England
Captain – Alastair Cook:
The 29-year-old skipper will have no reason to fear his position, despite a relatively disappointing Test series against New Zealand.
The England leader has been in some of the best batting form in world cricket currently, although was criticised for his lack of instinctive captaincy when times got tough against the Kiwis.
Batsmen:
Nick Compton – Despite claiming his place wasn’t certain back-to-back centuries in New Zealand should ensure Compton’s place as opener with Cook.
Jonathan Trott – The South African-born batsman has been one of the most reliable players in England’s ranks in recent times. A rare blip in the Auckland Test will not cost Trott his place.
Kevin Pietersen – England showed how much they missed KP as they struggled without him in the final Test in New Zealand. Despite a relatively poor series against the Black Caps Pietersen is still a game changer.
Ian Bell – The batsman is still yet to find consistency but a match-saving 75 in his last innings may improve his confidence. Despite a lack of form Bell should still hold his place.
Joe Root – The most likely of the list to miss out on the Ashes after indifferent performances against New Zealand. Once a candidate for Compton’s opening position, Root will now have to prove he is worth his place at all.
Wicketkeeper – Matt Prior:
Quite possibly the first man on the team-sheet behind Cook after the ‘keeper has enjoyed the best form of his life.
Prior’s unbeaten 110 to draw the New Zealand series for England just caps off a wonderful two years for the 31-year-old, as he has become the best wicketkeeper batsman in the world.
Bowlers:
Stuart Broad – Series best figures of 6-51 showed that Broad has not lost his talent, as the paceman finished the New Zealand Tests as England’s top wicket-taker. A good effort with the bat as well will only go further to confirm his place.
Graeme Swann – England’s No.1 spinner missed the current tour after undergoing an operation on his elbow. However Swann should be fit by the Ashes and Cook will certainly welcome his key man back.
Steven Finn – Behind Root, Finn is probably the most likely Englishman on the list to not play in the Ashes. An average series against the Black Caps for the 6’8″ bowler did have the highlights of a five-for and an impressive half-century as night-watchman.
James Anderson – England’s record wicket-taker was another player who struggled against New Zealand, but the best swing bowler in the world should thrive in home conditions.
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