Bell hoping McGrath recovers for decider

ENGLAND are hoping to prove their point to Glenn McGrath in person next week as they enter the final Test seeking to end 16 years of Ashes torment.

Michael Vaughan’s men go into the fifth match of the series leading 2-1 and need only a draw to become the first English conquerors of Australia since Mike Gatting’s 1986-87 tourists.

Their ambitions may be hampered somewhat by the return of 35-year-old McGrath, who, no doubt inspired by his previous returns in Ashes battles and the fast-bowling masterclass he gave at Lord’s in the opening contest, predicted an Australian whitewash.