New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum has backed England to retain the Ashes, but has suggested opener Nick Compton should be kept at the top of the order.
McCullum backs England
McCullum is well placed to analyse England's prospects against Australia after four months of battle against them following a washed-out second Twenty20 international.
During that period, which included five Tests home and away, England held on for a series draw in New Zealand before overcoming their rivals 2-0 on home soil.
McCullum believes England's class should shine through against Australia.
"I think England are going to be a tough team to beat," he said.
"They seem to have got their swagger back against us in that final Test match.
"What we saw in that Test match is a team that when they are firing, they are an incredibly tough team, not just to beat but to compete against.
"I thought for long periods of the summer we held our own against them but, when it really mattered, they flexed their muscles.
"I don't expect that will change in the home summer here against Australia."
Australia are still coming to terms with the shock axing of coach Mickey Arthur, but England can so far boast a trouble-free preparation for the Ashes opener at Trent Bridge from July 10.
Kevin Pietersen, back after three months out with a knee injury, was denied his only chance for a hit against international opposition with the T20 washout.
But the 33-year-old appears in good form with an unbeaten 177 for Surrey at the weekend.
England's only possible point of contention appears to be who will join skipper Alastair Cook at the top of the order.
Joe Root looks set to displace Compton, after national selector Geoff Miller declared him as "currently the best opening partner" for Cook.
Compton, however, has been freed to play a second tour game against Australia, when they meet Worcestershire next week.
Compton also hit 81 on the opening day of Somerset's match against Australia at Taunton on Wednesday to prove he will not give up his place lightly.
The 30-year-old played a starring role during the tour of New Zealand, hitting back-to-back centuries, but managed just 39 runs in four innings in the return series.