Joe Root’s optimism after the defeat in Adelaide was to be expected. You don’t throw the towel in from 2-0 down, however much history is against you. That said, the way Australia’s bowlers are slicing through England is all pointing to the Ashes changing hands.
Much was made of Root’s decision to bowl first – more on that later – but right now, four innings into the series without a hundred from a touring batsman and only one total a nudge above 300, it doesn’t take a genius to work out where the problem lies for the England captain.
Related: Two down with three Ashes matches to play – is there any way back for England? | Vic Marks
It was strange to see Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad not bowl full enough. Only they know why
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