England have opted against playing a two-day pink ball game against the Prime Minister’s XI this weekend in preparation for the second Ashes Test in Brisbane.

Instead, England will send their reserve team ‘The Lions’ to play against the Canberra team made up of promising young cricketers from around the region. 

Ben Stokes said England would not change their preparation plans just because the first test ended inside two days, adding that he thinks comparisons to previous Ashes tours are unfair. 

He said: “That’s how it was done a long time ago, we prepare incredibly well and work incredibly hard and that’s what we’ll keep on doing because if the results don’t go in our favour, we’re not going to change that”.

The move has surprised some pundits, who particularly thought getting some time in the middle would be invaluable for the England batters given their woes in Perth. 

Former England Captain Michael Vaughan is adamant they should play in the Prime Minister’s tour match.

He said: “It’s amateurish if they don’t go and play, what harm is playing two days of cricket with a pink ball under lights, when you’re preparing for a pink ball Test Match.

“My method would be you’ve got a pink ball two day game go and grab it and give yourself the best chance.”

England’s preparation before the First Test came under fire as they played only one tour match against their own Lions team at Lilac Hill, turning down the option of playing against Australian state sides. 

Australia have a strong record with the pink ball, winning 13 out of the 14 tests they have played, whereas England have won two of the seven they have played.

The first ever day-night Ashes Test was in Adelaide in 2017, with Australia winning by 120 runs. 

Day-night cricket is popular amongst some fans as it allows people to come in and enjoy the cricket after work and makes the most of long summer evenings.

However critics say it gives the seam bowlers excessive amounts of lateral movement, particularly when the lights come on. 

The second test at The Gabba in Brisbane starts on Thursday. Australia will be without captain and fast bowler Pat Cummins who is still recovering from a back injury.