The greatest sporting rivalry (yes, even greater than Ipswich v Norwich) has been rekindled Down Under with England and Australia going toe-to-toe in the Ashes.

But with the sporting spectacle running through the night there may be some tired heads among cricket enthusiasts in the office.

If employees are unable to carry out their duties due to tiredness or miss work they may find themselves feeling more heat than England's tail at the Waca.

Clapham & Collinge head of employment law Nicola Strefford said: 'While employees must be allowed time off for jury service and can take reasonable time off for a number of public duties, unfortunately watching the Ashes does not qualify for this.

'Any allowances for employees to watch the Ashes will be at the employer's discretion only.

'Consequently, if employees are obviously tired, fall asleep at their desks or take unauthorised time-off work, or perhaps are hungover, this can lead to disciplinary procedures being initiated by the employer.

'Employers might have an alcohol and drugs policy that details the consequences for unacceptable behaviour, including at the Christmas party.'