Who has the best batting average for England in Tests against Australia? asks Steve "Desperate for an Ashes pick-me-up" Bourne I'm pleased to say that this type of question of question is much easier now that I can enlist the help of the Wisden Wizard. I asked your question, having imposed a minimum of ten innings, and the top man turned out to be Eddie Paynter, the old Lancashire left-hander, with an average of 84.42. Herbert Sutcliffe and Ken Barrington come next, with Chris Broad a surprising fourth. Only ten players managed a batting of more than 50 against Australia. Graham Thorpe (45.74) is the top current batsman, while England might regret leaving behind another current player who also makes the top 25 with 42.40 ...

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