Paul Harris is not a great bowler. Yes, he's managed to finagle his way up to ninth in the Test rankings basically by boring people out. He doesn't turn it - once thought of as a rudimentary principle of spin bowling - apart from the odd one that grips, such as the one Paul Collingwood got in the current Test match. If any English players should know about his game plan, it's his former Warwickshire team-mates among which Ian Bell is included.
So why then does Bell stand and watch as a straight-onner crashes into his stumps? It wasn't even close to being a good leave, hitting middle and off about half way up. I've been a big supporter and defender of Bell in the past, but that dismissal was simply diabolical. Park cricketers would be furious with themselves for doing likewise and so it's with heavy heart that I have to agree with what has been received wisdom for some time now and admit that he's got to go. He'll forever be remembered as a nearly man. He still has the ability, but every time he goes out to bat for England now, he looks nervous and opposition bowlers are beginning to see him as a walking wicket. The balance of the side for the first Test in South Africa looked all wrong from the outset and another bowler is needed. Bell has to step aside.
Saturday 19 December 2009
Thursday 3 December 2009
Death by 443 cuts
In Mumbai today, India scored a record 443 runs in the day for the loss of just one wicket. What on earth are they trying to do to Test cricket?
This game follows run-fests in Kanpur and Ahmedabad on flat, lifeless and deathly dull pitches. With matches like this, is it any wonder that they're played out in front of row upon row of empty seats? People will vote with their feet if they're not happy about the product being served up and the game will suffer as a result. If I didn't know better, I'd say that the Indian board was attempting to strangle the life out of unprofitable Test matches in order to make the already tubby IPL cow even more attractive to those who would milk it dry. You can get away with a one-sided contest between bat and ball for 75 minutes in a 20-over game, but spin it out over five days and people will turn off.
Moreover, it's making an utter mockery of Test records, batting and bowling. It's high time that the records show the quality of the pitch with asterisks next to any game played in such conditions.
This game follows run-fests in Kanpur and Ahmedabad on flat, lifeless and deathly dull pitches. With matches like this, is it any wonder that they're played out in front of row upon row of empty seats? People will vote with their feet if they're not happy about the product being served up and the game will suffer as a result. If I didn't know better, I'd say that the Indian board was attempting to strangle the life out of unprofitable Test matches in order to make the already tubby IPL cow even more attractive to those who would milk it dry. You can get away with a one-sided contest between bat and ball for 75 minutes in a 20-over game, but spin it out over five days and people will turn off.
Moreover, it's making an utter mockery of Test records, batting and bowling. It's high time that the records show the quality of the pitch with asterisks next to any game played in such conditions.
Saturday 31 October 2009
Insight you cannot buy
In today's Guardian, Duncan Fletcher is back. The former England coach has been a regular in the pages of said periodical since he left his previous post and, frankly, his column has been as full of the same banalities as his press conferences and the same loyalties to the same, small coterie of players as typified and, ultimately, brought down the Fletcher era.
This week, Fletcher is talking about the South Africans and the threats that they will pose. His three players to watch were the most eye-catching part of the piece, the rest of it being the sleep-inducing rubbish we're accustomed to. With his wide ranging knowledge of the game and tactical insights, could we expect him to highlight someone that's maybe slipped under the radar a little? Perhaps an up-and-coming youngster unknown to English audiences? Yeah, right. Instead he's gone for Graeme Smith, Jacques Kallis and Dale Steyn. That's 241 Tests combined scoring 17102 runs and taking 436 wickets between them. Hardly going out on a limb. Why not inform us about Wayne Parnell, even if he is well known to county audiences, and Yusuf Abdulla, the two young left-arm seamers who look the real deal? No mention of Roloef van der Merwe moving from a one-day specialist to the Test arena or the exciting batting of Loots Bosman.
He played it safe, too safe at times, as a coach, and so it continues as a columnist.
This week, Fletcher is talking about the South Africans and the threats that they will pose. His three players to watch were the most eye-catching part of the piece, the rest of it being the sleep-inducing rubbish we're accustomed to. With his wide ranging knowledge of the game and tactical insights, could we expect him to highlight someone that's maybe slipped under the radar a little? Perhaps an up-and-coming youngster unknown to English audiences? Yeah, right. Instead he's gone for Graeme Smith, Jacques Kallis and Dale Steyn. That's 241 Tests combined scoring 17102 runs and taking 436 wickets between them. Hardly going out on a limb. Why not inform us about Wayne Parnell, even if he is well known to county audiences, and Yusuf Abdulla, the two young left-arm seamers who look the real deal? No mention of Roloef van der Merwe moving from a one-day specialist to the Test arena or the exciting batting of Loots Bosman.
He played it safe, too safe at times, as a coach, and so it continues as a columnist.
Friday 9 October 2009
Next test for England
It's South Africa next for England and the touring parties were announced yesterday. Dare we suggest that common sense seems to have broken out at ECB headquarters? Gone are Steve Harmison and Monty Panesar and about time too.
Harmison's been a good servant for England, but looking back on his career, that patch from the West Indies tour in 2004 to the Ashes in 2005 looks like the blip rather than the dross he's served up at other times. On a hard, bouncy track - an archetypal Old Trafford wicket for instance - there are few better, but there's always that nagging doubt that the next ball will go flying over second slip's head and away for four wides. Harmison is yesterday's man and the time is right to leave that behind and move on.
Monty isn't yesterday's man. Neither does he look like tomorrow's. His lack of variation means he's very easy to read - compare and contrast to the unreadable Ajantha Mendis - and he's fallen behind Graeme Swann and Adil Rashid. Finally, Rashid is in the squad and though it looks unlikely that anyone would play two spinners in South Africa, his progression is something to celebrate.
The main headline is the inclusion of four South Africa-born players now that Jonathan Trott has become a fixture. Kevin Pietersen is in, as expected, though it remains to be seen how fit he'll be.
This tour represents England's first since the retirement of Andrew Flintoff. In comes Luke Wright to the Test squad. Luke Wright. Test player? Really? I don't see it myself.
Harmison's been a good servant for England, but looking back on his career, that patch from the West Indies tour in 2004 to the Ashes in 2005 looks like the blip rather than the dross he's served up at other times. On a hard, bouncy track - an archetypal Old Trafford wicket for instance - there are few better, but there's always that nagging doubt that the next ball will go flying over second slip's head and away for four wides. Harmison is yesterday's man and the time is right to leave that behind and move on.
Monty isn't yesterday's man. Neither does he look like tomorrow's. His lack of variation means he's very easy to read - compare and contrast to the unreadable Ajantha Mendis - and he's fallen behind Graeme Swann and Adil Rashid. Finally, Rashid is in the squad and though it looks unlikely that anyone would play two spinners in South Africa, his progression is something to celebrate.
The main headline is the inclusion of four South Africa-born players now that Jonathan Trott has become a fixture. Kevin Pietersen is in, as expected, though it remains to be seen how fit he'll be.
This tour represents England's first since the retirement of Andrew Flintoff. In comes Luke Wright to the Test squad. Luke Wright. Test player? Really? I don't see it myself.
Champions League
It's perhaps a sign of the perceived importance of the Champions League T20 that it's being broadcast in the UK on Eurosport 2. The key point of that sentence is the appearance of the number 2 at the end of it. Eurosport 2. Not even on Eurosport's main channel. So it was something of a surprise when, surfing the channels, I happened across the opening game between Bangalore and the Cape Cobras. Thinking that watching some cricket is always infinitely better than seeing none, I settled in to watch.
The grotesque amounts of money being bandied about is a definite turn-off, as are commentators reduced to being product spokespeople. It's not as bad as the IPL, but by christ it's still irritating.
My attention drifted, briefly brought back by Ross Taylor's blistering 50 off sod all, until one moment that suddenly made the whole thing worthwhile. The Cobras were in trouble having lost a couple of early wickets, including Herschelle Gibbs first ball, when JP Duminy strode to the crease. A few balls later and he marched down the wicket to slap the ball way back into the crowd. The bowler: Jacques Kallis. And did he not like that. The verbals came flying and suddenly I realised - this matters to them. And if team-mates are willing to get nasty in the pursuit of glory, I could see myself to following this through to the end.
The grotesque amounts of money being bandied about is a definite turn-off, as are commentators reduced to being product spokespeople. It's not as bad as the IPL, but by christ it's still irritating.
My attention drifted, briefly brought back by Ross Taylor's blistering 50 off sod all, until one moment that suddenly made the whole thing worthwhile. The Cobras were in trouble having lost a couple of early wickets, including Herschelle Gibbs first ball, when JP Duminy strode to the crease. A few balls later and he marched down the wicket to slap the ball way back into the crowd. The bowler: Jacques Kallis. And did he not like that. The verbals came flying and suddenly I realised - this matters to them. And if team-mates are willing to get nasty in the pursuit of glory, I could see myself to following this through to the end.
Thursday 17 September 2009
What's the difference...
...between Iran and the England cricket team?
Iran eventually got rid of the Shah.
Iran eventually got rid of the Shah.
Thursday 10 September 2009
Utterly without a clue
Three ODIs down and three England defeats. Not only that, but three miserable defeats, all of which came about in pretty much identical circumstances. There's no plan, there's no strategy and whoever makes the tactical decisions in a clueless idiot, especially regarding powerplays.
After the second game of this seven (seven!!) match series, the batting powerplay was left until England were eight wickets down and the batting colossus that is Ryan Sidebottom strode out to the crease. This happened again in match three. The reason given by Andrew Strauss was that "you can lose wickets in those overs". Where, oh where, does one begin?
It may not have come to Strauss's notice, but England have proved a bit too fecking adept at losing wickets in any over, powerplay or not. When they come, as they do all to reliably, the wickets are given away to one of the worst Australian sides in living memory and yet are more than able to outclass this shambles of an England side. Matt Prior's dismissal in game two, slapping a reverse sweep straight to backward point, was a very Matt Prior way to get out while the travails of Owais Shah would be finny if they weren't real. He's amazing at turning easy twos and threes into singles, looks a candidate for a run out at all times and then when he trod on his wicket.... Dear me. Any yet he, like most of the batters (as discussed previously), seems exempt from being dropped.
This series has gone, that much is clear, so why not chuck the lot of them out and start trying to bring something together ahead of the Champions Trophy which isn't that far away? Probably a bit too radical, but England are going nowhere in ODIs at the moment and it seems the only thing that will stop the slide is the scrapping of the 50-over format.A
After the second game of this seven (seven!!) match series, the batting powerplay was left until England were eight wickets down and the batting colossus that is Ryan Sidebottom strode out to the crease. This happened again in match three. The reason given by Andrew Strauss was that "you can lose wickets in those overs". Where, oh where, does one begin?
It may not have come to Strauss's notice, but England have proved a bit too fecking adept at losing wickets in any over, powerplay or not. When they come, as they do all to reliably, the wickets are given away to one of the worst Australian sides in living memory and yet are more than able to outclass this shambles of an England side. Matt Prior's dismissal in game two, slapping a reverse sweep straight to backward point, was a very Matt Prior way to get out while the travails of Owais Shah would be finny if they weren't real. He's amazing at turning easy twos and threes into singles, looks a candidate for a run out at all times and then when he trod on his wicket.... Dear me. Any yet he, like most of the batters (as discussed previously), seems exempt from being dropped.
This series has gone, that much is clear, so why not chuck the lot of them out and start trying to bring something together ahead of the Champions Trophy which isn't that far away? Probably a bit too radical, but England are going nowhere in ODIs at the moment and it seems the only thing that will stop the slide is the scrapping of the 50-over format.A
Sunday 6 September 2009
Dropped for other's mistakes
"Well played son. You almost won us a game we had no right to get close in at the Oval. By the way, you're dropped". I'm guessing that's the conversation captain and coaches had with Adil Rashid ahead of the one-dayer at Lord's.
How typically English. Which other side in world cricket drops bowlers - any bowlers, let alone the pick of the attack - to compensate for batting failures? How can it be that the ones sweating on selection after a collapse aren't those responsible for getting the runs? It's a mystery. And the even more stupid thing is that Rashid was the pick of the batters as well as bowling superbly well. I've nothing against Eoin Morgan, quite the reverse. I think he'll make a fine player and he would warrant a call-up should any of the top order fail. That top order failed, as England ODI top orders are wont to do, and yet it's a young, impressive bowler that gets the chop. Ludicrous. The selection policy is completely backwards and England will never be a force in one day cricket while it persists.
How typically English. Which other side in world cricket drops bowlers - any bowlers, let alone the pick of the attack - to compensate for batting failures? How can it be that the ones sweating on selection after a collapse aren't those responsible for getting the runs? It's a mystery. And the even more stupid thing is that Rashid was the pick of the batters as well as bowling superbly well. I've nothing against Eoin Morgan, quite the reverse. I think he'll make a fine player and he would warrant a call-up should any of the top order fail. That top order failed, as England ODI top orders are wont to do, and yet it's a young, impressive bowler that gets the chop. Ludicrous. The selection policy is completely backwards and England will never be a force in one day cricket while it persists.
Friday 28 August 2009
Now it's sunk in...
Almost a week has passed now and a question remains: how did England win the Ashes?
All the stats suggest that Australia were the better side, as did much of the televisual evidence. But they weren't that much better than England and, at key moments, were worse. Just. But when England were bad - Cardiff for all bar the last session and Headingley - they were abysmal. So while the celebrations were far more muted than four years ago, there was good reason other than that Trafalgar Square nonsense was toe-curlingly embarrassing.
Has it erased any memory of the drubbing handed out last time in Australia? Of course not, even if Sky TV airbrushed it completely from history, but times have changed and Australia suddenly find themselves down from first to fourth in the Test rankings. South Africa assume the top spot and where are England next? Yep, South Africa, so four of the top six should feel right at home as England start life AF - After Fred.
It's to the shorter forms of the game now, with two Twenty20s and seven (why?) one-dayers. England warmed up by being characteristically useless against Ireland while Australia belted Scotland all over Edinburgh. These 50-over matches come just after the ECB decided that 50-over cricket isn't for the likes of them, reducing the one domestic 50-over competition - the FP Trophy - to a 40-over format. Great planning. Presumably that'll be to prepare cricketers for the international 40-over game. Which doesn't exist.
All the stats suggest that Australia were the better side, as did much of the televisual evidence. But they weren't that much better than England and, at key moments, were worse. Just. But when England were bad - Cardiff for all bar the last session and Headingley - they were abysmal. So while the celebrations were far more muted than four years ago, there was good reason other than that Trafalgar Square nonsense was toe-curlingly embarrassing.
Has it erased any memory of the drubbing handed out last time in Australia? Of course not, even if Sky TV airbrushed it completely from history, but times have changed and Australia suddenly find themselves down from first to fourth in the Test rankings. South Africa assume the top spot and where are England next? Yep, South Africa, so four of the top six should feel right at home as England start life AF - After Fred.
It's to the shorter forms of the game now, with two Twenty20s and seven (why?) one-dayers. England warmed up by being characteristically useless against Ireland while Australia belted Scotland all over Edinburgh. These 50-over matches come just after the ECB decided that 50-over cricket isn't for the likes of them, reducing the one domestic 50-over competition - the FP Trophy - to a 40-over format. Great planning. Presumably that'll be to prepare cricketers for the international 40-over game. Which doesn't exist.
Wednesday 19 August 2009
Eyes down, look in
When all else fails in England, what do we do? Turn to South Africa of course.
Some time ago, when Andrew Flintoff announced his retirement, a conversation between myself and Chris went along the lines:
"Flintoff retiring. Let us scour every corner of South Africa for a replacement".
