We Are Better Now, Even Without Mitch!

Chris Stocks finds Ashes ace Ryan Harris in bullish mood but also wary of the threat offered by Anderson and Broad

- Chris Stocks

Ryan Harris made the bold claim this week that Australia’s current bowling attack – led by an in-form Mitchell Starc – is better than the one that dismantled England in the last series here in 2013-14.

However, Harris, who combined devastatingly with a rampant Mitchell Johnson four years ago, has also warned Steve Smith and his players that James Anderson and Stuart Broad are capable of “destroying” them in the forthcoming Ashes.

The 38-year-old, who was forced to retire through injury at the start of Australia’s last tour of England in 2015, was buoyant about his country’s current fast-bowling resources.

But he also knows the threat posed by the two most prolific bowlers in England’s history, who share a combined 894 Test wickets between them, will be very real for Australia.

“The bowling line-ups are world class and I think they’re going to have a big say on each Test match,” said Harris.

“Anderson and Broad, those two blokes can destroy games and destroy line-ups and they’re proven good bowlers over here. Anderson’s gotten better in these conditions, it’s pacey and Broad likes the pace.”

Anderson in particular has enjoyed a fine year, taking 39 wickets at 14.10 during seven home Tests against South Africa and West Indies last summer.