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In a big update coming with regards to the Ashes series, it is being learnt that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has decided that they will tour Australia for the much-awaited Ashes series set to commence in December this year. The decision comes after a round of discussion between the cricket boards of both countries.
Moreover, it is being reported that England captain Joe Root was part of the conversation between Cricket Australia and ECB and has even confirmed that the Three Lions will go ahead with a full-fledged squad for The Ashes.
A major reason which had put doubts over the fate of the Ashes series was whether the family members of the touring English side will be allowed or not. The reports so far have suggested no update on these lines.
Perth Test may have to be shifted due to Western Australia's COVID-19 measures
Even as the Ashes seems to have been given a final go-ahead, there is a lack of clarity on the venue for the fifth and final Test match which is on paper set to be played in Perth. This is because the state of Western Australia has adopted certain stringent measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 and may not allow any individual to enter the state without a mandatory quarantine.
Meanwhile, Australia's sports minister Richard Colbeck has also said categorically that there are serious questions about whether there'll be a Test match in Perth this year. However, he hinted that Tasmania, which happens to be his home state, can host the final Test, in case Western Australia is adamant on the quarantine measures.
There is no timeframe for players to quarantine before flying to Perth: Australia Sports Minister
"We've had to do a lot of work to organise quarantine arrangements for cricketers coming into Australia," Colbeck was quoted by Daily Mail.
"There are serious questions about whether there'll be a Test match in Perth this summer. If there's no chance of coming here without prolonged quarantine, it just won't occur," he added.
"After the Melbourne and Sydney Tests, there is no timeframe for players to quarantine before flying to Perth, so I think those arrangements are largely settled. The Australian government wants the Ashes to go ahead, but the chances of the Perth Test taking place are very slim," he further said.