NationStates Jolt Archive

The Ashes start tomorrow. And I'll be at work. :rolleyes:

This is the thread to discuss it all.

Australia looks to me to be in a much better position, and I'm afraid to say that I expect England to be crushed in this first match. My hope is however that they'll do better in the following games and will actually make it tight.

What do you think? Who'll take the Ashes?

The urn.

The Ashes start tomorrow. And I'll be at work. :rolleyes:

This is the thread to discuss it all.

Australia looks to me to be in a much better position, and I'm afraid to say that I expect England to be crushed in this first match. My hope is however that they'll do better in the following games and will actually make it tight.

What do you think? Who'll take the Ashes?

dam right we win

The Aussies. No contest. We will be obliterated and normal service (England being shite) will resume once more...although I think Panesar and Bell will both come away with reputations much enhanced.

England only has to draw the series to win, so anything is possible. England's fitness is a problem though.

An understrength england side playing in Australia? hmmm...

I think Englands had their moment, and Aussie have it this time around. I'll watch quite a lot of it though. I'm also looking forward to the VB series afterwards. Bring it!

*Puts on patriotic hat*

ENGLAND!

In a ll seriousness, another real close one, but we do have a good chance. Look out for more first class bowling and comedic fielding feom Panesar.

Those of us who clicked the bottom poll question DEMAND to know!

Of course, I'll be off to bed soon, so I might not get to see your answer until tomorrow...

Those of us who clicked the bottom poll question DEMAND to know!

Of course, I'll be off to bed soon, so I might not get to see your answer until tomorrow...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Ashes

about covers what it's about.


If you want cricket explained to you, that's a whole other story..


http://www.bl.uk/news/images/ashes.jpg

The start of it all...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Ashes

about covers what it's about.


If you want cricket explained to you, that's a whole other story..

Cricket, eh? Well, I'll have to learn about it tomorrow when I get home from work. I hear it's pretty fun, though I've never seen a match myself.

Europe will win.

Cricket...the most confusing game ever invented.

We'll send the poms packing in no time, drink your tea lads!

Cricket...the most confusing game ever invented.

Im sure its more reasonable than Australian rules football.

Cricket...the most confusing game ever invented.
Actually, it's a much simpler version of baseball. It's much easier to explain cricket to someone who knows baseball than vice versa.

If any of you actually care, this one does a good job in a language you'll actually understand: http://www.cheryl-morgan.com/?page_id=23

Thanks NL, I was going to start an Ashes thread myself. :)

I reckon we'll reclaim the urn from the Poms 3-1. It's rightfully ours anyway. :p

England have improved during their tour matches against NSW & SA, so it won't be a walkover. I think Australia win at the Gabba & England will be on the back foot from there. I expect some tight contests, but I don't think the Poms are strong enough to beat Australia in Australia.

You're in Brisbane aren't you? Are going to any of the days?

I say the Krikkit war robots will win.

:p

You're in Brisbane aren't you? Are going to any of the days?
Nope. :(

I completely missed the times they sold the tickets.

Beware that white killer robots from outer space will land on the grounds during the match, kill both teams, and steal the Ashes.

Krikkit! Krikkit! Krikkit!;)

England will retain it 2-1.

The biggest loss is Vaughan's captaincy, but, aside from that, the team is stronger than last time round. A young, aggressive, confident team versus a bunch of OAPs... I don't think the result can be in much doubt.

Nope. :(

I completely missed the times they sold the tickets.

Bummer. I'm going to the 3rd & 4th days in Melbourne. Maybe the 5th too, depending on how the game's going.

England will retain it 2-1.

The biggest loss is Vaughan's captaincy, but, aside from that, the team is stronger than last time round. A young, aggressive, confident team versus a bunch of OAPs... I don't think the result can be in much doubt.

England haven't been all that impressive in their warm-up matches. They've improved in each game, but haven't looked all that great.

The Australians are really fired up to win back the Ashes after the loss in England. I think the Aussies will be too powerful, particularly at home. The Poms don't seem to adapt well to our conditions.

Bummer. I'm going to the 3rd & 4th days in Melbourne. Maybe the 5th too, depending on how the game's going.

I'm going to Boxing Day! Booyakasha!

And I plan on getting abused for most of the other days as I shall be working (I'm a pie boy, I deserve it). But stuff from me, K? I need money :(

England will retain it 2-1.

The biggest loss is Vaughan's captaincy, but, aside from that, the team is stronger than last time round. A young, aggressive, confident team versus a bunch of OAPs... I don't think the result can be in much doubt.

Come on, have a look at the English injury list... its enormous. The Ashes NEED experience, not fresh young'uns. Besides, many of our players are at the top of their game to say the least. You're going down 4-0 (probably weather induced)

One word

Englandbattingcollapse

Well, i've optimistically voted that England will take the ashes, just, but my real feeling is that Australia aren't going to let that happen two year in a row.

And Australia are going to crush us (Scotland) in the rugby on Saturday :(

One word

Englandbattingcollapse

I think that should be three words:

Englandbattingcollapse
Aussieallroundasskicking
PommyFrenchemulation

You were on the right track, but mine's better.:p

Im sure its more reasonable than Australian rules football.

Aussie Rules is pretty easy as there are hardly any rules...

I'm going to Boxing Day! Booyakasha!

And I plan on getting abused for most of the other days as I shall be working (I'm a pie boy, I deserve it). But stuff from me, K? I need money :(

What's the pay like for that? It'd be tough work wandering around all day in the sun with they pie warmer thing around your neck. At least you'll be there. I couldn't get tickets for Boxing Day this year, they sold out too quickly. I've been on Boxing Day quite a few times before & never had to pre-purchase tickets before, just rolled up & got general admission on the morning.

What's the pay like for that? It'd be tough work wandering around all day in the sun with they pie warmer thing around your neck. At least you'll be there. I couldn't get tickets for Boxing Day this year, they sold out too quickly. I've been on Boxing Day quite a few times before & never had to pre-purchase tickets before, just rolled up & got general admission on the morning.

It's bloody hard work, and sunburn/heat stroke are a serious problem... the rack is usually about 9-10kg, and stairs ara a bitch. At one mid-season footy match I carried a pedometer: I walked 12.5km with that thing, and most of it was up or downstairs.


But the pay is 10% commission (after GST), cash in hand... which means you can easily make more than $15/hour, which isnt bad for under-age wage. AND Tax free.

But I actually got tickets to see the match before I got the job, so I intend on watching boxing day, not working.

It's bloody hard work, and sunburn/heat stroke are a serious problem... the rack is usually about 9-10kg, and stairs ara a bitch. At one mid-season footy match I carried a pedometer: I walked 12.5km with that thing, and most of it was up or downstairs.


But the pay is 10% commission (after GST), cash in hand... which means you can easily make more than $15/hour, which isnt bad for under-age wage. AND Tax free.

But I actually got tickets to see the match before I got the job, so I intend on watching boxing day, not working.

Cool. :cool:

I'm pretty annoyed that sky have got coverage so I can't watch it at home. Still, I suppose it just means a few all nighters down the pub to liven up winter.

I had my Barmy Army hat on when voting in the poll but I do genuinely belive that we can scrape a win or at least a draw to retain the urn but I think a lot of it will depend on Monty not feeling the pressure too much and Bell not getting injured again.

England will retain it 2-1.

The biggest loss is Vaughan's captaincy, but, aside from that, the team is stronger than last time round. A young, aggressive, confident team versus a bunch of OAPs... I don't think the result can be in much doubt.
Funniest post you've ever made. We're missing Vaughan, Trescothick and (Simon) Jones. Flintoff has bowled about 10 overs since July and for some fucking stupid reason we've got Geraint Jones as wicket-keeper instead of Read.

We're going to be hammered. 3-1 to the Aussies. Glenn McGrath will get four five-wicket hauls at least.

But I'll still be cheering on England with every run they get.

The Aussies. No contest. We will be obliterated and normal service (England being shite) will resume once more...although I think Panesar and Bell will both come away with reputations much enhanced.
Only if they let Panesar play of course.
But then one could argue not playing in the woeful team that is England will enhance one's rep.

My feeling is not so matter as to will Oz win, as how much will they win by?

Look at last objectively: England played out of their skin, Oz played like shite (aside from Warne) and truthfully, England were lucky to come away with the ashes. That 2nd match could easily gone the way of the Aussies*, which would have had the Aussies retaining the ashes 2 -1. Even if it had been drawn, that would have given a 1 - 1 result and again the ashes kept by Oz.


*They lost by 2 runs in a thrilling run chase with the last Oz batsman given out when he shouldn't have been.


What one has to admire about the English sport fan is their eternal optimism. A close series that could have gone either way is somehow 'proof' that the English team is best in the world. Likewise, the All Blacks beating them 41-20 after leading 28 - 5 is 'proof' how good English rugby is - "We scored 3 tries and they beat France even worse!".
Really, it's kinda sweet and cute.

Only if they let Panesar play of course.
But then one could argue not playing in the woeful team that is England will enhance one's rep.

My feeling is not so matter as to will Oz win, as how much will they win by?

Look at last objectively: England played out of their skin, Oz played like shite (aside from Warne) and truthfully, England were lucky to come away with the ashes. That 2nd match could easily gone the way of the Aussies*, which would have had the Aussies retaining the ashes 2 -1. Even if it had been drawn, that would have given a 1 - 1 result and again the ashes kept by Oz.


*They lost by 2 runs in a thrilling run chase with the last Oz batsman given out when he shouldn't have been.
The key to the last Ashes series was that McGrath was injured for some of the tests...incidentally, the ones that England won (the 2nd and 4th). Even when he wasn't fully fit (in the third test) he still took five wickets in the second innings. If he'd not been injured and continued his form from the first match of the series through the other four matches, his pre-series prediction (5-0 to Oz) might have been right.

