Australia could implode before Ashes & urges England to keep pressure on, says Michael Atherton

Former England captain Michael Atherton warned that Australia could implode before the Ashes following a 2-1 Test series defeat to South Africa. The loss displaced Australia from top spot in the Test rankings and highlighted batting frailties after consecutive collapses of 99 and 111. Atherton noted that an aging pace bowling unit and selection issues could cause further decline across an intense upcoming schedule against New Zealand, India, and England.

Atherton urged England to capitalize on Australia's vulnerability during their upcoming three ODIs and five T20Is starting on November 13. Australia will rest Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood for the white-ball fixtures, but Test regulars Travis Head, Cameron Green, and Alex Carey will play. Atherton argued sustained pressure during this tour could further destabilize Australian cricket amid scrutiny on struggling batter Marnus Labuschagne.