"Yeah. That Pieter van der Bergersburger should be qualified soon".
So step forward Jonathan Trott.
What a time to make a debut, South African or not. England lose and he's not going to play another Test. England win and he's hardly guaranteed. But this is not the time to be churlish. This is the time for every man to stand up for his (adopted) country and anyone who reckons a South African won't take as much joy from seeing the Australians lose this final Test as the English would is, frankly, a big fat liar.
Five more days... Then I might actually get some work done.
Some time ago, when Andrew Flintoff announced his retirement, a conversation between myself and Chris went along the lines:
"Flintoff retiring. Let us scour every corner of South Africa for a replacement".
"Yeah. That Pieter van der Bergersburger should be qualified soon".
So step forward Jonathan Trott.
What a time to make a debut, South African or not. England lose and he's not going to play another Test. England win and he's hardly guaranteed. But this is not the time to be churlish. This is the time for every man to stand up for his (adopted) country and anyone who reckons a South African won't take as much joy from seeing the Australians lose this final Test as the English would is, frankly, a big fat liar.
Five more days... Then I might actually get some work done.
Thursday 13 August 2009
Nannes nonsense
It ought to be fairly simple. The country you, a parent or a grandparent you were born in or are citizen/resident of you select to play for and away you go. In these modern times, many people have a number of different nations they qualify for, even in a geographically confined game such as cricket.
Dirk Nannes then. A latecomer to the game, his starring performances for his state in Australia earned him an IPL contract, but he was nowhere near the Australian squad for the World T20 and so he opted for the Netherlands, the country of his parents birth. No problem.
He did well in that competition on the back of a good IPL. Fast forward less than three months and the squad for Australia's two Twenty20 games after the Ashes is announced, including the name Dirk Nannes.
Now I'm not vilifying Nannes - far from it. Neither am I completely against the possibility of switching nationality as happens far more now then at any point in history, and cricket seems to have it's rules on switching fairly well defined, especially compared to that other love of mine, rugby league. These aren't sports like football which has a truly global spread - the only game that does really - and provides opportunities to represent your nation be you from the Solomon Islands, Uzbekistan, El Salvador or wherever. Putting in your lot with one of the lesser lights of the international scene in cricket or RL is a risky business were you unable to then go on and play for the big boys. Ed Joyce, for instance, threw his lot in with England and, despite a good start, it didn't work out. He is now serving his 7-year qualification period, just like Graeme Hick and Kevin Pietersen had to, before he goes back to Ireland. Where's Nannes's seven years? Has it suddenly become a seven-week period?
With the Indian board disrupting attempts to come up with an anti-doping plan, the expanse of Twenty20, continuing decline in Test crowds and the overworking of players a row over nationality isn't something world cricket could do with right now.
Dirk Nannes then. A latecomer to the game, his starring performances for his state in Australia earned him an IPL contract, but he was nowhere near the Australian squad for the World T20 and so he opted for the Netherlands, the country of his parents birth. No problem.
He did well in that competition on the back of a good IPL. Fast forward less than three months and the squad for Australia's two Twenty20 games after the Ashes is announced, including the name Dirk Nannes.
Now I'm not vilifying Nannes - far from it. Neither am I completely against the possibility of switching nationality as happens far more now then at any point in history, and cricket seems to have it's rules on switching fairly well defined, especially compared to that other love of mine, rugby league. These aren't sports like football which has a truly global spread - the only game that does really - and provides opportunities to represent your nation be you from the Solomon Islands, Uzbekistan, El Salvador or wherever. Putting in your lot with one of the lesser lights of the international scene in cricket or RL is a risky business were you unable to then go on and play for the big boys. Ed Joyce, for instance, threw his lot in with England and, despite a good start, it didn't work out. He is now serving his 7-year qualification period, just like Graeme Hick and Kevin Pietersen had to, before he goes back to Ireland. Where's Nannes's seven years? Has it suddenly become a seven-week period?
With the Indian board disrupting attempts to come up with an anti-doping plan, the expanse of Twenty20, continuing decline in Test crowds and the overworking of players a row over nationality isn't something world cricket could do with right now.
Wednesday 12 August 2009
Back To The Future
So, after the calamity at Headingley last week all eyes turn onto the Oval for the decider in the 2009 Ashes series. After some pretty piss poor efforts ((C) The 12th Man) with the bat it's Panic Time in the ranks of the media and the public.
The figures weren't pretty.
Bopara 1 & 0 (Although, granted he got a shocker in the 2nd innings)
Bell 8 & 3
Collingwood 0 & 4
So they decide to throw some of these boys back into Country Cricket for the lastest round and Bell and Bopara have scored a grand total of 2 runs between them. Jonathon Trott, touted to replace His Fredness before the last test only got 15 in his knock so far.
Owais Shah who was dumped by England earlier in the year hasn't impressed to far this year and he only contributed 8 in his latest knock.
Now Graham Gooch has lept to the defence of Bopara and has questioned why the captain Andrew Strauss isn't in the Middlesex team as they host Bopara's Essex. Strauss contributed 3 & 32 at Headingley and it wouldn't have done him any harm to have a run in this weekend.
So the knives are out and it's time for the big cull if you believe half of the media. The only problem is would seem that Doc Emmett is going to be needed as England seem to be stepping back in time to club a team together to wrestle the urn away from the Criminals.
Funnily enough. the DeLorean was last seen on Wheldon Road in Castleford heading towards Headingley for the Super League clash that is taking place this friday night.
Anyway I digress
So who is in the frame then........
Rob Key - He's dreaming of an Ashes recall. He hasn't played for England since 2005.
Mark Ramprakash - He'd be thrilled to be a part of it. For god's sake he's 40 in September, has won a dancing competition on the telly and hasn't been in the test arena since 2002.
Marcus Trescothick - Hasn't played for England since doing a runner from the 06/07 Ashes Series in Australia because of a stress related illness. Gotta admit though, this guy is the form horse if he can overcome his demons. He's had 5 centuries in the County Championship so far this season, the last at late as last week against Warwickshire.
Owais Shah - No chance I'm afraid. This bridge has been burned and I can't see the selectors going back there that quickly
Johnathon Trott - Well, they wouldn't chuck him in at Headingley do you really think they'll throw him in at the Oval?
Still, we'll no doubt find out at the weekend when the squad in announced in what is a must win game for England, otherwise that urn will be with Ricky Ponting when he returns to Australia after the game at the Oval.
Also there is the shadow of Brett Lee looming for the Criminals as well as he has recovered from an injury that has hampered his tour so far.
The figures weren't pretty.
Bopara 1 & 0 (Although, granted he got a shocker in the 2nd innings)
Bell 8 & 3
Collingwood 0 & 4
So they decide to throw some of these boys back into Country Cricket for the lastest round and Bell and Bopara have scored a grand total of 2 runs between them. Jonathon Trott, touted to replace His Fredness before the last test only got 15 in his knock so far.
Owais Shah who was dumped by England earlier in the year hasn't impressed to far this year and he only contributed 8 in his latest knock.
Now Graham Gooch has lept to the defence of Bopara and has questioned why the captain Andrew Strauss isn't in the Middlesex team as they host Bopara's Essex. Strauss contributed 3 & 32 at Headingley and it wouldn't have done him any harm to have a run in this weekend.
So the knives are out and it's time for the big cull if you believe half of the media. The only problem is would seem that Doc Emmett is going to be needed as England seem to be stepping back in time to club a team together to wrestle the urn away from the Criminals.Funnily enough. the DeLorean was last seen on Wheldon Road in Castleford heading towards Headingley for the Super League clash that is taking place this friday night.
Anyway I digress
So who is in the frame then........
Rob Key - He's dreaming of an Ashes recall. He hasn't played for England since 2005.
Mark Ramprakash - He'd be thrilled to be a part of it. For god's sake he's 40 in September, has won a dancing competition on the telly and hasn't been in the test arena since 2002.Marcus Trescothick - Hasn't played for England since doing a runner from the 06/07 Ashes Series in Australia because of a stress related illness. Gotta admit though, this guy is the form horse if he can overcome his demons. He's had 5 centuries in the County Championship so far this season, the last at late as last week against Warwickshire.
Owais Shah - No chance I'm afraid. This bridge has been burned and I can't see the selectors going back there that quickly
Johnathon Trott - Well, they wouldn't chuck him in at Headingley do you really think they'll throw him in at the Oval?
Still, we'll no doubt find out at the weekend when the squad in announced in what is a must win game for England, otherwise that urn will be with Ricky Ponting when he returns to Australia after the game at the Oval.
Also there is the shadow of Brett Lee looming for the Criminals as well as he has recovered from an injury that has hampered his tour so far.
Sunday 2 August 2009
How to speak like an Australian cricketer in three easy steps
1. Start every sentence with "aw/yeah look".
2. err...
3. That's it.
2. err...
3. That's it.
Saturday 1 August 2009
What a day
After the brief action on Thursday - two hours, some rank bad bowling that made Shane Watson look like a veteran opener, one wicket - England exploded into life on Friday.
Graham Onions had gone at seven an over in the short Thursday session - tempted to introduce a pun about his figures making your eyes water, but I won't bother - but roared back on Friday morning, sending back Watson and Michael Hussey with the first two balls of the day, both of the beautiful swinging deliveries. The first to the right-handed Watson pitched on middle and straightened - plumb lbw. The second was even better, pitching middle-and-off to the left-hander and, instead of going across Hussey, straightening and removing off stump with no shot offered. And so the tone was set.
When the ball is hooping about, there are few better than Jimmy Anderson and he made hay with a five-for the pick of which was the one that got debutant Graham Manou. He was on debut after Brad Haddin broke a finger in the warm-up after the teams had been submitted, but England had enough grace to allow a replacement. Anderson and Onions wrapped it all up between them which meant Andrew Flintoff was spared too much work on that still troublesome ankle.
Though England lost Alistair Cook for nought, Andrew Strauss looks in complete control of the situation. He's in form and, without Kevin Pietersen, his runs will be vital. Ian Bell even chimed in with a rare collector's item, a six, struck back over Nathan Hauritz's head.
However, the draw is the favourite outcome here. The fates have conspired against England and the weather is doing it's level best to scupper any chance of allowing the side to grind Australia into the dirt in what is a rare period of dominance over the baggy greens. It all looks like we're going to Headingley with the series at 1-0.
Graham Onions had gone at seven an over in the short Thursday session - tempted to introduce a pun about his figures making your eyes water, but I won't bother - but roared back on Friday morning, sending back Watson and Michael Hussey with the first two balls of the day, both of the beautiful swinging deliveries. The first to the right-handed Watson pitched on middle and straightened - plumb lbw. The second was even better, pitching middle-and-off to the left-hander and, instead of going across Hussey, straightening and removing off stump with no shot offered. And so the tone was set.
When the ball is hooping about, there are few better than Jimmy Anderson and he made hay with a five-for the pick of which was the one that got debutant Graham Manou. He was on debut after Brad Haddin broke a finger in the warm-up after the teams had been submitted, but England had enough grace to allow a replacement. Anderson and Onions wrapped it all up between them which meant Andrew Flintoff was spared too much work on that still troublesome ankle.
Though England lost Alistair Cook for nought, Andrew Strauss looks in complete control of the situation. He's in form and, without Kevin Pietersen, his runs will be vital. Ian Bell even chimed in with a rare collector's item, a six, struck back over Nathan Hauritz's head.
However, the draw is the favourite outcome here. The fates have conspired against England and the weather is doing it's level best to scupper any chance of allowing the side to grind Australia into the dirt in what is a rare period of dominance over the baggy greens. It all looks like we're going to Headingley with the series at 1-0.
Thursday 30 July 2009
While I was away...
On the morning of the second day of the second Test, I skipped the country for a jolly. Hence I missed the end of 75 years of hurt at what everybody outside Yorkshire refers to as the home of cricket. Ably aided by a band of text maniacs, I was kept up to date wicket-by-wicket while the rest of France looked on with, at best, utter indifference and sneering contempt.
So I missed much of the game. Day one was another like day one at Cardiff, only this time it was Alistair Cook and Andrew Strauss rather than Kevin Pietersen and Paul Collingwood that got the runs. Strauss then got out in ridiculous fashion just as I was on the way out of the door and off to the airport. I didn't see Ricky Ponting's disputed wicket and subsequent trademark strop. I didn't see Strauss fail to enforce the follow on and this time get away with it. I didn't see Flintoff's first five-for since the last Ashes series in England. I didn't get the jitters while Michael Clarke and Brad Haddin piled a lot of runs on. And I didn't see comical bowling from Peter Siddle and Mitchell Johnson.
And I'm not seeing any of it now either. While I was sunning myself in scorching temperatures on the Mediterranean coast, it seems that Birmingham, along with most of the rest of the UK, has been pelted from above. With rain, in case that wasn't clear. That's held up play for all of day one so far, but play is due to begin on 20 minutes time (at time of writing).
Australia will bat with Shane Watson opening in the absence of the naughty Phil Hughes. Watson hasn't batted higher than six in Tests before. That's their only change while England's is enforced - Ian Bell replacing the injured Kevin Pietersen. This could be an interesting little session here.
So I missed much of the game. Day one was another like day one at Cardiff, only this time it was Alistair Cook and Andrew Strauss rather than Kevin Pietersen and Paul Collingwood that got the runs. Strauss then got out in ridiculous fashion just as I was on the way out of the door and off to the airport. I didn't see Ricky Ponting's disputed wicket and subsequent trademark strop. I didn't see Strauss fail to enforce the follow on and this time get away with it. I didn't see Flintoff's first five-for since the last Ashes series in England. I didn't get the jitters while Michael Clarke and Brad Haddin piled a lot of runs on. And I didn't see comical bowling from Peter Siddle and Mitchell Johnson.
And I'm not seeing any of it now either. While I was sunning myself in scorching temperatures on the Mediterranean coast, it seems that Birmingham, along with most of the rest of the UK, has been pelted from above. With rain, in case that wasn't clear. That's held up play for all of day one so far, but play is due to begin on 20 minutes time (at time of writing).
Australia will bat with Shane Watson opening in the absence of the naughty Phil Hughes. Watson hasn't batted higher than six in Tests before. That's their only change while England's is enforced - Ian Bell replacing the injured Kevin Pietersen. This could be an interesting little session here.
Thursday 23 July 2009
Dear Glenn
Mr McGrath
After your score prediction for the 2009 Ashes series some time back please could you remind me of the current score if you get chance?
Yours
An Englishman
After your score prediction for the 2009 Ashes series some time back please could you remind me of the current score if you get chance?
Yours
An Englishman
Sunday 12 July 2009
Day five
Rain? Who needs it.
England survived for a draw, albeit very much a losing draw, mainly down to the grit and determination of Paul Collingwood. Resuming at 20 for 2, it didn't look like it would last too long and the middle order did their damnedest to chuck away their wickets once again. Andrew Strauss and Matt Prior both got out cutting against the spin when cramped for room - needless shots given the match situation - which left Collingwood to see things out with the tail once Andrew Flintoff edged an unusually out of sorts Mitchell Johnson to Ricky Ponting in the slips.
Collingwood was a picture of determination, batting for nearly six hours for his 74, but got out with England six runs short of making the Australians bat again and with just Monty Panesar left in the hutch. Despite the crowd rising as one to salute his knock, Collingwood was clearly upset, head down as he stalked back to the dressing room. This was after Stuart Broad, who got a bit of shooter from Nathan Hauritz to trap him leg before, and Graeme Swann had both departed. Swann 'needed treatment' twice after being struck by Peter Siddle as England deployed some delaying tactics, much to the chagrin of Ponting who had a face like thunder. I defy him to say he wouldn't do likewise in the same situation.
