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Michael Vaughan's Ashes Prediction: Why England Could Win Perth Opener

Michael Vaughan has made his bold prediction for the upcoming Ashes series. The former England captain believes the contest will end in a 2-2 draw. He specifically backs England to win the Perth opener given Australia's injury troubles. Vaughan sees England's chances boosted by the absence of both Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.

Key Points: Vaughan Predicts 2-2 Ashes Draw as England Eye Perth Victory

  • Vaughan predicts England will win Perth opener with Australia missing key bowlers
  • Australia faces bowling crisis with Cummins and Hazlewood both injured
  • Mitchell Starc remains only fully fit first-choice Australian fast bowler
  • Uncapped pacer Brendan Doggett could make surprise Test debut in Perth
2 min read

This series is going to be 2-2: Vaughan makes his prediction for the Ashes

Former England captain Michael Vaughan forecasts 2-2 Ashes series with England winning Perth opener amid Australia's injury crisis to Cummins and Hazlewood.

"As long as B Stokes stays fit I think this series is going to be 2-2 - Michael Vaughan"

New Delhi, Nov 17

Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan has predicted that the Ashes series will end 2-2, with both Australia and England winning two games each, and one ending in a draw. He also noted that the Ben Stokes-led side will win the series opener in Perth, given that Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out of the game.

“As long as B Stokes stays fit I think this series is going to be 2-2 .. England to win in Perth with no Pat or Josh .. As long as we have no more Injuries before the first test that’s my final prediction,” Vaughan posted on X.

Earlier, on Saturday, the former England skipper had opined that the Englishmen have an advantage heading into the Ashes opener after Australia’s pace spearhead Hazlewood was ruled out. While Cummins is recovering from a back injury, Hazlewood injured his hamstring during New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield match against Victoria at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday.

“Hazlewood out of the first test as well as Cummins. Ominous early signs that the run of the green you require to win big series is swaying England's way. Huge chance for them to go 1up in Perth,” Vaughan had said.

Currently, Mitchell Starc is the only fully fit first-choice fast bowler in the Australian team, with Scott Boland as the backup. The significant injury to Hazlewood might lead Australia to consider playing both all-rounders, Cameron Green and Beau Webster, as fast bowlers.

With Cummins, Abbott, and Hazlewood injured, uncapped pacer Brendan Doggett could unexpectedly make his Test debut in Perth. Doggett has claimed two five-wicket hauls since recovering from a hamstring injury while playing for South Australia.

The Ashes series commences on November 21 at Perth and will conclude in January 2026, with the final Test scheduled to begin on January 4 in Sydney.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
As an Indian cricket fan, it's interesting to watch this from the sidelines. Both teams have their strengths, but injuries can really change the game. Hope we get to see some exciting cricket! 🤞
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Arjun K
I think Vaughan is being too optimistic about England. Australia always finds a way to bounce back, especially at home. Starc and Boland are still quality bowlers. The series might be closer to 3-1 for Australia.
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Sarah B
Watching from India, the Ashes always feels like the ultimate test rivalry. The injury situation reminds me of how crucial squad depth is in modern cricket. Hope both teams field their best players soon!
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Michael C
While I respect Vaughan's analysis, predicting a 2-2 draw seems like a safe bet that covers all bases. As a neutral observer, I'd love to see a clear winner emerge from this historic rivalry.
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Ananya R
The Ashes timing is perfect for Indian viewers - evening matches! 🎉 Hope we get to see some thrilling contests. Injuries are part of the game, but it's disappointing when key players miss out.

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