Nasser Hussain backs England for Ashes after dominating Ireland

Former batter and current commentator Nasser Hussain has backed England against Australia in the upcoming Ashes series.

Stuart Broad’s 20th Test five-wicket haul and a century and a double century by Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope respectively helped England dominate Ireland in a one-off Test at Lords.

Asked if he expects England to attack Australia with their ‘Bazball’ approach, Hussain told Sky Sports: “I think they will. They’ll give it a go. I can’t see there being many draws. I think it will be 3-2.

“This is a very good Australian side. Everyone will focus in on ‘Bazball’ – and can England bash the likes of [Mitchell] Starc, [Pat] Cummins, [Nathan] Lyon and co?

“Having said that, for me the issue is can Australia’s batting line-up get a par score to give their top-drawer bowling line-up a chance?,” Hussain said.

The 55-year-old also talked about Aussies’ batting which he considers isn’t as strong as their bowling.

"Australia’s batting line-up, in England – with the exception of [Steve] Smith and [Marnus] Labuschagne – haven’t clicked."

On the excitement around the upcoming men’s Ashes series, ex-England captain Hussain added: "There is an added bit of excitement.

“I reckon, whatever happens, we’d be turning up to Edgbaston on day one – given the history of that place, the crowd and the atmosphere – hugely excited, but I think there’s even more this time,” he said.

Hussain emphasised on England’s brand of “Bazball” cricket, which has helped them win their last 10 out of 12 Test matches, questioning if Stokes and his men can do to Australia what they did to all other teams.

“That’s because of the brand and style of cricket this England side are playing. There’s that question we all have: can they turn up and do to Australia what they have done to every other side they’ve come up against?

"Can they carry on this no fear cricket in an environment where everyone in this country cares deeply about the result?,” he concluded.

The Ashes series starts on June 16 at Edgbaston. Australia hold the urn after winning the 2021-22 series 4-0 at home.

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