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Ashes Paper Talk

Ashes Paper Talk graphic

It's difficult to find a voice in Australia that does not believe the hosts are going to win the Ashes convincingly. The nation's press is ebullient, revelling in England's woes and eager to give the tourists a good kicking at every opportunity.

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THE DAILY TELEGRAPH Meanwhile, Malcolm Conn reveals the level of debate in Australia over the selection or otherwise of Ryan Harris for the second Test. Harris has a formidable record against England, but is injury-prone and may not be suited to the drop-in pitch at Adelaide next week. However, Conn says he could play because of Shane Watson's return to fitness. "Strongly in his favour is the likelihood that Shane Watson will be able to bowl unhindered, with a net session today (Saturday) expected to confirm the injury-plagued all-rounder will be able to play a significant part with the ball in Adelaide." Gerard Whateley has some larger questions for the Australian public and players in the wake of the sledging row that erupted at the end of the first Test, suggesting some players are treading a fine line. "What constitutes intimidation? When does abuse tip from goading to bullying? Where is the respect between fellow professionals? How actively involved should the media of each country be? What is the "line" the players speak of but conveniently never define? Does winning justify any means necessary?" A lot of questions, there. He continues... "There are those who see sport only through the prism of winning and losing. They will have no concept or care for such contemplations. They are the ones shouting for the politically correct to pipe down. Let the Christians and the Lions go at it. "Others see the morality tale in sport. The reflection of life. They crave victory with humility and class. And the greeting of defeat with dignity and poise." THE WEST AUSTRALIAN Justin Langer, veteran of five Ashes campaigns and with a century in each of them, has no problem with the way the first Test was played. "That's the way Ashes cricket should be played," Langer said after Australia triumphed in the Gabba slanging match. "As long as it doesn't get personal, it should be played tough. Go back to bodyline and I am sure there were a few harsh words spoken. The only thing that has changed is there are a few more cameras and microphones now."

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