ENG vs AUS, 4th Test | Preview, Pitch Report, Probable XI & Cricket Tips
England won the third Test by 3 wickets [AP Photo]
After a not so impressive performances in the first two Ashes Tests, England were tipped to lose the Headingley Test as well. However, a Ben Stokes led inspirational England side came back strongly and defeated the Aussies to stay alive in the Ashes.
The Australians lead the series 2-1, and the caravan now head towards Old Trafford, Manchester, as England aim to level the series.
Team Previews
England
The Ashes needed a special moment from the hosts, and they saved their best for the Headingley Test, as the Stokes-led team won a nail-biter when everything went against them.
The inclusion of Mark Wood and Chris Woakes made the difference, as the duo not only contributed with the ball, but when needed, produced a crucial partnership in the chase to steal a win for their side. Bazball received a lot of flak during the first two Tests, but England stayed true to their playing style and chased down 251 inside 50 overs to make a strong statement.
However, not everything is going well for them. Ollie Robinson got injured mid-way in the third Test, and has been ruled out of the fourth Test. The home team have already announced their squad, and Anderson makes his way back in the side.
Anything barring a win for England will ensure that Australia will retain the Ashes. A lot on the line for the hosts.
Australia
The visitors have played excellent cricket throughout the series, but they just couldn't held their nerves while defending 251. Australia still lead 2-1, and they just need a draw to ensure that they retain the Ashes once again.
Despite the loss, the visitors had plenty of positives to take, and none bigger than the return of Mitch Marsh. The Western Australian cricketer smashed a scintillating century on his Test return and took his side out of a precarious situation in the first innings.
However, the team will be worried about the form of David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne, as the duo have struggled throughout the series. Expect just one change for the Australian team, with Josh Hazlewood coming into the playing XI, in place of Scott Boland.
Match Details
Date and Time: July 19, 3:30 PM IST
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Live Streaming: Sony Sports Network and Sony Liv App
Pitch Report
The Old Trafford pitch is a balanced surface, providing enough for both the batters and bowlers. It is a traditional England surface, wherein the new ball bowlers will enjoy the initial burst, and once the pitch settles down, the batters will find it easy to score runs. A tinge of grass is expected to be there, as it will hold the surface nicely.
Predicted XI
England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Moeen Ali, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, James Anderson.
Australia: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Todd Murphy, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc.
Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips
Keepers: Ben Duckett
Batters: Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Joe Root, Travis Head
All-rounders: Mitchell Marsh, Ben Stokes
Bowlers: Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Mark Wood, Stuart Broad
Captain: Joe Root
Vice-captain: Travis Head
Prediction
Two evenly matches teams will collide at Old Trafford. England have the momentum with them, and will be eager to level the series. Expect another close-fought game and expect the home team to just beat the Aussies.