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

Ashton Agar looks on during day three of the 2nd Ashes Test match between England and Australia at Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 20, 2013 in London, England. (Getty Images)

3. Ashton Agar

A quality spinner is an unparalleled asset in Test match cricket. Graeme Swann proved that with his five-for in the first innings of the Test that could prove to be a match-winning effort. Ashton Agar’s dream debut at Trent Bridge with the bat coloured his moderate performance with the ball but the lack of experience and quality was exposed on day three.

It was all the more disturbing to see him hurl rank filth down the leg side in what can only be interpreted as a negative wicket-taking tactic employed by Michael Clarke. Australia does not many options in this area as they would rather keep Agar in the side for his ability with the bat than bring-in equally ineffective Nathan Lyon.