After two days play in the first test of a five test Ashes series, there is one thing clearly apparent – neither side has any real claim to fame although calling them duds may be a little harsh – so far at least. We do know that many careers have been built and lost on Ashes tours; so far, no one has really shone. Australia’s bowling attack was pedestrian at times and while Siddle claimed six (including a hat trick), you couldn’t call him menacing. With the bat, the English side did little to really raise any fear in the Aussie hearts.

Day two was a little different. The English bowlers were also a little astray although Anderson did at least land the ball in the right place. Like the English batsmen, the Australian gave little hope to their lively fans. All in all – after two days, the sides are relatively even. The best action was in the stands with England’s ‘barmy army’ being joined this year by Australia’s own ‘jarmy army’, resplendent in their pajamas. They were both in fine voice all day.

This is one series where every test match will be decided by one or two players putting in extraordinary performances. Neither side stands out as they have in the past and I would be surprised if the Aussies could complete another 5-0 clean sweep.

Bookmakers have England at 3/1 to win the first test. The Australians are 1/2 while a drawn game is right out to 7/1. The weather will play a big role in this test with the second day finishing early due to rain. At 7/1, the draw looks to be great value. Otherwise, it’s hard to pick a winner. If Swan can dominate in the second innings then I fancy the English side to win – and 3/1 is certainly good value. I am a little puzzled, given the evenness of the two, that bookmakers have the Aussies so short in betting – but then, the shorter they are, the longer the English are and that’s good for us.