England Try To Remain Focused

The emphatic nature of England's victory over Australia in Adelaide on Tuesday has led many to suggest the Ashes are wrapped up already.

The Aussie press in particular were brutal in their criticism of their team, talking about the chasm in class between the two sides and declaring the battle over and the Ashes betting tips certainly suggest the home side face a tough fight.

The English press, as ever, were more reserved, perhaps stunned at the manner of England's victory and wary, after years of dominance by the Aussies, not to get too cocky too soon.

There are positive and wise words emanating from the England camp though. Captain Andrew Strauss has spoken of his side's need to focus and not get ahead of themselves. There is still three tests to go don't forget and Australia, like a wounded animal, are bound to take to the field in Perth determined to right some wrongs.

However, given their dominance in the opening Tests England have every right to be confident. They have been everything Australia haven't been - sharp in the field, dominant with the bat and lethal with the ball it's little wonder that the Ashes betting now make the home side strong favourites.

The only black mark for England was a series ending injury for Stuart Broad, who was forced to fly home with a stomach muscle injury. That opens up a spot that Ajmal Shahzad, Chris Tremlett and Tim Bresnan will be desperate to fill.

A warm up game against Victoria this coming week has suddenly taken on more significance in the light of Broad's injury.

Australia meanwhile are in disarray. With three or four member of the side tipped for the drop it could be a different looking Aussie side who take to the field at the Waca in ten days time.

For England, Broad apart, it will be same again please.