If we lose this (and perhaps even with a washout) I think the ashes are over. Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney will be better for Swann than Lyon (who I think is better than the media portrays him).

If we lose this series badly, it is time for a cleanout. If Bailey has been brought in more to give some leadership since Clarke has proven time and again that he is not up to the job, its time for all of the batters to go bar Smith. Start again.

I think the actual series will be like the last series in England, the bowlers will bowl their hearts out, then have to score more than the top order did to keep us competitive. Harris is our main weapon, Siddle the workhorse and Johnson will make or break. Lyon should bowl every game, Faulkner first sub, whether Watson or Johnson go down first.

I also like Stephen O'Keefe as a second spinner in Sydney, he is more shrewd and economical than any other spinner in the long form of the game. Have he and Siddle tie them down, then Harris or Faulkner to go in for the kill.