*They lost by 2 runs in a thrilling run chase with the last Oz batsman given out when he shouldn't have been.


His glove had JUST come off the bat, but still no umpire in the world wouldn't have given that out. It's like all the pad/bat LBWs that never get given out because of the two noises.


What one has to admire about the English sport fan is their eternal optimism. A close series that could have gone either way is somehow 'proof' that the English team is best in the world. Likewise, the All Blacks beating them 41-20 after leading 28 - 5 is 'proof' how good English rugby is - "We scored 3 tries and they beat France even worse!".
Really, it's kinda sweet and cute.

Henry gave the boys a huge serve after that match apparently and France kind of felt the backlash of it..

His glove had JUST come off the bat, but still no umpire in the world wouldn't have given that out. It's like all the pad/bat LBWs that never get given out because of the two noises.
true. Though one does wonder as to what the umpire's decision would have been had it been an English batsman facing, 1 run from drawing, 2 from winning.


Henry gave the boys a huge serve after that match apparently and France kind of felt the backlash of it.
Really? Well, let's hope Henry serves that sort of rev-up come the semis and finals next year.

Funniest post you've ever made. We're missing Vaughan, Trescothick and (Simon) Jones. Flintoff has bowled about 10 overs since July and for some fucking stupid reason we've got Geraint Jones as wicket-keeper instead of Read.

We're going to be hammered. 3-1 to the Aussies. Glenn McGrath will get four five-wicket hauls at least.

But I'll still be cheering on England with every run they get.

Just keeping up the pre-series sledging. ;)

McGrath got voted the most irritating Aussie in thelondonpaper tonight. :p

I do think England might be able to do it, though it will be very tight.

We're going to have the living shit beaten out of us. Beating Australia last year was like poking a bear with a big stick. Now England have to go into the cage, withoutthe stick they had last time.

Could we not just pay the Aussie team off and save ourselves the embarressment?

England only has to draw the series to win, so anything is possible. England's fitness is a problem though.

Along with rank incompetance, and a failure to bowl in the same place for more than one ball at a time....:(

Along with rank incompetance, and a failure to bowl in the same place for more than one ball at a time....:(

They're not that bad at all. Flintoff is looking good, The Incredible Hogg is as good as ever. Hopefully they'll go with Panasar - if they don't I would support the shooting of Fletcher - but if they don't, Giles is still a decent bowler. The only real question mark is Harmison's recent form, and hopefully he'll be alright.

They're not that bad at all. Flintoff is looking good, The Incredible Hogg is as good as ever. Hopefully they'll go with Panasar - if they don't I would support the shooting of Fletcher - but if they don't, Giles is still a decent bowler. The only real question mark is Harmison's recent form, and hopefully he'll be alright.

I simply don't see us winning any of the crucial contests. Of the England side, and their counterparts, only Pieterson, Strauss, Flinotff and Hoggard would be considered superior. Cook, if he is able to play Warne successfully enough, could be critical in guving the team a reliable, and prolonged, source of runs and stability, and I must confess I have a lot of time for Bell, however I fear Collingwood will be found to be second rate in Australia, and Geraint Jones is a test match waiting to be lost.

As for the bowlers, if Anderson and Harmison actually turn up sufficiently regularly, we do have a chance, but I simply think Australia are more consistent in their form.

I simply don't see us winning any of the crucial contests. Of the England side, and their counterparts, only Pieterson, Strauss, Flinotff and Hoggard would be considered superior. Cook, if he is able to play Warne successfully enough, could be critical in guving the team a reliable, and prolonged, source of runs and stability, and I must confess I have a lot of time for Bell, however I fear Collingwood will be found to be second rate in Australia, and Geraint Jones is a test match waiting to be lost.

As for the bowlers, if Anderson and Harmison actually turn up sufficiently regularly, we do have a chance, but I simply think Australia are more consistent in their form.

Well, I actually think that being able to play Cook, Bell and Collingwood strengthens the side - they are all in much better form than Stresscothick, even if he hadn't gone home. It will be interesting to see how well Cook and Bell cope with the Aussies (especially Bell, as he has more to prove after last time), but I'm not too worried about Collingwood. He's a fairly solid player no matter who he's playing.

The choice of Jones was bizarre, it has to be said, especially after he cocked up in the warm up games. I do think it's time for Duncan Fletcher to move on - he's playing far too defensively, picking players he knows. Read is the better keeper and Panasar the better bowler; I'm a fan of both Jones and Giles, but it simply has to be admitted that they're not as good as their rivals.

Still, I think England have a good chance. Being the underdog last time was a big help, and they've got that advantage again. Confidence is the big issue here for them, not ability; if they believe they can win, then they are capable of doing so.

Well, I actually think that being able to play Cook, Bell and Collingwood strengthens the side - they are all in much better form than Stresscothick, even if he hadn't gone home. It will be interesting to see how well Cook and Bell cope with the Aussies (especially Bell, as he has more to prove after last time), but I'm not too worried about Collingwood. He's a fairly solid player no matter who he's playing.

The choice of Jones was bizarre, it has to be said, especially after he cocked up in the warm up games. I do think it's time for Duncan Fletcher to move on - he's playing far too defensively, picking players he knows. Read is the better keeper and Panasar the better bowler; I'm a fan of both Jones and Giles, but it simply has to be admitted that they're not as good as their rivals.

Still, I think England have a good chance. Being the underdog last time was a big help, and they've got that advantage again. Confidence is the big issue here for them, not ability; if they believe they can win, then they are capable of doing so.


Giles is the better bat. Which england need, given they have bell in the order.

Giles is the better bat. Which england need, given they have bell in the order.

This England team has always won with the ball, though, not the bat; playing a weaker bowler to try and strengthen the tail is far too defensive.

This England team has always won with the ball, though, not the bat; playing a weaker bowler to try and strengthen the tail is far too defensive.

No doubt. But england doesn't have to win. Only draw. So defensive makes sense.

No doubt. But england doesn't have to win. Only draw. So defensive makes sense.

They shouldn't be playing for a draw, though. They need to be aggressive, and prove that this really is Regicide, not relying on past success to carry them through. The Aussies confidence got knocked during the last series and ended up playing for a draw, and look where that got them.

:upyours: Aussie.
Monty to take the spin of Warne. One test to far for the old men of aussie.
CAn you get McGarth to play footy again. only way engalnd can win again

This England team has always won with the ball, though, not the bat; playing a weaker bowler to try and strengthen the tail is far too defensive.
And they're not gonna win with the bat. Not against Warne, McGrath or Lee (unless Lee plays crap, like last time).

And with the ball it'll be difficult enough. Apart from the usual suspects Hayden, Ponting, Gilchrist, they now have Hussey (and if last summer's performance was anything to go by...) to deal with.

Oh, and Symonds. :p

They shouldn't be playing for a draw, though. They need to be aggressive, and prove that this really is Regicide, not relying on past success to carry them through. The Aussies confidence got knocked during the last series and ended up playing for a draw, and look where that got them.

Well I think part of it is to do with the fitness issues. Personally I agree with you. I just don't see the england tail being long enough to force draws in any case - not with the team's style of play. I'm just guessing as to why defensive makes sense.

And they're not gonna win with the bat. Not against Warne, McGrath or Lee (unless Lee plays crap, like last time).
I don't think McGrath is the player he was, and Lee is quite easy to play if you get used to his speed. Warne, though, remains in his own class as ever.

And with the ball it'll be difficult enough. Apart from the usual suspects Hayden, Ponting, Gilchrist, they now have Hussey (and if last summer's performance was anything to go by...) to deal with.
Ponting hasn't been in best form recently, and it was obvious last time how much his batting suffers when he's under pressure as Captain. It will be interesting to see how Gilchrist copes with Flintoff this time - he was completely unable to play him last time they met. Hayden is dangerous, but not at his best anymore. They'll probably try to knock Langer out with the short ball. :p

I don't think McGrath is the player he was, and Lee is quite easy to play if you get used to his speed.
See, the problem is that I don't have Pay TV and haven't watched Cricket since last February or something.

But Lee in last time's VB Series did something very scary....he actually became accurate as well as fast.

It used to be that he really only bowled as fast as he could and that was it. But in that series he hit the spots he wanted, and he routinely demolished batting sides, getting better results than McGrath in the process.

If he kept going on that route, then I'd be rather scared. Lee is still fairly young, and has the best people around him to teach him.

But we'll see in an hour or so, I suppose. I can't wait. :)

See, the problem is that I don't have Pay TV and haven't watched Cricket since last February or something.
Cricket went onto subscription tv here after the last Ashes as well. :(

But at least you still get Richie commentating!

But Lee in last time's VB Series did something very scary....he actually became accurate as well as fast.

It used to be that he really only bowled as fast as he could and that was it. But in that series he hit the spots he wanted, and he routinely demolished batting sides, getting better results than McGrath in the process.

If he kept going on that route, then I'd be rather scared. Lee is still fairly young, and has the best people around him to teach him.

I had noticed Lee has been concentrating on his accuracy more, and there is no doubting that he's a better bowler for it. Again, though, the test will be whether he can keep this up under pressure - it's a feeling that this Australian team is completely unused to. I'm not actually writing McGrath off, either - him not being the force he once was leaves him still better than most bowlers. It'll certainly be an interesting competition, and I do worry about how well England's younger top order, ie Cook and Bell, will cope.

But we'll see in an hour or so, I suppose. I can't wait. :)
Nor can I. :D

They picked Giles, dammit!

I'm really annoyed now. Fletcher is just plain wrong.

Hmmm...England have a top order to strike fear into the hearts of the Aussies - Strauss, Cook, Bell...

If Strauss, KP and Freddie are on batting form, Freddie and Hoggy are on bowling form, and Grievous Bodily Harmison is anywhere near as good and as fast as he can be (especially on hard Australian wickets), we might stand a chance. Lot of ifs, though.

