AUSTRALIA: CRICKET - Excitement mounts before Ashes opener in Brisbane

Thousands of English fans, decked out in their team colours and draped in the flag of St.George, have arrived in Brisbane, Australia for the opening test of the most eagerly-anticipated Ashes series in generations. Tickets for each of the five tests sold out within hours of being released. A record crowd of 42,000 was expected at the Gabba on a hot and sunny day in Brisbane. The humidity was high and temperature was forecast to reach as high as 32 degrees Celsius. Interest in the Ashes was beginning to decline when Australia racked up seven straight series wins between 1989 and 2003 but England's epic 2-1 home victory last year revitalised the rivalry. Australia will start as short-priced favourites to regain the Ashes due to their imposing record on home soil and their outstanding performances over the past 12 months while England's form has dropped off. The side have not lost a series at home to anyone in 14 years and have won 11 and drawn one of the 12 tests they have played since their loss last year.

ITN Source | November 24, 2006

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