Exclusive: England bring forward Ashes to early summer in bid to help World Cup defence

Next year’s Ashes is set for the earliest finish in its 140-year history to allow England to prepare for their World Cup defence.

In a move that might anger traditionalists it is likely that the 2023 series will begin in late June and finish at the very start of August, with a maximum of two Tests taking place during the school holidays. 

England's players would then spend the remainder of the summer playing solely white-ball cricket - which Telegraph Sport understands would be against Australia, New Zealand and Ireland - as Matthew Mott's side look ahead to the 50-over World Cup, which takes place in October and November. The Hundred would also take place after the Test series had finished, with almost all of August being devoted to the short-form version of the game.

The earliest an Ashes has previously finished in England was on August 11, back in 1909, with the 2019 series taking place between August 1 and September 16, although that series began later than normal due to the World Cup.

Meanwhile, England fast bowler Stuart Broad has said the five-wicket victory over New Zealand in the opening Test at Lord’s was “huge” and could be the catalyst for an improvement in fortunes under the new coach and captain, Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes.

“I don't think anyone who has come to Lord's can argue it's not been fun, the style of cricket, edge of the seat at times, the crowd has got involved and it's something we want to take to Trent Bridge,” said Broad in the build-up to his home Test.

Broad bowled a notably fuller length at Lord’s, and said this reflected the wishes of McCullum, and Stokes. “It's noticeable from Stokesy and Baz that it's all about taking wickets. Test cricket ebbs and flows and you do need to adjust to