England will lock horns with Australia in the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford, Manchester from Wednesday onwards. The series stands at 2-1 in favor of the visitors but the hosts made a terrific comeback after winning the third Test at Leeds, Headingley by three wickets.
England’s two new additions – Mark Wood and Chris Woakes – played an instrumental part in the team’s victory. Wood scalped a total of seven wickets whereas Woakes snared six wickets in the match. Furthermore, both the all-rounders played crucial roles with the bat.
In fact, it was the match for the all-rounders as Australia’s Mitchell Marsh had a fantastic outing at Leeds. Marsh returned with scores of 118 and 28 and also bagged two wickets, thereby adding to the visitors’ selection woes as Cameron Green will be fit for selection for the penultimate Test. However, Green hasn’t yet delivered for Australia with either bat or ball in the ongoing series.
Australia’s concerns were exposed a bit in the third Test. David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne have been consistently troubled by Stuart Broad whereas Scott Boland, who was super effective in the WTC Final against India, has looked toothless.
The absence of their veteran spinner Nathan Lyon has just added salt to the wounds.
On the other hand, England must have gained a second wind after making a comeback in the third Test and thus the Ashes are still burning. The home team has recalled their veteran pacer James Anderson in place of injured Ollie Robinson.
Match Prediction: With momentum on their side, England will start as favorites against Australia.
England’s playing XI for the 4th Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Moeen Ali, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Stuart Broad, James Anderson.
Australia squad for the fourth Test: Yet to be confirmed.
Australia’s third squad Test was as follows: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Todd Murphy, Scott Boland, Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson.
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