Ashes 2013: Five reasons why England will win the second Test at Lord's

Alistair Cook

3. Captain Fantastic

The fact that Alastair Cook has been so consistent for England while opening the innings means that they have become used to depending upon his exploits. While that may be a weakness, Cook has the nerve to carry that huge responsibility.

His first innings failure exposed the English middle order that then crumbled to the swing bowling of Peter Siddle. The stark difference was visible in the second innings when Cook was able to wither out the first couple of bursts of the Australian bowlers allowing Bell to capitalize.

Cook’s runs add to the potency of the side and his past record suggests that the Ashes is his stage.

Moreover, he pipped Michael Clarke in the battle of wits by using his bowlers more carefully. He threw the ball to Joe Root and got a wicket. He preserved Finn in the last innings and depended upon Jimmy Anderson to do the job which proved to be the right move. He has had the better of the review system as well which was perhaps the hardest thing to do.