The Ashes 2013: 2nd Test at Lord's - Five talking points from Day 3

Shane Warne talks to Ian Ward at the Sky Sports analysis board during day two of the 2nd Ashes Test match between England and Australia at Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 19, 2013 in London, England. (Getty Images)

5. The whispers about a 5-0 whitewash may not be sensational

Shane Warne led a bunch of cricketing pundits, who expressed optimism regarding Australia’s fight at Trent Bridge. He wrote an article highlighting the positives Australia could draw from the Test and the weakness in the England set-up they could exploit.

The arguments seem deluded in hindsight as Australia’s fight in the first Test was largely built upon the surprising 10th wicket partnership. The ineptitude of the Australian top-order is a common string running through both the Test matches.

The fact that the entire team in short of runs means that a superficial makeover – the kind Australia carried out for this Test by bringing in Usman Khawaja for Ed Cowan – will not do any good. The bowlers can take those 20 wickets but if there are no runs to work with, Australia can’t hope to win a Test match.

It’s difficult to see them rise from the Ashes.