This summer’s Ashes series could be decided by the performance of Australia’s batting line-up, says former England spinner Graeme Swann.
Australia were beaten 3-0 the last time they toured England, but were 5-0 victors at home in the 2013-14 series.
Swann, part of BBC Test Match Special’s ball-by-ball commentaryteam, said: “I don’t think the Australian batting line-up in England is as strong.
“Nearly all of their batsmen struggled when we beat them here in 2013.”
Swann, who took 255 wickets in 60 Tests, also believes the teams’ fast bowlers will have important roles to play.
The 36-year-old said: “England have James Anderson and Stuart Broad, Australia have Mitchell Johnson and Ryan Harris.
“Whichever pair is more prolific will give their team a very good chance.”
Johnson and Harris have taken a combined 404 wickets in 93 Tests, while Anderson and Broad have taken 690 in 183.
Swann believes England captain Alastair Cook will look to add elements of the one-day team’s dynamic approach to the Test side.
Cook was not involved as England beat New Zealand 3-2 in a limited-overs series characterised by a new-found adventure from the hosts.
