OPINION: Australia might be Ashes favourites – but England have the tools to take down their most bitter rivals, so get set for a winter to remember
It’s a cricket series like no other. A sporting soap opera with more drama than Coronation Street, EastEnders and Emmerdale combined: Welcome to the Ashes.
From the iconic moment of the that first ball in the opening Test, to the last wicket in the final one, this spellbinding rivalry between England and Australia is one of the greatest stories in sport. The opening blows will be landed in the First Test in Perth on Friday, when two proud nations will hold their breath.
And supporters watching back home will sacrifice sleep for hope that Ben Stokes and his men can write their names into cricketing folklore. Just one England side has returned triumphant from Down Under with the Ashes since 1986/7. In eight of the series’ since then, England’s hopes have turned to dust.
That is the size of the challenge facing Brendon McCullum’s side this winter. But England have the tools to take down their most bitter rivals. Stokes will don his Superman cape once again, knowing this will be last shot at glory Down Under.
In Joe Root, England have the best batter in the world, while a fit and firing Jofra Archer has the talent to wreak havoc in the Aussie batting line-up on fast and furious pitches.
The fitness of Archer and fellow pace demon Mark Wood will be crucial to England’s chances. So will England’s mental strength and belief, when the going will inevitably get tough.
While drawing first blood in Perth could be defining – in terms of the overall outcome of the series.
The Aussies remain fearsome opponents on home soil, but are unsettled, with two uncapped players set to make their debuts, in the shape of Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett.
While the hosts will be without captain Pat Cummins and fellow fast bowler Josh Hazlewood. England have to take advantage – and set the tone for what will follow.
Because momentum will be crucial. Pressure like this is a privilege, and Stokes & Co have the chance to become sporting immortals.
It’s cold, wet and dark here at home, but England can make us forget all this – and turn it into a winter to remember.