Matt Prior has backed England to upset the odds by winning back the Ashes.

The former Sussex wicketkeeper believes that Australia will struggle to cope with the label of being red-hot favourites going into the first Test in Cardiff today.

Prior – a three-time Ashes winner – also feels home advantage could be decisive as Alistair Cook’s men attempt to regain the urn.

The former Brighton College pupil who retired due to injury last month said: “There’s a huge amount of expectation on the Aussies’ shoulders as everyone is expecting them to turn up and win 5-0.

“That brings with it a huge amount of pressure whereas nobody is giving England a prayer so they can just quietly go about their business.

“Also the Australia side is full of players who have never won here and that, potentially, is a big factor. Playing an Ashes series away from home is completely different and England need to make sure they harness the advantage the home crowds can give them.

“England have won three home series on the bounce and I see no reason why they can’t make it four.”