Cooley joins the gang ahead of Ashes

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ENGLAND have appointed Troy Cooley as a consultant pace bowling coach for their Ashes preparations.

The 55-year-old Australian will work under elite pace bowling coach Jon Lewis, supporting the bowlers working in Brisbane.

He will then assist the England Lions seamers when they take on Australia A in a four-day match starting on December 9.

Cooley (pictured) was England’s bowling coach during the 2005 Ashes success and went on to take up the same role with Australia. Mo Bobat, performance director for the England and Wales Cricket Board, said: ‘Troy’s understanding of what it takes to be successful in Australian conditions is second to none, and the players are sure to benefit hugely.’

No play was possible on day two of England’s warm-up match against England Lions in Brisbane, with England stuck on 98 without loss.