Who could forget the astounding performance made by Ian Botham at Headingley in 1981? The heroics of a man humbled by previous defeat ensured that that year’s Test victory will forever be known as Botham’s Ashes.

The performance was one of a quintessentially brilliant all-rounder. “Beefy”, as he was commonly known, claimed six wickets in one innings and hit 149 in another to seal a famous win for England.

Such brilliance wasn’t on the cards from the off however as the visitors seemed to be on the verge of a 2-0 test lead with four days left on the cards. Yet it was down to a gung-ho Botham who’s unbelievable resilience and offensive mindset helped to spur Bob Willis to sweep through the Aussie line-up with 8-43.

The turn of events sealed a remarkable 18-run win and signalled a turn around in a series that saw England go on to win 3-1.

Such an iconic player as Ian Botham should be looked upon in awe and used by the English cricketers to gain a foothold on this Ashes Test of 2013 and push for glory. Maybe Botham’s vigour runs in the blood of Broad or Swann? One thing is for sure, if Australia keep on bringing surprises to the table the presence of Botham’s spirit and patriotism may well be needed.

Just after Ashton Agar cemented himself as the highest test scoring number 11 of all time at the tender age of 19 it seemed as though his reign upon the crease was never going to come to an end.

Yet low and behold the tireless and relentless pressure compiled on top of the wonder-kid seemed to do the trick for England as Stuart Broad’s unending skill with the ball saw Agar swipe it cleanly down the throat of Graeme Swann on the midwicket boundary.

Despite his sudden demise it looks as though Agar will be a key feature of the travelling squad who should not be left in the dark.

It’s been a busy first day for the bar staff of the Radcliffe Stand and the final round is in sight as the final session draws to a close. Thousands of cricket lovers have passed through Trent Bridge’s gates today stopping off for that first pint refreshment before reaching their seats.

Barman, Aeron, aged 20 has experienced thirsty punters before having recently finished a shift at a local 20-20 match and was feeling confident when we spoke to him earlier in the morning.

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The Australian cricket team today burst out of the blocks with a wonderful display of bowling superiority, mainly in the shape of Peter Siddle but with beautiful displays by team mates Mitchell Starc and James Pattinson, bringing England to a halt at 215 runs all out.

Siddle’s quick bursts of pace that he so fantastically puts behind the ball giving it the momentum to create poor play within England’s batsmen was key to Australia’s success today, bringing England’s batting to a quiet close. Yet with England’s powerful bowling playing a key feature in recent success it can be hoped that Alastair Cook and co. will return the favour and ensure Australian confidence will soon be shaken.