Ashes 2019 | Broad and Anderson still the first two names on the team sheet, says Steve Harmison
Steve Harmison reckons James Anderson and Stuart Broad will be the first two names on England’s team sheet, because of their vast experience. Harmison, twice an Ashes winner himself, also reckons that the Ashes will not be a high-quality series, but expects England to edge it by the odd game.
On Thursday, Edgbaston will witness the resumption of Test cricket’s oldest, and perhaps most fiercest known rivalry. Joe Root’s English side will step out to add to their World Cup triumph, while the Aussies will look to salvage their pride with a first Ashes series win away in over 18 years.
But Harmison, who was a part of the memorable 2005 Ashes and won the 2009 series alongside Broad and Anderson, said England had the trump cards with their two experienced bowlers.
“They'll be down on pace compared to the opposition, but they'll have total control of what they're doing. Broad and Anderson are still the first two names on the teamsheet for me, because in English conditions, it's still better to have their experience than any 90-miles-per-hour bowler,” Harmison told Britain's Press Association, reported TOI.
The Aussie pace attack is not too far behind. Pat Cummins, for instance, is the no.1 ranked Test bowler in the ICC rankings. However, Harmison feels their inconsistency will prove costly in the end.
"The two pace attacks are different in dynamics, out-and-out pace against experience. Australia have bowlers who can blast you away -- Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, James Pattinson and Josh Hazlewood. But if they don't get it quite right they can go at six an over. Broad and Anderson will very rarely go at six an over," Harmison said.
England do have Jofra Archer in the squad to provide the raw pace, as a supplement to Broad and Anderson.
However, England will be more worried about their displays in the batting front. Just last week, minnows Ireland bowled them out for 85 in their first innings at Lord's. But Harmison noted that Australia also have batting frailties.
"David Warner and Steve Smith coming back (from suspension) helps Australia, but there are question marks over their middle order. That's what makes this series so interesting, and England's middle order could make that 70-80 run difference,” he said.
Interestingly, the 40-year-old does not expect the series to be played at the highest quality. Overall, Harmison expects an interesting contest, with England to edge it out.
“I don't think it's going to be a series of high quality as the two teams are not as good as their white-ball sides. But sometimes that lack of quality can make for a better series. England are slight favourites with the home advantage, but I see it a lot closer than people think. I take England to win by the odd game," Harmison added.