Thaindian News

New Delhi, July 28 (IANS) Australian great Steve Waugh said Wednesday that both England and Australia have equal chance of winning the Ashes cricket series starting in November.
The former captain admitted that the Australian team has lost its aura of invincibility that it once had, but still the series against arch-rivals England will be evenly contested.

“Honestly, Australia are no more a dominant side in world cricket. There is still some (dominance) left for the Ashes but I see a 50-50 chance for both teams in winning the trophy. Though Australia might have a slight home advantage,” said Waugh, on the sidelines of a promotional event here.

Australia thrashed England 5-0 the last time the Ashes were contested down under in 2006. England returned the favour by winning the home series in 2008.

“The competition is getting tougher and it is good for the game. In my view, Australia, England, South Africa, India and Sri Lanka are the top five teams in the world. It is very hard to dominate cricket these days,” said Waugh.

On Australia’s aura of invincibility coming to an end, Waugh added: “The Australian team dominated the sport from 1995 to 2005-06. It is not the case anymore. The intimidation factor is missing in the current team. However, it still remains a strong team, especially in the one-day format.”

He also feels that Pakistan’s recent victory against Australia in the second test match is good for the game.

“I am disappointed that Australia lost but Pakistan’s win is a good sign for the game. Mohammed Amer bowled magnificently in the series and he will be the next bowling super star,” he said.

The Ashes series will start Nov 25 with the first test at Gabba.