Since the start of the Ashes in 2005, only 3 English batsman have averaged over 40 against the strongest Test nations in world cricket (Australia, India, Pakistan, South Africa & Sri Lanka)
Cricinfo Statsguru - Test matches - Batting records
Pietersen - 3128 runs @ 49.65, 11 hundreds
Collingwood - 2093 runs @ 43.60, 5 hundreds
Cook - 1988 runs @ 42.29, 5 hundreds
Strauss - 2164 runs @ 37.31, 7 hundreds
Bell - 2153 runs @ 37.12, 5 hundreds
Prior - 326 runs @ 29.63, 0 hundreds
England's bowlers haven't done much better either, Not one regular bowler averaging under 30 with the ball (highly doubtful Trimlett will feature in the Ashes). Flintoff is the only bowler with respectable figures and considering Hoggard isn't going to be brought back? These stats are record from there performances since July 2005 against Australia, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka & South Africa
Cricinfo Statsguru - Test matches - Bowling records
Flintoff - 87 wickets @ 31.82
Harmison - 75 wickets @ 36.33
Panesar - 77 wickets @ 38.16
Anderson - 46 wickets @ 40.86
Sidebottom - 19 wickets @ 42.89
Broad - 11 wickets @ 56.45
Swann - 8 wickets @ 39.50
As you can tell from this statistics, they are pretty poor. Almost minnow-esque. I actually think that Zimbabwe of 1995-2003 would be a more even contest then the Ashes this year. I mean, atleast Zimbabwe had a bowler averaging under 30 in Test Cricket. :laugh
