Ashes 2019, 4th Test: Key battles to watch out for
What's the story
The Ashes 2019 fourth Test is all set to start from Wednesday onwards. The series at the moment is tied at 1-1. It's expected to be a cracking affair with both sides playing some strong brand of cricket all along. There are some key battles in store at Old Trafford in Manchester. Here we list the same.
Archer vs Smith
Jofra Archer vs Steve Smith is talk of the town
After their tussle in the second innings of the Lord's Test, the stage is set for the two to have a crack at each other. It was Archer's delivery that injured Smith, who had a concussion and missed the third Test subsequently. The main focus has been on these two. Archer will crank it up against Smith, who will look to defy the Englishman.
Stokes vs Lyon
Ben Stokes versus Nathan Lyon could be a delightful affair
Ben Stokes was England's hero in the third Test and won them the match from an unlikely scenario. He clobbered Lyon for an array of boundaries. Lyon had trapped him LBW when England needed two to win. But the umpire adjudged it not out. Stokes has hit two tons in the last two Tests. Whereas, Lyon has had many chances against him.
Broad vs Warner
Stuart Broad will look to tame David Warner
Stuart Broad has enjoyed a sheer dominance over David Warner in Ashes 2019. The Englishman has enjoyed bowling against the southpaw. Warner has not quite hit the ground running. He has been dismissed four times against Broad out of six innings. From LBW, bowled to be being caught, Warner's misery has been seen against Broad. In Manchester, Broad will sense Warner's vulnerability.
Cummins vs Root
Pat Cummins will want to keep Joe Root quiet
Pat Cummins has been on song in Ashes 2019 and is the leading wicket-taker so far with 17 scalps to his name. He can bowl at a nagging length and line, besides those superb short balls. Root hasn't quiet been dominant in Tests since 2017-18. Although, the 77 at Headingley will charge him up. He will hope to negotiate the threat of Cummins.