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Watson backs Oz batters to 'roast and wilt' England's four-man bowling attack in winter Ashes

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ANI Sydney

Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has said he believes that Australia can win the Ashes by pushing England's four-man bowling attack to their physical and mental limits on mercilessly hard grounds and under a harsh Australian sun.

Watson, who is battling a hamstring injury, has not ruled out making an appearance at the bowling crease in the first Test next Thursday and if he does, it will present Australia with their one conspicuous advantage - an all-rounder.

According to News.com.au, the only time in the last century England beat Australia in Australia without a genuine fifth bowling option happened three years ago during England's 3-1 win over the hosts, and many previous four-man English attacks have 'roasted' and 'wilted' in Australia.

 

Although Watson has a great respect for England's attack, he believes that the team's lack of an all-rounder is the key area for Australia to exploit as it is a certain way to snatch back the Ashes urn, adding that the Australian batting unit plans to keep the England bowlers coming at them without a rest until they are fatigued both physically and mentally.

Watson further said that England is reliant on four bowlers including three world-class bowlers like James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann, adding that it is the reason England has been so successful.

However, Watson also said that Australia is starting to play a brand of cricket now where they are more aggressive and taking on the game.

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First Published: Nov 16 2013 | 11:59 AM IST

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