Michael Vaughan's Blog, page 35

The Ashes 2010: I want to see James Anderson do for England what Mitchell Johnson did for Australia

England may find they have to win in Melbourne this week to secure the Ashes because the pitch at Sydney may well turn out to be faster and bouncier than is usually the case.

Michael Vaughan: England must promote Ian Bell and take the pressure off Paul Collingwood

England will not make panic changes but Ian Bell has to move to No 5 and Paul Collingwood to six.

Michael Vaughan: England were a bit cocky and took their foot off the gas to hand Australia belief to level in Perth

There is a feeling, and only the players can answer this, that on the second morning when England were cruising they took their foot off the gas and relaxed.

Michael Vaughan: Australia selectors are playing into England's hands by picking Michael Beer

Australia's selection for this Test has been staggering. It is mind-blowing to see Australia thinking a guy such as Michael Beer, who has played only five first-class matches, can rock up in an Ashes series to play in a team who are 1-0 down and produce the goods.

Michael Vaughan: Ricky Ponting must go on the defensive to save Ashes

From what we have seen so far it is clear this will be Ricky Ponting's last series. He is the right man to carry on until it finishes but he has to lead by scoring a gallon of runs.

Michael Vaughan: if Ashes form continues England will be No 1 in the world

After the crushing win in Adelaide I now fully expect England to go on and win the series quite convincingly. But it should not stop there.

Michael Vaughan: Alastair Cook is the key to England setting a big target in Adelaide in second Ashes Test

England teams are always vulnerable when they have had a lot of praise. That was the case for my team and the England sides I played in. It is a peculiarly English cricketing trait that we fight more when we have been criticised.

The Ashes 2010: win the first Test in Brisbane and the Ashes will be England's, says Michael Vaughan

It's time to put my neck on the line. Whichever team walk away from Brisbane 1-0 up – and I am pretty certain there will be a result in this Test match – will go on and win the Ashes.

The Ashes 2010: Andrew Strauss has golden chance to claim place in history, says Michael Vaughan

Andrew Strauss sets off on Friday on a mission to retain the Ashes armed with a team who have the best chance since 1986-87 of achieving something special in Australia.

Ryder Cup 2010: Europe's Lee Westwood thrives on knowing that he is the leader

As a close friend and associate of Lee Westwood, I'm glad to say that he is in good shape after his recent calf problems and looking forward to the Ryder Cup.