The Ashes series is poised at 1-1. Evens Stevens is the phrase! In one sense we could regard this as the “perfect finale” to conclude a thoroughly eventful 2 months of rivalry.
However, one has to remember that a draw is of no use to the home side as that will result in Australia retaining the urn. From a statistical perspective the Oval isn’t renowned as a “result” ground as pitches in recent times has been rather flat and therefore not assistive to enforce an outcome. Furthermore the victorious momentum is flowing with Australia so unless England produces something out of the ordinary they could have missed their opportunity to repeat the heroics of 2005. Brett Lee’s return to the frame will also strengthen the in-form Australian attack. The speedstar was amongst the wickets in the recent lion’s fixture.
Looking at the optimistic side of proceedings let’s see how England can maybe upset the odds.
- 2 spinners – the pitches tend to be dry and after all England simply need to take the magical 20 scalps one way or another.
- Winning the toss and batting first=crucial. England needs to draw first blood and set the tone.
If there is ever a time for heroes to stand up and deliver, now it is!
Oz special
14 years ago
2 comments:
Maz,
England will get thrashed! 4 days and we'll see a result.
They won't be able to get the thought of the loss of Pietersen out of their heads and to compound their misery, Lee will be back.
Stani, I don't think Lee will be back. Clarke can't be the only spin option if the pitch starts to turn. That would be bad planning.
Also, Flintoff is playing and he is a glory hunter. So he will do everything possible to make sure that he is the hero of this match...
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