The Ashes 2015

Chizz said:

LenGlover said:

Not a bad analysis at all.

My primary disagreement is with a two point gap between Giles and Ali. I'd reduce it to one or even score them equally.

That's interesting. Because I think there's a massive gulf between the two. I have compared them in the role of number eight batsman and spinner who's role is to give the quicks a break. In terms of batting, Giles knew which end of the bat to hold - without question. But, in his entire career, he only made a highest Test score of 59. Ali, meanwhile has a highest Test score of 108* despite having only played in 11 Tests. In terms of bowling, they are closer. Giles' Test best was 5/59, while Ali's is 6/67. Both Ali's batting and bowling averages are 8 better than Giles'. So, in terms of numbers, it's unarguable.

But what's important is what they do for the team. Ali *can* turn an innings that has a bad start into a decent score. Whereas you never got the impression that Giles would turn a 60/6 into a 350 all out. And this year's Tests are not going to be played on turning pitches. So the Ashes won't necessarily be won by the team with the best spinner; they'll be won by the team that can avoid capitulation, reinforce winning positions and "edge" the key moments. For my money, Ali is brilliantly suited to do those jobs, whereas Giles was, if not a walking wicket, an easily-overcome obstacle to the tail-enders.

Of course, we might even see Adil Rashid play instead. If so, it will be because the strategy to win on slow, seaming wickets has failed and we'll be onto plan "B".

roseandcrown said:

Broad gone?

SantaClaus said:

My prediction is Moeen out in the 2nd over and we scrape 380. Good days cricket but the Aussies are marginally on top.

Addick Addict said:

Ha ha!!!

Don't you just love it when a fast bowler (Starc) tries to bounce a tail ender - and it ends up going for five wides.