Finally

Its been 437 sleeps since Australia lost the Ashes but its finally here. Today a rejuvinated and hungry Australia take on a committed England side for the first test in the most highly awaited test series since the end of the war. The last series in England was the first time since 1880 that no member of the Australian team partaking in the Ashes had played in a losing Ashes series. England, on the other hand, had no member who had played in a victorious Ashes Series. England had nothing to lose and Australia got complacent. England came out with all guns blazing and their performance in the second test match, after the defeat at Lords epitomised thier mentality and set the scene for the remainder of the series.

One would think that England, being the defenders, would start the series as favourites. Australia, however, have been the more dominant side since the Ashes loss and start as clear favourites. The side taking on the England today is not much different to the one that lost, with the most notable inclusion being Mike Hussey. England have been plagued by injuries and indifferent form, however their 4-0 victory over Pakistan recently would fill them with confidence.

Inspite of the predictions by most commentators, the series should be close, but defeating Australia at home is not easily done.