So for the last forty minutes of the game, James Anderson and Monty Panesar were all that stood between Australia and a 1-0 lead. Monty showed some never-before-seen adhesiveness and Anderson made it 50 Test knocks without a duck and never before has either played such a crucial knock. Anderson made 21 from 53 balls, Panesar 7 from 35, eventually pushing England past the Australian total and securing the draw.
Relief all round then, but there's lots to do before Lord's and not much time to do it in. The match starts on Thursday and England need to address many things. Not giving wickets away would be a start. How many got out to good balls in the whole game? Not bloody many. Prior in the first innings, Broad and Swann in the second perhaps. Ravi Bopara got a duff call in the second too, but far too many were rash shots or poor decision making. The captaincy issue hasn't been addressed either. Strauss didn't or couldn't mix it up or come up with plans of attack. As such, England drifted at times in the field, making it too easy for Australia's batsmen. The bowlers got nothing out of a dead pitch, and those not involved are the ones whose stock has risen as a result of this game. Change should be resisted. The Lord's pitch will offer more than this one and the thought of Steve Harmison trudging through another Test fills me with dread. Graham Onions in next in line should England go with one spinner, though the spinning role is perhaps the major job up for grabs - neither Swann not Panesar covered themselves in glory, not with the ball anyway, while Adil Rashid was busy bowling Durham out.
Lots to do then, but at least Glenn McGrath's 5-0 prediction was wrong.
England survived for a draw, albeit very much a losing draw, mainly down to the grit and determination of Paul Collingwood. Resuming at 20 for 2, it didn't look like it would last too long and the middle order did their damnedest to chuck away their wickets once again. Andrew Strauss and Matt Prior both got out cutting against the spin when cramped for room - needless shots given the match situation - which left Collingwood to see things out with the tail once Andrew Flintoff edged an unusually out of sorts Mitchell Johnson to Ricky Ponting in the slips.
Collingwood was a picture of determination, batting for nearly six hours for his 74, but got out with England six runs short of making the Australians bat again and with just Monty Panesar left in the hutch. Despite the crowd rising as one to salute his knock, Collingwood was clearly upset, head down as he stalked back to the dressing room. This was after Stuart Broad, who got a bit of shooter from Nathan Hauritz to trap him leg before, and Graeme Swann had both departed. Swann 'needed treatment' twice after being struck by Peter Siddle as England deployed some delaying tactics, much to the chagrin of Ponting who had a face like thunder. I defy him to say he wouldn't do likewise in the same situation.
So for the last forty minutes of the game, James Anderson and Monty Panesar were all that stood between Australia and a 1-0 lead. Monty showed some never-before-seen adhesiveness and Anderson made it 50 Test knocks without a duck and never before has either played such a crucial knock. Anderson made 21 from 53 balls, Panesar 7 from 35, eventually pushing England past the Australian total and securing the draw.
Relief all round then, but there's lots to do before Lord's and not much time to do it in. The match starts on Thursday and England need to address many things. Not giving wickets away would be a start. How many got out to good balls in the whole game? Not bloody many. Prior in the first innings, Broad and Swann in the second perhaps. Ravi Bopara got a duff call in the second too, but far too many were rash shots or poor decision making. The captaincy issue hasn't been addressed either. Strauss didn't or couldn't mix it up or come up with plans of attack. As such, England drifted at times in the field, making it too easy for Australia's batsmen. The bowlers got nothing out of a dead pitch, and those not involved are the ones whose stock has risen as a result of this game. Change should be resisted. The Lord's pitch will offer more than this one and the thought of Steve Harmison trudging through another Test fills me with dread. Graham Onions in next in line should England go with one spinner, though the spinning role is perhaps the major job up for grabs - neither Swann not Panesar covered themselves in glory, not with the ball anyway, while Adil Rashid was busy bowling Durham out.
Lots to do then, but at least Glenn McGrath's 5-0 prediction was wrong.
Saturday 11 July 2009
Day four
Oh dear.
Even Rain let England down on the fourth day of the opening Test. The forecast was poor, but the rain held off until tea, whereupon it came to the extent that play was abandoned for the day. But it may be too late already.
With the clouds heavy and rain apparent at some point during the day, Australia got a move on. Marcus North went to a hundred after starting the day on 52 while Brad Haddin got there in quick time. It barely seemed five minutes between him raising his bat for fifty to doing so slightly more extravagantly as he notched his ton. The batsmen knew that if they got on with it, then they could stick England in before tea and have a nibble under increasingly dark skies.
Eventually the call came, after Haddin holed out for 121, Ravi Bopara taking the catch off one of Paul Collingwood's cutters. Collingwood was the only bowler not to go for a hundred. He only bowled nine overs, mind, and still went for 38. A really cruel opposing captain would have kept going until he too conceded three figures. 674 for 6 was the score when Ricky Ponting called them in, a lead of 239. Australia could only muster four centurions as opposed to England's five, so there's a note of comfort.
These short sessions such as England had to endure can often be tricky little periods. You're never going to win a game in such a situation, but you can definitely lose one and maybe England did. Mitchell Johnson had Alistair Cook plum in front playing across a straight one and Ben Hilfenhaus got a lucky-ish call for lbw against Ravi Bopara. Hitting him high on the thigh, well above his pad, Billy Doctrove didn't hesitate in raising the finger, despite seeming to be a determined not-outer in Australia's innings. Either way, Bopara was back in the hutch and there's no reason to think Hilfenhaus wouldn't have got him next ball anyway, with it swinging around at good pace. Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Strauss saw out the remaining deliveries until tea and then the rains came.
The forecast for tomorrow is good and, with an attempt to recover time lost earlier in the game, there's at least 98 overs for Australia to pick up the eight remaining wickets they need. Even if England force them to bat again, it's difficult to imagine the chase will be of a suitably sizeable total that will trouble the Australians in terms of time. England have the mother of all battles on their hands to rescue this one.
Even Rain let England down on the fourth day of the opening Test. The forecast was poor, but the rain held off until tea, whereupon it came to the extent that play was abandoned for the day. But it may be too late already.
With the clouds heavy and rain apparent at some point during the day, Australia got a move on. Marcus North went to a hundred after starting the day on 52 while Brad Haddin got there in quick time. It barely seemed five minutes between him raising his bat for fifty to doing so slightly more extravagantly as he notched his ton. The batsmen knew that if they got on with it, then they could stick England in before tea and have a nibble under increasingly dark skies.
Eventually the call came, after Haddin holed out for 121, Ravi Bopara taking the catch off one of Paul Collingwood's cutters. Collingwood was the only bowler not to go for a hundred. He only bowled nine overs, mind, and still went for 38. A really cruel opposing captain would have kept going until he too conceded three figures. 674 for 6 was the score when Ricky Ponting called them in, a lead of 239. Australia could only muster four centurions as opposed to England's five, so there's a note of comfort.
These short sessions such as England had to endure can often be tricky little periods. You're never going to win a game in such a situation, but you can definitely lose one and maybe England did. Mitchell Johnson had Alistair Cook plum in front playing across a straight one and Ben Hilfenhaus got a lucky-ish call for lbw against Ravi Bopara. Hitting him high on the thigh, well above his pad, Billy Doctrove didn't hesitate in raising the finger, despite seeming to be a determined not-outer in Australia's innings. Either way, Bopara was back in the hutch and there's no reason to think Hilfenhaus wouldn't have got him next ball anyway, with it swinging around at good pace. Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Strauss saw out the remaining deliveries until tea and then the rains came.
The forecast for tomorrow is good and, with an attempt to recover time lost earlier in the game, there's at least 98 overs for Australia to pick up the eight remaining wickets they need. Even if England force them to bat again, it's difficult to imagine the chase will be of a suitably sizeable total that will trouble the Australians in terms of time. England have the mother of all battles on their hands to rescue this one.
Friday 10 July 2009
Day three
As went day two, so went day three, or at least threatened to until a glorious and most welcome shower of rain interrupted proceedings.
The new ball came early for England and, after some dross sent down with the old one, wickets started to fall. First Katich, lbw to a swinging delivery from Anderson - possibly the first one that swung in the entire innings. Michael Hussey's runs at Worcester may have been a false dawn and he edged Anderson to Matt Prior cheaply. Ponting got to 150 before dragging a Monty delivery into his stumps; the first loose shot Ponting played in his knock.
Then lunch and, as yesterday, the batsmen took over. Michael Clarke and Marcus North set about the bowling and, without giving a chance away, took Australia into the lead.
Hope looked lost for England with the older ball not doing anything until their twelfth man stepped in to rescue the situation. Rain played a blinder, halting the Australians in their tracks. The runs completely dried up under Rain's onslaught and, if he can keep this up over the next 24 hours, should save the Test for England.
Make no mistake - Australia are in charge. England will not win this Test and how hard they have to work to secure a draw will depend on the elements and how many more runs the Australians pile on. Even though Clarke went late in the day and if North goes early tomorrow, Brad Haddin and Mitchell Johnson can still put England out of it.
The Australian batsmen just haven't been put under any pressure. They've not been drawn out of their comfort zones and have played the ball into areas they're comfortable playing it. Nobody has had to take a risk and, as a result, runs have flowed and England are very much on the back foot.
The new ball came early for England and, after some dross sent down with the old one, wickets started to fall. First Katich, lbw to a swinging delivery from Anderson - possibly the first one that swung in the entire innings. Michael Hussey's runs at Worcester may have been a false dawn and he edged Anderson to Matt Prior cheaply. Ponting got to 150 before dragging a Monty delivery into his stumps; the first loose shot Ponting played in his knock.
Then lunch and, as yesterday, the batsmen took over. Michael Clarke and Marcus North set about the bowling and, without giving a chance away, took Australia into the lead.
Hope looked lost for England with the older ball not doing anything until their twelfth man stepped in to rescue the situation. Rain played a blinder, halting the Australians in their tracks. The runs completely dried up under Rain's onslaught and, if he can keep this up over the next 24 hours, should save the Test for England.
Make no mistake - Australia are in charge. England will not win this Test and how hard they have to work to secure a draw will depend on the elements and how many more runs the Australians pile on. Even though Clarke went late in the day and if North goes early tomorrow, Brad Haddin and Mitchell Johnson can still put England out of it.
The Australian batsmen just haven't been put under any pressure. They've not been drawn out of their comfort zones and have played the ball into areas they're comfortable playing it. Nobody has had to take a risk and, as a result, runs have flowed and England are very much on the back foot.
Thursday 9 July 2009
Day two
Day two: Australia day.
And yet it didn't start like that. Momentum was the watchword from yesterday and England had seemingly lost it at the end of the first day's play. Nobody told Graeme Swann who blazed away for 48 entertaining runs with able support from James Anderson and Stuart Broad (and some less able support from Monty). Swann was left stranded as wickets fell at the other end, but they did what tail ends ought to: wag. Not only did they get runs, but they got them quickly and put pressure on players who may have been going out thinking they'd be batting sometime very soon.
The end did come and momentum swung again, back to the Australians, as Phil Hughes cut and slashed his way to a breezy 36. This kid is going to be a long-term pain in these Ashes contests. At the other end, Simon Katich had his Chris Tavaré head on and set about boring the pants off everyone (except the crowd-surfing young fellow who came dressed as David Gower) as he ground his runs out in no particular style whatsoever. Ricky Ponting was slightly quicker as they did exactly the job required and made slow progression towards the England total of 435 with both Katich and Ponting ending the day with grittily constructed hundreds.
Australia on top then, and by plenty. The England bowlers toiled on a day that failed to produce swing. Though spin was there aplenty, it was slow off the pitch and, consequently, easy to read. Swann was unlucky not to have had Katich lbw, but chances were few to non-existent. Tomorrow looks like being a long day for England in the field once again and these two batsmen could have taken one result off the table already; the one where England win. England need something inspirational in the morning session tomorrow, but it's hard to see where it's coming from.
And yet it didn't start like that. Momentum was the watchword from yesterday and England had seemingly lost it at the end of the first day's play. Nobody told Graeme Swann who blazed away for 48 entertaining runs with able support from James Anderson and Stuart Broad (and some less able support from Monty). Swann was left stranded as wickets fell at the other end, but they did what tail ends ought to: wag. Not only did they get runs, but they got them quickly and put pressure on players who may have been going out thinking they'd be batting sometime very soon.
The end did come and momentum swung again, back to the Australians, as Phil Hughes cut and slashed his way to a breezy 36. This kid is going to be a long-term pain in these Ashes contests. At the other end, Simon Katich had his Chris Tavaré head on and set about boring the pants off everyone (except the crowd-surfing young fellow who came dressed as David Gower) as he ground his runs out in no particular style whatsoever. Ricky Ponting was slightly quicker as they did exactly the job required and made slow progression towards the England total of 435 with both Katich and Ponting ending the day with grittily constructed hundreds.
Australia on top then, and by plenty. The England bowlers toiled on a day that failed to produce swing. Though spin was there aplenty, it was slow off the pitch and, consequently, easy to read. Swann was unlucky not to have had Katich lbw, but chances were few to non-existent. Tomorrow looks like being a long day for England in the field once again and these two batsmen could have taken one result off the table already; the one where England win. England need something inspirational in the morning session tomorrow, but it's hard to see where it's coming from.
Wednesday 8 July 2009
Day one
There is never an excuse for deploying a nightwatchman - never. On a slow wicket, England made decent progress on day one of the Ashes today in Cardiff. Everyone got a start and England rebuilt manfully after being reduced to 90 for 3 by lunch.
There was a wobble when first Collingwood and then Pietersen got out - a comical dismissal to a Nathan Hauritz delivery which, if left, would have been called wide - but Matt Prior and Andrew Flintoff put on a swashbuckling show to put on 86 for the fifth wicket. Momentum was with England heading into the final overs of the day, but then Flintoff played on to Peter Siddle and out walks Jimmy Anderson.
Now this isn't a critique of Anderson who has the most consecutive Test knocks without a duck, but attacking he is not. Suddenly the sting went out of England and, when Prior succumbed to a cracking Siddle in-cutter, the momentum swung back towards the visitors once again.
Ah, the nuances of Test cricket. After the smorgasbord of limited, and very limited, overs cricket, it's good to get back to the real deal. Day one was tremendously even and there are no markers laid down yet for how this pans out over the coming weeks.
There was a wobble when first Collingwood and then Pietersen got out - a comical dismissal to a Nathan Hauritz delivery which, if left, would have been called wide - but Matt Prior and Andrew Flintoff put on a swashbuckling show to put on 86 for the fifth wicket. Momentum was with England heading into the final overs of the day, but then Flintoff played on to Peter Siddle and out walks Jimmy Anderson.
Now this isn't a critique of Anderson who has the most consecutive Test knocks without a duck, but attacking he is not. Suddenly the sting went out of England and, when Prior succumbed to a cracking Siddle in-cutter, the momentum swung back towards the visitors once again.
Ah, the nuances of Test cricket. After the smorgasbord of limited, and very limited, overs cricket, it's good to get back to the real deal. Day one was tremendously even and there are no markers laid down yet for how this pans out over the coming weeks.
Tuesday 7 July 2009
Some Ashes predictions
Before the Ashes series begins, allow me to run you through some predictions for the forthcoming action.
