It was the end of an era for English cricket in August 2012 when Andrew Strauss retired and resigned the captaincy following the 2-0 series loss to South Africa.
He had enjoyed a successful partnership with Alastair Cook in his final years in the team, their runs at the top of the order vital to England's success.
To say England have missed Strauss since his departure would be an understatement.
England have not had a consistent opening pair since, and the problem has now doubled with Cook's exit after last summer's 4-1 home series victory over India.
Jason Roy, when he came out to bat against Ireland at Lord's on July 24, became the 18th opener (including Cook) to have opened an innings for England since Strauss stopped playing.
This includes Jack Leach twice opening as a nightwatchman, and also Jos Buttler, who once batted as an opener.
Roy and Rory Burns are the latest iteration of England's attempt at an opening pair and how they fare in the Ashes, which starts at Edgbaston on Thursday, could be pivotal.
Check out the history of England's opening batsmen since Strauss stepped away in the gallery above.
To move on to the next photo, click on the arrows, or if using a mobile device, simply swipe.