Well I think part of it is to do with the fitness issues. Personally I agree with you. I just don't see the england tail being long enough to force draws in any case - not with the team's style of play. I'm just guessing as to why defensive makes sense.
Hoggard can block almost any ball that comes his way.

I wouldn't say that Harmison is suffering from nerves or anything...but his first ball was a wide. So wide in fact, it was taken at second slip...

Good start by the Aussies, none for fifty odd.

I think the Poms made a mistake not picking Monte.

Hoggard seems to be bowling well, looking at his figures (5-2-17-0), as does Anderson (5-1-17-0). Shame about Harmison - clearly not at his best. I hope he settles in soon.

Hoggard seems to be bowling well, looking at his figures (5-2-17-0), as does Anderson (5-1-17-0). Shame about Harmison - clearly not at his best. I hope he settles in soon.

Yeah, Harmison really seems to be struggling with the wides. He has come back on again & is still spraying them all over.

And lunch on day one, Langer with his head intact is dominating. Loved the first ball, classic.

Australia win the first session of the 2006/07 ashes.


Can we all just admit that the words 'England' and 'Spinner' don't really go together, whether they're in the England team or playing against them?

Well, I think the best England can hope for now is a test draw.
And we're only on Day One!

Ponting hasn't been in best form recently, and it was obvious last time how much his batting suffers when he's under pressure as Captain.
8 Centuries in his last 12 tests, leading up til today.
Definitely in poor form.

Gotta wonder how he even managed to keep his place in the side with that sort of dreadful strike rate.

On another note, anyone read the live text commentary on BBC news website?

It's hilarious at times.
eg:
1723: Harmison cuts a rather pathetic figure down at fine-leg and Lord alone knows what Fletcher and Flintoff will say to him over dinner. Maybe they should take him down the Pig and Whistle in Brisbane and get him absolutely rubbered - he can't bowl any worse tomorrow than he has today. 344-2

It's hilarious at times.
eg:
Yay, the Pig & Whistle! There's one about 20 minutes from my place. I'll meet him there.

He'll be needing a drink or two. In fact, the whole English team will. That was a hard day at the office.

Yay, the Pig & Whistle! There's one about 20 minutes from my place. I'll meet him there.

He'll be needing a drink or two. In fact, the whole English team will. That was a hard day at the office.

I'm not too concerned with the English performance, they did ok with a batting pitch and the first ball that refused to swing or move in the air at all. Playing Ash instead of Monty was a mistake though, KP showed exactly how much turn was available on the pitch and Monty would have been able to do something with it.

I figure that as long as England avoid a batting collapse then we'll be able to take this test for a draw and move on to a ground that gives something for our bowlers to work with.

346 for 3 on the opening day.

Looks like we're not taking any chances with the Poms this time...

As an Aussie, that was pretty much our best case scenario. I thought the English would put in a better performance than that. With the exception of Flintoff, who was dangerous, and Giles, who worked hard & was accurate, the bowlers were rubbish. Lucky that Pieterson's knee wasn't anything too serious.

If the rest of the summer is like that, I'm going to enjoy it immensely. :p

As an Aussie, that was pretty much our best case scenario. I thought the English would put in a better performance than that. With the exception of Flintoff, who was dangerous, and Giles, who worked hard & was accurate, the bowlers were rubbish. Lucky that Pieterson's knee wasn't anything too serious.

If the rest of the summer is like that, I'm going to enjoy it immensely. :p

Giles has no right to call himself a spin bowler, KP showed how much the ball could be moved on that pitch and still Giles' ball were wondering straight down the crease. His wicket was a mistake by Martyn rather than a good ball by him. KP was a much better bowler than him today and cause far more problems for the Aussie batsmen.

Hoggard wasn't shit, there was just no swing on that first ball and as he's a swing bowler that pretty much took him out of the game, he did look a lot more dangerous when they took the new ball though. Harmison was just awful though, I think he'll improve with more time with ball in hand but that first wide pretty much set the tone for his performance.

8 Centuries in his last 12 tests, leading up til today.
Definitely in poor form.

Gotta wonder how he even managed to keep his place in the side with that sort of dreadful strike rate.


Test career
Batsmen Runs B 4s 6s SR Last 10 ovs Mat Runs Ave
MEK Hussey (lhb) 63 133 5 0 47.36 striker 11 (30b) 12 1202 80.13
RT Ponting (rhb) 137 206 16 0 66.50 non-striker 15 (30b) 106 8929 59.13


They're both in pretty shit form really, I mean look at those averages..

Speaking of form:

That's tea. This Test is meandering towards a draw. But Yousuf is marching towards Viv RIchards' record - Most number of runs in a calender year. Yousuf is on 1547 (Apologies, I had forgotten to add the first-innings score when I first posted. Of course many of you didn't as the feedback emails proved) while Richards is still perched on top with 1710. Yousuf has only one Test left in this calendar year. So please do join us post tea, we could be in for some treat as he might go for some quick runs.

Actually, it's a much simpler version of baseball. It's much easier to explain cricket to someone who knows baseball than vice versa.

If any of you actually care, this one does a good job in a language you'll actually understand: http://www.cheryl-morgan.com/?page_id=23
It is also Supperior.;)

I imagine it is a 5 test series?
In any case it will be 4-0 to Oz.
1 test will be rained out.

It is also Supperior.;)

I imagine it is a 5 test series?
In any case it will be 4-0 to Oz.
1 test will be rained out.

There's no game in Hobart, so Melbourne will have to be the wash out.

There's no game in Hobart, so Melbourne will have to be the wash out.
That or Sydney, them and their freak Rain storms out of nowhere...

England is going to lose this test by 120 runs or so.

Giles has no right to call himself a spin bowler, KP showed how much the ball could be moved on that pitch and still Giles' ball were wondering straight down the crease. His wicket was a mistake by Martyn rather than a good ball by him. KP was a much better bowler than him today and cause far more problems for the Aussie batsmen.

Hoggard wasn't shit, there was just no swing on that first ball and as he's a swing bowler that pretty much took him out of the game, he did look a lot more dangerous when they took the new ball though. Harmison was just awful though, I think he'll improve with more time with ball in hand but that first wide pretty much set the tone for his performance.

I didn't see any of KP's bowling, I was getting my hair cut at that time!

I don't think Giles is that good a bowler, but he put in an honest performance.

I really think the Poms should have picked Monte instead. The selector's attitude is too cautious & defensive. England aren't going to retain the Ashes by hanging on & holding Australia out. If England are to have a chance, they can only do it by attacking Australia & taking them on. Monte gives England a chance to win. The selection of Giles says to me, "I don't think we can beat Australia, but this way we'll try not to lose." It's a beaten attitude from the start. The selectors will get caned anyway if/when England loses, they may as well make the brave decisions & try to win.

It is also Supperior.;)

I imagine it is a 5 test series?
In any case it will be 4-0 to Oz.
1 test will be rained out.

Yep, 5 tests. Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne & Sydney.

There's no game in Hobart, so Melbourne will have to be the wash out.

Normally I would agree, but we're in the middle of a drought here. It's been dry & sunny for ages, hardly any rain. The four seasons in one day just isn't happening any more. :eek:

That or Sydney, them and their freak Rain storms out of nowhere...

England is going to lose this test by 120 runs or so.

Sydney's my best bet for a washout.

I reckon it'll be about 180 runs.

Yep, 5 tests. Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne & Sydney.



Normally I would agree, but we're in the middle of a drought here. It's been dry & sunny for ages, hardly any rain. The four seasons in one day just isn't happening any more. :eek:



Sydney's my best bet for a washout.

I reckon it'll be about 180 runs.
Sydney.

180 runs?
Why not make it an innings defeat inside 3 days then?;) :p

Sydney.

180 runs?
Why not make it an innings defeat inside 3 days then?;) :p

Maybe Glen McGrath will get another test half century. Who was the team he scored that against? I can't quite remember now. ;)

I just saw the start of the highlights on Sky Sports. After Harmison's first ball, I can't face the rest...

I just saw the start of the highlights on Sky Sports. After Harmison's first ball, I can't face the rest...

It was an impressive opening ball. :p

It was an impressive opening ball. :p

It was well taken by second slip.

Deary me, what a first day. There's no doubt it's a batting pitch; Hoggard wasn't doing too much wrong, and Anderson looked good at times, but there was nothing in it for them. They're going to have to find something, though; England can't rely on Flintoff attacking and batsman making mistakes to Giles.

Harmison...what on earth can you do with him? When he hits his best he is the best bowler in the world. It's going to be a strange choice for the selectors; the problem is that even when he's in appalling form like now, he's still capable of sending down brilliance. The Aussie batsman will always be on edge with him, even when he's bowling to Flintoff at slip. It's so sad to see such talent being lost to poor confidence and home sickness.

Hopefully he'll pick up. It's going to be a very brief challenge if he doesn't; England simply cannot win if he doesn't fire up soon. While it's easy to see why Flintoff took him off I think it was a mistake to do so; he needs a good wicket to pick himself up again.

England aren't completely out of it yet. A couple of quick wickets at the start of play tonight and the picture looks completely different. Let's just wait and see.

8 Centuries in his last 12 tests, leading up til today.
Definitely in poor form.

Gotta wonder how he even managed to keep his place in the side with that sort of dreadful strike rate.

Yeah, fair enough. I was thinking of an article I read a few days ago where he said he was concerned about his form. Presumably he was talking about his one day average, because his test figures speak for themself.

He put in a good show last night, but there is still no real Captaincy pressure on him yet. He looked nervy when he first came out and a decent bowling attack probably could have dislodged him; hopefully, from England's point of view, they haven't allowed one of the main threats to get settled for the series when they had a chance to make an early kill.

Deary me, what a first day. There's no doubt it's a batting pitch; Hoggard wasn't doing too much wrong, and Anderson looked good at times, but there was nothing in it for them. They're going to have to find something, though; England can't rely on Flintoff attacking and batsman making mistakes to Giles.

