Australia v England, Ashes 2017-18: Guardian writers’ predictions

Who will win and by how much? Who will excite and what will annoy? Can Joe Root outscore Steve Smith? Will Mitchell Starc or Jimmy Anderson dominate?Vic Marks: Australia – because they usually do. England have won there once in their last seven tours. Related: England squad’s novice look masks depth of experience playing in Australia | Andy BullRelated: ‘All the talking is done’: Ashes adversaries are ready for deeds not wordsRelated: Ashes 2017-18: player-by-player guide