Pace not so deadly in Adelaide

IN the second of his pieces from Down Under, Royton CC’s popular Australian pro Ben Dunk gives his Test verdict - and looks forward to the second match in Adelaide.

AS predicted here, the first Test in Brisbane was dominated by pace bowling, with great performances by the fast men in both teams.

What wasn't predicted was the result: Australia played a brilliant match and caught the English players off guard with the pace and bounce of the wicket. The revival of Mitchell Johnson has been nothing short of spectacular with both bat and ball, and hopefully, he can continue that for the rest of the summer.

It turned out to be quite a controversial Test, with a war of words played out in the media. Personally I think what happens on the field should stay on the field; individuals shouldn’t single out opposition players in the media. What it did do though is add to the spectacle of the Ashes!

I have just finished a four-day match at Adelaide Oval, the venue for the next Test, and I can confirm the wicket will have less pace and bounce then the GABBA, meaning Australia will have to try slightly different tactics to get their wickets.

I'm predicting the English side, which is full of class, will be determined not to go 2-0 down and it will be a tough match for both sets of bowlers.

Spin bowling will come into the match more in Adelaide and the skills of Graeme Swann and Nathan Lyon will be on show for all to see.

Finally, it was sad to see one of my favourite English players, Jonathan Trott, heading home with some personal problems. I wish him a speedy recovery and swift return to international cricket.