Ashes Verdict - England go 2-1 ahead

England have gone 2-1 up in the 2015 Ashes series with just two Tests left to play after recording an emphatic eight wicket victory over Australia inside three days of the third Test in Birmingham.

It has been an impressive comeback from England after they suffered a 400 plus runs defeat at Lord's less than a fortnight ago.

After managing to dismiss Australia for just 265 in their second innings, England's Ian Bell (65 not out) and Joe Root (35 not out) guided the hosts to victory to regain the lead in the series earlier today (Friday).

England now are just one win away from regaining the Ashes after losing the last series down under 5-0 18 months ago.

Mr Broadfield, who has been the president of Kidderminster Victoria Cricket Club for several years, said England have made the most of swinging conditions which Australia need to improve on.

"It's been an extraordinary series so far,"

"England thrashed Australia in the first game, then it was vice-versa for the Second Test and England have done it again at Edgbaston. Where we going to end up in the next two Tests is hard to imagine.

"It's made for a marvelous series but probably for all the wrong reasons.

"The quality of Australia's batting against the moving ball has left a lot to be desired and England are finding them out. I wouldn't mind betting the next two pitches at Trent Bridge and the Oval will be seamer friendly. They don't look at all convincing facing England's seamers in these conditions.

"The series is great at the moment and it's great for the game because it is on the news regularly and lots of people are talking about it."

The one downside for England is the news that strike bowler James Anderson will definitely miss the fourth test at Trent Bridge which starts next week.

Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket taker in Test cricket, suffered a side strain during the Edgbaston Test. He is hoping to be fit for the final test at the Oval.

Mr Broadfield said England would miss his presence when both sides resume battle again in Nottingham.

"I think England will miss Anderson in the next Test," he added.

"He is their main bowler and usually sets the tone for England. It will be tricky for them without a doubt.

"Steven Finn will keep his place after his performance - it is just a question of who comes in for him. Mark Wood may come back but I'm not sure. I wont be picking the side thank goodness!"