Cricket News : Ashes rivalry will stay on field' says England's Chris Woakes

England fast bowler and all-rounder Chris Woakes said on Thursday he believes the racism and sexting scandals that have soured the England and Australia camps ahead of next Wednesday's Ashes opener are personal matters and should not be used as ammunition for on-field banter, or 'sledging'.

England arrived in Australia as Azeem Rafiq detailed allegations of institutional racism he experienced at English captain Joe Root’s county club Yorkshire.

Wicketkeeper Tim Paine then quit as Australia captain before taking a leave of absence after a sexting scandal surfaced.

Woakes, who is fighting for a spot in the side to play at the Gabba in Brisbane in the first of five tests, said the Ashes rivalry naturally raised the stakes.

But he said to use either issue as sledging, would be out of line.

"Cricket's played best when that sort of stuff is left to the side and we'll let the skills do the talking, which I'm sure will happen," said Woakes.