Australia has already drawn the first blood by breaching the Edgbaston fortress. Nevertheless, a thumping win in the first test takes Australia 24 points ahead of England in the Test Championship table and of course a 1-0 lead in the Ashes 2019.
Riding on Steve Smith's twin centuries in the first test, Australia were very much known to the fact that barring second innings, they were almost out of the game. It was Smith who turned the game on its head and gave Australia a hope to stay in the game. Not to forget, Nathan Lyon’s 6-for in the final innings was also crucial which bundled up England earlier than expected.
A crushing defeat in Birmingham has left England with so many questions to answer ahead of the second Test at Lord's. On the other end, Australia would also like to make some tactical changes to maintain the lead.
Also Read: Steve Smith 2.0 – The Redemption Continues
Players to watch out
Jason Roy
Playing his only third Test of the career comes with a great ODI reputation. A fearsome hitter of the ball, he carries a strike rate over 100 in ODIs. A promising talent backed by Kevin Pietersen, former England captain. And, since Alastair Cook’s retirement, England has been struggling with their openers. Roy is new and dynamic batsman, he can make a good pair with Rory Burns.
David Warner
He is a wonderful striker of the cricket ball across the format. Although, Warner was among the highest run-getters in the world cup played in England a month back. He must be very disappointed with himself for not getting big scores in the first game. As a senior batsman in the team, his contribution at the top is vital and considering batting prowess, he could take the game away from opposition in an hour or so. Warner would certainly be gearing up for the second game to prove a point.
Jofra Archer
A young English speedster who hits the deck hard, generates a lot of pace and bounce on any dead surface. Deceiving short ball is his lethal weapon, he possesses accurate toe crusher yorkers as well. This kid is destined for great success. Hope he has a great game on Wednesday.
Probable Changes
James Anderson is out due to a knee injury and Moeen Ali's exit are the likely changes for England. Jofra Archer, England's ODI World Cup hero, may make his debut at Lord's and Leach may replace Moeen Ali who was England's hero against Ireland a month ago.
Australia looks pretty solid as a team though Justin Langer, Australian Coach, indicated Pattinson would be given rest ahead of the second Test and may be replaced by Josh Hazlewood or Mitchell Starc. Considering Siddle's contribution with bat and the ball in the first game, he might retain his place.
Predicted Xl
Australia
David Warner, Cameron Bancroft, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Matthew Wade, Tim Paine (capt/wk), Pat Cummins, Peter Siddle/Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
England
Rory Burns, Jason Roy, Joe Root, Joe Denly, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Chris Woakes, Jofra Archer, Stuart Broad, Moeen Ali/Jack Leach.
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