The first two matches of The Ashes have been won by the hosts, and even though England have shown bursts of spirited performances, they’ve faltered as a team. We think the Aussies are going to hand the Poms a 5-0 drubbing and the visitors will find it hard to handle the heat from bowlers like Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. 

But that’s not all, here are some more reasons why we think England are fighting a losing battle and are already behind the eight ball. 

The Failure Of Alastair Cook

Alastair Cook, who is a former captain and has delivered many match-winning performances for England in the past, is in terrible form. It’s imperative for him to be among the runs and score big hundreds, as he is a leadership figure in the dressing room. As an opener, he needs to build a more solid foundation so that the batsmen coming after him aren’t put under the same degree of pressure. 

The Absence Of Ben Stokes

As an all-rounder, Ben Stokes was one of the best assets of the England Test team. Unfortunately, he got into a brawl and is missing in action for the most important tour in England’s calendar. His presence is missed both as a batsman and a bowler. 

Shaun Marsh, Steven Smith And David Warner Have All Been Among The Runs

If you look at the top 3 run scorers of the tournament so far, they are all Australians. Joe Root comes at No. 4. Steven Smith and Shaun Marsh have averages above 90 (98 for Marsh and 93.50 for Smith) and look in sublime form. 

No One Except James Anderson Has Brought Their Bowling A-Game

Even when it comes to bowling, the Australian bowlers have done far better than the Englishmen. A lot more is expected from Stuart Broad, who had rattled the Aussies in the last Ashes series in England. Also, Moeen Ali has been extremely feeble as compared to Australia’s spinner Nathan Lyon. 

Australia Have More Sledging Fodder And Bragging Rights

In a tournament as hotly contested as The Ashes, the Australians will feel much more confident letting out stinging remarks. England can have their share of fun with a few wickets or a nicely hit shot, but at the top of their mind, they’ll know that they have been a far weaker team on the pitch. 

We might be proved wrong, and if England manage to win the Perth Test, they’ll be right back in it. That’s the beauty of the game, a great partnership can change the entire complexion of the tournament. So far though, it’s all going in the favor of the Australians. 

Image: Pinterest