With the highly anticipated Ashes 2023 series just around the corner, former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting raises concerns about England’s strategy of preparing flat wickets for the tournament. Ponting believes that the English bowlers will face difficulties in dismissing the Australian batsmen 20 times in each game, considering the absence of key players in their bowling attack.
The greatest rivalry in cricket is set to ignite once again as the Ashes series kicks off on June 16th at Edgbaston, followed by matches at Lord’s, Leeds, Manchester, and the Oval. Reports suggest that England has requested flat wickets throughout the series to suit their aggressive “bazball” approach. They have also asked for shorter boundaries to maximize scoring opportunities against the formidable Australian bowling attack.
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The clash between the English batters and the Australian bowlers will undoubtedly be the highlight of the Ashes series. England, led by Ben Stokes, has displayed an aggressive style that has troubled many world-class bowling lineups. On the other hand, Australia boasts arguably the best bowling lineup at present.
Ricky Ponting expresses apprehension about England’s tactic of flat wickets, raising doubts about their ability to secure 20 Australian wickets per game. He points out the absence of Jofra Archer and Jack Leach and questions whether James Anderson, Stuart Broad, and Ollie Robinson can make a significant impact. Speaking to the Times, Ponting says:
“If England wants to continue playing their style of cricket, they will likely need flat wickets. I’ve heard they want flat wickets and shorter boundaries. However, if the wickets are flat, I’m worried about how they will manage to take 20 Australian wickets per game. Without Jofra Archer and their number one spinner, Stuart Broad, James Anderson, and Ollie Robinson may struggle to make a significant impact on the series. While our top-order batsmen may not have impressive records in the UK, our bowling numbers are quite strong.”
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Ricky Ponting further emphasizes that Australia’s bowling will be the difference between the two sides, as their lineup has fewer weaknesses compared to their batting. He states: “I anticipate England will bat well, but they might struggle with the ball. If we look at Australia’s bowling attack, they currently have fewer weaknesses than our batting lineup.”
England aims to maintain their unbeaten streak in Ashes series at home since 2001, while Australia, with 34 series wins out of the 72 played, will be determined to secure victory once again. The clash between the two cricketing giants promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with intense competition.