2015 Ashes: England vs Australia 5th Test Preview
The 2015 Ashes draws to a close at The Oval starting Thursday as England try to extend their lead in the series and bury the Australians once and for all. The result of this match will have no impact where the urn is headed, however no Test is a ‘dead rubber’ between these two traditional rivals and we will be taking a more detailed look in our cricket betting tips article.
England have already wrested the Ashes back with a 3-1 lead after four matches. But, they would be looking to inflict further pain on Australia – much like what the Aussies used to do on England in the early and late 90’s.
At the same time, the home side would have an eye on their next series – a three Test series against Pakistan in October in UAE. Traditionally their waterloo, the England side would like to take stock of their spinning options one last time.
James Anderson is fit to play the fifth Test after missing the last with a side strain. Adil Rashid has been hotly tipped to be played as a spinner before the series started. Although Moeen Ali silently won that debate, the clamour in the England camp is to test the young leg-spinner.
Not all is rosy within the England camp, though. Opener Adam Lyth is on extended time and his failures are masked only by the batting prowess of Joe Root. In many ways, it could be a final chance for him to prove his worth to the side.
It would be mixed feelings in the Australian camp. This will be the last match for their skipper Michael Clarke who announced his retirement. The skipper-in-waiting Steve Smith has performed below-par this season, considering the lofty standards he set in the last year and half.
Opener Chris Rogers has been the consistent player for the Aussies but this will be his last Test match too. There are question marks on the careers of many other players which will only add substance to the otherwise ‘dead rubber’ match.
The talk in the Australian camp is definitely centered on playing Pat Cummins after his heroics with both and ball in the recent practice match. There are question marks, though, on his fitness and if he can sustain the work load of a Test match. If so, Josh Hazelwood will be the one under pressure as there are questions over his sore shins.
The way cricket is played over the last four matches, a Draw doesn’t seem to be an option unless heavy rain washes out at least two days. There are doubts on Australia bouncing back to win this match but at odds of $2.60 at CrownBet, there could be value on them.
Odds of $3.40 at CrownBet for Joe Root to once again be England’s leading run scorer also looks a good play.
Cricket will never be the same for Australia after this match with several players set to retire or be dumped. With careers on the line and pride to be played for, this Ashes Test promises to be as exciting as the last four this English summer.
