England defeated Australia by an innings and 71 runs in the 2nd Test of the prestigious Ashes series and now lead the series 1-0.
England started the match with memories from the past about the last Test that they played against http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Australia-c746 at Adelaide Oval. England lost the game on the final day of the Test.
In the second Test, Australia were hoping for a batting miracle from their batsmen on the final day to save the match. Things didn’t turn out the way Australians were hoping for and they were demolished by some quality performances by Alastair Cook, Kevin
Pietersen and Graeme Swann.
"If you think of the way we started the game, to bowl Australia out for 245 was an outstanding effort on a flat wicket, then we didn't take our foot off the pedal," said Strauss after the match.
The final day started with Hussey on the crease with 44 not out. Australian team and supporters were optimistic about their batsmen. Some of the supporters were also praying that the weather comes into play. The English bowlers made sure that they clean
up the home side before weather starts to take effect. The rainstorm did hit Adelaide Oval at 2.05 pm local time but by that time, it was all over for Australia.
Graeme Swann’s day ended up with a five wicket haul and played a key role by dismissing the home side in less than 90 minutes of play on the final day. Swann’s final figures were 5-91 in 41.1 overs. Steven Finn deserves a lot of credit who is having a dream
series with the ball. He took the prized wicket of Michael Hussey on the final day. Michael Hussey managed to add only 8 runs to his overnight score and was dismissed for 52.
England also owe a lot to its batsmen who are in a form of their lives. Kevin Pietersen who was criticised for his form before the start of the series proved that he has the ability to perform when it matters the most. He played a brilliant career-best innings
of 227. He also won the man of the match award for his performance. Another batsman who is playing like a champion is Alastair Cook. He continued his form from the first match and scored a well constructed 148.
Victory has come with a price for the visitors. Stuart Broad who is a key member of the English side has suffered from a stomach injury. His absence will be greatly felt by England.
By winning this match, England has drawn first blood and will now aim to break the jinx. For a referral, the last time England won an Ashes series on Australian soil was back in 1986-87.
The English men led by Andrew Strauss will be looking to repeat that performance for England. Australia has to win all the next three Tests to reclaim the Ashes urn from England.
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