'I’m going for 4-1' - Tim Paine predicts Ashes 2023 scoreline following Australia's dominant run

The Ashes 2023 has been an enthralling affair so far as both Australia and England have given tough competition to each other. However, Australia have managed to edge past England in the first two Tests and are leading the series 2-0. The Pat Cummins-led side won the first two matches by two wickets and 43 runs respectively and will be eager to seal the series in the third Test beginning on Thursday, July 5 at Headingley.

Reflecting on the series so far, former Australia captain Tim Paine has said that England have taken it too far be it their declaration on Day 1 of the first Test or their comments in the media. Notably, captain Ben Stokes declared England’s first innings on Day 1 of the first Test on 393/8.

"England have probably taken it a step too far. The declaration (in the first Test), the way they are talking in the media. The whole thing has been completely taken over the top,” Paine was quoted as saying by Daily Mail.

Further talking about England’s bowling attack, Paine said that they’re missing speedsters such as Jofra Archer and Mark Wood in their team. He further went on to predict the scoreline for the series to be 4-1 in Australia’s favour.

“Having someone like Jofra Archer and Mark Wood offers a completely different dynamic. If you have someone bowling that fast, it’s a completely different feeling in the changing rooms when you're waiting to bat. I’m going for 4-1 depending on if Wood turns up because he can bowl a spell that could blow a Test wide open,” he added.

England drop James Anderson for third Test

England have their backs against the wall as they will take the field in the third Test 0-2 down. The Ben Stokes-led side have announced their playing XI one day and have brought in Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes and Mark Wood in place of Ollie Pope, Josh Tongue and James Anderson. 

Meanwhile, Australia are one win away from winning their first Ashes series in England since 2001. They managed to retain the urn for the first time after 18 years on their last tour in 2019 drawing the series 2-2.