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Absolutely, the lack of consistency among some of the Australian batsmen is in sharp contrast to what was on offer during their years at the top.

Yes but it was a freakish era then: Warne, McGrath, Gilchrist, Ponting, Hayden, Waugh etc etc etc.
In a weird way it's almost more enjoyable now as its more unpredictable and there are many more close contests. Early stages but thIs ashes look as though they'll be close too.