Deep midwicket: Ashes fans to watch the first Test from a pitchside swimming pool

Anthony Everard, Cricket Australia's general manager of events and leagues, said he was pleased the initiative was in place again for the summer season.

"The introduction of the Pool Deck last year was hugely popular and we are very happy to be giving our fans what they want and bringing back the pool for this summer," he said.

"The imagery last year of fans cooling off in the pool while watching enthralling cricket matches was wonderful to see, and I am sure that there are plenty of English fans in particular who are eager for their chance to get on the deck this summer and have a reprieve from the Australian summer heat.”

The only drawback: rain and thunderstorms are forecast for the coming days in Brisbane.