England's hopes of levelling the series suffered a major blow as David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne took Australia to 221/2 at the end of Day 1.
For the second game in a row, Warner came within a fleeting distance of a century. He battled his way to 95 before hitting a short, wide ball from Ben Stokes to Stuart Broad. Labuschagne, reprieved twice by Jos Buttler, will resume on 95.
On Day 2, the England pacers need to pitch up more. Over 90% of their balls on Day 1 would have bounced over the stumps. Joe Root needs to rotate them well.
Ollie Robinson has been consistent with line and length, but he tends to lose pace as the day passes, so it may be better to unleash him in short bursts. If needed, Stokes can attack Labuschagne with his short-pitched bowling.
Once Labuschagne reaches his century, he is likely to accelerate. Steven Smith is batting on 18, and they still have Travis Head, Cam Green and Alex Carey to follow.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Smith and Head are must-haves for your team.
- Among bowlers, pick Robinson and Broad. From Australia, Mitchell Starc is a good option.
- Make Labuschagne captain.