Michael Neser has poured cold water on a potential move to ban Aussies playing County cricket in England to prepare for the 2027 Ashes series in the UK. Australians have been playing for County clubs for decades, especially before an away Ashes series to prepare for English conditions.
But reports from British media in recent days have stated that England hierarchy are considering asking the counties not to sign any Australians in the lead-up to the 2027 series. In the wake of Australia’s 4-1 victory in the series just completed, England are looking at any and all avenues to find an edge for the next series in mid-2027.
There’s a chance Australian players could be blocked from playing County cricket. (Photo by Philip Brown/Getty Images)
One measure reportedly being discussed is asking the County clubs to impose a ‘ban’ on signing Aussie players so they can’t get the ideal preparation they’re accustomed to. The England Cricket Board doesn’t have the power to dictate what the County clubs can and can’t do, but it’s hoped they’ll do everything in their power for the betterment of the national side.
But speaking this week, veteran bowler Neser said he can’t see it happening. The 35-year-old, who has previously played for Glamorgan and Hampshire in England, suggested the counties won’t be on board with doing anything that will weaken themselves.
“I think it’ll be a tough one,” he told News Corp. “I know the counties love having Australian players over and we love going over.”
Michael Neser has previously played for Glamorgan and doesn’t think the County clubs will be on board. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Ben Stokes on board with England clubs banning Aussies
The County clubs are unlikely to take the hit due to prize money on offer for winning championships, as well as relegation and promotion ramifications for not fielding your best side. If an Australian player is available and the best option, it’s hard to see a struggling County club not snapping them up.
As well as failing to win an Ashes series in Australia in 15 years, England also haven’t won a series outright on home soil since 2015. The last two Ashes series in the UK – 2023 and 2019 – have been 2-2 draws, meaning Australia have held the urn for five series in a row.
England captain Ben Stokes recently admitted he’s never understood why County clubs are so willing to accommodate Australians. “It is odd when you see touring players given opportunities to play County cricket before a big series. I’ve never understood it,” he said. “You never see it anywhere else in the world. I don’t think Australia would sign a visa for one of our lads playing Sheffield Shield games before an Ashes.”