The Ashes: Anderson precise even in his sleep

James Anderson talks with bowling coach David Saker during an England nets session in Perth. Photo / Getty Images

England's swingman Jimmy Anderson can sleep with almost as much precision as he can bowl.

Anderson kept his body on Australian time throughout a rapid visit home for the birth of his daughter Ruby, and has returned to Perth ahead of the third Ashes cricket test feeling and sounding fresher than anyone has any right to after two flights of more than 20 hours' duration each.

"I didn't get into a sleep routine in England or acclimatise to English conditions. I tried to stay on Australian time and I think I've done that well," said Anderson.

"I trusted my body and when my body felt tired I went to sleep.

"I had a good night's sleep last night, I've got two days preparation before the Test and I don't see why they won't go well.

"I feel fresh and probably happy for the rest from bowling after a tough first two Tests."

While there was understandably some sadness at leaving his newborn so soon after meeting her, Anderson said it was simply a part of his professional life.

He also bore no pangs of envy for teammates who have been able to have their families join the tour for the Perth leg of the journey.

"It was nice to go back for a few days, to be there for the birth. In an ideal world I probably would've stayed a bit longer, but the nature of my job is I've got to be here and try to perform at my best for England," he said.

"It's difficult leaving my family at home but it's something I've had to deal with before.

"The birth of my first child, I was there for a couple of weeks then I had to go off on tour.

"I quite enjoy seeing other people's kids and it's quite nice having a family atmosphere around the team."

- AAP