My main prediction is that Mitchell Johnson will be a colossal pain in the arse all summer long. Too often throughout history have England had Australia seemingly in trouble with six or seven down for not many only to prove singularly unable to winkle those last few out. Johnson's already proved that he's hard to shift and he scores his runs at a decent pace. Don't get him out early and you're in bother. Then there's his bowling...
Crowds will still go wild for Monty, despite his barely knowing which end of the bat to hold and being a liability in the field. We just love a character and he's certainly that, but he's just not that good. He hasn't developed. Sorry Monty, but it's Adil Rashid's turn now.
Top wicket-taker: Stuart Broad. I like this kid. I think he is all that.
Top run scorer: Phil Hughes. The Australian version of Shivnarine Chanderpaul, I just don't see the English attack getting him out cheaply too often, even if Harmison did do him over twice in the Lions game.
England to win. There. I've said it. I think the spin factor will prove decisive. England have a spin factor and Australia don't and that's the major difference between the sides.
And finally, Jimmy Anderson to go the whole series without a duck, continuing his world record run.
My main prediction is that Mitchell Johnson will be a colossal pain in the arse all summer long. Too often throughout history have England had Australia seemingly in trouble with six or seven down for not many only to prove singularly unable to winkle those last few out. Johnson's already proved that he's hard to shift and he scores his runs at a decent pace. Don't get him out early and you're in bother. Then there's his bowling...
Crowds will still go wild for Monty, despite his barely knowing which end of the bat to hold and being a liability in the field. We just love a character and he's certainly that, but he's just not that good. He hasn't developed. Sorry Monty, but it's Adil Rashid's turn now.
Top wicket-taker: Stuart Broad. I like this kid. I think he is all that.
Top run scorer: Phil Hughes. The Australian version of Shivnarine Chanderpaul, I just don't see the English attack getting him out cheaply too often, even if Harmison did do him over twice in the Lions game.
England to win. There. I've said it. I think the spin factor will prove decisive. England have a spin factor and Australia don't and that's the major difference between the sides.
And finally, Jimmy Anderson to go the whole series without a duck, continuing his world record run.
Saturday 4 July 2009
It's not four years ago
It's just days to go now until the Ashes. You can't fail to have noticed, what with Sky's billboard and TV promotions of it. They're obviously putting great stock in the series after the huge viewing numbers achieved the last time the Australians came over.
There's a big difference though. Last time they were over here, the television rights were held by terrestrial broadcaster C4. As such, it was easy to attract new fans to the game. This time, it's Sky subscribers alone who will get to see the cricket. It's one thing for a semi-interested person to flick on and catch a bit of the goings-on compared to the cost of taking out a subscription.
There was a notable upsurge in interest in the game following the 2005 triumph and, certainly, ticket prices now reflect this with some tickets at the Oval going into three figures. Not great timing during the worst global economic slowdown in history. But the tickets have sold, by and large, and a lot of that is thanks to the groundswell of support gained four years ago. If the ECB are wanting new supporters to replace those who, for whatever reason, will not take Sky TV or fork out the ridiculous prices for Test tickets, then they need to work out where they're coming from.
Another thing not the same as four years ago is Steve Harmison. After a decent showing for the Lions in their match against Australia at Worcester, there was a growing call for his return to the Test side. Fortunately, sense was seen. Two decent spells in the match does not a return to form make. Yes, he's highlighted an area where Phil Hughes might be vulnerable, but there are plenty of other bowlers who can take his cue and work him over.
But some things never change. Glenn McGrath has gone for a 5-0 Australia win, just like 2005. Bless him.
We're underway on Wednesday in Cardiff. Buckle up.
There's a big difference though. Last time they were over here, the television rights were held by terrestrial broadcaster C4. As such, it was easy to attract new fans to the game. This time, it's Sky subscribers alone who will get to see the cricket. It's one thing for a semi-interested person to flick on and catch a bit of the goings-on compared to the cost of taking out a subscription.
There was a notable upsurge in interest in the game following the 2005 triumph and, certainly, ticket prices now reflect this with some tickets at the Oval going into three figures. Not great timing during the worst global economic slowdown in history. But the tickets have sold, by and large, and a lot of that is thanks to the groundswell of support gained four years ago. If the ECB are wanting new supporters to replace those who, for whatever reason, will not take Sky TV or fork out the ridiculous prices for Test tickets, then they need to work out where they're coming from.
Another thing not the same as four years ago is Steve Harmison. After a decent showing for the Lions in their match against Australia at Worcester, there was a growing call for his return to the Test side. Fortunately, sense was seen. Two decent spells in the match does not a return to form make. Yes, he's highlighted an area where Phil Hughes might be vulnerable, but there are plenty of other bowlers who can take his cue and work him over.
But some things never change. Glenn McGrath has gone for a 5-0 Australia win, just like 2005. Bless him.
We're underway on Wednesday in Cardiff. Buckle up.
Tuesday 30 June 2009
Be careful who you cosy up to
Oh, ECB. Will you ever regret your dealings with "sir" Allen Stanford. Denied bail!
Bernie Madoff got 150 years. I'll start the spread for Stanford at 246.
Bernie Madoff got 150 years. I'll start the spread for Stanford at 246.
Sunday 28 June 2009
Vaughan calls time on illustrious career
Reports are emerging today that Michael Vaughan will announce his retirement after the Yorkshire v Derbyshire match at Headingley. It's a slightly ignominious end to his career, but stats rarely lie in cricket and the numbers just don't stack up any more.
While the 2005 Ashes may have been his career peak as a captain, the series in Australia in 2002/3 was undoubtedly his peak as a batsman. The career best 197 in Adelaide was a sparkling innings made in the style which, from his early days with Yorkshire seconds, was his trademark; all flourishing cuts, effortless pulls and peerless drives, all conducted with grace and exquisite timing.
Internationally, he first gave notice of his ability in the under-19s where he opened alongside a left-handed biffer by the name of Marcus Trescothick, one year his junior, and the pair's international careers would develop alongside one another. However, where the much publicised mental problems eventually did for Trescothick's international career, with Vaughan it was physical. A succession of knee injuries robbed him of his best years as a Test batsman and, though his captaincy skills were worth a healthy amount of runs in the field, the combined effect of the persistent problems and the burden of captaincy diminished his prowess with the willow.
In the lead up to the crowning glory that was the 2005 Ashes, England embarked on a long winning run, whitewashing the West Indies and New Zealand and beating South Africa on their own patch. The Ashes were won using just twelve players - and Paul Collingwood only played one match - but that group of players would never play together again with Vaughan being the prime casualty. Though he'd return as skipper of the one-day side, his prowess was never in the shorter forms of the game, a fact made clear in that a batsman of his quality never made an ODI hundred. He quit the one-day scene, but stayed on in charge of the Test side, passing Peter May's record of 20 wins to become the most successful England captain of all time. The runs, however, were drying up and he quit the post in 2008. The fact that England have struggled to find even a half-decent captain since then - though Andrew Strauss is doing OK for now - is testament to the standards he set. He finished with 5,719 Test runs at 41.44 with 18 hundreds. His criminally underused bowling - he was a pretty useful off-spinner - brought him just six wickets at 93.5.
It seemed odd at the time when Vaughan was handed a central contract for the current year, but, forced to prove his worth on the county circuit, the scores haven't been there. No hundreds, only three times past 50, a total of 615 runs in 22 knocks at an average of under 30 is not the form of a Test player. Moreover, Ravi Bopara has taken his chance and made the number three spot his own.
It has to be one of the hardest things a professional sportsman can do and admit that it's over. Michael Vaughan makes that step today and the best of luck to him from here.
As a former England captain, he'll have no problem getting a commentary gig with Sky, unlike any professional verbalists, but that's a whole different story.
While the 2005 Ashes may have been his career peak as a captain, the series in Australia in 2002/3 was undoubtedly his peak as a batsman. The career best 197 in Adelaide was a sparkling innings made in the style which, from his early days with Yorkshire seconds, was his trademark; all flourishing cuts, effortless pulls and peerless drives, all conducted with grace and exquisite timing.
Internationally, he first gave notice of his ability in the under-19s where he opened alongside a left-handed biffer by the name of Marcus Trescothick, one year his junior, and the pair's international careers would develop alongside one another. However, where the much publicised mental problems eventually did for Trescothick's international career, with Vaughan it was physical. A succession of knee injuries robbed him of his best years as a Test batsman and, though his captaincy skills were worth a healthy amount of runs in the field, the combined effect of the persistent problems and the burden of captaincy diminished his prowess with the willow.
In the lead up to the crowning glory that was the 2005 Ashes, England embarked on a long winning run, whitewashing the West Indies and New Zealand and beating South Africa on their own patch. The Ashes were won using just twelve players - and Paul Collingwood only played one match - but that group of players would never play together again with Vaughan being the prime casualty. Though he'd return as skipper of the one-day side, his prowess was never in the shorter forms of the game, a fact made clear in that a batsman of his quality never made an ODI hundred. He quit the one-day scene, but stayed on in charge of the Test side, passing Peter May's record of 20 wins to become the most successful England captain of all time. The runs, however, were drying up and he quit the post in 2008. The fact that England have struggled to find even a half-decent captain since then - though Andrew Strauss is doing OK for now - is testament to the standards he set. He finished with 5,719 Test runs at 41.44 with 18 hundreds. His criminally underused bowling - he was a pretty useful off-spinner - brought him just six wickets at 93.5.
It seemed odd at the time when Vaughan was handed a central contract for the current year, but, forced to prove his worth on the county circuit, the scores haven't been there. No hundreds, only three times past 50, a total of 615 runs in 22 knocks at an average of under 30 is not the form of a Test player. Moreover, Ravi Bopara has taken his chance and made the number three spot his own.
It has to be one of the hardest things a professional sportsman can do and admit that it's over. Michael Vaughan makes that step today and the best of luck to him from here.
As a former England captain, he'll have no problem getting a commentary gig with Sky, unlike any professional verbalists, but that's a whole different story.
Thursday 25 June 2009
Top 20 from the T20
After a mauling from the hosts in their first outing, Pakistan emerged as slightly unlikely world champions following the World T20 in England. They played a decent brand of the short form of the game to overcome a tricky Sri Lankan challenge after early favourites South Africa did the unthinkable by stuffing up in yet another semi-final.
Here are our top twenty from the T20.
20. The crowds
Norman Tebbitt was wrong, and that is always a satisfying sentence to write. The atmosphere India v England game was as nothing since the Pakistan v India game at Birmingham back in the 1999 World Cup. Whoever thought you'd hear "you're not singing any more" at the cricket? All the sides seemed to get a decent level of backing and the competition was the better for it. Pakistan's current travails means that they're unlikely to play at home any time soon. Come to England. Please.
19. Kyle Coetzer's amazing catch.
18. The Australian demise
Pure schadenfreude, but the look on Ricky Ponting's face was completely worth it.
17. A bit of imagination
One day cricket in England is played out with the massive speakers around the ground and they all go through the same repertoire at every game. Queen, Roy Orbison etc. Boring. At least the people on the wheels of steel seemed to have a bit of freedom with the platters that were spun. If music is a must, and it seems that it is, then don't just stick to a formula that doesn't even work.
16. The ground staff
Using just the three venues put a massive emphasis on the state of the pitches. They were all excellent, providing a decent competition between bat and ball - well, as much as you can do in the 20-over format.
15. No strategy breaks
You can keep that to yourself, IPL.
14. Abdul Razzaq's return
Not just Razzaq, but all the former ICL players. It's good to have them back, though New Zealand could really have used Shane Bond.
13. Adil Rashid
Another tournament with little to cheer for the hosts, but the emergence of Adil Rashid is surely a positive England can take away. His attitude is every bit as impressive as his ability insofar as he doesn't lose his cool if he gets clouted. He must play Test cricket before 2009 is over.
12. England's women
While the blokes are still waiting for a first ever international tournament win, the ladies have now bagged two in the space of six months. They're the standard bearers in the women's game. Additionally, what a great idea to play the semis and final of the women's competition alongside the blokes.
11. Spin
When Twenty20 was launched, everybody feared for the spinners. They were going to get clouted out of the park and, with it, the game. Instead, it's the side with decent spinners and, moreover, captains who trust their twirlers (I'm talking about you, Ricky Ponting) who made hay. Forcing the batsmen to impart their own pace on the ball pays dividends.
10. Streamlined tournament
Bloated tournaments do not work. The last World Cup was interminable. While doubts (for me if nobody else) still linger about a second group stage, the short and sweet nature of this tournament was in stark contrast to the decade long 50-over competition. Will the ICC learn from this? Probably not.
9. Great news for maths fans
England's exit has prompted Messrs Duckworth and Lewis undertake to bring forward the planned revision to their method of calculating run chases for 20 over games. The shorter the game, the less well the current D/L method works - the authors acknowledged this many years ago - so we can look forward to some lovely stats and mathematical tweaking in the not too distant future.
8. Proper shots
It wasn't big heaves to cow corner, pre-meditated shots and slashes across the line that got the runs. It was proper cricket shots and playing each ball on it's merits that won out. Hardly revolutionary, but has taken time for players to get into their heads.
7. Genuine keepers are back
Keepers can win matches. While most sides have tried to find their own equivalent of Adam Gilchrist, the cannier sides have picked the best gloveman available to stand behind the timbers. James Foster came up with two eye-catching stumpings and Kamran Akmal impressed. Niall O'Brien, Kumar Sangakkara, MS Dhoni and the evergreen Mark Boucher were all superb. Brad Haddin was a waste of space.
6. A fitting finale
It was only a few short months ago that a Test series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was aborted after the attack on the visitors in Lahore. The scars, mental and physical, are still fresh giving this final a gravitas that seems at odds with the nature of the shortest form of the game. Great spirit between the players and one of the best games of the tournament.
5. Umar Gul
Reverse swing with a ball only 15 overs old? Impossible, surely? No. Not a bit of it. The spell of 5 for 6 against New Zealand was simply breathtaking.
4. Tillakeratne Dilshan
As well as having a name you can sing along to, he emerged as a batsman of real quality. Everyone is talking about his outrageous scoop shot, but it's not new. What is new is the confidence and regularity of playing it. You've got to be seeing the ball well to avoid getting it in the gnashers, but the fundamental principle of there not being many fielders behind the keeper is a fine one.
3. Ajantha Mendis and that carrom ball
What, how and where are just three questions every side had regarding Mendis in general. He completely bamboozled the South Africans, let alone the Irish who wouldn't have picked it even if he'd told the batter what he was going to do. Interestingly, only Pakistan could play him. Mind, they've seen more of him than anyone else.
2. The South African fielding
While they've a few chunky lads in the side - memo to Jacques Kallis; that tight fitting top does you very few favours mate - they also have AB de Villiers, JP Duminy and Herschelle Gibbs who are lightning in the field. Even Roelof van der Merwe - a man once described by a member of the Cricketballs team as looking like a Bremen gas fitter - can fling himself about a bit and take pretty good catches.
1. Shahid Afridi
For a while now, he's looked more like a semi-effective leggy while those crash, bang, wallop innings with the bat seemed a long time ago. He looks refreshed, his bowling is as good as anybody's and those big shots are back in his repertoire. Cometh the hour, cometh the man and Afridi was a major reason in Pakistan's victory.
Here are our top twenty from the T20.
20. The crowds
Norman Tebbitt was wrong, and that is always a satisfying sentence to write. The atmosphere India v England game was as nothing since the Pakistan v India game at Birmingham back in the 1999 World Cup. Whoever thought you'd hear "you're not singing any more" at the cricket? All the sides seemed to get a decent level of backing and the competition was the better for it. Pakistan's current travails means that they're unlikely to play at home any time soon. Come to England. Please.
