2nd Test.. 1-1?, 2-0?, 1-0? - What Will It Be?

The Ashes: 2nd Test – 5 - 9 December, 2013 - Adelaide

Australia
A little circumspect but growing in confidence in all areas of their game – this Australian team may not have ironed out all its' creases, but are certainly looking crisper. They will have to be careful of trying to be too pushy as it might just be healthier if they let situations be and see them transform. Patience will be key.

1st Innings
Against some tough bowling, Australia's batting will develop well and show good balance. A good partnership towards the latter half will be a positive, whereas the middle order will have to apply themselves better. Bowling is aggressive but well focussed. Initial fielding will have to improve.

2nd Innings
Batting is well thought out, calculative and will change gears at will. Over-confidence will have to be curbed. Bowling will start off well, but their aggression has to be better targeted especially as the opposition will fight harder. Fielding will be much stronger.

The Captain - Michael Clarke
There will be times when Clarke's ideas may seem too far fetched, but he will tone this down and regain composure. He will know how to get the team through; his understanding of the situation will be apt.

England
Team England will be very careful while executing their plans. They are not entirely confident, hence they will develop with the situation rather than basing their ideas on pre-conceived notions. But, is being overly flexible the right way to go? – maybe not, hence balance will be key.

1st Innings
Batting will have to show an improvement in shot selection. Their will be a strong batting partnership that will do wonders for their confidence, but awareness of each ball and bowler will be important. Bowling is smart and challenging. Fielding is looking good too.

2nd Innings
Despite elements of nervousness, applied focus, aggression and hard work will be seen in their batting. Bowling will have to improve; it's not so much the opposition batting that will trouble them, instead it will be their own waywardness that may be the concern. Fielding will be confident.

The Captain - Alastair Cook
Cook may seem to be in two minds – juggling ideas and unsure of which to apply. As the match progresses he will take chances and be more aggressive than usual.

Tarot Advantage
Australia

Disclaimer: Tarot for the Ashes is there to provide a different perspective to the matches and is meant for entertainment purposes only.