Their task on the field is narrower: to further the 50-over education of a largely inexperienced side before next year's World Cup, and to get back to winning ways after a poor tri-series campaign in Pakistan.
England have begun a limited-overs tour of Australia with preparation at the Waca, but the story consuming the hosts is not the visitors. Sandpaper, and the ball-tampering affair that has shadowed Australian cricket, is again dominating the headlines.
Cricket Australia has already ruled out reopening an investigation that looked rushed eight years ago and has since been confirmed as hugely flawed, according to the report.
On Tuesday night Khawaja endured an awkward interview on the ABC's 7.30 programme. He was questioned sharply and became evasive.
England have little reason to enter the argument. The report said there is no real imperative for them to wade in when they can watch their opponents stew in their own difficulties.
Brendon McCullum remains head coach in limited-overs cricket. No one, however, is talking about"Bazball"or trying to sell the white-ball trip as a sequel to that approach.
One difference from a year ago, described as slightly galling, is that England have tuned up with a proper tour match at the Waca.