19. Kyle Coetzer's amazing catch.
18. The Australian demise
Pure schadenfreude, but the look on Ricky Ponting's face was completely worth it.
17. A bit of imagination
One day cricket in England is played out with the massive speakers around the ground and they all go through the same repertoire at every game. Queen, Roy Orbison etc. Boring. At least the people on the wheels of steel seemed to have a bit of freedom with the platters that were spun. If music is a must, and it seems that it is, then don't just stick to a formula that doesn't even work.
16. The ground staff
Using just the three venues put a massive emphasis on the state of the pitches. They were all excellent, providing a decent competition between bat and ball - well, as much as you can do in the 20-over format.
15. No strategy breaks
You can keep that to yourself, IPL.
14. Abdul Razzaq's return
Not just Razzaq, but all the former ICL players. It's good to have them back, though New Zealand could really have used Shane Bond.
13. Adil Rashid
Another tournament with little to cheer for the hosts, but the emergence of Adil Rashid is surely a positive England can take away. His attitude is every bit as impressive as his ability insofar as he doesn't lose his cool if he gets clouted. He must play Test cricket before 2009 is over.
12. England's women
While the blokes are still waiting for a first ever international tournament win, the ladies have now bagged two in the space of six months. They're the standard bearers in the women's game. Additionally, what a great idea to play the semis and final of the women's competition alongside the blokes.
11. Spin
When Twenty20 was launched, everybody feared for the spinners. They were going to get clouted out of the park and, with it, the game. Instead, it's the side with decent spinners and, moreover, captains who trust their twirlers (I'm talking about you, Ricky Ponting) who made hay. Forcing the batsmen to impart their own pace on the ball pays dividends.
10. Streamlined tournament
Bloated tournaments do not work. The last World Cup was interminable. While doubts (for me if nobody else) still linger about a second group stage, the short and sweet nature of this tournament was in stark contrast to the decade long 50-over competition. Will the ICC learn from this? Probably not.
9. Great news for maths fans
England's exit has prompted Messrs Duckworth and Lewis undertake to bring forward the planned revision to their method of calculating run chases for 20 over games. The shorter the game, the less well the current D/L method works - the authors acknowledged this many years ago - so we can look forward to some lovely stats and mathematical tweaking in the not too distant future.
8. Proper shots
It wasn't big heaves to cow corner, pre-meditated shots and slashes across the line that got the runs. It was proper cricket shots and playing each ball on it's merits that won out. Hardly revolutionary, but has taken time for players to get into their heads.
7. Genuine keepers are back
Keepers can win matches. While most sides have tried to find their own equivalent of Adam Gilchrist, the cannier sides have picked the best gloveman available to stand behind the timbers. James Foster came up with two eye-catching stumpings and Kamran Akmal impressed. Niall O'Brien, Kumar Sangakkara, MS Dhoni and the evergreen Mark Boucher were all superb. Brad Haddin was a waste of space.
6. A fitting finale
It was only a few short months ago that a Test series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was aborted after the attack on the visitors in Lahore. The scars, mental and physical, are still fresh giving this final a gravitas that seems at odds with the nature of the shortest form of the game. Great spirit between the players and one of the best games of the tournament.
5. Umar Gul
Reverse swing with a ball only 15 overs old? Impossible, surely? No. Not a bit of it. The spell of 5 for 6 against New Zealand was simply breathtaking.
4. Tillakeratne Dilshan
As well as having a name you can sing along to, he emerged as a batsman of real quality. Everyone is talking about his outrageous scoop shot, but it's not new. What is new is the confidence and regularity of playing it. You've got to be seeing the ball well to avoid getting it in the gnashers, but the fundamental principle of there not being many fielders behind the keeper is a fine one.
3. Ajantha Mendis and that carrom ball
What, how and where are just three questions every side had regarding Mendis in general. He completely bamboozled the South Africans, let alone the Irish who wouldn't have picked it even if he'd told the batter what he was going to do. Interestingly, only Pakistan could play him. Mind, they've seen more of him than anyone else.
2. The South African fielding
While they've a few chunky lads in the side - memo to Jacques Kallis; that tight fitting top does you very few favours mate - they also have AB de Villiers, JP Duminy and Herschelle Gibbs who are lightning in the field. Even Roelof van der Merwe - a man once described by a member of the Cricketballs team as looking like a Bremen gas fitter - can fling himself about a bit and take pretty good catches.
1. Shahid Afridi
For a while now, he's looked more like a semi-effective leggy while those crash, bang, wallop innings with the bat seemed a long time ago. He looks refreshed, his bowling is as good as anybody's and those big shots are back in his repertoire. Cometh the hour, cometh the man and Afridi was a major reason in Pakistan's victory.
Refer madness
The mercilessly brief hiatus will soon be over. Referrals are coming back, this time for good. For shame.
Everything is worth trying once except incest and morris dancing, as the old saying has it, and if you don't try something you will never find out whether it works or not. But the referral system has been tried and it's been found to be an ass. In trying to produce results that only operate in black and white, all that's happened is the vast swathes of grey have become vaster. The video umpire has been a boon, especially with stumpings and run outs, and perhaps widening that role is more worthy of attention - for example checking whether a ball pitched in line for lbw decisions - than leaving it in the hands of the players.
The time it takes up is another thing and when it's being used to check on a number eleven's middle stump cartwheeling out of the ground, simply because the batting side have a referral left in the bank, then it goes from irritant to piss-take. In the trials, it hasn't proved to result in better decisions. The arguable ones are largely subject to benefit of the doubt anyway, and where there's any hint of doubt it goes to the batting side, same as it always has. Video replays rarely if ever give conclusive evidence to suggest the initial decision requires overturning, therefore it seems a colossal waste of time and energy.
The continuing debate over the best colour for balls goes on while fines are doubled for slow over rates. Your current correspondent has a real bee in his bonnet about the latter, but fines won't do it, at least not on their own. Ally swingeing fines and suspensions to run penalties. When sides are losing games because of their own indolence, then you'll see them get a shift on.
Everything is worth trying once except incest and morris dancing, as the old saying has it, and if you don't try something you will never find out whether it works or not. But the referral system has been tried and it's been found to be an ass. In trying to produce results that only operate in black and white, all that's happened is the vast swathes of grey have become vaster. The video umpire has been a boon, especially with stumpings and run outs, and perhaps widening that role is more worthy of attention - for example checking whether a ball pitched in line for lbw decisions - than leaving it in the hands of the players.
The time it takes up is another thing and when it's being used to check on a number eleven's middle stump cartwheeling out of the ground, simply because the batting side have a referral left in the bank, then it goes from irritant to piss-take. In the trials, it hasn't proved to result in better decisions. The arguable ones are largely subject to benefit of the doubt anyway, and where there's any hint of doubt it goes to the batting side, same as it always has. Video replays rarely if ever give conclusive evidence to suggest the initial decision requires overturning, therefore it seems a colossal waste of time and energy.
The continuing debate over the best colour for balls goes on while fines are doubled for slow over rates. Your current correspondent has a real bee in his bonnet about the latter, but fines won't do it, at least not on their own. Ally swingeing fines and suspensions to run penalties. When sides are losing games because of their own indolence, then you'll see them get a shift on.
Thursday 11 June 2009
World T20: first phase
The first group stage of the World Twenty20 is in the book, giving way to an utterly pointless second group stage. Even UEFA decided two group stages was overkill, but the ICC blunder serenely on, not learning anything from the last World Cup. Why, with eight qualifiers from the initial groups, we can't go straight into quarter-finals is anybody's guess.
Anyway, what did we take from those first group stages?
First and foremost, we learned that making the second group stage seeded in terms of rankings based on the last World T20 was a right old stitch up and left half the games in the group stage utterly meaningless. When South Africa and New Zealand faced each other, both knew they were through and into which group. Another reason for going into straight knockout with group winners facing group runners up. Far too sensible and straightforward for the ICC though. Why do something open, transparent, clear and utterly sensible when you can pour on a huge dollop of fudge?
Of the cricket, we learned that Ricky Ponting does not trust spinners whereas Graeme Smith does. And that's what separates a very good T20 side, as South Africa are, and one that isn't. Australia did provide the schadenfreude moment of this and probably every other decade by being beaten by both the West Indies and Sri Lanka and failing to progress. Having sent Andrew Symonds home, the side lacked any sort of balance. Nathan Hauritz is probably a lovely bloke, but international spinner? No. And Shane Watson just looks perplexed as to what it is that he is supposed to do.
The West Indies... There's an enigma, personified by the captain Chris Gayle who went run crazy against the Australians, launching balls out of the Oval and onto the Clapham Road. After months of not being arsed about cricket in some dismal performances against England, Gayle and his side suddenly burst into life to the annoyance and frustration of the watching world.
The associate nations had mixed fortunes. Scotland briefly threatened against New Zealand in a seven over game, setting the Black Caps 90 to win. It seemed a tall order until Jesse Ryder saw to it that they knocked them off with an over to spare. South Africa took them to pieces, despite Kyle Coetzer's quite, quite brilliant catch. The Netherlands had their moment at Lord's, beating England who went from 102 for 0 after 11 overs to a disappointing 160-odd. England's thrashing of Pakistan meant that the Dutch didn't have to win their final game to progress, but were demolished by a resurgent Shahid Afridi in a one-sided contest. Ireland are the ones that do go through to the second stage, but how good are they, really? Not very. A good win over Bangladesh probably says more about them than it does Ireland. Subsequent bashings from India and, in the second phase, New Zealand more accurately reflect their status. Better than Bangladesh, but nowhere near the rest.
England got everybody's hopes up with that win over Pakistan, but are having their bums smacked by the champions-elect South Africa at time of writing. The Proteas look the real deal. They've a balanced attack, some fantastic batsmen - none more so than the imperious AB de Villiers - and are electric in the field. So are New Zealand, but injuries have decimated their side with Daniel Vettori not having had a game yet and star batsmen Ross Taylor and Jesse Ryder injured. The game between the two sides saw South Africa make a modest 128 and yet they defended it, which was incredible. India look strong all the way through the side and Sri Lanka have a bowling attack to be feared. Ajantha Mendis is bamboozling everybody and Murali is, well... Murali. They rely a bit too heavily on Sanath Jayasuriya, Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene for runs, but Tilekeratne Dilshan has stood up and been counted. With powerful hitters throughout, the West Indies stand a chance while Pakistan look too erratic.
Six of the final eight have a real chance of winning the thing while England and Ireland look like makeweights. Had it been straight knockout, it could be an exciting climax to the competition. As it is, we've got some more one sided games and dead rubbers to sit through before the semi-finals.
And the final thing we learned is that Owais Shah isn't so much a rabbit in the headlights when a camera is pointed at him, more that his 'next batsman' bit looks like a hostage video. "My favourite shot is the cover drive and I'm being treated very well", he might as well say.
Anyway, what did we take from those first group stages?
First and foremost, we learned that making the second group stage seeded in terms of rankings based on the last World T20 was a right old stitch up and left half the games in the group stage utterly meaningless. When South Africa and New Zealand faced each other, both knew they were through and into which group. Another reason for going into straight knockout with group winners facing group runners up. Far too sensible and straightforward for the ICC though. Why do something open, transparent, clear and utterly sensible when you can pour on a huge dollop of fudge?
Of the cricket, we learned that Ricky Ponting does not trust spinners whereas Graeme Smith does. And that's what separates a very good T20 side, as South Africa are, and one that isn't. Australia did provide the schadenfreude moment of this and probably every other decade by being beaten by both the West Indies and Sri Lanka and failing to progress. Having sent Andrew Symonds home, the side lacked any sort of balance. Nathan Hauritz is probably a lovely bloke, but international spinner? No. And Shane Watson just looks perplexed as to what it is that he is supposed to do.
The West Indies... There's an enigma, personified by the captain Chris Gayle who went run crazy against the Australians, launching balls out of the Oval and onto the Clapham Road. After months of not being arsed about cricket in some dismal performances against England, Gayle and his side suddenly burst into life to the annoyance and frustration of the watching world.
The associate nations had mixed fortunes. Scotland briefly threatened against New Zealand in a seven over game, setting the Black Caps 90 to win. It seemed a tall order until Jesse Ryder saw to it that they knocked them off with an over to spare. South Africa took them to pieces, despite Kyle Coetzer's quite, quite brilliant catch. The Netherlands had their moment at Lord's, beating England who went from 102 for 0 after 11 overs to a disappointing 160-odd. England's thrashing of Pakistan meant that the Dutch didn't have to win their final game to progress, but were demolished by a resurgent Shahid Afridi in a one-sided contest. Ireland are the ones that do go through to the second stage, but how good are they, really? Not very. A good win over Bangladesh probably says more about them than it does Ireland. Subsequent bashings from India and, in the second phase, New Zealand more accurately reflect their status. Better than Bangladesh, but nowhere near the rest.
England got everybody's hopes up with that win over Pakistan, but are having their bums smacked by the champions-elect South Africa at time of writing. The Proteas look the real deal. They've a balanced attack, some fantastic batsmen - none more so than the imperious AB de Villiers - and are electric in the field. So are New Zealand, but injuries have decimated their side with Daniel Vettori not having had a game yet and star batsmen Ross Taylor and Jesse Ryder injured. The game between the two sides saw South Africa make a modest 128 and yet they defended it, which was incredible. India look strong all the way through the side and Sri Lanka have a bowling attack to be feared. Ajantha Mendis is bamboozling everybody and Murali is, well... Murali. They rely a bit too heavily on Sanath Jayasuriya, Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene for runs, but Tilekeratne Dilshan has stood up and been counted. With powerful hitters throughout, the West Indies stand a chance while Pakistan look too erratic.
Six of the final eight have a real chance of winning the thing while England and Ireland look like makeweights. Had it been straight knockout, it could be an exciting climax to the competition. As it is, we've got some more one sided games and dead rubbers to sit through before the semi-finals.
And the final thing we learned is that Owais Shah isn't so much a rabbit in the headlights when a camera is pointed at him, more that his 'next batsman' bit looks like a hostage video. "My favourite shot is the cover drive and I'm being treated very well", he might as well say.
Saturday 6 June 2009
Stuart Broad: An open letter
Dear Stuart,
Please practice your fielding from 7 yards before every cricket match from now on. You complete tit.
Regards,
England
Please practice your fielding from 7 yards before every cricket match from now on. You complete tit.
Regards,
England
Wednesday 3 June 2009
Twenty20 warm-ups: what we learned
Two twenty over games for England ahead of the World Championship and two wins, against Scotland and the West Indies - well it had been a full week since we'd played them. England have never had a coherent selection policy or plan of attack in the shortest form of the game and, with just these two outings ahead of Friday's opener against the Netherlands which gets the tournament underway, time was short in trying to get it right.
But this is new England and, while Andy Flower never played the short form in his illustrious career, he's clearly seen enough to make certain judgements on the methodology required. England rather laboured to victory over Scotland after restricting them to 136 for 5, failing to use the first six overs before kicking into gear late on with Eoin Morgan playing an enterprising little innings alongside mainstay Kevin Pietersen who looks fully recovered from his Achilles injury. The bowling was inventive, though Adil Rashid's promising first spell in an England jersey was rather undone by one over that went for 17 as Scotland's batsmen threw the bat at him. Stuart Broad employed a devious tactic, bowling round the wicket to the right handers at the death. The angle meant that backing away to leg wasn't an option and Scotland scored just two runs off the 20th over. Some of the deliveries were borderline wide at best, but it's an interesting development that is worth further experimentation.
