After 2-2 vs India, Glenn McGrath predicts 5-0 Ashes whitewash, warns England of Aussie challenge

Glenn McGrath (Getty Images)

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The Ashes is still more than three months away, but pace legend Glenn McGrath has wasted no time in making his trademark prediction — a 5-0 sweep for Australia.Speaking on BBC Radio, the former fast bowler said England will find it “pretty tough” to overcome the hosts when the series begins in Perth on November 21, especially against a pace attack led by Pat Cummins , Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and spinner Nathan Lyon in home conditions.“It’s very rare for me to make a prediction, isn’t it? And I can’t make a different one — 5-0,” McGrath said. “Plus, that track record England have had, it’d be interesting to see if they can win a Test.”McGrath’s confidence is bolstered by England’s recent 2-2 draw against India in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, a result he believes exposed weaknesses in their batting. He sees the series-defining battle as Australia’s attack versus England’s top and middle order, especially Joe Root and Harry Brook.“This series will be a big one for Root. He’s never really done that well in Australia — he’s not even got a 100 over there,” McGrath said. “Brook’s the one I’ve enjoyed watching… The Australians will need to get on him pretty early.”England have not won the Ashes since 2015 and have endured heavy defeats on nearly every tour Down Under since 2002-03.Australia won 4-0 in 2021-22 and have lost just two of their last 15 home Tests.While McGrath acknowledged Australia’s top-order form is an issue, he believes England’s bowling “needs to strengthen a little bit” to mount a challenge.“I love seeing sportspeople go out there and play without fear,” McGrath added, praising coach Brendon McCullum’s philosophy but urging “a bit more accountability and the mental side of the game.”

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