Harmison...what on earth can you do with him? When he hits his best he is the best bowler in the world. It's going to be a strange choice for the selectors; the problem is that even when he's in appalling form like now, he's still capable of sending down brilliance. The Aussie batsman will always be on edge with him, even when he's bowling to Flintoff at slip. It's so sad to see such talent being lost to poor confidence and home sickness.

Hopefully he'll pick up. It's going to be a very brief challenge if he doesn't; England simply cannot win if he doesn't fire up soon. While it's easy to see why Flintoff took him off I think it was a mistake to do so; he needs a good wicket to pick himself up again.

England aren't completely out of it yet. A couple of quick wickets at the start of play tonight and the picture looks completely different. Let's just wait and see.

Anderson bowled too short, too often. He should be concerned about the number of balls that got dispatched to the square boundaries. Hoggard wasn't bad, but didn't really do much good either. Like you say though, a couple of quick wickets & things change. Realistically though, the best England can get out of this first test now is a draw & they'll have to fight much harder than they did today to achieve that.

Anderson bowled too short, too often. He should be concerned about the number of balls that got dispatched to the square boundaries.
Yeah, his consistency isn't good, but, in all honesty, when you know that his main opponent for the place is Mahmood, you'll see that the fact he can send down even the occassional good ball is a positive thing. :p

Hoggard wasn't bad, but didn't really do much good either.
I'm a fan of Hoggard; he's a good, reliable bowler, but his main weapon is the swing that was so clearly missing. The good news is that he'll still be pretty economical; the bad news is that unless that ball does something, he's not that dangerous as a wicket taker.

Like you say though, a couple of quick wickets & things change. Realistically though, the best England can get out of this first test now is a draw & they'll have to fight much harder than they did today to achieve that.
I wouldn't write a possible England win off just yet, although there's no doubting that it's a very small chance. Teams can have one bad day and still win, if they have four good days. A draw or Aussie win does seem the more likely scenario, though; I just hope that England don't go out there thinking that. Their attitude looks far too negative already.

I wouldn't write a possible England win off just yet, although there's no doubting that it's a very small chance. Teams can have one bad day and still win, if they have four good days. A draw or Aussie win does seem the more likely scenario, though; I just hope that England don't go out there thinking that. Their attitude looks far too negative already.
This must be your new funniest post! You're on a roll...:p

England have no chance. Ponting and Hussey will put on at least another hundred for the fourth wicket, and the Aussies will declare at about 650-700 at the end of tomorrow's play. Then McGrath will skittle us for about 150 and 300 by lunch on Sunday.

This must be your new funniest post! You're on a roll...:p

England have no chance. Ponting and Hussey will put on at least another hundred for the fourth wicket, and the Aussies will declare at about 650-700 at the end of tomorrow's play. Then McGrath will skittle us for about 150 and 300 by lunch on Sunday.

Are you always this optimistic? :p

Are you always this optimistic? :p
Yes. My prediction is 3-1 to Australia. They'll win the first three tests, by gradually decreasing margins, then we'll draw the fourth, and, because they can no longer whitewash us, they'll have lost a bit of interest in the final test and we'll scrape a win.

Then cricket will fall off the radar in this country and Sky will let Channel 4 get the rights back when the contract expires. Losing the Ashes might be the best thing for cricket in this country.

Yes. My prediction is 3-1 to Australia. They'll win the first three tests, by gradually decreasing margins, then we'll draw the fourth, and, because they can no longer whitewash us, they'll have lost a bit of interest in the final test and we'll scrape a win.

Then cricket will fall off the radar in this country and Sky will let Channel 4 get the rights back when the contract expires. Losing the Ashes might be the best thing for cricket in this country.

I like your thinking.:D

Then New Zealand wins the One-Day tri series!!









What..?

Day one and england mess up again. The weather is getting cold and wet. I did not know we would have to play New Zealnd after what looks like a ashes whitewash. Then again england lost the first test the last ashes series so all you folks down under dont get to confident.
Roll on zimbawe or sri lanka.

All that trouble for a bloody egg cup..;) Come on Eng er land!!!!!!!!

Woohoo, 5 minutes to the start of play on day two. Hussey to get a ton & Ponting a double ton. :)

I'm a fan of Hoggard; he's a good, reliable bowler, but his main weapon is the swing that was so clearly missing.
Therein lies the sheer stupidity of the English selectors:
Leaving aside for the moment that Aussie pitches don't produce much swing at the best of times, did they really think the Aussie groundskeepers were going to follow their English counterparts and doctor their pitches to allow lots of swing and thus help the pommie bowlers who were so dangerous last series?

Lord knows they wouldn't want to produce a pitch with lots of spin, and thus be a huge help to their best bowler now, would they?

Woooh!

Flintoff just bowled Hussey. 4/407.

It's been swinging a bit. Whatever happened to Simon Jones?

Woooh!

Flintoff just bowled Hussey. 4/407.

It's been swinging a bit. Whatever happened to Simon Jones?

Injured I assume.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW6SdyoNebo <-- I still love that ball.


Looks like Flintoff is going to have to do everything himself.

Injured I assume.
Looks like it (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/cricket/england/5051030.stm). Poor guy, he seems to break a lot.

Looks like Flintoff is going to have to do everything himself.
Yeah. Harmison might eventually get into it though. It looks like he just hasn't bowled for ages, according to the commentators.

But I don't think I can forgive them for not choosing Panesar. At the Gabba, of all places. Warne is gonna take down the whole team.

And Hoggard comes to life!!! Ponting and Gilchrist gone in the same over.


well, well, well.. Some excitement for the poms at last.

And Hoggard comes to life!!! Ponting and Gilchrist gone in the same over.


well, well, well.. Some excitement for the poms at last.

Definitely. Might be able to keep Oz to under 600.

An easily chaseable target.

Maybe Glen McGrath will get another test half century. Who was the team he scored that against? I can't quite remember now. ;)
Couldn't say i remember that, must have been typical Australian cheating.;)

ZOMG, i just saw that Hot Shot.
That is some sexy Cricket Technology!

Couldn't say i remember that, must have been typical Australian cheating.;)

ZOMG, i just saw that Hot Shot.
That is some sexy Cricket Technology!

NZer ha *shakes head*

I envy all you people that don't have fulltime jobs that get to watch cricket during the day.:(

Ok fine McGrath may have got a 50, but which numb-nuts got out for 99?

Aussies declare on 602-9...England are 53-3. McGrath will easily get a five-for this innings.

Looks like my prediction (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=11987599&postcount=86) is pretty damn close so far.

Aussies declare on 602-9...England are 53-3. McGrath will easily get a five-for this innings.

Looks like my prediction (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=11987599&postcount=86) is pretty damn close so far.

Wow.... the aussies must be pretty pissed about the last Ashes... no chances this time.

Therein lies the sheer stupidity of the English selectors:
Leaving aside for the moment that Aussie pitches don't produce much swing at the best of times, did they really think the Aussie groundskeepers were going to follow their English counterparts and doctor their pitches to allow lots of swing and thus help the pommie bowlers who were so dangerous last series?

Lord knows they wouldn't want to produce a pitch with lots of spin, and thus be a huge help to their best bowler now, would they?

Aussie groundkeepers control the weather?

Aussie groundkeepers control the weather?
Among other things.
But I've already said too much.

I envy all you people that don't have fulltime jobs that get to watch cricket during the day.:(

Ok fine McGrath may have got a 50, but which numb-nuts got out for 99?

Dipak Patel?





Australia decide that leading by 445 on the first innings isn't enough and don't enforce the follow on. Yay.

Australia decide that leading by 445 on the first innings isn't enough and don't enforce the follow on. Yay.
Didn't John Wright have the record for most 99 outs?

Anyway, wonder why they're batting?
Prob one or more of the following:
1. Ponting wants to get to 9000 runs and/or a 33rd ton;
2. Aussie cricketers get a share of gate sales, so want to drag this out til Monday;
3. Oz really want to rub Englands noses in it by deciding to take a bit of time to do some batting practise;

Nah. You are all falling for englands clever trap. This game is going to end in a draw.

3. Oz really want to rub Englands noses in it by deciding to take a bit of time to do some batting practise;
I reckon that's it.

The next test is on thursday. By really making the English suffer now, they ruin their mood for the next one.

So they let them stand in the heat out there for as long as humanly possible, totally demoralising the bowlers in the process (which seems to work, the only wicket they got in the second innings so far was a run-out). Followed by another humiliation, in the shape of Warne on a 4th or 5th day pitch. With cracks big enough to swallow Kate Moss.

I really, really hope the English are tough mentally. Otherwise Adelaide will be even more one-sided than this one.

Dipak Patel?





Australia decide that leading by 445 on the first innings isn't enough and don't enforce the follow on. Yay.
I was actually thinking about Shane Warne.
I think it was at the WACA and he was caught by Vettori in the covers, i heard it on the radio, it was back when we nearly beat them in the test series.



Vaughn Out
Jones Out
Trescothick Out
England Out!!!

Ponting is trying to destroy England mentally and is doing a fine job of it, plus he wants to break the scoreboard.:D

I stayed up for a few hours to listen to it last night. Thoroughly depressing.:(

I reckon that's it.

The next test is on thursday. By really making the English suffer now, they ruin their mood for the next one.

So they let them stand in the heat out there for as long as humanly possible, totally demoralising the bowlers in the process (which seems to work, the only wicket they got in the second innings so far was a run-out). Followed by another humiliation, in the shape of Warne on a 4th or 5th day pitch. With cracks big enough to swallow Kate Moss.

I really, really hope the English are tough mentally. Otherwise Adelaide will be even more one-sided than this one.
That and perhaps letting McGrath have a rest. They don't want to lose him through injury now. That's pretty much what lost them the last series.

