Ashes 2021-22: Five players to watch out for
Cricket fans must mark their calendars as the 2021-22 edition of Ashes is set to get underway on December 8. Hailed as the oldest cricket rivalry, Ashes had witnessed some exciting battles over the years and nothing less must be expected from the upcoming Test series. Notably, the opening clash in Brisbane would mark the start of a new era in Australian cricket with Pat Cummins taking over the reins of the Test team.
The Aussies might have an inexperienced captain but there are still several prominent players in their ranks. Moreover, the home advantage is in their favour. On the other hand, Joe Root’s England hasn’t been sensational in the longest format lately. Hence, it would be interesting to see whether they can embrace the Aussie challenge or not. Notably, Australia have the Ashes urn at the moment, having won the 2017-18 series and managing a draw in subsequent series.
Meanwhile, let’s look at the five players to watch out for in Ashes 2021-22
Pat Cummins
As mentioned above, Pat Cummins is set to lead the national team for the first time and he’ll have a point to prove. With the right-arm speedster being the top-ranked Test bowler at the moment, expectations are sky-high from him. Not to forget, Cummins can contribute with the bat as well. Also, he’s well versed with the drill of Ashes, having featured in the previous two editions.
Joe Root
Cummins’ England counterpart Joe Root has been sensational this year. He has scored runs in several conditions and the Aussie bowlers must beware of him. As far as his numbers are concerned, Root has scored 1455 runs in 12 Tests including six centuries this year. No other batter has even crossed the 1000-run mark in this period.
Steve Smith
Another batter who can make a mark in this series is Steve Smith! The former Aussie captain has been appointed as vice-captain for this series and it would be interesting to see how he performs. Smith would certainly be confident as his Ashes record is nothing short of staggering. He has smashed as many as 11 centuries against England and he won’t mind enhancing his tally.
Mark Wood
In James Anderson and Stuart Broad, England have two of the most experienced pacers going around. However, Australian tracks demand speedsters who can hurry down the batters with pace. In this regard, Mark Wood can be beneficial for the Three Lions. The pacer can bowl over 145 kmph consistently and would like to make a significant mark.
Ben Stokes
Arguably the best all-rounder going around, Ben Stokes would be critical to England’s performance in the Ashes. The southpaw is a formidable force in all three departments and his numbers are nothing short of staggering. However, Stokes hasn’t played professional cricket for a while due to injury issues and mental health reasons. Hence, it would be interesting to see whether he can unleash his best or not.
