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Australia’s most famous beer has created a limited-edition run of the VB just for the UK cricket fans called England Bitter, touting it as a “big warm beer for our English foes”.

To ensure England’s men’s cricketers are aware of the offer, Carlton & United Breweries (CUB), who produces VB, will also release a rejigged version of its iconic jingle in the great tradition of banter between the two great cricketing nations.

The company had also taken out full-page ads in major Australian newspapers ahead of the third test stater at Headingley.

The move follows on from English coach Brendon McCullum’s refusal to have a beer with the Aussies.

“We know the English are bitter about the Lord’s Test, but when they’re feeling less bitter, we’ve got a beer to shout them, our fresh new England Bitter,” said Marc Lord, marketing manager at VB.

“England Bitter has got their name on it and we’re sending a few slabs to the English cricket team to enjoy once they’ve cooled off. 

“We raise our glass to the whole Australian team for securing a famous win in the second test, and wish them the best of luck in winning the series.”

Free England Bitter t-shirts were also given out to Aussie fans at the Headingley match.

Food & Drink Business

Welcome to the July edition of PLAY, your monthly wrap-up of the biggest stories shaping Australia's food and beverage manufacturing industry. This month we're looking at court action, a major take-private deal, alleged tomato provenance fraud, new leadership and investment in manufacturing capability. Let's get into it. 

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