Strauss ready for Aussie test
Andrew Strauss believes England will respond with action not words as they prepare for the first meeting of many with Australia this winter.
Fast bowler Glenn McGrath has typically had plenty to say ahead of Saturday's pre-Ashes clash between the two countries at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. However, Strauss, his former Middlesex colleague, refused to get into verbal combat.
"We have heard plenty from Glenn McGrath on numerous occasions now so we don't need to say too much in response," he said. "I am sure it is tongue in cheek but we decided a long time ago that if the Australians want to talk let them talk and we will do ours on the pitch."
England must deliver a pre-Ashes blow to retain their hopes of winning the ICC Champions Trophy - and Strauss views Australia as an ideal opponent in a must-win match.
Defeat to hosts India, which had a significantly detrimental effect on the team's run-rate, means England's equation is straightforward: two wins from the remaining two Group A games.
"They are not the worst side to play in this situation because you realise you have to go out, be positive and take them on," added Strauss.
"That puts you in a pretty good frame of mind right from the word go.
"It might be a good thing to be playing a really good side rather than a mid-table side."
