England have not won an Ashes series since a 2015 triumph on home soil
Perth is one of the most isolated cities in the world.
Adelaide is 1,300 miles to the east, Jakarta 1,900 miles to the north. In this corner of Western Australia, nature is hostile. The heat is unforgiving and there are countless animals that could kill a human. Even the magpies attack.
England hardly win cricket matches here: one victory in 14 visits across 55 years. Men wearing Three Lions have won more often in Mumbai, Multan and Colombo.
It is an unlikely place to find English optimism, but thousands have travelled for Friday's first Ashes Test in hope.