Against the West Indies, we learned that they still can't be arsed. We also learned that their running between the wickets is still as comical as ever. And we learned that Shivnarine Chanderpaul bowls leg spin: Luke Wright had to ask him. The Broad tactic was effective again, though Denesh Ramdin and Lendl Simmons had managed to get some of them away after a few swing-and-misses. The main thing to take away from it was a burgeoning opening partnership between Wright and Ravi Bopara. Bopara is in fantasatic touch no matter what format of the game he's playing and while Wright struggled early in his innings, he smashed Keiron Pollard for three consecutive, and increasingly big, sixes kick-started him as he ended unbeaten on 75. His approach may not pay off every time, but it's entertaining and he's giving himself a chance of clearing the field, especially in those early overs. Rashid and Graham Swann both played and, though it'll be a brave tactic to play both against, say, Australia, it's nice to have the options.
England won't win it, but they look better able to make a decent fist of things in a major tournament for the first time in a long time.
But this is new England and, while Andy Flower never played the short form in his illustrious career, he's clearly seen enough to make certain judgements on the methodology required. England rather laboured to victory over Scotland after restricting them to 136 for 5, failing to use the first six overs before kicking into gear late on with Eoin Morgan playing an enterprising little innings alongside mainstay Kevin Pietersen who looks fully recovered from his Achilles injury. The bowling was inventive, though Adil Rashid's promising first spell in an England jersey was rather undone by one over that went for 17 as Scotland's batsmen threw the bat at him. Stuart Broad employed a devious tactic, bowling round the wicket to the right handers at the death. The angle meant that backing away to leg wasn't an option and Scotland scored just two runs off the 20th over. Some of the deliveries were borderline wide at best, but it's an interesting development that is worth further experimentation.
Against the West Indies, we learned that they still can't be arsed. We also learned that their running between the wickets is still as comical as ever. And we learned that Shivnarine Chanderpaul bowls leg spin: Luke Wright had to ask him. The Broad tactic was effective again, though Denesh Ramdin and Lendl Simmons had managed to get some of them away after a few swing-and-misses. The main thing to take away from it was a burgeoning opening partnership between Wright and Ravi Bopara. Bopara is in fantasatic touch no matter what format of the game he's playing and while Wright struggled early in his innings, he smashed Keiron Pollard for three consecutive, and increasingly big, sixes kick-started him as he ended unbeaten on 75. His approach may not pay off every time, but it's entertaining and he's giving himself a chance of clearing the field, especially in those early overs. Rashid and Graham Swann both played and, though it'll be a brave tactic to play both against, say, Australia, it's nice to have the options.
England won't win it, but they look better able to make a decent fist of things in a major tournament for the first time in a long time.
Sunday 31 May 2009
Ashes mind games have begun
Shorn of their major stars and having lost their last two home series, although with a series win in South Africa behind them, Australia arrive in England in form other than the default Australian setting (i.e. far and away the best side in the world who have a team half beaten before a ball is bowled). Long gone are the Warnes, McGraths and Gilchrists of this world, though there's no doubting that they're still a mighty good side. But Ricky Ponting's utterances this week maybe suggest they're not quite so confident after all. Wherever he's popped up in the papers this week, he's been focusing on the fitness of Andrew Flintoff.
Now, we think the one person who should be concerned over the fitness of Andrew Flintoff is Andrew Flintoff, but Ponting is missing the point, as he has done throughout his career with those backward-of-square cuts. Flintoff is not the all-important player he may have been some years ago. For a start, his batting has been woeful for a number of years now. It may even have been the 2005 Ashes that last saw him make an impact there. And while his one-day bowling has been exemplary, he hasn't made an impact in Tests - moreso in Twenty20 - for a while. His frequent and lengthy absences have seen the likes of Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad revel in the greater responsibility. Broad's batting is also useful down the order while Matt Prior has become the all-rounder with a superb run of form. Tim Bresnan might yet make a decent Test all-rounder but we learned nothing about his batting in the West Indies series just gone while Andrew Strauss's reluctance to bowl him was the one area of his captaincy we'd call into question.
Statistically speaking, England's best current Test all-rounder is Anthony McGrath anyway. And he's a far more fearsome prospect than Andrew McDonald will ever be. Concentrating on England's perceived weaknesses perhaps belies more than a little concern from Ponting over Australia's.
Now, we think the one person who should be concerned over the fitness of Andrew Flintoff is Andrew Flintoff, but Ponting is missing the point, as he has done throughout his career with those backward-of-square cuts. Flintoff is not the all-important player he may have been some years ago. For a start, his batting has been woeful for a number of years now. It may even have been the 2005 Ashes that last saw him make an impact there. And while his one-day bowling has been exemplary, he hasn't made an impact in Tests - moreso in Twenty20 - for a while. His frequent and lengthy absences have seen the likes of Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad revel in the greater responsibility. Broad's batting is also useful down the order while Matt Prior has become the all-rounder with a superb run of form. Tim Bresnan might yet make a decent Test all-rounder but we learned nothing about his batting in the West Indies series just gone while Andrew Strauss's reluctance to bowl him was the one area of his captaincy we'd call into question.
Statistically speaking, England's best current Test all-rounder is Anthony McGrath anyway. And he's a far more fearsome prospect than Andrew McDonald will ever be. Concentrating on England's perceived weaknesses perhaps belies more than a little concern from Ponting over Australia's.
Saturday 30 May 2009
The Leeds pigeon murderer
Jacques Rudolph is already a legend down Yorkshire way, but Friday May 30 2009 cemented his place in the pantheon. The Western Terrace had already taken the view that, on the occasion of getting a right old beating off the old enemy, that you may as well drink until falling down and act the goat. Rudolph, obviously trying to lighten the mood, decided that if he couldn't affect the outcome he may as well cheer up the mass ranks of Yorkshiremen behind him.
And he chose to do this through the medium of pigeon killing.
At least he had the good grace to clear the carcass off the field afterwards
And he chose to do this through the medium of pigeon killing.
At least he had the good grace to clear the carcass off the field afterwards
Wednesday 20 May 2009
Aussie ashes squad named
R Ponting (c), M Clarke (vc), S Clark, B Haddin, N Hauritz, B Hilfenhaus, P Hughes, M Hussey, M Johnson, S Katich, B Lee, G Manou, A McDonald, M North, P Siddle, S Watson.
The most notable absentee is Andrew Symonds, who played in some recent ODI's but has not played many tests recently and who has tried Cricket Australia's patience with his bizarre off-the-field antics. There are expected recalls for Stuart Clark (fitness still uncertain) and Brett Lee and no place for the likes of Bryce McGain (he of the nightmare debut in South Africa), Jason Krezja (one test in India) or Shaun Tait.
The preferred all rounders are Shane Watson and Andrew McDonald, who have not set the world alight but Watson is also carrying a groin injury so Tim Nielsen will have to be watchful. The only uncapped player in the squad is South Australia wicket keeper Graham Manou.
The Ashes begins in Cardiff on July 8.
The most notable absentee is Andrew Symonds, who played in some recent ODI's but has not played many tests recently and who has tried Cricket Australia's patience with his bizarre off-the-field antics. There are expected recalls for Stuart Clark (fitness still uncertain) and Brett Lee and no place for the likes of Bryce McGain (he of the nightmare debut in South Africa), Jason Krezja (one test in India) or Shaun Tait.
The preferred all rounders are Shane Watson and Andrew McDonald, who have not set the world alight but Watson is also carrying a groin injury so Tim Nielsen will have to be watchful. The only uncapped player in the squad is South Australia wicket keeper Graham Manou.
The Ashes begins in Cardiff on July 8.
England v WI test review
What did we learn from the decidedly one-sided two-test series between England and the West Indies?
Well, first of all we all learnt (if we didn't know it already) that on a decent pitch offering the bowlers even a modicum of help, the West Indies crumble. Which explains their success on the placid tracks of the Carribbean. We also saw a wicket-taking, if expensive, seamer in Graham Onions make his debut and impress, although I am no more knowledgable on Tim Bresnan after two test matches than I was before after his meagre contribution (not his fault, mind).
James Anderson led the bowling attack with aplomb and Graham Swann made Devon Smith his bunny. Shivnarine Chanderpaul was not quite his adhesive self although the likes of Sarwan and Denesh Ramdin intermittently impressed. Brendan Nash's honeymoon period in test cricket is over, he makes Paul Collingwood look like Mohammed Yousuf.
In England's batting, the obvious stand-out is Ravi Bopara, who put some decidedly average fast bowling to the sword. Fidel Edwards, first day at Lords apart, played up to his erratic reputation and he went down in a few people's opinions with his antics against James Anderson at Durham. Kevin Pietersen looked out-of-sorts (he'll probably complain about being tired again) while Paul Collingwood showed understandable signs of rust having not been played in the IPL. Alistair Cook an Andrew Strauss showed good form in patches but Cook still looks a little suspect against the swinging ball.
In all you cannot draw too many conclusions with regards to the ashes because the windies were by and large so ordinary. However, England were professional in their approach and commendably ruthless with the ball. Graham Swann, certainly, looks to be the real deal and the premier spinner for the upcoming tests.
Well, first of all we all learnt (if we didn't know it already) that on a decent pitch offering the bowlers even a modicum of help, the West Indies crumble. Which explains their success on the placid tracks of the Carribbean. We also saw a wicket-taking, if expensive, seamer in Graham Onions make his debut and impress, although I am no more knowledgable on Tim Bresnan after two test matches than I was before after his meagre contribution (not his fault, mind).
James Anderson led the bowling attack with aplomb and Graham Swann made Devon Smith his bunny. Shivnarine Chanderpaul was not quite his adhesive self although the likes of Sarwan and Denesh Ramdin intermittently impressed. Brendan Nash's honeymoon period in test cricket is over, he makes Paul Collingwood look like Mohammed Yousuf.
In England's batting, the obvious stand-out is Ravi Bopara, who put some decidedly average fast bowling to the sword. Fidel Edwards, first day at Lords apart, played up to his erratic reputation and he went down in a few people's opinions with his antics against James Anderson at Durham. Kevin Pietersen looked out-of-sorts (he'll probably complain about being tired again) while Paul Collingwood showed understandable signs of rust having not been played in the IPL. Alistair Cook an Andrew Strauss showed good form in patches but Cook still looks a little suspect against the swinging ball.
In all you cannot draw too many conclusions with regards to the ashes because the windies were by and large so ordinary. However, England were professional in their approach and commendably ruthless with the ball. Graham Swann, certainly, looks to be the real deal and the premier spinner for the upcoming tests.
Thursday 14 May 2009
A new shot
England new boy Eoin Morgan was in great form for his county, Middlesex, in the week, blazing a big hundred off not many. He played a number of reverse sweeps that really came out of the screws, but this....
This....
Well, err... it's a reverse backhand slap swept late cut.
Or something. Either way, it was worth four runs.
This....
Well, err... it's a reverse backhand slap swept late cut.
Or something. Either way, it was worth four runs.
Wednesday 13 May 2009
Too much cricket
County cricket is best described as a treadmill for most players. It is a gruelling schedule at the best of times, with players rest times squeezed further by the introduction of Twenty20 (however successful that has been). On Monday, Kent were convincingly beaten by Middlesex at Canterbury in what was their 12th day of competetive cricket out of the previous 14 days. That is, so early in the season, nothing short of madness. No wonder top players like Wayne Parnell, Justin Kemp and Joe Denly looked jaded in the field. I'd be bloody shattered.
The simple solution is to reduce the amount of cricket played. Unfortunately opinion seems to be divided on how to do this. I've already had numerous arguments about this with people already, but it hasn't shaken me from my position - That the Pro40 league should be axed.
It seems, to coin a phrase from the excellent Coen Brothers film O Brother Where Art Thou?, the acme of foolishness to continue with a domestic competition that does not mirror one played at international level. Twenty20 is now played globally, the Friends Provident trophy has its 50-over big brother and obviously the county championship is stretched out over five days. There is no international 40 over tournament. Opponents of this view point to the fact it gives the fans a bit more for their money than Twenty20 and yet still finishes early enough so that a whole day is written off. Yet I've already been to 2 Friends Provident matches this season which kicked off at 10.45 and finished at between 6 and 6.30 - hardly the dead of night and you see 100 overs of cricket.
The other advantage to, in my view, stretching out the FP trophy into a bigger competition to usurp the Pro40 is that it incorporates exactly the same rules as international 50 over cricket, such as the Fielding Powerplays. It is useless, in my opinion, to bring in promising young english players and then only pay early-season lip service to a competition that some of them will be playing for their country in the future.
To persist with Pro40, in the packed schedule that county players endure, is madness and will only lead very quickly to player burnout. If Twenty20 must be accomodated (which, for all my grumbling, it must) then something has to give. It makes no sense for any of the other competitions to lose out.
The simple solution is to reduce the amount of cricket played. Unfortunately opinion seems to be divided on how to do this. I've already had numerous arguments about this with people already, but it hasn't shaken me from my position - That the Pro40 league should be axed.
It seems, to coin a phrase from the excellent Coen Brothers film O Brother Where Art Thou?, the acme of foolishness to continue with a domestic competition that does not mirror one played at international level. Twenty20 is now played globally, the Friends Provident trophy has its 50-over big brother and obviously the county championship is stretched out over five days. There is no international 40 over tournament. Opponents of this view point to the fact it gives the fans a bit more for their money than Twenty20 and yet still finishes early enough so that a whole day is written off. Yet I've already been to 2 Friends Provident matches this season which kicked off at 10.45 and finished at between 6 and 6.30 - hardly the dead of night and you see 100 overs of cricket.
The other advantage to, in my view, stretching out the FP trophy into a bigger competition to usurp the Pro40 is that it incorporates exactly the same rules as international 50 over cricket, such as the Fielding Powerplays. It is useless, in my opinion, to bring in promising young english players and then only pay early-season lip service to a competition that some of them will be playing for their country in the future.
To persist with Pro40, in the packed schedule that county players endure, is madness and will only lead very quickly to player burnout. If Twenty20 must be accomodated (which, for all my grumbling, it must) then something has to give. It makes no sense for any of the other competitions to lose out.
Friday 8 May 2009
Marvellous
England win test inside three days by 10 wickets and Lancashire beat Warwickshire by 6 wickets.
Can't ask for much more than that.
Can't ask for much more than that.
Wednesday 6 May 2009
Swine Flu Safety
In order to avoid catching this awful disease then I'd suggest the West Indies slip cordon is a safe place to stand. They couldn't catch anything at the moment.
Ravi Bopara is henceforth known for the rest of this innings as the Cat. He's offered ample catching practice to the West Indies lads and they just won't hang onto them. But with the referall system he'd be tucked up inside the pavillion already.
Ravi Bopara is henceforth known for the rest of this innings as the Cat. He's offered ample catching practice to the West Indies lads and they just won't hang onto them. But with the referall system he'd be tucked up inside the pavillion already.
English Test summer begins
You can tell by the rain in the air that today heralds the start of the English Test summer. Fortunately it's stayed away from Lord's so far and we're two sessions in to the first Test against the West Indies.
After snacking on Indian Premier League for a couple of weeks or so, it feels good to be sitting down to a balanced, square meal such that Test match cricket represents. Nobody is proud of themselves after a superficial diet of take-outs and fast food, and neither am I after a smorgasbord of IPL cricket dominating the TV schedules chez moi. No more DLF maximum bollocks - and Robin Jackman, I'm coming for you after you committed the heinous crime of using 'DLF' as a verb, to whit "he's DLFed it out of the ground" - instead the monotonous ramblings of Nasser and pals on Sky's increasingly annoying coverage.
