Australia captain Michael Clarke has once again caused a stir by predicting the England team during a press conference ahead of the second Test of The Ashes.
The 32-year-old cheekily did the same thing prior to the opening Test in Brisbane, where Australia recorded a comfortable 381-run victory at The Gabba, which heavily contrasts with England's tradition of refusing to name their team until the sheets are exchanged at the toss.
However, Clarke not only revealed that the hosts will stick with the same lineup, but also gave a forecast on the batting order for the tourists.
"I don't think they will play Monty Panesar, but I wouldn't be surprised [if they did] on that wicket," Clarke told reporters. "I think spin is going to play a big part; we've got a lot of right-handers in our order.
"But I think they'll go 'safety'. I think they'll go Bresnan, and Ballance, so yes, I do have a team for you.
"Joe Root three, Ballance six, Bresnan at eight or nine or something like that."
The second Test gets underway at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday with Australia holding a 1-0 lead.
Matt Cotton
