I wondered if Swann is maybe struggling with fitness more than they are letting on? He hasn't looked at full tick for me so far. Certainly Monty is a very good option to have. Particularly at OT which traditionally turns, and he has something ridiculous like 25 wickets in 3 matches there. I can't see any change from the policy of 6 batsmen, wickie, 4 man attack though. There is the option of dropping Bres for Monty of course and playing 2 spinners but then the last time we tried that at home was Cardiff which didn't go too well. As we found on the subcontinent though it can work. I think it will turn but I fully expect there to be pace and bounce in the wicket too which will see them edge towards Bresnan. They like Tremmers though so it is not a given with Bres. The dryness may suit his reverse but a bouncy one would make Tremmers a nightmare. He can be vicious on a bouncy wicket. The likes of Watson will remember those ones he got spitting up at them on the bouncy Aussie pitches off a good length in 2010. I think the bigger picture there is his performances down under. He will be on the plane for that touring party. Its nice to have all these options in the bowling ranks.
I agree that Swan does not look his best with either ball or bat. Perhaps his injuries are taking longer to get over than was first indicated. Whatever team we put out ,I believe we are far too strong in all departments for Aussie. Roll on Thurs,can't wait.
Swann got smashed on the arm by Mills in the warm up game and he obviously has that on-going elbow issue as well. Guess he might be a doubt as they didn't give much away during the CT when Tredwell would replace him.
The way Pieterson was moving on TV last night,with heavy strapping to his calf,I don't think he will play. There is also talk about Tremmers having a leg injury,he certainly had strapping on his leg last night? My gut feeling is stay with same team + Taylor if required
Added Durham. If you need a 3rd out and out seamer,you have to drop Bressy and bring in Tremmers or Onions. Anderson and Broad would always get in my team,and to be honest the top 7 should get enough runs so as we will not miss Bressy's batting. If you want 4 seamers and Swan,Bairstowe would be the one to go. Personally I would stick with same 11