Thaindian News

London, Oct 14(ANI): Despite Australia’s 2-0 Test series loss against India, former England captain Nasser Hussain has warned Andrew Strauss and his players against getting ‘overly cocky’ ahead of next month’s Ashes series.

The result has seen Australia fall below England in the ICC Test rankings for the first time since the system was introduced seven years ago.

“Australia’s defeat in India tells us what we already know: there is no better time for a trip down under. Andrew Strauss said last year their aura had gone and he was spot on. The Aussies are back with the pack now. They are there for the taking - at least as much as they have ever been,” Hussain wrote in the Daily Mail.

“But if people expect England to go to Australia and wallop them, they should think again. History tells you Australia do not get walloped at home, and the reality is there is very little between the sides,” he added.

He also said that Australia would have gained a lot from their experience of playing against India, while England would need some adjustment after meetings with Pakistan and Bangladesh.

“Australia’s bowlers have gone through a lot having bowled against an excellent Indian batting line-up on flat pitches, whereas England have prepared by knocking over Bangladesh and a weak Pakistan side in friendly conditions,” Hussain wrote.

“The Aussies will feel life is about to get easier; England may have a different view,” he added.

The first of the five Ashes Tests will be held at The Gabba in Brisbane from November 25 to 29.

It will be followed by Tests in Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney.

The tour also has two Twenty20 clashes and a seven-match ODI series. (ANI)