Fletcher backs Swann’s ‘mental hold’ over Oz to winPerth Ashes Test for England

PERTH - England off-spinner Graeme Swann has a “mental hold” over Australia, and will do the majority of the damage during the third Ashes Test in Perth, according to former coach Duncan Fletcher.

Fletcher said that Swann would take advantage of the WACA pitch, which will offer enough assistance for slow bowlers.

“I have a strong sense that Graeme Swann is going to win the game for England,” Fletcher wrote in an article for The Guardian.

“Perth used to be a slow bowlers’ graveyard, but in more recent years it has become a good wicket for the spinners to bowl on. It offers a little turn, but more importantly it has bounce.”

“If the spinner has the discipline and know-how needed to use the wicket effectively, and Swann does, then life can really be hard for the batsmen. I think Swann has a mental hold over the Australian team,” he added.

Swann has played 26 Tests, since his debut in December 2008, in which he has taken 72 wickets at an average of 20.25. (ANI)