Former England captain Michael Vaughan is never one to shy away from a big call, especially when the Ashes are just around the corner. He's famous for his bold and often controversial predictions that get fans from both sides talking. This time, he has dropped another classic, predicting a surprisingly level outcome for the fiery series.

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With the first Test in Perth looming, Vaughan has gone on record to predict a 2-2 draw. Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter), the 2005 Ashes-winning skipper laid out his exact thoughts, putting a heavy condition on England's talismanic figure, Ben Stokes. Vaughan tweeted, "As long as B Stokes stays fit, I think this series is going to be 2-2 .. England to win in Perth with no Pat or Josh .. As long as we have no more Injuries before the first test, that’s my final prediction .. #Ashes #OnOn"

His prediction isn't just a wild guess. It's based on a massive developing story in the Australian camp. The "Pat or Josh" question, aimed at Australia's captain and premier fast bowler, Pat Cummins, and his lethal partner, Josh Hazlewood, will play a huge role in the Ashes. Both have been ruled out of the first Test due to injuries. This news has rocked Australia's preparations. It leaves Mitchell Starc as the only fully fit, senior fast bowler available for selection.

This gives England a golden opportunity to land the first punch in Perth, a venue where Australia is usually very strong. Michael Vaughan clearly believes this early advantage is enough for England to win one Test, but that a full-strength Australia will fight back hard. With the series starting on November 21, this injury crisis has thrown a huge spanner in the works for the hosts has definitely boosted England's chances of taking the Ashes home, or, as Michael Vaughan believes, tie the series at 2-2.