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The English primary batsmen decided to avoid a pink-ball practice game in the capital, even after a comprehensive defeat in the first Ashes Test in Perth.

The tourists lost in under 48 hours in the first Test, leaving an extended gap before the upcoming day-night Test in Queensland.

This gap presented the chance for players to participate in the England Lions two-day pink-ball match versus a Prime Minister's XI in the capital on Saturday and Sunday.

However, just fast bowlers Josh Tongue and another bowler, plus batsman Jacob Bethell – all of whom featured in the first Test – will travel and link up with the Lions.

Reports indicate that not one of the first-Test players asked to play in the capital match.

Former England Star Describes Decision "Unusual"

Upon learning England were considering dispatching players to the capital for the development squad match, it was expected they would send players in need of match time.

Ex- England fast bowler and chief cricket commentator added:

The team are responsible for how they prepare and their performances on the field. They are responsible for giving it their best shot to win the Ashes. The proof of the pudding will be in the eating.

Missed Chance for Pink-Ball Practice

This match with the Prime Minister's XI has long been customary for visiting teams to Australia.

The tourists have played in the game in previous series in Australia, but was left out in their schedule this time due to a possible short gap to Brisbane had the first match had lasted the full duration.

The flight from Western Australia to the capital takes almost four hours, and a further two-hour flight from Canberra to Brisbane.

Yet, considering the opening match was completed so quickly – the first 48-hour Test in the series since 1921 – the thought of sending some of the batters to the capital seemed to make sense.

Batting Struggles in Perth

• England dismissed twice in the first Test inside 67.3 overs.
• It's been since 1904 has the team survived such a low number of deliveries in losing a Test.
• Each of the skipper and former captain Joe Root failed to reach 10 runs in either innings.
• The opener became only the fourth English opener to record a pair in an Ashes Test.

The side played only one warm-up match before the first Test, meaning the fixture in Canberra could have offered much-needed time in the middle.

Uncommon Day-Night Test Coming Up

Furthermore, the Lions match provided experience using the pink ball, as the team set to face a unusual day-night Test.

England have lost 5 of their seven previous day-nighters, while Australia have won 13 from fourteen.

In pace bowler Mitchell Starc, who claimed a ten-wicket haul in the first Test, the home side have the best pink-ball bowler in the world.

Of England's probable line-up in Brisbane, gloveman Jamie Smith and fast bowler another have never played a first-class match with a pink ball, and a third has played only one.

Team Management Position

Questioned following the first Test if England would alter preparations and dispatch players to the capital, captain Ben Stokes remained firm they would not.

I've been asked a lot, that's how it was done a long time ago. We prepare incredibly well and work intensely every day we get the opportunity.

Head coach Brendon McCullum seemed to suggest flexibility when he stated:

We've just got to determine what the pros and cons are. We haven't committed to any position currently, but we'll work it out in a couple of days.

The coach continued that he was "sure" a batter could play in the capital should they wish.

Criticism from Ex-Skipper

Speaking recently, former captain a well-known figure said it would be "amateurish" to decline the opportunity to participate in Canberra.

How could it hurt taking part in 48 hours of cricket using the day-night ball in evening conditions?

Vaughan added:

I can't be so old school to propose that by getting match practice they could become slightly improved?

My method would be, there's a day-night two-day game, you seize the opportunity, go and take it, play those two days and give yourself the optimal preparation.

The squad are scheduled to fly to Queensland midweek and do not plan to practice before the start of the week. There is the possibility of an additional practice on Sunday.