The Ashes 2019 series is balanced at 1-1 after heroics of Ben Stokes in the last test propelled England to a famous win. Both England and Australia have done their bit to raise the bar of test cricket which was in the doldrums. The mouth-watering contests have not only been a test of emotions, but also the skills. Visitors Australia is all set to make some key changes to their playing eleven in the Old Trafford Test as a win means they get to keep the urn. For  England, the task is simple – continue playing the brand of fearless cricket they have played so far. A look at the players like Ben Stokes, Steve Smith & Jofra Archer to watch out for in the upcoming 4th Test between England and Australia at Manchester. England Vs Australia, Cricket Score 4th Test Match, The Ashes, 2019.

Steve Smith

The new no 1 in test cricket is back after missing the third test due to concussion. The batting maestro missed a year of cricket yet needed little time to get back to the numero uno position. He has been in sublime form throughout the series and has often produced a one-man show, battling in difficult circumstances. His presence adds teeth to Australia’s middle order as they look to score big in Manchester. England vs Australia, Ashes 2019 4th Test, Day 1 Rain Forecast & Weather Report From Manchester: Check Weather Forecast and Pitch Report of Old Trafford Cricket Ground.

Nathan Lyon

He had tow wonderful moments to win the game for Australia in the previous test but luck did not go his way. On a slow turning Manchester wicket, Nathan Lyon’s role assumes greater significance. If Australia is bowling fourth, expect Lyon to spin those vicious webs around English batsmen. England vs Australia 4th Test Ashes 2019: Jofra Archer vs Steve Smith and Other Exciting Mini Battles to Watch Out for in Manchester.

Ben Stokes

The English all-rounder played what is arguably one of the greatest knock ever witnessed in the test match. The resilience he showed in some pressure cooker situation was reminiscent of the way he won England the World Cup 2019. With Ben Stokes in sublime form, England will be betting big on New Zealand born all-rounder.

Jofra Archer

He has had a fairy tale start to his Test career with 13 wickets in the two games he has played so far. His fiery bouncers have been the talk of the Ashes even forcing Steve Smith to miss the third test. His battle with Smith will once again be the highlight of the game as he is yet to get the Aussie batsman out.

Joe Root 

Skipper Joe Root finally showed his class in the final innings of the third test setting the platform for England’s fightback. Despite his struggles in the series, there is no denying Joe Root is one of the modern day’s great test players. Having scored a fifty, the English management will want him to continue the good form and also marshal his troops well.

Both England and Australia will fancy themselves to do well in Manchester but momentum definitely is with the home side after two fantastic performances since going down in the first test.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 04, 2019 12:55 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).