Ashes places up for grabs

With the Australian squad for the Ashes set to be announced next month, the forthcoming Chapal Cup against Pakistan could provide a golden opportunity for fringe players to catch the eye ahead of the trip to England. Australia will take on "hosts" Pakistan in five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and former Australian batsman Dean Jones is expecting a tight contest, with both sides having something to prove.

"The Chapal Cup will be a very big opportunity for Pakistan," said Jones, who struck a memorable, unbeaten 117 in the UAE in 1990. "I wouldn't be surprised if they start throwing some punches early. I think it will be a real even contest." The series could be particularly crucial for the future of Andrew Symonds, who returns to the Australian side after being suspended following a series of alcohol-related off-field incidents.

Shane Watson, the muscular all-rounder, is also back in the side after a long injury-forced lay-off and will be looking to convince the Australian selectors of his worth. Brett Lee, the dynamic fast bowler, was also expected to make his return to international cricket in this series, but that could be delayed now as the team's medical staff believe his surgically repaired ankle is not yet ready for the rigours of bowling.

Lee last played in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne against South Africa and could still play in the UAE if he makes a speedy recovery. Doug Bollinger, a left-arm fast bowler, has been added to the Australian squad as cover . "A lot of things are at stake: Australia will announce their squad for the World Twenty20 at the end of the tournament," added Jones, who will be commentating on the Chapal Cup for host broadcaster Ten Sports.

"So that will depend on some of the guys' performances in this series. The Ashes squad will also be announced in early May, so a lot of players will have an eye on that. "The Australians will be going really hard, while Pakistan will just be happy to be playing. They are a very dangerous team, but technically they do not do well against the Australians. It will be interesting to see how it pans out."

The impressive new Dubai Sports City Cricket Stadium (DSC) will host the first two ODI on April 22 and April 24 before the teams move to Abu Dhabi for three matches at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium on April 27, May 1 and 3. The teams will return to Dubai for the series finale on May 7, a T20 international. "The series is a great way to spread some really good will around the world to see Australia and Pakistan get together, have some fun, play some good cricket," said Jones.

"Let's hope cricket in Dubai will be really well supported and everyone comes down to support their team. Cricket fans in the UAE don't often get the opportunity to see this level of cricket." @Email:[e-mail] Fans can book their tickets online on www.boxofficeme.com and www.timeoutdubai.com or www.timeoutabudhabi.com