Ashes: Boxing Day test Preview

The Ashes, 4th Test, Melbourne

With the Ashes already in the hands of Aussies, it is the matter of pride for the Poms from now on.

England :

The English look done and dusted. Their prime batsmen out of form. Johnathan Trott’s mental-illness and Swann’s sudden retirement have done no good to their side either. With the Ashes already lost, the English batsmen will play without fire. Underfire Alastair Cook and Pieterson would like to score big. The middle order’s contribution is required for any-sort of resistance against the Australian juggernaut.

Stokes was impressive in the Perth test and would like to continue the good work. But the main problem is with the mis-firing bowlers. Anderson is woefully out of form, Bresnan was unimpressive in the previous test. With Broad’s inclusion a little doubtful, Steve Finn might get a look-in. Panesar is most likely to take over Swann’s place.

The worst part with the English side is their horrible fielding. Butter-fingers in the first day against the aussies in the second test costed them dearly. Andy Flower must have definitely gave some lessons on improving fielding to the English team.

Australia :

Somehow, the Aussies are not putting one step wrong.

Warner, Clarke and Haddin look in omnious form. Even under fire Steven smith and Watson conjured incredible centuries at the WACA. While Smith’s temperament was evident from his important first innings knock, Watson was his aggressive best and absolutely demolished the English attack.

The only problem is the instable form of opener Rogers and Bailey. But the Aussies will not be much worried with that.

The Australian bowling is what that has beem ruthless. Spearheaded by rejuvenated Mitchell Johnson, the Aussies have left no stone unturned to regain the Ashes. And in what a spectacular way they have reclaimed it!

Mitchell’s pace, Siddle’s cunning accuracy and Harris’ swing and seam movement has been the success formula for the Aussies. Over that, the surprise performer has been Nathan Lyon, who has chipped in with important wickets.

Another important factor has been their ruthless attitude and fielding. They have not dropped many unlike the English compatriots. Also, their aggressiveness has been the key ingredient to regain the ashes.

Will England savage some pride? Or will the Australian juggernaut roll on? On a bouncy Melbourne wicket, let us wait and see what happens!