Kevin Pietersen believes a lack of support for James Anderson will damage England’s chances of regaining the Ashes.

Australia have two genuine fast bowlers in left-armers Mitchell Johnson and Mitchell Starc, with Josh Hazlewood set to be the tourists’ third fast bowler and the 35-year-old Pietersen fears England lack similar firepower. 

“Sadly, I think Australia will win 2-1,” Pietersen wrote in his Daily Telegraph column.

“I want England to win but I just can’t see it happening. I hope I am wrong. 

“The difference between the two teams this series is we do not have that strike bowler who can lead the attack and take wickets while James Anderson is resting between spells.

"Two years ago we had (now retired off-spinner) Graeme Swann but I’m concerned as to who will be our match-winner if Anderson does not turn up.

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“It is essential Stuart Broad and Mark Wood are firing and taking wickets. England’s route to victory then lies with Alastair Cook and Joe Root scoring lots of runs, and the bowling attack working in partnerships to make up for that lack of a strike bowler,” the sidelined batsman added. 

Meanwhile, Pietersen insisted England would not regain the Ashes by trying to contain the Australians.

“You have to make a play,” the South Africa-born batsman said. 

“England have to come out and attack Australia. There is no way in the world they are going to win the series by being defensive.”