England skipper Alastair Cook believes his 100th Test appearance for his country this week in Perth against Australia could be the toughest match of his entire career to date.
The tourists head into the game with the odds stacked against them as they look to become the first England side to win a Test at the Waca since 1978.
Added to that the fact Cook and his men are 2-0 down in the current Ashes series after disappointing performances in both Brisbane and Adelaide, and it shows the real extent of the challenge that awaits the urn holders in Western Australia this week.
Opening batsman Cook knows how tough it is going to be against the Baggy Greens and may well have hoped to have gone into his 100th Test with less pressure.
However, the 28-year-old, who is yet to find his best form with the bat on the current tour, believes the tourists are ready for what he feels will be a huge battle.
Cook said: “After what’s happened so far, I’d say so. Your next challenge is always the toughest.
“Our confidence has taken a hit after the first two matches but the squad has made a real conscious effort. We have to look forward, rather than look back.
“I don’t think it’s been about lifting the players. That hunger and desire has always been there in this side. We have got another opportunity to show it this week.”
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