Former Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath predicts a 5-0 Australian victory in the impending Ashes. Both England and Australia are preparing for the highly anticipated series beginning on June 16.
Australia will enter the series on the heels of an outstanding victory against India in the 2023 World Test Championship final. England, on the other hand, will enter the five-match Test series on the heels of a dominant victory over Ireland at home. With both teams excited for the marquee series, a number of experts came forward with their forecasts for the Ashes in 2023.
“I’ve been very impressed with England’s play, but this Australian team is different, with a formidable bowling attack and excellent batsmen. It will be a tremendous competition. The first test is incredibly significant. I foresee every Test match coming down to the brink, with Australia ultimately prevailing. Glenn McGrath told the BBC, “I’m sure people want me to say 5-0, so I won’t disappoint them.”
In addition, former England captain Michael Vaughan opined that Australia hasn’t won in England since 2001, and a Ben Stokes-led England side that is vastly superior to the one in 2019 could surprise them.
The last time Australia won in the United Kingdom was in 2001. When they were here in 2019 with a team very similar to the one they have now, they could only manage a 2-2 draw against a mediocre England squad. “England has vastly improved and will surprise Australia,” said Vaughan.
Alastair Cook, a former England opener, opined that the English pacers must remain fit throughout the series if they hope to reclaim the emblematic urn. He also expressed his eagerness to see Australia’s response to Bazball.
“According to Stuart Broad, the final score will be 3-2; we’ll take a 2-2 tie to The Oval and win there. I believe there will be some weather at some point, which eliminates one of the equations for the draw. England’s bowlers must maintain fitness. There are so many unanswered questions about how Australia will confront Bazball, so I’m eager to find out,” Cook told the BBC.