Ashes - Expecting A Fight?

The Ashes: 3rd Test – 13-17 December, 2013 - Perth

Australia
Team Australia have a comfortable mind-set but not an over-confident one. They realise the importance of every plan and its' execution. Their sense of control and understanding of the situations will set them apart.

1st Innings
There will be some obvious weaknesses that will come to the forefront, but the Australians will cover up well. Batsmen will show good rhythm – they will know when to push forward and when to consolidate. Bowling will have a good start but there will be some lapses towards the middle. Fielding will require better focus.

2nd Innings
Comfortable with changing gears at any point, batting will be aggressive and smart. Bowling and fielding will need to be sharper – going soft on the opposition should not be an option.

The Captain - Michael Clarke
Clarke is in sync with his team and knows how to maximise his resources. He won't be overly aggressive; he won't get flustered easily and he will maintain his balance quite easily. As a negative: Initially, he will seem just a little too soft.

England
It's not all doom and gloom in the 3rd Test. England do show promise and in fact they will be brighter and more confident. But yes, larger problems still remain. They begin to come together but then they make the most basic errors. On a positive note, they will show immense fight and may even surprise themselves.

1st Innings
Batting will look tentative, but that's just nerves so England should hold on and develop their innings slowly but surely. Bowling will have to be more aggressive and better planned. Fielding will not have the most ideal start, but this should not effect them too badly.

2nd Innings
There's thought in their batting. The key will be to stick to pre-decided ideas and not go on the defensive, otherwise, as the cards suggest – they could land themselves in unnecessary trouble. Bowling will only pick up in the latter half, until then it will disappoint. Fielding will need to improve.

The Captain - Alastair Cook
Cook seems to be going with the flow. He will take risks but also seem too casual – this fluctuation will not work. Momentum will be key and will only come once he his plans have more stability.

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.