England and Australia head to Manchester for the fourth Ashes Test with the hosts still harbouring hope of a series victory after their enthralling win at Headingley.
The Aussies still have the upper hand though and lead the series 2-1, just needing to avoid defeat in one of the last two Tests in order to keep the urn.
The weather looks set to play a part at Old Trafford and it’s likely to mean that England put their foot on the gas from early on day one.
James Anderson returns to the fray on his home ground and the veteran could have a key role to play if England are to level the series this week.
- England to win
- James Anderson – Top Wicket Taker
- Ben Stokes – Top Run Scorer: England 1st Innings
England Must Go Hard In Manchester
England have won seven of their last eight Tests at Old Trafford and should go into this clash full of confidence after the must-win success in Leeds.
The last five-day international clash in Manchester saw the hosts beat South Africa by an innings and 85 runs in 2022.
The one defeat during that run did come against Australia, but England were a much different team in 2019 compared to the high-octane, front-foot style they have deployed under Brendon McCullum.
The change in bowling attack had a big impact at Headingley, as Mark Wood’s express pace caused Australia problems, while Chris Woakes’ consistent line and length also frustrated the tourists’ batting line up.
For the first time in the series, neither of Australia’s openers scored a half-century in the third Test and that will be a concern for the tourists.
With the weather forecast not looking favourable, England will probably need to go hard from the start and push along the pace early.
Anderson Will Be Key
England’s all-time leading wicket-taker Anderson was rested for the win at Headingley, with one eye on the fourth Test.
The 40-year-old has endured a frustrating series to date, taking just three wickets across the first two Tests at Edgbaston and Lord’s.
But after a break, Anderson will come back fresh and raring to go at his home ground, where he will expect to have a big impact.
The Lancastrian, who replaces the injured Ollie Robinson, took six wickets in that comprehensive win over South Africa in the last Test at Old Trafford.
Anderson wil be vital to England's cause
Stokes the Difference In 1st Innings
Undoubtedly, captain Stokes has been England’s player of the series to date, with his first-innings 80 at Headingley showing that he is seeing it like a beach ball.
A knee injury has meant the all-rounder has struggled to bowl for long spells, so he’s needed to have more of an impact with the bat.
Stokes has racked up 309 runs in the series so far and he’s likely to have to deliver again in Manchester if England are to win the Test.
The skipper also has an impressive record at Old Trafford – he’s played 13 Test innings at the venue and has two centuries and two half-centuries to his name.
STOKES ENGLAND TOP SCORER 1ST INNINGS
