The Lords has been a conundrum for English cricket since the World War II, as England could never beat the Aussies at cricket’s headquarters. England will strive hard to break this jinx not only to break that awful record but also to gain the upper hand in this ongoing Ashes. Nevertheless, it will be a great match on the cards.

Australia will be hoping for the replication of their efforts in the first innings, though they need to put in the effort for getting the 20 English wickets. Australian batting will have little to worry about, as the four centuries by their batsmen itself is evidence. Australia’s bowling department deserves a big applause for the kind of performance they have put in at Cardiff. In the absence of Brett Lee. Johnson and Co. bowled with great enthusiasm and energy with a mix of aggression, which found tough for the Englishmen. Hauritz was the surprise package for Australia, as he scalped a few valuable wickets, which almost put England on the brink of a defeat. Siddle too bowled with great energy and enthusiasm, which is a good sign for Australian cricket.

England would bank a lot on their marquee all rounder, Andrew Flintoff, for upsetting the Aussies. His fitness would be a cause of concern, but his presence will definitely charge up his teammates. English batsmen should emulate the perseverance shown by the Australian batsmen to build a good innings, especially on a lively track like Lords. The inclusion of in-form Graham Onions will boost the English bowling that had looked quite ordinary in the first test.