England aims to repeat Adelaide feat

Having won the second test at Adelaide by an innings and 71, England is hoping to win their first test match series in Australia since 1986-87.For England Stuart broad has already been ruled out for the rest of the tour, with paceman Chris Tremlett to deputise in the third test match.

Australia, seeking redemption in the Ashes series after a crushing defeat by England, made four changes in their squad for the third test to be played at Perth on Friday. Australia’s record at the WACA is not impressive as in comparison to other home venues. They have lost two of their past three Tests at the venue and conceded 323 second-innings runs to the embattled West Indies last year before emerging narrow victors.

Australia are without Simon Katich because of heel injury so Phil Hughes opens the batting, while Steve Smith has also been recalled.Opener Shane Watson has a slight knee injury and moved gingerly at training yesterday but team officials said there was no issue. Watson managed to bowl in the nets and have a short batting practice session, and is not considered in doubt.

Micheal Beer the surprise pick by the selection committee would also be debuting as well.   Seamer Doug Bollinger was another bowler to face the axe. He will be replaced by either Mitchell Johnson or Ben Hilfenahaus in the final eleven.Mitchell Johnson, who has an outstanding record in Perth of 21 wickets at 22 from three Tests, should form the pace trio alongside Ryan Harris and Ben Hilfenhaus.The selection of Steve Smith, a richly promising middle-order batsman and leg-spin bowler, was the only new name that was based firmly on logic.

Given the unusually grassy nature of the wicket, the Australians will consider playing four fast bowlers.Curator Cam Sutherland said there had been steady improvement since the wicket block was re-laid three years ago and he expected the surface to regain its quick reputation in the next few years.England paceman James Anderson will also be banking upon the green surface as well. His natural swing could make him a deciding factor .

‘‘It’s nice to hear there might be some pace in the pitch, a bit of grass left on it,’’ Anderson said.