England started in the fashion I had expected (as did Australia when a nick from Strauss in the third over sailed through harmlessly between the keeper and first slip). England were 78-0, going at a good run-rate and looked for all money like they were going to post another big first innings total.
Then Mitchell Johnson came on. When he was brought into the attack I actually made the comment, 'Oh no, not Johnson, we're in trouble now'. As it turns out, my sarcastic jab at Mitchell Johnson proved to be right on the money. He produced his best spell of bowling since he dismantled South Africa here in Perth during the 2008/09 series.
During his devastating spell he removed Cook, Trott, Pietersen and Collingwood. Three of those batsmen had series averages of over 100 and are all regarded as key wickets. None more so than Cook who has been imperious in the series so far. Normally when England lose 5 top order wickets for 20 runs there is a host of criticism thrown their way. On this occasion however, Johnson was simply too good. He was quick and most importantly, he was swinging the ball.
The Australian media had been very critical of Johnson spending two weeks in the nets before this game. It had been suggested that he should have been playing for Western Australia instead of doing net bowling. It seems the decision has been justified. Many people wondered how Johnson had got back into the team just by bowling in the nets. He must have rediscovered his swing with Troy Cooley whilst grooving his action. Obviously this was enough to convince the selectors and as we saw, when Mitchell Johnson is swinging the ball, there is hardly a more dangerous bowler in world cricket.
Johnson was the centre of most of the pre-series talk. The general consensus was that if Johnson fired, Australia would win. If Johnson continues to bowl like he did today for the remainder of the series, England will have to bat brilliantly to keep hold of their advantage.
I wrote yesterday that this series may not be an epic tussle between two evenly matched sides like some of the recent series, rather a changing of the guard with England taking up the mantle of the dominant force. Judging by today's evidence this series could be a very tight, engrossing contest (if Johnson continues to bowl like this anyway).
Mitchell Johnson you have made me eat my words. As an England supporter I may begrudge your remarkable return to form. However, as a cricket lover I have to thank you for igniting a contest that was seemingly very one-sided. This series has been turned on it's head in a day. Keep your eyes peeled!
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