The Ashes 2013: Five things to expect

James Pattinson

Michael Clarke was a lone fighter against India in a series that saw Australia being humiliated 4-0. He was unable to participate in the Champions trophy due to a back problem but is likely to be a part of the lineup for the first Test. He will have the responsibility of leading his side from the front and he is very much capable of doing so with the bat. He has the requisite technique and the temperament to apply himself in hostile conditions and has prior experience of the pressure that is mounted during the Ashes.

2. Cook Attack

Clarke’s opposite number will be looking to do the same: play some big knocks to lay the foundation for a victory. Alistair Cook has been incredibly consistent as a Test match batsman and is perhaps only next to Hashim Amla in terms of averages in the last few years. He has the temperament of a big run maker as he hardly misses out on big scores in an important series.

1. Quality Bowling

For a neutral, the Ashes will be a great exhibition of quality bowling. James Anderson is arguably the best bowler in the world and his spell against South Africa in the Champions Trophy semi-final was an exhibition of fine swing bowling. His control over his line-and-length, his efficacy against both right-handed and left-handed batsmen makes him a special talent. He has constantly improved himself as a cricketer over the years and is a better bowler than Dale Steyn in the writer’s opinion. He will have the able support of Stuart Broad, Tim Bresnan and Steven Finn.

Australia will have their answer to James Anderson in James Pattinson, who has the potential to be the next big thing in international cricket. Mitchell Starc needs to find some more consistency but he is a viewer’s delight and can be handful if he can exercise control over his swing. We can be sure of getting some edge-of-the-seat stuff with such an abundance of talent on display.