Ashes 2021-22 - 3 Key Players for England who can help them beat Australia

The Ashes is all set to begin Down Under from Wednesday (December 8). The lead up to the high octane England versus Australia series has not been ideal due to off-field controversies hogging the majority of the limelight. England have been hit hard by the racism row, and Australia have been hit hard by sexting scandal. Also, as England's all-rounder, Stuart Broad mentioned the team is under-prepared.

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The warm-up matches in the lead up to the Brisbane Test was also marred due to rain playing spoilsport. Only seven sessions were possible. This leaves England a touch rusty. The return of talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes should lift England. He was the major difference during the last Ashes in 2019. The all-rounder is back from an indefinite break due to mental health. It remains to be seen how he shapes up.

Apart from Stokes, skipper Joe Root is key. He has been in splendid form in 2021 and is leading from the front. If England have to win the Ashes Down Under only the second time since 2010-11, then Root’s contribution will be vital.

Meanwhile here are three players to watch out for the England team

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Joe Root

After a strong criticism of Root not converting his fifties into hundreds in red-ball cricket, the England skipper has managed to turn a corner. He started with an epic double ton against Sri Lanka, and later continued that form against India in the home and away Tests. The 30-year-old has so far scored 1398 runs. Root’s contribution will be key at the crucial number four position if England wants to come closer to winning the Ashes Down Under.

Ben Stokes

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It was Stokes’ unbeaten 135 in Leeds in the third Ashes Test in 2019, which turned the series for England. It was arguably the best fourth innings knock in run-chases and solidified Stokes' reputation as a match-winner in the team. The southpaw has a good record against Australia, and in the pressure situations, often manages to bring the best out of him. In this Ashes also the all-rounder will look to contribute with bat and bowl.

James Anderson

The Swing King Anderson will go down as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time. But it is his overseas record that will remain the talk of the town. The veteran has a chance to rectify that during Ashes Down Under. The right-arm pacer has taken 30 wickets at an average of 19.79. The pacer also managed to do well in Sri Lanka. Anderson’s next target surely will be to outsmart the Aussie batters.