Sydney: Ian Bell is trying different method to counter Australian fierce attack which he expects when Ashes begins this month. He is donning protective equipment usually reserved for rugby players during nets sessions.
The England batsman wore the beefy body armour, complete with knee pads and shin guards, for a nets session in Perth ahead of their first warm-up match on Thursday.
It is the first time an England player has been pictured in the tackle-padding, which is more akin to a bulletproof vest.
Bell is anticipating a fierce bowling attack from the Aussies and has been getting his team-mates to serve some testing bouncers.
It was just two months ago that England clinched a 3-0 home series win over Australia in Durham, and they are now bidding for what could be an historic fourth consecutive Ashes victory.
The tour began with a three-day warm-up against Western Australia at the WACA and captain Alastair Cook is up for the challenge of becoming the first England captain for 123 years to win four series in a row.
The First Test begins on November 21 at The Gabba in Brisbane.
