England have totally destroyed Australia to take a 2-0 lead in the Ashes series by 347 runs, in a test dominated by a newcomer Joe Root, who made 180 runs in the second innings. Australia used to be a dominant force back in the day when team lineups included the likes of Steve and Mark Waugh, Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee and the list goes on. Back in 2007 Australia thrashed England in that years Ashes series. How times have changed.
First innings by England at the start looked shaky, but thanks to Ian Bells spell, he produced a stunning tally which England made 234 runs. Slightly comfortable but Australia had a chance to make use of a good pitch. However, the tourists made 128 in the first innings, and 235 in the second innings but could not match Englands unpresidented 234 then 349-7 declared.
Graeme Swann and Jimmy Anderson each created important dismisals, but the young Joe Root also contributed hugely to Englands successful Ashes series so far. I must say Australia were unlucky at times regarding decisions made against some dismisals, there were several reviews which were wrong but having that being said, it was highly unlikely that the Ausies would catch the overall target of 583. Michael Clarke said his sides batting wasn't to par and will use the extra weeks break before the next test at Old Trafford, Manchester; to improve the batting quality-"We must improve". Indeed so, England has a strong experience squad-Ian Bell, Graeme Swann, Kevin Pieterson, Matt Prior, Johnathon Trott, Jimmy Anderson and Alastair cook has has a few good years test experience and have won past Ashes tests before the current series. Australia has a very young squad, with Michael Clarke (Captain) being around for years with the likes of Shane Watson and Peter Siddle, the most experienced in the team. They will come back strong if they play their cards right, it isn't over yet and they could fight back.
More blog posts to come, keep an eye out.
