THE inevitable war of words has started ahead of the Ashes – and I reckon the Aussies are feeling the pressure When big bad Glenn McGrath used to sound off about a 5-0 whitewash, he could do so safe in the knowledge that he was part of the greatest team in his country’s history.

Now, however, our Commonwealth cousins are a bit more fallible – just ask India, who have completed a 2-0 series win against them.

So when Ricky Ponting highlighted Kevin Pietersen and Alastair Cook as England’s weak link, he was not really telling us something we didn’t already know. Both players could do with a big series if they want a long-term future in the Test team.

Come on Ricky. What happened to proper banter? When they were a bit more sure of themselves, the Aussies would target our captain, best batsman or star man.

Perhaps they know it will be hard to ruffle Andrew Strauss, Jonathan Trott or Graeme Swann? Or do they realise that they don’t have the firepower to back up bold claims? Maybe Ponting doesn’t fancy eating humble pie later in the year?

In sharp contrast, the England team are keeping their powder dry – preferring to do their talking on the field.

They have a steely determination and confidence that comes with knowing they have a genuine chance of turning over the old enemy this winter.

They know it will be difficult, but they are not going to get dragged into a war of words.

If England get off to a flying start, the pressure will really crank up a notch on Ponting – and he won’t be able to stop himself from having a swipe at the tourists.

In 2005 it was Gary Pratt and the issue of substitute fielders, while in 2009 he got upset because his bowlers couldn’t dislodge Jimmy Anderson or Monty Panesar.

A third and final outburst will mean England are in the driving seat. And that could prove to be the end of the Tasmanian’s tenure.