The Ashes(2010-11)

As only 1 drawn match is over in this 5 match series,we can't deliver immediate verdicts on how one Team is playing much better,the other team has declined considerably,or who has the 'edge' etc.As of now,the verdict has been out on just one issue-Whitewash,that's the issue which has been solved immediately in Gabba,Brisbane.
 Yes,Ricky Ponting has failed to whitewash the Poms this time.However,Ponting still has a chance to win the series,so does England's Strauss too.
The few things which have become clear after the first Test are:
1.Pitches in Australia too have become quite flat and good batting paradises,like the much reviled one in the Asian Subcontinent.But,the factor which made many people think otherwise,was the huge percentage of wins/results they got in Home venues.(The belief being Flat wickets won't give results,as bowlers can't pick up wickets quick and easily.) Well,that was possible because of the extremely good run-rate at which the Australian batsmen used to bat,so the bowlers got more time to bowl out the Opposition and also aided by a great score to frighten the Opposition.
The next match being played in Adelaide now,is also a Traditionally Flat wicket.So,the key for Australia's win certainly lies in Ricky Ponting trying to convert a good start into huge 100s,Michael Clarke getting back to form,and Hussey to fire again.A massive collective effort by the Batting order,must be followed by fine bowling;and we can't comment on it because,we're yet to know who are the bowlers likely to make it to the playing XI now.
2.The Poms have improved:I've been observing it since 2-3 years.The one thing I like about this team is they do care a thing or 2 about winning,unlike the one which I grew up watching in 1990s-the ones which get satisfied for dead rubber win or a hard fought Draw after being awarded a humiliating 3-0 or 4-0 trashing by the Aussies.Although,the bowlers failed to take advantage after restricting Australia to 143-5,the batsmen Strauss,Trott and Cook scored huge 100s to pile up 517-1,thus erasing the deficit and also building a big lead.
They aren't afraid looking at the big score,nor affected by the Past failures or Team reputations.They've improved  very well at home,and are starting to do well Overseas too.
I hope both sides Try for a win and not another Rub-feast draw.