It'll Be 3-2 Or 3-1 In England's Favour: Panesar Makes Bold Ashes Prediction Ahead Of Opener

Ashes Down Under: Former England spinner Monty Panesar backed his countrymen to reclaim the Ashes Down Under for the first time in 15 years, saying that Ben Stokes and Co. will win the series if they clinch the first Test in Perth. Panesar, who took part in Englands away Ashes campaigns in 200607 and 201314, believes the current squad is better equipped to perform much better than those earlier touring sides that were whitewashed 50 in Australia. Although Australia havent lost a home Test to England since 2011, Panesar believes the visitors have an edge this time given the hosts mounting injury concerns. You look at Australia and theres no Pat Cummins and no Josh Hazlewood. Theyve got an opener, which is a David Warner replacement, but we don't know how he's going to go about it. Usman Khawaja in the last couple of years, his record has not been great, let's be honest. So, I just think England are on edge here, if England win the first Test match (they can win the series), Panesar said on SENWA Breakfast. While Australia boast Nathan Lyon, who has 562 Test wickets, Panesar believes 22-year-old English spinner Shoaib Bashir has the potential to outperform the veteran on his own turf, despite Bashir having only 68 Test wickets at an average of 39. Usman Khawaja in the last couple of years, his record has not been great, let's be honest. So, I just think England are on edge here, if England win the first Test match (they can win the series), Panesar said on SENWA Breakfast. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score The first Test between Australia and England begins in Perth on Friday. Article Source: IANS