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The excitement has been building. The fans can’t wait for day one at the Gabba. The usual lead up stories in the media are reminding us all that the oldest and most respected rivalry is upon us.
Players hold press conferences where clichés are handed out like sweets on Halloween and a lead in to an Ashes series would not be complete without Warnie having his say to stir the pot and ruffle a few English feathers.
So, what can we expect from this series?
If we look at Australia, what I expect to see is a line up in Brisbane that, barring injuries, will play all five Tests. This is important.
There has been too much messing around with the Australian batting and bowling line-ups for the last 12-18 months and I believe the selectors acknowledge this.
Continual chopping and changing of the line-up breeds insecurity and a culture of looking out for oneself. Players need backing – publicly and privately.
Give them what they need in the lead up from a preparation point of view; communicate game plans clearly so everyone in the team knows specifically what their role is; and then allow them the freedom to go out there on the ground and play the game.
Players will have absolute clarity and this is key to them being able to get the job done.
I am interested to see which way Michael Clarke will go with his 11 for the Gabba.
The news that Shane Watson is able to bowl would say to me that James Faulkner will carry the drinks and Mitchell Johnson will be the third seamer.
Watto needs to be used in the correct way. 10-12 overs in a day’s play is all he needs to bowl. He can be used as an attacking option or even simply to give one of the three quicks a breather.
Johnson should be utilised as a shock weapon, encouraged to hit the track hard at good pace. Australia should not be concerned if he goes for runs – they have Siddle and Harris who attack and keep the run rate manageable.
Lyon can also play a defensive role if there is not much turn.
I am looking forward to seeing David Warner perform.
In fact, he is my prediction for most runs for the Australians. I think a settled life off the field has contributed to his rich vein of form of late and I also believe he has learnt his lesson from some of the incidents he has been associated with in recent times.
He will take the attack to the English bowlers and put Anderson and Broad under pressure from the outset.
And finally a word on George Bailey.
His selection has divided opinion. I can see both arguments. His first class record in recent times has been below his standards, yet his one day form has been red hot.
Do you select a Test player based on one day form?
I am not so sure.
However, at what point do you say: “his form is so good in one day cricket we HAVE to pick him”?
I believe it came down to that for the selectors.
It is also very obvious that the selectors are desperate for another leader in the dressing room and I believe this helped Bailey’s chances too.
Like everyone else, I’m very excited about day one at the Gabba. Bring it on!