Australia opening batsman Chris Rogers is expecting a backlash from England in the second Ashes Test in Adelaide.
The hosts took a 1-0 lead in the series with a 381-run victory in Brisbane - their first win in eight Ashes games - and are confident of another good performance when they take to the field again this week.
But 36-year-old Rogers, who is readying for only the eighth Test of his career - all but one of which have been against England - is wary of how the tourists will react.
“They’re a good side,” he said. “It’s going to be a tough game for them as we’re playing well and we have some good momentum and belief now that we have won a game, but I know they’ll come back stronger.
“They’ve got some very good players. I’ve played against them and I know they’ll step up.”
Rogers enjoyed his first victory as a Test player during the opening clash of the series but returned his lowest aggregate run total, having made just one and 16 at the Gabba.
The Middlesex batsman is hopeful that he can find his form in the second Test and, with age not on his side, he knows he must make a significant statement with the bat.
“I didn’t contribute as much as I’d have liked in the first game so it would be nice to get some runs in this game,” he said. “Last year I got some good runs here so hopefully it will be a good batting wicket.
“I want to be here for the whole series and score runs; that’s my job. I probably can’t afford too many failures.
“I’ve probably hit the ball a bit better but I’ve been able to work hard this week and iron out a few flaws so hopefully I can contribute.
“You always feel pressure but you’ve just got to enjoy it as well.“