 4.7 metre long crocodile was pulled out of the Ross River, which suggests that there are many man-eaters swimming in the river. Worries do not end here for England as mosquitoes are their next threat.

According to reports from Reuters, ECB has asked the players to “apply insect repellent liberally in a city which suffers occasional outbreaks of dengue fever”. The members of the Barmy Army (Group of English cricket fans) have also been asked to avoid swimming despite the favourable conditions. Former Australian cricketer Andrew Symonds, who grew up in Townsville, said he is excited to hear the songs of Barmy Army.

“It’ll be interesting to see the new songs they come up with when they’re in Townsville. I’ve seen them in very close quarters and they are an intelligent operation in the way they conduct themselves through song and so on. They are cheeky, good spirited and fun.” said Symonds.

Here are the fixtures of Ashes series

First Test Gabba, November 23-27.

Second Test Adelaide Oval, December 2-6 (Day-Night).

Third Test WACA Ground, December 14-18.

Fourth Test MCG, December 26-30.

Fifth Test SCG, January 4-8 (Pink Test).

Watch a freshwater crocodile filmed in the Ross River