The Ashes: Bryson Carse says England can hit Australia with pace again
All of the England squad except for Wood took part in England’s first training session under lights at the Gabba on Monday.
Whereas Australia are experienced in day-night Tests – 14 of the 24 previous floodlit matches worldwide have involved Australia – England have played only seven, losing five.
England’s training session on Tuesday is in the afternoon, with a further stint under lights coming on Wednesday.
Ben Stokes’ side are looking to level the series at a ground where England have an awful record. They have not won here since 1986.
Carse, 30, said England will be ready for a “hostile” atmosphere at the Gabba and will feel no extra pressure because of the 1-0 deficit.
England have not won any of their past 16 Tests in Australia, a run going back to 2011. With thousands of supporters due to travel over the Christmas period, Carse acknowledged the responsibility of keeping the series alive.
“The English support at Perth was fantastic,” said the Durham man. “Someone was mentioning to me the other day the number of fans that are travelling throughout the Ashes series.
“We’re very fortunate with the following and the support we get. Of course, every single player in that dressing room wants to win, as do the fans, as does everyone who follows English cricket. We’ll be looking to put smiles on our faces and theirs.”
Australia have yet to confirm who will open the batting after Usman Khawaja struggled with back spasms in Perth and his replacement in the second innings, Travis Head, crashed a match-winning hundred.
Khawaja went through some fitness exercises and batted in the nets on Monday.
“Usman’s a high-quality player, you look at his record and what he’s done for Australian cricket,” said batter Marnus Labuschagne. “He’s been super consistent and he’s been the rock at the top there.
“I don’t think he needs advice. He’s 38, he’s been around the block a long time. He is an amazing player.”