July 2nd 2023.
The Ashes series is not looking hopeful for England as they are 2-0 down. Former England captain Michael Vaughan is still optimistic, however, and has backed England to keep the series alive by beating Australia in the third Test at Headingley.
The Aussies are on the brink of retaining the Ashes, as the last team to do so on an away tour was back in 2001. After a two-wicket win at Edgbaston and a narrow victory at Lord’s, England has an uphill battle ahead of them if they are to reclaim the urn.
Speaking on the BBC’s Test Match Special, Vaughan said, “Can England win at Leeds? Of course they can. They need to get to Leeds and I think they can beat this Australian side there. They just need to forget about the three games they need to win and just focus on winning at Leeds. England have to be realistic about the way they have played there cricket too.”
England failed to make the most of the favorable bowling conditions on day one of the Lord’s Test, as Australia managed to score 416, with yet another Steve Smith century. Despite a strong start from England who were 91-0 and then 188-1, the hosts ended up with a first-innings deficit of nearly 100, losing nine wickets for 137 runs.
England bounced back well with the ball, limiting Australia to 279. However, the 371-run chase was too tall to reach for Stokes and his side, despite his outstanding 155.
Glenn McGrath, Australian legend, commented, “Australia were in the box seat at the start of play. It was going to take something very, very special from England. We had that early partnership then we saw what happened with Bairstow. What that did do was inspired Ben Stokes and Stuart Broad and what followed was incredible. Every day of this test something incredible has happened and I don’t think we have seen a Lord’s Test like this one. It will be interesting to see whether this has an impact on the relationship between the teams. They have been very pally, with hugs and jokes, which I’m not a huge fan of off the field. We will see what happens from here.”
England have their work cut out for them if they are to keep the Ashes alive. All eyes are on them as they prepare for the third Test at Headingley.
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