It's showing a lot of confidence, indeed arrogance, and contempt for your opponent to decide you'll come out and have a bit of batting practise before finishing them off.
That said, for all the complaints and excuses coming from the English fans (I've been reading their comments on BBC) that England haven't played enough test cricket lately (their last test was in September) ignores the fact Oz haven't played one since May. So maybe Ponting decided his top order needed some practise when the pressures completely off them.

Of course, if it backfires and England scrap a draw, Ponting's going to look silly. And it might give England a bit more confidence going into the Adelaide test. Which won't be a bad thing for the spectators.

I stayed up for a few hours to listen to it last night. Thoroughly depressing.:(

http://www.andrew.cmu.edu/user/ehlee/Images/Pictures/nelson.gif

:p

I'd love to see a contest like last year's series, but sadly the signs aren't good at stumps on day three.
How about we give you a couple of players? Warne and Gilchrist, hey have Lee as well. You'd have a second keeper, for when Harmers comes on tomorrow morning! :p

I'm tipping no more than half-an-hour before declaration tomorrow morning. Ponting will let Slater get his century, and if he falls before that there'll be a declaration immediately. Batting again was an interesting decision, which I'm thinking was mostly about the individual batsmen's statistics, and not at all a rational strategy to win the Test.

Australia to declare with England needing 1000.

In other sporting news...
Kiwis 12
Roos 12
At half time of extra time.

I'd love to see a contest like last year's series, but sadly the signs aren't good at stumps on day three.
How about we give you a couple of players? Warne and Gilchrist, hey have Lee as well. You'd have a second keeper, for when Harmers comes on tomorrow morning! :p

I'm tipping no more than half-an-hour before declaration tomorrow morning. Ponting will let Slater get his century, and if he falls before that there'll be a declaration immediately. Batting again was an interesting decision, which I'm thinking was mostly about the individual batsmen's statistics, and not at all a rational strategy to win the Test.
Batting again screwed my prediction for this match as well. It was going so well. :(

Right...so England need to bat pretty much all the way through two days of play. Not. Going. To. Happen.

We lost the league. Meh.


Australia lead by 626 with 2 days and 9 wickets in hand to go.


In other news, I bowled 9-3-9-1 on the first day of a two dayer today. We're still gonna have to follow on because our batsmen fail. bummer.

-snip-
I will, refrain from using a finger smilie, but poo to you with knobs on!!!

I bowled 7-3-4-2 yesterday.http://hardhouse2.orcon.net.nz/phpBB2/images/smiles/dancingemote.gif
2 Dayer and the muppets from the other team called stumps 5 minutes early because they were in the shits.

Ashes aren't that exciting anymore for me. Oz is too strong a team to be beaten in homeground.

England need 605 with 8 wickets and 5 sessions remaining. It's only 4 or so an over, they could work the ball around and get there.

England need 605 with 8 wickets and 5 sessions remaining. It's only 4 or so an over, they could work the ball around and get there.
If they can get on top of Warney, yes.

England need 605 with 8 wickets and 5 sessions remaining. It's only 4 or so an over, they could work the ball around and get there.

In another news, this was spotted.

http://www.littlepigs.biz/images/pigs_flying.jpg

In another news, this was spotted.
Hehehe, I'll laugh if they end up winning this. :p

It'll need to be a super performance though. 5 wickets left, basically only Giles to come.

New ball tomorrow, but if KP can get through it, and Geraint Jones survives and gets some runs, some Aussie hearts are gonna make their way south, I reckon.

Basically: 350 and a bit runs to score tomorrow for the Brits to win, 5 wickets to take for the Aussies. Of course a more realistic target for the English would be to play for a draw, but if they're gonna stay out there all day, they might get close anyways.

The important thing: if they do get close, they're gonna be looking forward to Adelaide.

Looks like Dad's army are showing the English young'uns a thing or two are the moment. :p

Quick, someone SMS Warnie!

Let's hope KP gets a double ton. Interesting situation, in that Ashley Giles will come in after the next wicket falls. Fletcher apparently picked Giles over Panesar because of his better batting ability (rather than, say, because the England cricket team is like an old-fashioned men's club), so Giles had better prove that he is worthy of being in the team. KP to reach 200, Jones to hit 100 and Giles to get a 50.

Oh, there go those pigs again.

Australia will probably knock us over for about 400.

Let's hope KP gets a double ton. Interesting situation, in that Ashley Giles will come in after the next wicket falls. Fletcher apparently picked Giles over Panesar because of his better batting ability (rather than, say, because the England cricket team is like an old-fashioned men's club), so Giles had better prove that he is worthy of being in the team. KP to reach 200, Jones to hit 100 and Giles to get a 50.

Oh, there go those pigs again.

Australia will probably knock us over for about 400.

Giles second top scored in the first innings, maybe he'll do it again.


Why did Collingwood charge warne, and then not even charge properly?

Giles second top scored in the first innings, maybe he'll do it again.
He did, but that was scoring 24. I'd say he's more likely to score 24 again than score second highest again. At the moment he needs 93, and about 10 minutes after the start of play tomorrow, he'll need 97.

I hope Harmison comes on and slogs his way to 30. That should give him some confidence for the next test.

Sigh.

We need Hoggard, Harmison and Anderson to resist Warne and McGrath for the rest of the day's play. About 70 overs. The way we're playing at the moment, I wouldn't trust Strauss, Cook and Bell to survive 70 overs.

Edit: And now Hoggard's gone. It'll be all over before I even go to bed.

Sigh.

We need Hoggard, Harmison and Anderson to resist Warne and McGrath for the rest of the day's play. About 70 overs. The way we're playing at the moment, I wouldn't trust Strauss, Cook and Bell to survive 70 overs.

Now Harmison and Anderson. At least Harmison is having a crack at warnie. Have a biff Steve!

There Harmison goes. 157 and 370.

*shakes head*

It's atrocious. We've had only two wickets where the partnership reached 50 (the 3rd and 4th in the 2nd innings). We need to be getting at least one hundred partnership each innings, with at least two other 50s to back it up.

Ah, well. Surely England can't play worse in the next one. Can they?

There Harmison goes. 157 and 370.

*shakes head*

It's atrocious. We've had only two wickets where the partnership reached 50 (the 3rd and 4th in the 2nd innings). We need to be getting at least one hundred partnership each innings, with at least two other 50s to back it up.

Ah, well. Surely England can't play worse in the next one. Can they?

No Read. No Panesar. No Mahmood. Fletcher is a fool.

Yep we can play that badly in the next test and the next and the next and the next and the next

*becomes stuck record and stops any interest in sport in general*

Ah, well. Surely England can't play worse in the next one. Can they?
Depends whether they stick with Harmison and Giles or not.

Problem now of course, is if they do pick Monty the pressure and expectation on him to perform will be immense. England will be looking on him as their savior and Oz will be targeting him from the first ball.
Hope he copes with it.

They'll probably play 2 spinners at Adelaide anyway. Australia most likely will.

Cricket...the most confusing game ever invented.

This from the land that invented baseball (or bastardised Rounders, whichever way you want to look at it)..? Don't make me laugh.

And as ex-colonial living the US, my disclaimer says that I like both sports mostly for the same reasons (- intensely absorbing, never over until it's over, tons of statistics) as much as I do for their differences.

But I think therefore I'm also qualified to say that Baseball has more "rules" (insane or otherwise) than cricket does (which let's face it only has 44 (3 of which deal with the composition of the equipment - and 2 of which deal with when to have tea :eek: ).

:D

But I think therefore I'm also qualified to say that Baseball has more "rules" (insane or otherwise) than cricket does (which let's face it only has 44 (3 of which deal with the composition of the equipment - and 2 of which deal with when to have tea :eek: ).
How very very, incredibly British.
No other nation on earth could come up with a sport where they have two rules dictating when to take tea.

They'll probably play 2 spinners at Adelaide anyway. Australia most likely will.
McGill just took a sixer in a state test innings. And together with Warney, he'll be a force to be reckoned with.

Let's hope this Panesar fellow is as good as they say he is. And that some of the English batsmen improve their shot selection. Strauss and Flintoff in particular.

I see that 4 people who voted on this poll are highly deranged.

England will totally humiliate Australia.
...

Aussie groundkeepers control the weather?

ofcourse the country is in a drought so we can get our trophy back

I see that 4 people who voted on this poll are highly deranged.


...

With that kind of optimism they should start panning for gold in their bathtub.

ofcourse the country is in a drought so we can get our trophy back

oh so thats why and here i was thinking we pissed off god

I see that 4 people who voted on this poll are highly deranged.
Four? I see 25:

Australia will beat England in a close series 12
It'll be a drawn series 1
England will take it in a close series 8
England will totally humiliate Australia. 4

Four? I see 25:

Be fair - although the chance is slight there could have been solid rain on every test through the whole series - a draw was not totally unfeasible.

'course now Australia is ahead...

Ok, so the first test is well and truly over. Whadda ya think? can England POSSIBLY put in a good performance and make it a close match?or will Australia whitewash the whole thing?

Oh, and another thing, what was with Pieterson in his press interview? To almost quote the great Brayshaw: "It's fine to use the Under Siege tactics when you're actually under siege, but when your village is in flames and they're taking away your women and children in chains, maybe you could let the words "yeah, we werent great" from your lips"

McGrath is under an injury cloud again. He better fucking play, I've picked him for my shitty fantasy cricket game this week. Adelaide is an absolute road to bat on, if england can win the toss and McGrath isn't playing, they might be in with a chance to take it to the 5th day again.

England's batting was much better in the second innings, but their bowling was still pretty ordinary. If they don't play Monty at Adelaide, they may as well go home now.

I predict Australia will win the second test reasonably comfortably, but England did show a bit more spirit in their second dig, so you never know.

