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.

Since that man-of-the-match display in late July, however, McGrath missed two of the next three encounters.

The majority of those in the stands or watching on television next Thursday may wish for further aches and pains for a veteran of 131 wickets in 24 Ashes appearances, 17 of which have been won and only four lost.

But England’s players, buoyed by their recent form, want to face McGrath - who is far from certain to be fit - and a full-strength Australia to ensure a fitting finale to one of the great series’ in Test history.

“I believe that’s the feeling in the changing room,” said England’s Ian Bell. “It doesn’t matter what XI is on the park and in a way it would be nice to see Glenn McGrath playing.

“If we can regain the Ashes and their best team is on the park that’s the best thing for us. That would be fantastic.”

Bell, who entered the series with just three caps to his name, added: “We have our game plans and we are aware he’s a fantastic performer and a class act. Whichever XI is out on the field we’ll go out and play good cricket like we have done all series.

“Playing in this Ashes has made me realise what I need to do to become a better player,” said Bell, 23. “I’ve enjoyed every minute of this and I’m looking forward to having a good game at the Oval to finish it off.

“You are testing your game out under pressure, more mentally really rather than technically.

“That’s what I’ve learned in this series: every ball is going at 100 miles-per-hour and you’ve got to be switched on all the time.

“In future I hope - because of this experience - to play situations in a slightly better way.”

Each of the last three matches have shredded the nerves with England holding on for victories at Bell’s Edgbaston headquarters and at Trent Bridge either side of a foiled bid to dislodge McGrath and last-wicket partner Brett Lee in the Old Trafford stalemate.

Only bad weather in Manchester dampened English dominance but there will be no thoughts of the elements evening out the share of fortune in the coming days.

“I wouldn’t argue if it rained all week but I’m pretty sure, the way these last three Tests have gone there’s something else in store,” said Bell&.

“I’m pretty sure it will be a nailbiter again.”