And what of the cricket so far? Well, we've only had two sessions and Kevin Pietersen has transferred his IPL form to the bigger stage by getting a first baller, a superb delivery from Fidel Edwards who continues to impress, and Ravi Bopara is the latest to look at least fleetingly good at number three. Early days yet, but he's gone pretty well. England line up with Graham Onions and Tim Bresnan on debut in a long tail and I really never thought I'd see the day when Bresnan got a Test cap. How he's made it into the side ahead of his much more impressive team-mate at Yorkshire, Adil Rashid, is one of those mysteries of life that future generations will shake their heads at in disbelief. Meanwhile for the West Indies, someone really needs to tell them how to catch small red balls. If they'd hung on to catches, then they'd be batting already.
The big difference between this and the crash, bang wallop in South Africa is over rates. There is no reason why sides should not be able to go at fifteen overs per hour. Rates of thirteen and lower are pathetic. Some time ago, Chris wrote about flat pitches beating the living daylights out of Test cricket. So are slow over rates. The fines aren't working. Either they need to be upped, and upped significantly, or penalty runs brought in. Or both. Oh, and suspensions for captains.
After snacking on Indian Premier League for a couple of weeks or so, it feels good to be sitting down to a balanced, square meal such that Test match cricket represents. Nobody is proud of themselves after a superficial diet of take-outs and fast food, and neither am I after a smorgasbord of IPL cricket dominating the TV schedules chez moi. No more DLF maximum bollocks - and Robin Jackman, I'm coming for you after you committed the heinous crime of using 'DLF' as a verb, to whit "he's DLFed it out of the ground" - instead the monotonous ramblings of Nasser and pals on Sky's increasingly annoying coverage.
And what of the cricket so far? Well, we've only had two sessions and Kevin Pietersen has transferred his IPL form to the bigger stage by getting a first baller, a superb delivery from Fidel Edwards who continues to impress, and Ravi Bopara is the latest to look at least fleetingly good at number three. Early days yet, but he's gone pretty well. England line up with Graham Onions and Tim Bresnan on debut in a long tail and I really never thought I'd see the day when Bresnan got a Test cap. How he's made it into the side ahead of his much more impressive team-mate at Yorkshire, Adil Rashid, is one of those mysteries of life that future generations will shake their heads at in disbelief. Meanwhile for the West Indies, someone really needs to tell them how to catch small red balls. If they'd hung on to catches, then they'd be batting already.
The big difference between this and the crash, bang wallop in South Africa is over rates. There is no reason why sides should not be able to go at fifteen overs per hour. Rates of thirteen and lower are pathetic. Some time ago, Chris wrote about flat pitches beating the living daylights out of Test cricket. So are slow over rates. The fines aren't working. Either they need to be upped, and upped significantly, or penalty runs brought in. Or both. Oh, and suspensions for captains.
Tuesday 5 May 2009
Surrey won a game!
Praise the Lord! That expensively assembled bunch of prima-donnas finally won a match this season!
Alright it was only against Yorkshire, but a win's a win.
Alright it was only against Yorkshire, but a win's a win.
Thursday 30 April 2009
Saints be praised, it's a miracle
Remember where you were and what you were doing at 12:27pm on Thursday April 30, for it was a momentous occasion. Tirumalasetti Suman, batting for Deccan Chargers against Delhi in the IPL cleared the fence over the covers for half a dozen runs. That in itself isn't that momentous, although the young all-rounder was included ahead of VVS Laxman, but it was for events off the field. Neither commentator referred to it as a 'DLF maximum'.
That is quite incredible. This tournament has turned previously decent commentators - and Laxman Sivaramakrishnan - into little more than cheap advertisers with their plugs for the tournament sponsors any time someone does something well. That makes this incident a turning point. I expect nothing less than a retraining course for Mark Nicholas and Kepler Wessels though summary sacking remains a viable and likely option.
After all, the BCCI thinks it controls commentators as well as players these days. In the Indian tour of New Zealand over the winter, Sky NZ had Craig McMillan in the com-box, much to the BCCI's chagrin because he went to play in the rebel ICL for a bit. In keeping with that Kiwi spirit that saw the ANZUS Treaty ripped up when New Zealand told the US to feck off if they thought they were allowing their nuclear subs into it's waters, Sky told the BCCI to flip off and keep it's nose out of business that clearly wasn't theirs.
Moreover, whatever happened to the professional commentator in cricket? In most sports you have a lead commentator who knows the job with colour provided by an ex-pro. Not in cricket. Your voice is only allowed anywhere near if you've played at the top level (though Nicholas is pushing it). At Sky in the UK, you really need to have been an England captain to stand a chance. While the knowledge of the game isn't up for dispute - even in Nasser Hussain's case - some leave a lot to be desired when it comes to adding verbal illustration to the pictures.
That is quite incredible. This tournament has turned previously decent commentators - and Laxman Sivaramakrishnan - into little more than cheap advertisers with their plugs for the tournament sponsors any time someone does something well. That makes this incident a turning point. I expect nothing less than a retraining course for Mark Nicholas and Kepler Wessels though summary sacking remains a viable and likely option.
After all, the BCCI thinks it controls commentators as well as players these days. In the Indian tour of New Zealand over the winter, Sky NZ had Craig McMillan in the com-box, much to the BCCI's chagrin because he went to play in the rebel ICL for a bit. In keeping with that Kiwi spirit that saw the ANZUS Treaty ripped up when New Zealand told the US to feck off if they thought they were allowing their nuclear subs into it's waters, Sky told the BCCI to flip off and keep it's nose out of business that clearly wasn't theirs.
Moreover, whatever happened to the professional commentator in cricket? In most sports you have a lead commentator who knows the job with colour provided by an ex-pro. Not in cricket. Your voice is only allowed anywhere near if you've played at the top level (though Nicholas is pushing it). At Sky in the UK, you really need to have been an England captain to stand a chance. While the knowledge of the game isn't up for dispute - even in Nasser Hussain's case - some leave a lot to be desired when it comes to adding verbal illustration to the pictures.
Wednesday 29 April 2009
A question of technique
Simple games often become complicated by over-analysis. Football: very simple. Get ball, kick ball, goal. And yet whole days of TV coverage and an ever-increasing amount of newsprint can be wasted on every 50/50 offside decision and not-given penalty. Every top flight player has the very basics of their game poured over in excruciating detail to the point of tedium. American football takes it to the nth degree, but that may be something in the American psyche. All their sports seem to lend themselves to their inner statto.
Cricket is also a simple game, but it lends itself all too kindly to over-analysis. The time between overs has to be filled, as do lunch and tea breaks, let alone the periods between days. TV companies have a duty to fill these interregnums and hiatuses, but the administrators and coaches also seem to keep themselves busy at such times. The ECB are the worst culprits with that bloody Academy. In an illuminating piece in the Guardian, the mantra of Virender Sehwag - "watch ball, hit ball" - gets to the root of batting in four words. How many more hours are we going to have to sit through a Bob Willis lecture on technique and trigger movements or listen to a coach explain how a batsman doesn't make it to the England side because his head isn't in the right place? Then that player goes and gets his action or technique remodelled in the Academy and comes back with a string of stress fractures and a career shortened by a good five years.
And yet these are the same people lamenting the retirement of Marcus Trescothick. The last decent, powerful opener England had plays like his feet are superglued to the floor. He makes up for this with an incredible eye and throwing his hands through the ball. If Shivnarine Chanderpaul - the man who the word 'unorthodox' was invented for* - were English, he'd have no chance at the top level. We'd have seen Murali and Johan Botha thrown on the scrapheap years ago (though Botha may be ending up there all by himself anyway).
It seems like England forgot individuality many years ago and just wants a side made up of eleven automatons. Whither England's Sehwag? Probably having that irritating tendency of being unpredictably brilliant and infuriating in equal measure coached out of him in Australia.
* - See also Paul Adams.
Cricket is also a simple game, but it lends itself all too kindly to over-analysis. The time between overs has to be filled, as do lunch and tea breaks, let alone the periods between days. TV companies have a duty to fill these interregnums and hiatuses, but the administrators and coaches also seem to keep themselves busy at such times. The ECB are the worst culprits with that bloody Academy. In an illuminating piece in the Guardian, the mantra of Virender Sehwag - "watch ball, hit ball" - gets to the root of batting in four words. How many more hours are we going to have to sit through a Bob Willis lecture on technique and trigger movements or listen to a coach explain how a batsman doesn't make it to the England side because his head isn't in the right place? Then that player goes and gets his action or technique remodelled in the Academy and comes back with a string of stress fractures and a career shortened by a good five years.
And yet these are the same people lamenting the retirement of Marcus Trescothick. The last decent, powerful opener England had plays like his feet are superglued to the floor. He makes up for this with an incredible eye and throwing his hands through the ball. If Shivnarine Chanderpaul - the man who the word 'unorthodox' was invented for* - were English, he'd have no chance at the top level. We'd have seen Murali and Johan Botha thrown on the scrapheap years ago (though Botha may be ending up there all by himself anyway).
It seems like England forgot individuality many years ago and just wants a side made up of eleven automatons. Whither England's Sehwag? Probably having that irritating tendency of being unpredictably brilliant and infuriating in equal measure coached out of him in Australia.
* - See also Paul Adams.
Thursday 23 April 2009
At Least It's Sunny Here
With the IPL now in full swing in South Africa one of the main reasons for taking the competition to there was the weather. Now I'm no expert but its Autumn in South Africa, the weather is turning. Winter is around the corner and the Quinziste Rugby season is now in full swing with the Super (sic) 14.
So, how can Lalit Modi be over impressed with some of the weather that they have faced so far in South Africa. Rain hit the second day of the competition at Newlands when the Delhi Daredevils overcame Kings XI Punjab on the Duckworth/Lewis method. Then the move over to Durban didn't help Kings XI Punjab as they lost their second game via Duckworth/Lewis, this time to Kolkata Knight Riders and the ensuing game between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians was abandoned without a ball being bowled.
Meanwhile the start of the season in England has escaped the worst of the April weather as the country currently basks in a late spring heatwave. Pretty ideal conditions for cricket to be honest.
Well done Mr Modi, a great decision to take the tournament to South Africa.
Oh, and DLF Maximums. Stop it. Now. It's a 6.
And before anyone reminds me, I know it's 75 years. Even Manchester City have won a title in that time.
Tuesday 21 April 2009
County Championship Week 2
8 LV County Championship matches take place this week, four beginning today and four tomorrow, including the Champions Durham kicking off their title defence.
LV County Championship: Division One
Nottinghamshire v Worcestershire, Trent Bridge (Tuesday)
Sussex v Lancashire, Hove (Tuesday)
Durham v Yorkshire, Riverside (Wednesday)
Warwickshire v Hampshire, Edgbaston (Wednesday)
LV County Championship: Division Two
Gloucestershire v Essex, Bristol (Tuesday)
Kent v Northamptonshire, Canterbury (Tuesday)
Derbyshire v Surrey, Derby (Wednesday)
Middlesex v Glamorgan, Lord's (Wednesday)
Hampshire will look to build on the good start they made last week during their visit to Edgbaston. Ian Bell helped himself at Taunton and it will be interesting to see if the notoriously mercurial number three can carry that on. All the other matches last week, mainly due to the weather, ended in draws but with good weather forecast for the next few days we should begin to see some results filter through. Keep an eye out for the game at Hove which, if history is anything to go by, should be a cracker.
LV County Championship: Division One
Nottinghamshire v Worcestershire, Trent Bridge (Tuesday)
Sussex v Lancashire, Hove (Tuesday)
Durham v Yorkshire, Riverside (Wednesday)
Warwickshire v Hampshire, Edgbaston (Wednesday)
LV County Championship: Division Two
Gloucestershire v Essex, Bristol (Tuesday)
Kent v Northamptonshire, Canterbury (Tuesday)
Derbyshire v Surrey, Derby (Wednesday)
Middlesex v Glamorgan, Lord's (Wednesday)
Hampshire will look to build on the good start they made last week during their visit to Edgbaston. Ian Bell helped himself at Taunton and it will be interesting to see if the notoriously mercurial number three can carry that on. All the other matches last week, mainly due to the weather, ended in draws but with good weather forecast for the next few days we should begin to see some results filter through. Keep an eye out for the game at Hove which, if history is anything to go by, should be a cracker.
Friday 17 April 2009
IPL, oh pee off
Do you know what? Forget it. I'm not participating this time around.
I enjoyed last year's Indian Premier League. The cricket was pretty good with bona fide Twenty20 legend Brendon McCullum setting the tone with a breathtaking 158 not out on the opening night. Shaun Marsh became a star and, fittingly, the team assembled at lowest cost went and won it. Despite my initial misgivings over a completely artificial construct as the teams - I refuse to use the word 'franchise' apart from in this sentence - are, it kind of swept me along.
No mas. It's gone beyond parody and for this reason: while on the one hand imposing whopping great fines for slow over rate (actually something the ICC could look at), they're also introducing what they call 'strategy breaks', essentially a seven-and-a-half minute hiatus half way through each innings. I've never seen the word 'ad' spelled 'strategy' before. Deep down, we all knew it was more about TV figures and ad revenue than it was about cricket, but to make it explicitly so just spoils everything and you can forget all about it this year.
I enjoyed last year's Indian Premier League. The cricket was pretty good with bona fide Twenty20 legend Brendon McCullum setting the tone with a breathtaking 158 not out on the opening night. Shaun Marsh became a star and, fittingly, the team assembled at lowest cost went and won it. Despite my initial misgivings over a completely artificial construct as the teams - I refuse to use the word 'franchise' apart from in this sentence - are, it kind of swept me along.
No mas. It's gone beyond parody and for this reason: while on the one hand imposing whopping great fines for slow over rate (actually something the ICC could look at), they're also introducing what they call 'strategy breaks', essentially a seven-and-a-half minute hiatus half way through each innings. I've never seen the word 'ad' spelled 'strategy' before. Deep down, we all knew it was more about TV figures and ad revenue than it was about cricket, but to make it explicitly so just spoils everything and you can forget all about it this year.
Wednesday 15 April 2009
County Championship: Week 1
There are five County Championship games taking place as of today:
LV County Championship: Division One
Hampshire v Worcestershire, The Rose Bowl, 11:00
Somerset v Warwickshire, Taunton, 11:00
LV County Championship: Division Two
Essex v Derbyshire, Chelmsford, 11:00
Leicestershire v Northamptonshire, Grace Road, 11:00
Surrey v Gloucestershire, The Brit Oval, 11:00
Durham, who are not playing today, are my tip to retain their title. They have kept together the winning squad of last year and have added the proven talents of Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Ian Blackwell, who scored a century in last week's MCC curtain-raiser at Lords. Kent, who also have yet to kick off their first-class campaign, are my tip to win the Division 2 crown, pipping Surrey who have recruited well in the winter. Kent, you feel, have simply too much class for this division and expect Rob Key and Joe Denly to feast on some of the bowling at this level.
