There has been good signs for Australia’s Ashes chances overnight, with two members of the squad putting in good performances in English county cricket.

Opener Chris Rogers starred for Middlesex at Lord’s when he scored 161 not out against Sussex.

In a different match, Ed Cowan scored a solid 47 for Nottinghamshire to help them to 2-177 against Yorkshire.

The first Ashes Test between England and Australia begins at Nottingham on July 10.