UK Tabloid Talk 27/6

RICKY PONTING EXCLUSIVE: Australia will play with no fear after Arthur's axe
by Ricky Ponting, The Daily Mail
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting says Australia will play with aggression and without fear under new coach Darren Lehmann. Having played with 'Boof', Ponting says he will bring a calming presence to the team and a relaxed feel to the dressing room. Ponting also talks about how he pleaded to become a selector as captain and the reaction to Michael Clarke stepping down.

Darren Lehmann beams as Australians find potency and sound a warning
by Vic Marks, The Guardian
A stunning final hour in Taunton which produced six wickets for no runs helped the touring Australians take the honours on day one. Chris Jones (130) and dumped England opener Nick Compton (81) feasted on the generous wicket before the second new ball tore holes through Somerset's disappointing middle to lower order. The home side couldn't handle the swing of Mitchell Starc and pace of James Pattinson to surrender the momentum after five hours of dominance. 

Andrew Strauss: Aussies won't just hand us the urn
by Stephen Brenkley, The Independent
Two-tome Ashes winning captain Andrew Strauss says Australia aren't as bad as everyone is making them out to be. He points out that Australia has a strong bowling group, but says an inexperienced batting group fighting for spots will be their downfall. Strauss predicts a 3-1 victory to England.

Nick Compton thrown Ashes lifeline as selectors offer him second chance
by Richard Hobson, The Times
England selectors have hedged their bets with Nick Compton, pulling strings to have the opener play for Worcestershire on Tuesday. Compton will front the Australian attack for the second time in a week as the ECB keep Compton in the loop for Ashes selection.