Australia have retained the Ashes with a convincing win in Manchester in the 4th Ashes Test, and now the Oz are looking for their first series win in England in 18 years. The 2019 Ashes series has rekindled viewers interest in Test cricket with its thrill a minute ride. Now as the teams gear up to play the fifth and final game of the series, we can say for sure Test cricket is here to stay. Hosts England have been outplayed for the majority of the campaign but will be keen to avoid a series loss at home. Both the sides have all to play for as the Oval Test begins today. A look at the players to watch out for in the game. England Vs Australia, Cricket Score 5th Test Match in The Ashes, 2019.
Steve Smith
All set to be declared the man of the series, Australia’s Steve Smith has been colossus in the Ashes. With 671 runs in the tournament, the middle-order batsman has taken his game to a level no one can match in current times. The stats are unreal for Steve Smith with 3 centuries including a double in the last game. England will love to see the back of him early as he rips them apart with ease. Steve Smith Batting Stats in Ashes 2019: Modern-Day Bradman Makes and Breaks a Flurry of Records in Fourth Test at Old Trafford Stadium.
Pat Cummins
With 24 wickets in 4 Tests at an average of 17.41, it has been an outstanding return for world’s no 1 test bowler Pat Cummins. His combination with Josh Hazelwood has wreaked havoc on the hosts who have found the duo unplayable at times. He will be crucial once again when Australia take to the field on a seamer-friendly Oval wicket. Dream11 Team ENG vs AUS Predictions: Tips to Select Best All-Rounders, Batsmen, Bowlers & Wicket-Keepers for England vs Australia Ashes 2019 5th Test Match.
Marnus Labuschagne
The South African born cricketer has been one of the finds of the tournament for the visitors. Despite being 25, he has shown great maturity with the bat and scored valuable runs whenever in the middle. His wicket of Jack Leach was crucial in the previous game as the former the English tail-ender threatened to frustrate Australia again.
Joe Root
If the England skipper fails to avoid a series defeat, his time as England test captain may very well be up. A high-pressure game for one of the best batsmen in world cricket who has struggled for form throughout. One of the problems for him has been surviving the initial few overs when new to the wicket and he has to work on it.
Stuart Broad
David Warner’s nemesis has been one of the key performers for England throughout the series but has often lacked support from the other end. Since 2013, he is one bowler to have dismissed Steve Smith the most times, which is the need of the hour for the host nation.
Ashes 2019 5th Test Preview: Australia Seek to Extend Lead, England Aim to Level Series
Australia have dominated England in every department and will be fired up to win the last game. A series win will be icing on the cake as the urn travels back to Australia.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 12, 2019 01:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).