Ashes 2017/18: 5 players who could surprise us with their performances
The 2017 Ashes is just around the corner, with fans across the world waiting with bated breath for the greatest rivalry in cricket history to commence. There have been talks surrounding both the teams, who have been labelled the 'weakest' sides ever to represent their respective countries in the coveted series.
England have quite a few headaches in terms of team composition as Steven Finn and Jake Ball are nursing injuries, with the former being ruled out of the entire series. The participation of Ben Stokes is still in doubt, as the dashing all-rounder is yet to be cleared of assault charges. Australia, meanwhile, made a few surprising inclusions to their squad.
With plenty at stake, let us take a look at a few players who could surprise fans with their performances:
#5 Mark Stoneman
One of the newest entrants into the England batting setup, Stoneman was in fine form during the recently concluded warm-up fixtures against Cricket Australia XI, as he compiled two half-centuries and a fine 111 in the final fixture, repaying the faith placed in him by the selectors.
He made his debut against the Windies in August this year and his form could go a long way in deciding England's fate in this series. His opening partnership with Alastair Cook will lay the foundation for a big score and he will also be entrusted with the responsibility of seeing out the new ball. Stoneman would be raring to go against the Aussies as the biggest test of his career awaits.