McGrath is under an injury cloud again. He better fucking play, I've picked him for my shitty fantasy cricket game this week. Adelaide is an absolute road to bat on, if england can win the toss and McGrath isn't playing, they might be in with a chance to take it to the 5th day again.

Latest news on McGrath (http://content-aus.cricinfo.com/australia/content/story/270390.html), I have a feeling he won't play. If he doesn't, it will definitely change the complexion of the game.

Latest news on McGrath (http://content-aus.cricinfo.com/australia/content/story/270390.html), I have a feeling he won't play. If he doesn't, it will definitely change the complexion of the game.

England's captain, Andrew Flintoff, dismissed any notion that McGrath's absence would give his side a psychological boost
Bollocks. The England team were probably jumping up and down like chimps when they heard that McGrath might not be able to play.

If England bat like they did on the fourth day of the last test then they'll be ok - might be able to get a draw even if McGrath's playing. If he's not playing, an England win could be on the cards.

Edit: So long as we don't bowl like an under 11's second string...

Like I said earlier, I really believe winning the toss and batting is the way to win at adelaide. If england can't do that, they're in for a long 2 days in the field.

Flintoff won the toss.

But they're not playing Panesar, looks like the squad is unchanged from Brisbane.

But they're not playing Panesar, looks like the squad is unchanged from Brisbane.

yup. Unchanged. the XI that represented England so magnificently in Brisbane have been retained, meaning no room for Monty.
Why I've no idea. They should save us the embaarassing spectalce of the next five (?) days and just fly a white flag and get it over with now.

Did those damn Poles win again?

Well, the inevitable seems to be occuring.
At least it's fun reading the commentary on BBC website:
1241: Bell paddles Clark to backward point for one. Belly may have come of age as a Test cricketer this year but he still looks like a precocious 14-year-old promoted to play in his school's first Xl. Which begs the question: when he was a precocious 14-year-old promoted to play in his school's first Xl, did he look about seven? After such a promising start I feel funky once again, and I don't mean Earth, Wind and Fire funky. 49-2

1236: Bell leaves a straightish ball from Warne and nearly loses his off-stump. Looking positive, he then skips down the pitch and gets a single for a push to mid-off. Nervy times for England - Collingwood always has the air of a man about to jilt his fiancee at the alter in the early stages of an innings. 48-2

Heh, I go to cricinfo and get this headline:


Australia v England, 2nd Test, Adelaide, 1st day

England stutter on a belter


Yep, traditional adelaide batting pitch, england manage to win the toss and they still 'stutter'. I guess they're only 2 down, but if you can't bat in a day one afternoon session at the adelaide oval, you can't bat anywhere.

I am an American. However, I also love the culture and land of England, even going as far to hope for England to win the World Cup. But then comes cricket, the sport specifically designed (I believe) to annoy Americans.
I read an article about cricket in the Smithsonian magazine. The basic idea seems to be a "bowler" tosses the ball to a batter, who hits it. Behind the batter is a "wicket", which is a little like home plate in baseball. If the batter hits the ball, he can run to where the bowler is. If he runs a hundred times in a row, it is a "century". If he hits the equivalent of a home run, it is a six.
Please tell me if that is correct. I genuinely want to know. Also, how is cricket won? I saw The Lady Vanishes, an Alfred Hitchcock movie, and two characters kept talking about a cricket game that was going on for days. Is that true?
Now, the Ashes is completely foreign to me. Why are they called the ashes? Do they have last years wickets burned?

I am an American. However, I also love the culture and land of England, even going as far to hope for England to win the World Cup. But then comes cricket, the sport specifically designed (I believe) to annoy Americans.
I read an article about cricket in the Smithsonian magazine. The basic idea seems to be a "bowler" tosses the ball to a batter, who hits it. Behind the batter is a "wicket", which is a little like home plate in baseball. If the batter hits the ball, he can run to where the bowler is. If he runs a hundred times in a row, it is a "century". If he hits the equivalent of a home run, it is a six.
Please tell me if that is correct. I genuinely want to know. Also, how is cricket won? I saw The Lady Vanishes, an Alfred Hitchcock movie, and two characters kept talking about a cricket game that was going on for days. Is that true?
Now, the Ashes is completely foreign to me. Why are they called the ashes? Do they have last years wickets burned?

One of the best sights in cricket is when the batsman tickles one of the bowler's balls under the covers, through the slips and away to silly mid-off.
Of course the bowler might get annoyed with this and so start smacking his balls up around the batsman's chin, which is a sight to see I assure you.

England 3/266 at stumps, with Pieterson & Collingwood set, they've done well for the day. England shouldn't lose this test & could really put Australia in trouble if they bowl well in the next day or so.

One of the best sights in cricket is when the batsman tickles one of the bowler's balls under the covers, through the slips and away to silly mid-off.
Of course the bowler might get annoyed with this and so start smacking his balls up around the batsman's chin, which is a sight to see I assure you.

That's cruel.

Did those damn Poles win again?
http://209.85.12.227/1381/85/emo/beater.gif
One of the best sights in cricket is when the batsman tickles one of the bowler's balls under the covers, through the slips and away to silly mid-off.
Of course the bowler might get annoyed with this and so start smacking his balls up around the batsman's chin, which is a sight to see I assure you.
I just laughed like Mutley...


Pietersen is going to give a snick early on tomorrow.
England all out for 334.

McGrath is under an injury cloud again. He better fucking play, I've picked him for my shitty fantasy cricket game this week. Adelaide is an absolute road to bat on, if england can win the toss and McGrath isn't playing, they might be in with a chance to take it to the 5th day again.
Fantasy Cricket:eek:
Is that run by Sportal or somewhere else?

Fantasy Cricket:eek:
Is that run by Sportal or somewhere else?

its this crappy state insurence one where you pick 4 players - a batter and a bowler from each set of innings. I took mcgrath as my bowler in the first and warne in the second, and hussey as my batsman in the first and collingwood in the second.

My theory on collingwood was that aussie wouldn't need to bat very long the second time, so I should pick an englishman. I was right, Collingwood is batting well, but in the wrong innings for me.

its this crappy state insurence one where you pick 4 players - a batter and a bowler from each set of innings. I took mcgrath as my bowler in the first and warne in the second, and hussey as my batsman in the first and collingwood in the second.

My theory on collingwood was that aussie wouldn't need to bat very long the second time, so I should pick an englishman. I was right, Collingwood is batting well, but in the wrong innings for me.
Interesting, how are points scored?

Interesting, how are points scored?

Not sure yet, this is the first week.

http://www.statevirtualcricket.co.nz/

Not sure yet, this is the first week.

http://www.statevirtualcricket.co.nz/
Turns out it is run by someone that has done other competitions i've played.:)

its this crappy state insurence one where you pick 4 players - a batter and a bowler from each set of innings. I took mcgrath as my bowler in the first and warne in the second, and hussey as my batsman in the first and collingwood in the second.

My theory on collingwood was that aussie wouldn't need to bat very long the second time, so I should pick an englishman. I was right, Collingwood is batting well, but in the wrong innings for me.

That's way too complicated, trying to pick who will bat/bowl well in each innings.

I am an American. However, I also love the culture and land of England, even going as far to hope for England to win the World Cup. But then comes cricket, the sport specifically designed (I believe) to annoy Americans.
I read an article about cricket in the Smithsonian magazine. The basic idea seems to be a "bowler" tosses the ball to a batter, who hits it. Behind the batter is a "wicket", which is a little like home plate in baseball. If the batter hits the ball, he can run to where the bowler is. If he runs a hundred times in a row, it is a "century". If he hits the equivalent of a home run, it is a six.
Please tell me if that is correct. I genuinely want to know. Also, how is cricket won? I saw The Lady Vanishes, an Alfred Hitchcock movie, and two characters kept talking about a cricket game that was going on for days. Is that true?
Now, the Ashes is completely foreign to me. Why are they called the ashes? Do they have last years wickets burned?


You have two sides, one out in the field and one in. Each man that's in goes out, and when he's out he comes in and the next man goes in until he is out. When they are all out, the side that's been out comes in and the side that's been in goes out and tries to get those coming in, out.

Sometimes you get men still in and not out. When a man goes out to go in, the men who are out try to get him out, and when he is out, he goes in and the next man in goes out and goes in.

There are two men called umpires who are all out all the time, and they decide when the men who are in are out.

When both sides have been in and all the men have been out, and both sides have been out twice after all the men have been in, including those who are not out, that is the end of the game.

*snip*

You'd have to be happy with today's play?

You'd have to be happy with today's play?

It's certainly an improvement, although the opening partnership is a worry. I hope they can keep it going tomorrow, and the bowlers find some form.

I'm amazed that they didn't play Panasar again. Yes, Giles may put on 20 runs, but I think Panasar can save 200. I think that's a much better contribution to the batting.

I'm not sure if it's a comfort or not that the team can't possibly get any worse.

It's certainly an improvement, although the opening partnership is a worry. I hope they can keep it going tomorrow, and the bowlers find some form.

I'm amazed that they didn't play Panasar again. Yes, Giles may put on 20 runs, but I think Panasar can save 200. I think that's a much better contribution to the batting.

I'm not sure if it's a comfort or not that the team can't possibly get any worse.

I think England will finish 400+ in their first innings. That will put Australia under real pressure.

I agree about Panesar, I think he would have been very effective, particularly in the 4th innings.

The Ashes start tomorrow. And I'll be at work. :rolleyes:

This is the thread to discuss it all.

Australia looks to me to be in a much better position, and I'm afraid to say that I expect England to be crushed in this first match. My hope is however that they'll do better in the following games and will actually make it tight.

What do you think? Who'll take the Ashes?

What are the Ashes?

Ahem. *performs Wikipedia check*

Ah, some kind of sports rivalry between Great Britain and Australia. (Only Britain could have a rivalry with its own prison...)

Since I frankly don't care, I'll flip a coin. *flips*

England.

