Australia will be keen for revenge today at Lord’s, the “home of cricket”, as they go into the second Ashes test 1 down after losing by 14 runs at Trent Bridge, a match which reminded many of the 2005 Ashes test at Edgbaston.

The pitch at Lord’s is one good for batting. But, it is known for getting flatter as the match progresses, with the average team innings scores going down from 377 in the first innings to 148 in the 4th.

Despite top order collapses, Michael Clarke and his boys nearly got over the line, with number 11 Ashton Agar making a record-breaking 98 and the tail helping wicketkeeper Brad Haddin make 71 in the Australian’s first and second innings respectively which had left the England camp biting their nails.

Australia’s top order collapses was what lost them the match. Their tail almost got them till the line, but couldn’t get them over it. If Australia are to regain the urn, their top order need to step up and realize their roles. If a nineteen-year old number 11 debutant can almost get a century, why can’t experienced top-order specialist batsmen even put up 40-odd? - Text by Dara Sanwal, photos by AFP