Edging Closer

ngland were totally outclassed in the 1st Test, with seven dropped catches and a fragile middle order only telling half the story. If Warne and McGrath perform to a similar standard again on Thursday, it’s difficult to predict anything other than another victory for Australia. However, there is some cause for a bit of English optimism. They have a good record at Edgbaston – averaging 550 runs in the 1st innings of their last two Tests against the West Indies and South Africa.

Edgbaston is traditionally a high scoring ground, so solid performances from England’s bowlers will be vital. Hoggard will need to improve vastly if he is to take the pressure off Flintoff, over-used at Lord’s to the detriment of his batting. Another fine performance from Harmison will also be needed if England are to stand any chance of victory. Of the batsmen, the openers will be the key to success, and the top six will have to score at least 400 runs in the 1st Innings if the match is to stretch beyond the third day. One of the few positives from the 1st Test was Pietersen’s performance; his ability to cope with Warne’s deliveries should give the home side plenty of encouragement as the Series unfolds.

For the Aussies, the 1st Test was only the second time that Hayden, Langer, Ponting and Gilchrist have all failed to score 50 runs in a Test. So, it’s highly unlikely that they will have another bout of collective off-days this time around. Watch out for Langer, he’s usually an awesome run scorer, and will have a point to prove after a poor 2nd Innings display at Lord’s.

This match is expected to last longer than the 1st Test, but much improved performances are needed from Hoggard, G Jones and Bell, if England are to avoid going two-nil down. However, whilst Australia are massive favourites once again, punters may find value in the underdogs. England’s encouraging record at Edgbaston, along with the ability of Pietersen and Harmison to cause the Aussies problems, gives some cause for optimism.

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