Numbers seven to 11 will decide first Ashes Test, says Bob Willis
Friday 10 July 2015 10:37, UK
Bob Willis believes the Australia lower order batsmen could hold the key to the result of the first Investec Ashes Test.
The tourists closed the second day in Cardiff on 264-5 in their first innings, trailing by 166 after England were dismissed for 430.
The hosts had resumed on 343-7 and Moeen Ali’s fluent knock of 77 helped them add a useful 137 for the final four wickets.
Australia are in a similar position to that of England (280-5) for the loss of five wickets, with Shane Watson (29no) and nightwatchman Nathan Lyon (6no) at the crease at the close of play.
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Sky Sports pundit and former England captain Willis told Sky Sports News HQ: “England have got those runs on the board and I think, like a lot of Test series, this one is going to be decided by the runs scored by numbers seven to 11 in the order.
“It’s interesting that Australia opted for a nightwatchman. That’s not a common thing with Australia but Nathan Lyon came in to protect Brad Haddin.
Cook’s captaincy has been much better in this match; very proactive, putting fielders in interesting positions and as a result picking up wickets.
“Brad Haddin has had a very lean run of form with the bat but he always seems to turn it on against England, and indeed scored a hundred at this ground back in 2009.
“England certainly have the edge at the moment but, as we always say, they will want quick wickets on Friday.”
Willis also praised Moeen’s role with the bat, he later claimed 2-67 with his off-spin, and said he had been impressed with Alastair Cook’s captaincy in the match so far.
“England are giving as good as they are getting by the Aussies,” said Willis.
“It’s fascinating stuff on a very slow, flat pitch, but I thought the England bowlers did a good job and those runs from Stuart Broad and Moeen were very, very important. So England had much the better of the (second) day I think.
“Cook’s captaincy has been much better in this match; very proactive, putting fielders in interesting positions and as a result picking up wickets.
“And of course, the wicket of (Adam) Voges to Ben Stokes just before the close really did tilt the balance in England’s favour.”
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