Alastair Cook expects contrasting England, Australia strategies to continue at Ashes

Former England batsman Alastair Cook is expecting contrasting strategies to continue throughout the Ashes series.

Australia ended Day 2 on 311/5 after 94 overs, in what was a visibly cautious approach to their batting in contrast to England's attacking 393/8 declared in 78 overs on Day 1.

Former England opener Alastair Cook admitted to being surprised by Australia's less attacking approach but backed both sides to keep their different styles throughout the Ashes series.

"The contrast in styles could not be more obvious than in that session," said Cook.

"Australia have decided to knuckle down, bat time and grind England into the dirt but England picked up three very handy wickets (in the first session)."

England had pinned the Australian side to 78/3 before lunch on Day 2 before the Aussies knuckled down and fought back to only lose two more wickets for the day.

"It has been a different tempo, but still thoroughly enjoyable. I have been surprised at how passive Australia have been. They are usually the side who is more keen to get on the front foot," added Cook.

The English team is yet to lose a Test series since former New Zealand batsman Brendon McCullum became their Test coach, flourishing under the new attacking "Bazball" approach.

"Australia aren't going to get lured in to England's tactics. England are going to keep doing it whether they lose 5-0 or win 5-0. Australia will keep going their way too, but it'll be interesting to see if things start to go England's way, whether they'll be tempted," concluded Cook.

The Aussies will have centurion Usman Khawaja (126*) and wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey (52*) at the crease at the start of Day 3 of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston.