Ashes 2013 - Australia in England

Australian captain Michael Clarke rated Johnson's bowling to be on par with some of the legendary pace bowlers

Mitchell Johnson is vowing to continue his intimidation of England batsmen, and appears amused by the tourists' plans to fight fire with fire.

The astonishing revival of Mitchell Johnson has put Australia one win from the reclaiming the Ashes and evoked the bygone era of lethal quicks Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson 40 years ago.

When cricket lovers wake on Thursday, they will be consumed with excitement. A concoction of nerves, energy and enthusiasm overcome in readiness for the first day of the Australian Test summer. For Australian and English supporters, there is extra emotion attached for an Ashes series.

Australia captain Michael Clarke was a relieved man after hitting his 8th ODI century in an 88-run win over England at Old Trafford as he played a key role in his first victory over a Test nation in seven months.

Former England skipper Geoffrey Boycott slammed the existing light laws and said the earlier rule on fading light worked better.

England have apologised for any offence caused during the celebrations of their Ashes series win at the Kia Oval on Sunday.

Steve Smith, the Australia all-rounder, is all set to return home from the ongoing tour of England because of an injury. Cricket Australia said in a statement that there will be no replacement for Smith

The reality is that England remains the much superior side and failure to accept this is only delusional, writes Garfield Robinson.

England were denied the chance to make Ashes history - and complete one of the most fearless chases in living memory - when the umpires took the sides off for bad light with the game minutes away from a thrilling climax.