“I’m predicting 3-1 England,” said Cook. “I think a lot will be determined by that first Test. If we can start well, which I really believe they will, especially with Australia not having Pat Cummins, that’s a massive loss for them.
“Their batting line-up is looking as shaky as it has for the last decade, and I think England have got a real chance. I think a lot of it will come down to which bowling attack stands above the rest, but with the Aussies not having Pat Cummins, England have got even more of a chance.
“They would have had a real good shout anyway, but in my head, England are coming into it as slight favourites, even though it’s in Australia’s backyard.”
