Calm before the storm

Hype, the Ashes always have plenty of it. None of it matters of course, the Australian players may ‘believe’ they get the psychological upper hand by making their pronouncements but the truth is they are kidding themselves. Words will mean nothing if not backed up by actions. It all starts on Wednesday. Wednesday? What sort of stupid idea is that? If it’s a rout the first test could be all over before the weekend. What will they think of next – not having it in England?