I must say I'm quite happy with this. Let's hope Collingwood and Pietersen both get centuries, and Flintoff's due a good innings as well. I'm expecting England to get somewhere around 450.

What are the Ashes?

Ahem. *performs Wikipedia check*

Ah, some kind of sports rivalry between Great Britain and Australia. (Only Britain could have a rivalry with its own prison...)

Since I frankly don't care, I'll flip a coin. *flips*

England.

You chose ......... poorly.

I must say I'm quite happy with this. Let's hope Collingwood and Pietersen both get centuries, and Flintoff's due a good innings as well. I'm expecting England to get somewhere around 450.

It looks like a pretty good batting wicket, so 450 is definitely on the cards. I'll be very interested to see how the Australian batsmen respond when the acid's applied to them.

It looks like a pretty good batting wicket, so 450 is definitely on the cards. I'll be very interested to see how the Australian batsmen respond when the acid's applied to them.
In terms of batting ability, Australia's top order is better than England's. Add to this the fact that Flintoff isn't near his best as a bowler, Harmison is nowhere near his best, and we haven't included Panesar, and Australia will comfortably reach 500.

Heading for a draw, methinks, unless something spectacular happens in the next couple of days.

You chose ......... poorly.

Australians have sexier accents though.

In terms of batting ability, Australia's top order is better than England's. Add to this the fact that Flintoff isn't near his best as a bowler, Harmison is nowhere near his best, and we haven't included Panesar, and Australia will comfortably reach 500.

Heading for a draw, methinks, unless something spectacular happens in the next couple of days.

I thought Flintoff was the best of England's bowlers in the first test. If he gets a bit more support, England could well bowl out Aus cheaply. I think you're probably right though, a draw is the most likely result.

Australians have sexier accents though.

So I hear, though I've never thought that myself.

In terms of batting, Oz are superior. Ponting's got more centuries than the entire England team combined.
I do wonder why they didn't rest McGrath. This test is heading towards an inevitable draw (unless something impressive happens in the next two days). Oz haven't been bowled out for under 400 their last 7 tests, so even if England post a big score, I doubt it'll mean much at all.
They should have rested McGrath, cause with this being such a batsman's wicket he's going to be toiling out there. Last thing Oz need is him injuring himself in a drawn test and being out for the rest of the series. Should have given Shaun Tait a run instead.

So I hear, though I've never thought that myself.

some goes for me too

In terms of batting, Oz are superior. Ponting's got more centuries than the entire England team combined.
I do wonder why they didn't rest McGrath. This test is heading towards an inevitable draw (unless something impressive happens in the next two days). Oz haven't been bowled out for under 400 their last 7 tests, so even if England post a big score, I doubt it'll mean much at all.
They should have rested McGrath, cause with this being such a batsman's wicket he's going to be toiling out there. Last thing Oz need is him injuring himself in a drawn test and being out for the rest of the series. Should have given Shaun Tait a run instead.

No, they should have given MacGill a run. He is going to be lethal on a 4th/5th day pitch. Aussie should play MacGill and warne at EVERY game at either adelaide or sydney.

No, they should have given MacGill a run. He is going to be lethal on a 4th/5th day pitch. Aussie should play MacGill and warne at EVERY game at either adelaide or sydney.
McGill then. Just someone other than McGrath. The way he bowled today, he's obviously not 100%. He was 5-10 km/hr slower than is his norm.

I may be the first Australian to say it but "I'm damn happy it's all over", I pity those poor people who would sit there all day and watch the mundaneness of cricket.

McGill then. Just someone other than McGrath. The way he bowled today, he's obviously not 100%. He was 5-10 km/hr slower than is his norm.

McGrath is just a mental thing I think. Same with Warne. How many of their most recent 200 wickets do you think they've got just because the batsman knew it was them and gave his wicket up cheaply? Although I can still never forget the game in early 2006 when Bangladesh took warne for 20-1-110-0 on the first day.


Oh and Yousef got the record for most runs in a year if I didn't mention it earlier. Broke Viv Richards 30 year old record and did it in the same amount of innings. I really should convert to islam, it might improve my batting average...

McGrath is just a mental thing I think.
That's what I figure as well.
Problem here though is that if McGrath isn't 100% and is bowling well below his best, it's going to backfire on the Aussies. England will have the chance this test to dominate him and will go into the 3rd test knowing they can bat him out of an attack.

Kudos to Yousef on his record-breaking effort. I haven't been following Pakistan cricket, so just wonder how well does he do outside of Pakistan?

I thought Flintoff was the best of England's bowlers in the first test. If he gets a bit more support, England could well bowl out Aus cheaply. I think you're probably right though, a draw is the most likely result.
Let's hope it swings. Apparently the same people who taught Simon Jones to swing the ball taught that Anderson fellow...maybe he'll come into his own.

McGrath is just a mental thing I think. Same with Warne. How many of their most recent 200 wickets do you think they've got just because the batsman knew it was them and gave his wicket up cheaply? Although I can still never forget the game in early 2006 when Bangladesh took warne for 20-1-110-0 on the first day.


Oh and Yousef got the record for most runs in a year if I didn't mention it earlier. Broke Viv Richards 30 year old record and did it in the same amount of innings. I really should convert to islam, it might improve my batting average...
I saw that while watching the cricket at the club rooms after we demolished the opposition.


I'm not sure what i bowled today but i think it was 8-2-16-4 in the ifrst innings and we put them into bat and i bowled first and bowled 7-2-16-1

My match figures were around 22-7-36-7:)


Did England Declare?

Did England Declare?

Yes, 551-6.

I heard the Aussie figures on the radio this morning when I woke up as 1-8 and nearly had a heart attack with surprise. Then I realised it's just the bizarre Oz practice of putting the scoreboard the wrong way round. :p

Still, a good day for England. Whether or not they can take 20 wickets will depend, I think, on Harmison.

Yes, 551-6.

I heard the Aussie figures on the radio this morning when I woke up as 1-8 and nearly had a heart attack with surprise. Then I realised it's just the bizarre Oz practice of putting the scoreboard the wrong way round. :p

Still, a good day for England. Whether or not they can take 20 wickets will depend, I think, on Harmison.
So they've already ripped one out?
I was at the club rooms and it was 8:15pm 'here' when i left mucked about for an hour before i caught a train home.
Collingwood was brilliant!

Yes, 551-6.

I heard the Aussie figures on the radio this morning when I woke up as 1-8 and nearly had a heart attack with surprise. Then I realised it's just the bizarre Oz practice of putting the scoreboard the wrong way round. :p

Still, a good day for England. Whether or not they can take 20 wickets will depend, I think, on Harmison.

I knew there'd be a criggit thread :)

Nice double by Collingwood...

1 - 8...well we can but dream LOL!!

What a great effort from England yesterday!

If they bowl well today, they might even get to enforce the follow-on. :p

At the very least, a draw is on the cards (though they should be aiming for the win, they're clearly in a good position to do it). Good on Flintoff for motivating the guys.

And this Collingwood character is gonna have fun this summer, methinks.

What a great effort from England yesterday!

If they bowl well today, they might even get to enforce the follow-on. :p

At the very least, a draw is on the cards (though they should be aiming for the win, they're clearly in a good position to do it). Good on Flintoff for motivating the guys.

And this Collingwood character is gonna have fun this summer, methinks.
The psychological boost that England (should) now have will be a great help.

Hoggard strikes twice in the first hour, Australia 3/65!

The odds are starting to move in favour of the English. If they can take out Ponting, that is.

Unless they can clean up aussie in the morning and set a decent target, I'm wagering on a draw...

Bloody Giles dropping Ponting.*

*Or so i heard.

Bloody Giles dropping Ponting.*

*Or so i heard.

I was quite happy he was dropped. It let him go on to make 140 odd :D

And now that Hussey made 91, and Gilly's been in and out, Aus are in with a miniscule chance to win this. At the very least, its gonna be difficult now for England to win. Smart money's on the draw. There just isnt enough time for any REAL possibility of a win by either team.

Bloody England. Other than Hoggard, they've delivered a bullshit performance so far today.

If they'd bowled out Clarke they might have won. Now the Aussies might even go into the second innings with a lead.

It's almost certainly going to be a draw, short of a disastrous batting collapse from either team.

It's almost certainly going to be a draw, short of a disastrous batting collapse from either team.
Well, I'm hoping for an Aussie collapse. Problem is, England need a considerable lead to be able to declare tomorrow with enough time to get Australia out. Easily a draw - very good match, though.

Well, I'm hoping for an Aussie collapse. Problem is, England need a considerable lead to be able to declare tomorrow with enough time to get Australia out. Easily a draw - very good match, though.

I think the only way England will win is if thier batting collapses & they're all out quickly, then they in turn rip through the Australian batting. A declaration would be far too difficult to judge.

At this point, Oz is the only team with any real chance of winning it.
And that could only come from an English batting collapse.

England aren't going to declare unless they have 250+ lead, minimum. So far, the run rate has been hovering around 3 /over. That means at least 50 more overs before they declare, leaving Oz with less than 40 to bat out.
Easy enough to do on this pitch. With them 1 - nil up, Oz ain't gonna do something dumb like try to win from there.

An English collapse, with a lead of less than 200 might give Oz the incentive to have a go, though.

Ugh.

Strauss out (dodgy call), Bell out (bad running) and now KP out (bowled by Warne around his legs).

England will be lucky to salvage a draw. That's what happens when your bowling attack doesn't work and one guy has to get seven wickets.

They're trying really hard to snatch defeat from the jaws of a draw here..

At this point, Oz is the only team with any real chance of winning it.
And that could only come from an English batting collapse.

England aren't going to declare unless they have 250+ lead, minimum. So far, the run rate has been hovering around 3 /over. That means at least 50 more overs before they declare, leaving Oz with less than 40 to bat out.
Easy enough to do on this pitch. With them 1 - nil up, Oz ain't gonna do something dumb like try to win from there.

