The Ashes, a series that reverberates through the hearts of cricket enthusiasts worldwide is back and we can't wait to get into this Eng vs Aus toss prediction and match analysis.
A new chapter of cricket’s new rivalry returns once again in 2023 to ignite a fiery contest between England and Australia. The historic Test series, which dates back to 1882, showcases an epic clash of two cricketing powerhouses, stirring the emotions and captivating fans with its rich legacy and intense competition.
In this article, we take a look at Eng vs Aus toss prediction of the 1st Test of the Ashes 2023 series.
READ: Eng vs Aus head-to-head record
Contents
England vs Australia Preview
Photo by Icon SportBefore taking a look at the Eng vs Aus toss prediction, we will have a glance at both the camps ahead of their battle for “The URN’.
England
Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum's revolutionary approach to Test cricket is poised for its ultimate test as England gears up for the Ashes series. Their captivating style of play has breathed new life into England's fortunes in the longer format of the game. This approach is instilling genuine hope among fans for reclaiming the coveted Ashes urn for the first time since their defeat down under in 2017-18.
The first Test at Edgbaston Stadium holds potential advantages for England, who will rely on the historical success of the venue. The Eng vs Aus toss prediction could be swung by England's knowledge of the conditions. However, the moniker of “Fortress Edgbaston” has lost some of its sheen following defeats against New Zealand in 2021 and Australia in 2019. Speculation suggests that England has requested flat pitches to suit their aggressive, run-scoring style of play affectionately known as “Bazball.”
The performance of the top order, particularly openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, along with Ollie Pope at number three, will be crucial to England's success. These young talents face their toughest challenge yet on the international stage.
In the bowling department, the experienced duo of James Anderson and Stuart Broad has proven their mettle against Australia in home conditions, while Ollie Robinson is expected to continue displaying his prowess on the international stage. However, a major concern looms over the fitness of Ben Stokes, whose all-round skills are pivotal to the balance of England's side.
England Squad for Ashes 2023
Ben Stokes (c), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.
It's not a series. It's an obsession.
See you tomorrow…#Ashes | 🏴 #ENGvAUS 🇦🇺 pic.twitter.com/k8RWzFbQd4
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 15, 2023
Australia
Fresh off their triumph as the World Test Champions, Australia enters the grueling Ashes series with impeccable preparation.
Dominating India from the outset in the WTC Final, Steve Smith and Travis Head showcased their batting prowess. Backed by a formidable first innings total, Australia never relinquished control. Their bowlers outshone the opposition, consistently picking up crucial wickets and sealing the WTC title. However, facing England in their own backyard presents a far tougher challenge. Despite England's struggles in Australia, Australia has not won an Ashes series outright in England since 2001.
READ: Where to watch the 2023 Ashes live?
Australia's previous red-ball tour of England in 2019 ended in a drawn series, with Australia retaining the Ashes.
The current Australian team, now led by Cummins, is different. They boast the talents of all-rounder Cameron Green, who adds depth to their lineup. Additionally, Marnus Labuschagne, who made his international breakthrough during the 2019 series and is well-acquainted with English conditions due to his association with Glamorgan. And then there's Smith, who amassed a staggering 774 runs in the same series with an average of 110.54.
Australia's team composition and prior experience instill confidence as they set their sights on reclaiming the Ashes.
Australia Squad for Ashes 2023
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner
Pitch Report
Edgbaston will host the 1st Test of the upcoming Ashes match. Traditionally, batting first has been the preferred choice in Test cricket. The statistics also indicate that the teams following this convention have double the likelihood of winning. However, Australia is now contemplating the advantages of bowling first in England.
The reasoning behind this lies in the expectation that pitches used earlier in the summer will receive less sun exposure. This may result in the pitches to deteriorate less, not as quickly as those prepared later in the northern summer during previous Ashes tours.
This line of thinking aligns with the recent WTC final at The Oval, where Australia's Pat Cummins expressed his preference for bowling first if given the opportunity. The pitch at The Oval did not undergo significant deterioration and did not pose notably greater difficulties for batting as the Test progressed.
✅x3 pic.twitter.com/h26nmyE6rx
— Pat Cummins (@patcummins30) June 12, 2023
Eng vs Aus Toss Prediction
After taking a look at the teams and the pitch report, it is now time to take a look at the Eng vs Aus toss prediction. In the much-anticipated 1st Test of the Ashes 2023 at Edgbaston, the toss will play a crucial role in determining the teams' strategies.
Considering the recent trend in English conditions and the potential advantages of bowling first, there is a possibility that the team winning the toss might opt to field. The main reason behind this is the pressure of such a big series. Both teams will look to put runs on the board. The series will also mark the beginning of a new WTC cycle. The pressure of such a big rivalry cannot be ignored as both teams will look to start well.
Although the early conditions will favor the bowlers, both teams will look to get through the early phase as the conditions will favor the batting as the match progresses. With potent bowling attacks on both sides, it will be exciting to see how things pan out. That said, the Eng vs Aus toss prediction could be a decisive factor in the result.
Eng vs Aus toss prediction – England will win the toss and bat first.
