The Australian Cricket team will have to rely on some new faces if it is going to bring home the Ashes from England. They will welcome back some superstars coming back from series injury. The third and most important ingredient rests on the shoulders of one man, the captain Ricky Ponting, who has felt the weight of expectation over the last two years. Losses to India and South Africa saw many questions leveled at the skipper before a 2-1 series win over South Africa in South Africa bought some much needed relief. While the Aussies received this much needed boost the English lost their warm up test series against the West Indies in the Caribbean. Bowling conditions in England will be a far more palatable proposition for the English and but they will certainly have to improve on their most recent performances. This will be a tough series, make no mistake, and the Aussies will have to perform with both the bat and the ball if they are to prosper in the 2009 Ashes.

The Aussie's 2009 Cricket Ashes Line Up

The batting still appears to be vulnerable. Marcus North and Phillip Hughes had very impressive debut series against the South Africans but most test players experience downward spells in their career, even after impressive starts and the pressure in England will be immense. They had nothing to lose in South Africa as rank outsiders but now expectation is high and the pressure will be immense. Simon Katich appears tough at the top of the order but may find the seaming English decks hard to combat as he will continue to shuffle across his crease a technique better suited to bounce not seam. Mike Hussey is really at the crossroads of his career which is something ‘Mr Cricket’ hasn’t faced since bursting onto the scene a few years back. That leaves the two leaders, Ponting and Michael Clarke, who will have to be at their consistent best to hold the batting together.

The bowling will be boosted by the possible return of Clarke and Brett Lee. Two years ago these two were the most feared opening attack in the game though questions are starting to be asked of both. Clarke has to find his nagging consistency and Lee his pace if either wants to return to the top. Mitchell Johnson will be the spearhead and the left hander is fast becoming Australia’s next champion cricketer. There really isn’t any spin options so Peter Siddle will find himself in the team and is certainly an effective third or fourth quick. Doug Bollinger and Ben Hilfenhouse will make the squad and could easily get opportunities if injury allows.

Your Part in the 2009 Cricket Ashes

This will be a great series and you will be able to back the Aussies at 888 Sport. Jump in early as we all know the Aussies can get on a roll if they start winning. If you feel that the Aussies are on their way out you might even consider backing the Poms or even a drawn series. Whichever way you go stay tuned for more cricket info as we all look forward to the battle for the Ashes starting in early July.