An English collapse, with a lead of less than 200 might give Oz the incentive to have a go, though.
250 would be a waste.
They need more!

Wohoo! Aus are 2/67, with only 102 more to win. :)

Outstanding bowling by Warnie this morning.

Aus 3/116, 52 to win. England really need a couple of very quick wickets, or it's all over.

At this point, Oz is the only team with any real chance of winning it.
And that could only come from an English batting collapse.

An English collapse, with a lead of less than 200 might give Oz the incentive to have a go, though.
What can I say?
This man's a genius!

A Cassandra if ever I saw one.

Well, the Aussies are happy, Ponting made Man of the Match (Collingwood might feel a bit cheated).

Great match, England's performance today was crap and that's why they lost. Poor Flintoff.

England must be gutted, to lose the match like that. If they'd batted a bit more positively this morning though and tried to score a few runs, it would have been a very different story.

England have to play Panesar in the next test. Giles did absolutely nothing, with bat or ball.

What can I say?
This man's a genius!

A Cassandra if ever I saw one.

Can you tell me the lottery numbers this weekend too? :p

*sniff* *sniff* I smell a whitewash.

*sniff* *sniff* I smell a whitewash.
naw, that's just your underpants.
'white' wash, huh?

Can you tell me the lottery numbers this weekend too? :p
sure:
the lottery numbers will be 1 - 40.


I could tell you your lottery numbers. But whether they'll also the winning lottery numbers is hard to say.

Did you see Flintoff's face at the end? He was devastated.

Well, the Aussies are happy, Ponting made Man of the Match (Collingwood might feel a bit cheated).
I can never understand why they always have to give the Man of the Match award to someone from the winning team?
Doesn't seem fair. 9 times out of 10, you're going to give it to someone there anyway, but occassionally they'll be someone on the losing side who has a phenomenal performance. So they should rightly be recognised and awarded for this.

I can never understand why they always have to give the Man of the Match award to someone from the winning team?
Doesn't seem fair. 9 times out of 10, you're going to give it to someone there anyway, but occassionally they'll be someone on the losing side who has a phenomenal performance. So they should rightly be recognised and awarded for this.

The way I usually look at it, is that the Man of the Match is the person who contributed the most to winning the game.

Sometimes someone from the losing side will have clearly been the best player throughout the game, but not usually.

Can you tell me the lottery numbers this weekend too? :p
Nobody listened to Cassandra.
Maybe he is Laocoon.
*Waits for Abnormally Large Sea Snakes*
Congrats and good picking Demented Hamsters

The number one rule when playing sport against Australians:

NEVER assume the Aussies will not pull something amazing out of the bag against the greatest of odds.

There is just no room to take victory (or a draw) forgranted when playing against them. Particulary if you're English.

I hope Monty gets a game in the third test. We've seen Warney back at his best (without using a mobile phone ...) and maybe the English need a spin wizard to win the next three games.

:(

It's all that needs to be said.

Collingwood didn't deserve the Man of the Match Award. When the game was there to be saved in the 2nd innings, he didn't protect the tail enders, or get some runs. If he had hit another 50 runs, which he could have done with the time he was in the middle, the game would have been a draw. His 200 was brilliant, but Ponting's 2 innings were better in the context of the match.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A17923665

Spot on, I reckon. They threw it away, and now they're not admitting it.

I so wish they can bounce back, but I don't see it happening anymore.

Collingwood didn't deserve the Man of the Match Award. When the game was there to be saved in the 2nd innings, he didn't protect the tail enders, or get some runs. If he had hit another 50 runs, which he could have done with the time he was in the middle, the game would have been a draw. His 200 was brilliant, but Ponting's 2 innings were better in the context of the match.

Agreed. If he'd been a bit more positive, he would have quickly put the target out of Australia's reach. England played too negatively & defensively on the fifth day, and played right into Australia's game plan/style.

Fletcher has to go, his mindset is defensive. England need to play to win, not play to avoid defeat. They must pick Monty for the rest of the series now. Giles' bowling has been ordinary & his batting worse.

Seems we are pretty good at getting humiliated in games we invented...

God what a mess :(

Fletcher has to go, his mindset is defensive. England need to play to win, not play to avoid defeat. They must pick Monty for the rest of the series now. Giles' bowling has been ordinary & his batting worse.
I'm curious as to what the Aussies are going to do.
I think McGrath shouldn't play. He's obviously not up to his best. Also Martyn hasn't done himself much favours so far - 45 runs in 3 innings.
Clarke's certainly stuck his hand up - he was in danger of being dumped wasn't he?

I don't know how many NSers use the BBC website for the minute-to-minute commentary during the Tests, but has anyone who does noticed the name of the guy who does it?

It's Ben Dirs.

I'm curious as to what the Aussies are going to do.
I think McGrath shouldn't play. He's obviously not up to his best. Also Martyn hasn't done himself much favours so far - 45 runs in 3 innings.
Clarke's certainly stuck his hand up - he was in danger of being dumped wasn't he?

Clarke has more than earnt his spot back in the side. To drop him now would be totally stupid & a travesty of justice.

I'd drop Martyn in favour of Brad Hodge. Hodge made a test double ton in the last Australian summer, was dropped two tests later & hasn't played for Aus since. He's scored two centuries (and one or two half centuries) so far this domestic summer & deserves his place back in the team. Word is that Ponting & Martyn are best mates, so maybe there's your answer.

I would keep McGrath until the end of the series. Returning from injury in the past, he has been the sort of bowler that gets better & better the more overs he sends down. With his pedigree, it would be foolish to discard him prematurely. If he's not back to form by the end of the Ashes, then perhaps it's time to talk about retirement.

I don't know how many NSers use the BBC website for the minute-to-minute commentary during the Tests, but has anyone who does noticed the name of the guy who does it?

It's Ben Dirs.

I follow it online via cricinfo & baggygreen.com.au

Who's Ben Dirs?

I tend to do all my cricket following on cricinfo..

Well, ya have to keep Clarke now, no chance of dropping him. I reckon drop Martyn, or even Hayden, both of them have been less than impressive. Go for another bowler, give Tait a shot in Perth and give McGill a go in Sydney. Or if they simply CANT handle having another bowler, go for Jacques. That man is a legend. Even better than Hodge, which as a Melbournian shames me.

As for man of the Match, surely Hoggard's performance was markable. He was the only English bowler that did anything at all.

Damien Martyn has retired from all forms of cricket. The selectors have named WA batsman Adam Voges (http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/australia/content/player/8119.html) as his replacement.

Damien Martyn has retired from all forms of cricket. The selectors have named WA batsman Adam Voges (http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/australia/content/player/8119.html) as his replacement.
Bit of a surprise. Guess he decided to jump before he was pushed.

NZ/Sri Lanka game's an interesting one. Very low-scoring.
Bond's playing well. Such a shame about his back. He could have easily been rated as one of the best if his body had held up.

The third test starts in Perth tomorrow. Can England recover from the shattering loss in Adelaide, or is it all over for them?

The third test starts in Perth tomorrow. Can England recover from the shattering loss in Adelaide, or is it all over for them?

means a busy afternoon for those leaving work

I'm knocking off at 1 tomorrow afternoon, so I'll get to watch most of the day's play from the comfort of my couch. :)

I'll catch some of the action. Perth is a good timezone for nice afternoon/evening watching. It's like a day/nighter on TV.

I'll catch some of the action. Perth is a good timezone for nice afternoon/evening watching. It's like a day/nighter on TV.

what now that we got Day Light Savings

I'll catch some of the action. Perth is a good timezone for nice afternoon/evening watching. It's like a day/nighter on TV.

Kinky. :)

what now that we got Day Light Savings

Perth is 4 hours behind me, so the match starts at about 2.30pm.

Perth is 4 hours behind me, so the match starts at about 2.30pm.

this is why some of us are saying it a waste of time having it we still behind you

have fun watching it

The third test starts in Perth tomorrow. Can England recover from the shattering loss in Adelaide, or is it all over for them?
It's all over. Although this one will probably be a draw and then the English media will go on about how it's the start of the greatest comeback in Ashes history, blah blah blah...

Then we'll get creamed in the fourth test.

What time GMT does it start?

I'm GMT+10, and it starts some time around 12:30 to 1pm...methinks you may have to get up early.

Perth is 4 hours behind me, so the match starts at about 2.30pm.

Apparently it starts at 3.30pm.

Australia are 3/76, about 15 minutes after lunch. Hayden, Ponting & Langer are out. England have made a very good start.

Australia are 3/76, about 15 minutes after lunch. Hayden, Ponting & Langer are out. England have made a very good start.
very good. Monty's bowling well.
Shame that there was no room for him in the superb English team that played the first two tests.

very good. Monty's bowling well.
Shame that there was no room for him in the superb English team that played the first two tests.

Indeed. :p

English cricket fans to Duncan Fletcher:
"We told you so"

Yay Monty Parnaser. First time I've ever seen him play, and I love the attitude. Like McGrath or Flintoff, you can see him thinking and trying. Bravo!

Poms batting now. Aus got 244 all out, Hussey 74 not out.

Bummer I agreed to work tonight. I got a text at 9.27 PM from my dad that simply said 'Monty has 5'



Lee just got Bell with an absolute screamer of a ball. All you can do to those is hope it goes past the edge.

The bowlers finally did their job, and Monty exceeded the expectations. I'll never forgive them for not selecting the guy before. Also, Harmison got 4 (though the McGrath one wasn't), which is good news for England. He actually looked dangerous.

So with the bowling steadied, they now need their batsmen to dig in and string something together here. I hope they do, because that would give the Poms enough confidence to attack the fourth test and maybe level it when they go into the final match...

Wishful thinking perhaps. I just hope there won't be another collapse tomorrow.