Pietersen takes wicket with last ball to put England back in ascendency
Published:With Michael Clarke and Mike Hussey looking strong as the fourth day came to close, a cameo bowling spell from Kevin Pietersen means England enter the final day with a strong chance of winning.
The wicket of Clarke with the final ball of the day was crucial as the partnership between Clarke and Hussey was starting to look strong, and England potentially need just six wickets to claim victory in the second Test.
Should the rain hold off, downpours are expected throughout the day but were also expected during yesterday’s play, England are well placed and priced at 8/11 to complete the victory.
With 167 runs to play with before they have to contemplate batting again, the wicket of Hussey when play resumes is vital and could be the decisive factor if England are to win this Test match.
Currently on 44, Hussey has already posted scores of 195 and 93 during this Test series maintaining his incredible average of 71 against England, and Mr Cricket is 5/6 to score over 74.5 runs.
He has looked in impervious nick throughout the series so far and Strauss knows that getting Hussey out is the key to England winning this Test match.
And Strauss will look to Graeme Swann to provide the breakthrough on a wicket that is perfect for Swann’s offbreak.
Having taken two wickers for 72 runs off 34 overs already this innings, 19 more overs than any other England bowler, Swann has been the pick of the England attack and he will be revelling in the expectancy put on him to win England this Test match.
Australia will be praying for rain as they look to salvage this Test match, but even so, the signs are worrying for Ricky Ponting and England are now the 4/6 favourites to win the series.
A series draw would see England retain the Ashes and is priced at 3/1. New customers can sign up here for a free £10 bet.