LV County Championship: Division One
Hampshire v Worcestershire, The Rose Bowl, 11:00
Somerset v Warwickshire, Taunton, 11:00
LV County Championship: Division Two
Essex v Derbyshire, Chelmsford, 11:00
Leicestershire v Northamptonshire, Grace Road, 11:00
Surrey v Gloucestershire, The Brit Oval, 11:00
Durham, who are not playing today, are my tip to retain their title. They have kept together the winning squad of last year and have added the proven talents of Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Ian Blackwell, who scored a century in last week's MCC curtain-raiser at Lords. Kent, who also have yet to kick off their first-class campaign, are my tip to win the Division 2 crown, pipping Surrey who have recruited well in the winter. Kent, you feel, have simply too much class for this division and expect Rob Key and Joe Denly to feast on some of the bowling at this level.
Flower set for England job
Andy Flower is expected to be confirmed as the new coach of England today, after a winter in which we managed to go on two tours and not win a single test match. There's no denying that Flower was a great player in his day, and in interviews he comes across as an intelligent, charismatic man, but the transition to England coach is a big one and his first tour, of the West Indies, was notable more for the organisational bungling of the WICB and Kevin Pietersen's ongoing 'I'm tired and I want to leave so I can go home for a week and then bugger off to the IPL' briefings than actual good England displays.
Its not going to get any easier for the Zimbabwean either, as there is a return series agains the West Indies coming up before the ICC World Twenty20 in June (a competition we're rubbish at) and then of course the Ashes in July. There is little doubt the Australians are not as strong as they were but England seem at such a low ebb themselves that expectations have been significantly lowered in anticipation. Granted, the dead tracks in West Indies made life difficult for them but one is not filled with confidence going into a summer facing the best side in the world.
One can also not help but wonder whether Flower himself was ever first choice. Various big names were linked and then ruled out of the running, such as Mickey Arthur, Tom Moody and Gary Kirsten (all more experienced than Flower) while Ashley Giles was told he was too inexperienced and Graham Ford, perhaps the most qualified candidate having coached both at county and international level, withdrew citing the overlong nature of the application process.
Regardless, Flower's first priority is to address the parlous state of England's seamers, with Steve Harmison looking uninterested as usual, Ryan Sidebottom unfit, James Anderson inconsistent yet capable and Andrew Flintoff injury-prone. Depth is unquestionably an issue and a few good early season County Championship matches could see the likes of Graham Onions, Saj Mahmood or even Matthew Hoggard thrown into the fray.
Flower might also wonder how to deal with the monumental ego of Kevin Pietersen, although that particular rubix cube can perhaps be put on the back burner for now as he is Ray Jennings' problem for the next three weeks.
Its not going to get any easier for the Zimbabwean either, as there is a return series agains the West Indies coming up before the ICC World Twenty20 in June (a competition we're rubbish at) and then of course the Ashes in July. There is little doubt the Australians are not as strong as they were but England seem at such a low ebb themselves that expectations have been significantly lowered in anticipation. Granted, the dead tracks in West Indies made life difficult for them but one is not filled with confidence going into a summer facing the best side in the world.
One can also not help but wonder whether Flower himself was ever first choice. Various big names were linked and then ruled out of the running, such as Mickey Arthur, Tom Moody and Gary Kirsten (all more experienced than Flower) while Ashley Giles was told he was too inexperienced and Graham Ford, perhaps the most qualified candidate having coached both at county and international level, withdrew citing the overlong nature of the application process.
Regardless, Flower's first priority is to address the parlous state of England's seamers, with Steve Harmison looking uninterested as usual, Ryan Sidebottom unfit, James Anderson inconsistent yet capable and Andrew Flintoff injury-prone. Depth is unquestionably an issue and a few good early season County Championship matches could see the likes of Graham Onions, Saj Mahmood or even Matthew Hoggard thrown into the fray.
Flower might also wonder how to deal with the monumental ego of Kevin Pietersen, although that particular rubix cube can perhaps be put on the back burner for now as he is Ray Jennings' problem for the next three weeks.
Monday 6 April 2009
Collapse in Centurion
What a difference a few days make. On Friday in Durban, South Africa collapsed something awful, routed by 141 runs with Nathan Hauritz taking 4 wickets (what happened to Jason Krezja? I thought he looked quite promising!).
Fast forward to Sunday at SuperSport Park, and the signs weren't good. Australia winning the toss on a superb batting track, full of confidence off the back of their big win where Michael Hussey had finally got in gear. It was seemingly all set for a high-scoring game.
Only it didn't work out like that. In a display that can only be summarised as woefully un-Australian, the Ocker top order completely folded, surrendering to some masterful pace bowling by Dale Steyn and the precocious 19-year-old left-armer Wayne Parnell. Brad Haddin played on in the first over, Michael Clarke continued his awful run of form that has seen many Aussie fans call for him to be dropped, and Ricky Ponting, after getting off the mark first ball with a pull shot for six, edged behind off the former U19 skipper Parnell.
Things got worse. David Hussey, who might score lots of runs in county cricket but is plainly not up to it at this level, played an awful thrash to give his wicket away (when he's not running his partners out, as he did at Kingsmead). His older brother was completely flummoxed by a Parnell slower ball. In truth, only Callum Ferguson (a patient 50) and Mitchell Johnson provided any resistance as they limped to 131 all out. On a pitch that good, it was criminal and South Africa showed how easy it was to score on this pitch by knocking the runs off at 5-an-over.
While Australia shone in the test series and are probably still good value for their number 1 spot in the five-day format, they are proving themselves to be less than coherent in the 50-over game (although not nearly as deficient as England, steady on). South Africa appear simply more dynamic, with more bowling options and batting further down as well. After so many retirements of star players, a bit of a transitional period is to be expected by Cricket Australia will be worried by successive ODI series delivering problems as looks to be the case here.
Fast forward to Sunday at SuperSport Park, and the signs weren't good. Australia winning the toss on a superb batting track, full of confidence off the back of their big win where Michael Hussey had finally got in gear. It was seemingly all set for a high-scoring game.
Only it didn't work out like that. In a display that can only be summarised as woefully un-Australian, the Ocker top order completely folded, surrendering to some masterful pace bowling by Dale Steyn and the precocious 19-year-old left-armer Wayne Parnell. Brad Haddin played on in the first over, Michael Clarke continued his awful run of form that has seen many Aussie fans call for him to be dropped, and Ricky Ponting, after getting off the mark first ball with a pull shot for six, edged behind off the former U19 skipper Parnell.
Things got worse. David Hussey, who might score lots of runs in county cricket but is plainly not up to it at this level, played an awful thrash to give his wicket away (when he's not running his partners out, as he did at Kingsmead). His older brother was completely flummoxed by a Parnell slower ball. In truth, only Callum Ferguson (a patient 50) and Mitchell Johnson provided any resistance as they limped to 131 all out. On a pitch that good, it was criminal and South Africa showed how easy it was to score on this pitch by knocking the runs off at 5-an-over.
While Australia shone in the test series and are probably still good value for their number 1 spot in the five-day format, they are proving themselves to be less than coherent in the 50-over game (although not nearly as deficient as England, steady on). South Africa appear simply more dynamic, with more bowling options and batting further down as well. After so many retirements of star players, a bit of a transitional period is to be expected by Cricket Australia will be worried by successive ODI series delivering problems as looks to be the case here.
Friday 3 April 2009
Cricketer of the year
With the imminent release of a new Wisden comes the usual launch guff and the unveiling of the editor's five cricketers of the year. Mark Boucher gets a long overdue nod, seeing as he's the world's pre-eminent keeper these days and how South Africa will miss him when he finally hangs up the gloves, even giving the general brilliance of AB de Villiers. Boucher's Test team-mate Neil McKenzie also gets in thanks to his outstanding English season and Jimmy Anderson - who has had a less erratic season than is the norm for the still-young quick - and Dale Benkenstein who has led Durham with distinction.
But all eyes are on the fifth and rightly so. Claire Taylor is the best female cricketer there is and led England to World Cup glory, something that looks like being beyond the capability of the menfolk for many, many years. She'll lead her side into the Ashes with far more chance of a win than the men and she's been on top of her game for a long while now. It's just a shame that, at 33, she's not been recognised before. The award was announced to Taylor before christmas, so the World Cup win wasn't a factor in Scyld Berry's thinking, a fact which helps kibosh any thought of tokenism. Moreover, and in the wider sporting context, the exploits of the women in Australia, and Taylor in particular, have put women's sport in the spotlight. It's all a long way from when they were still playing in those bloody horrible mini-skirts back in the day of Rachel Heyhoe-Flint. Hopefully this award and everything that preceded it will further attract the attentions of the media and give the opportunity for female cricketers to properly shine.
But all eyes are on the fifth and rightly so. Claire Taylor is the best female cricketer there is and led England to World Cup glory, something that looks like being beyond the capability of the menfolk for many, many years. She'll lead her side into the Ashes with far more chance of a win than the men and she's been on top of her game for a long while now. It's just a shame that, at 33, she's not been recognised before. The award was announced to Taylor before christmas, so the World Cup win wasn't a factor in Scyld Berry's thinking, a fact which helps kibosh any thought of tokenism. Moreover, and in the wider sporting context, the exploits of the women in Australia, and Taylor in particular, have put women's sport in the spotlight. It's all a long way from when they were still playing in those bloody horrible mini-skirts back in the day of Rachel Heyhoe-Flint. Hopefully this award and everything that preceded it will further attract the attentions of the media and give the opportunity for female cricketers to properly shine.
The road to expansion
As the West Indies - England farce (sorry, series) draws to a close today, keep an eye on the World Cup Qualifiers going on in South Africa, where Ireland and Scotland are among the nations competing for a place at the next tournament. The early pace in Group A has been set by Ireland, justifying their label as pre-tournament favourites after big wins over Scotland and Oman. Canada are also unbeaten in that group, a side which still features the Australian-raised John Davison, scorer of the fastest century in World Cup history against the West Indies in 2003. 39 next month, one wonders if he will be able to reach the next tournament but doubtless qualification would be a great way to sign off.
In Group B, Afghanistan have justified some of their recent positive publicity with 2 wins in 2, against Denmark and Bermuda. Look out for new all-rounder Karim Kahn, who has scored 122 runs and taken 5 wickets already and looks very handy. The Netherlands also have a 100% record, powered as they are by three players with experience of County cricket - Essex's Ryan ten Doeschate (who will leave the competition early to join up with his main employer), Worcestershire's highly promising young opener Alexei Kervezee (scorer of a brilliant 121 not out against Denmark) and the former Sussex batsman Bas Zuiderent.
These four teams have immediately stood out but the likes of Kenya, Scotland and the UAE will also fancy their chances for qualification.
In Group B, Afghanistan have justified some of their recent positive publicity with 2 wins in 2, against Denmark and Bermuda. Look out for new all-rounder Karim Kahn, who has scored 122 runs and taken 5 wickets already and looks very handy. The Netherlands also have a 100% record, powered as they are by three players with experience of County cricket - Essex's Ryan ten Doeschate (who will leave the competition early to join up with his main employer), Worcestershire's highly promising young opener Alexei Kervezee (scorer of a brilliant 121 not out against Denmark) and the former Sussex batsman Bas Zuiderent.
These four teams have immediately stood out but the likes of Kenya, Scotland and the UAE will also fancy their chances for qualification.
Wednesday 1 April 2009
An open letter to Kevin Pietersen
Dear Kevin,
Please, for the love of god, just stop talking. You demean us all.
Kind regards,
England.
Please, for the love of god, just stop talking. You demean us all.
Kind regards,
England.
Tuesday 31 March 2009
Dead Pitch Blues
Runs. Everywhere you look, runs. The recent series in Pakistan, West Indies and currently in New Zealand have been a showcase for tracks where bowlers toil for next to no reward. The England tour of West Indies was won in one session, where England imploded in the face of some decent swing bowling from Jerome Taylor and Fidel Edwards. 1500 runs were scored in two-and-a-bit innings in the first test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in Karachi in February. And New Zealand could do little to break down a stubborn India in Napier over the weekend with the pitch failing to deteriorate as Gautam Gambhir bedded in for the long haul.
This winter we've seen plenty of runs, an indication of where the game is going with the onset of Twenty20. Where's the incentive to be a top-class bowler these days? Most of the time you'll get flogged for no reward. Graham Gooch, a man who can be relied upon to talk a bit of sense about the game, has it spot on. Lifeless pitches contribute nothing to cricket as a spectacle. Only idiots derive any pleasure in seeing Ramnaresh Sarwan, great player though he is, bat for 10 hours in Barbados. It is this kind of attitude that gives the haters ammunition in calling test cricket boring, and which allowed people like Andy Hale-lookalike Allen Stanford to force gaudy Twenty20 circuses on us.
Of course, its no coincidence that the best cricket of all winter (and indeed since the 2005 ashes) has been played between South Africa and Australia, on pitches in both countries which have offered something to both batsmen and bowler. Witness Mitchell Johnson's devastating spells in Durban and Johannesburg; JP Duminy's magnificent 166 at the MCG; AB De Villiers, well, just witness AB De Villiers. Paul Harris getting wickets. Phil Hughes becoming the youngest man to score back-to-back centuries. Test match cricket at its very highest quality. Heed the call, governing bodies, or face dwindling interest and shrinking crowds. Twenty20 won't save you.
This winter we've seen plenty of runs, an indication of where the game is going with the onset of Twenty20. Where's the incentive to be a top-class bowler these days? Most of the time you'll get flogged for no reward. Graham Gooch, a man who can be relied upon to talk a bit of sense about the game, has it spot on. Lifeless pitches contribute nothing to cricket as a spectacle. Only idiots derive any pleasure in seeing Ramnaresh Sarwan, great player though he is, bat for 10 hours in Barbados. It is this kind of attitude that gives the haters ammunition in calling test cricket boring, and which allowed people like Andy Hale-lookalike Allen Stanford to force gaudy Twenty20 circuses on us.
Of course, its no coincidence that the best cricket of all winter (and indeed since the 2005 ashes) has been played between South Africa and Australia, on pitches in both countries which have offered something to both batsmen and bowler. Witness Mitchell Johnson's devastating spells in Durban and Johannesburg; JP Duminy's magnificent 166 at the MCG; AB De Villiers, well, just witness AB De Villiers. Paul Harris getting wickets. Phil Hughes becoming the youngest man to score back-to-back centuries. Test match cricket at its very highest quality. Heed the call, governing bodies, or face dwindling interest and shrinking crowds. Twenty20 won't save you.
Monday 30 March 2009
Jesse Ryder: A modern hero
We've not learnt an awful lot from the current New Zealand vs India series, apart from the fact that New Zealand Cricket knows what side its bread is buttered and has prepared some lovely batsman-friendly tracks for their visitors, whose governing body throws its weight around like Craig Bellamy in a Cardiff nightclub. We have, however, witnessed the emergence of a major star in Jesse Ryder, the rotund left-hander from Napier who scored 201 on his home ground last week, his maiden double-ton in international cricket.
Ryder burst (or should that be waddled) onto the scene last year by scoring 198 runs @ 49 in the ODI series against England, only to ruin his chances of selection for the return series over here by getting mighty sloshed in Christchurch and putting his hand through a glass window. Faith has been shown in him, however, and he has rewarded the selectors' patience with some devastating one-day performances and back to back big scores in the current series.
A natural hitter, Ryder is the perfect addition to the New Zealand team which, in test matches at least, has struggled with a less-than-adhesive top order. Martin Guptill's emergence gives them a hope of forging a decent opening partnership for a long time in a while, but Ryder's contribution in the middle order, alongside the talented if infuriating Ross Taylor, offers Kiwis a bit of stability there too. Since the retirements of the likes of Fleming, Astle and McMillan gaps have emerged that have yet really to be filled until now. Ryder's appearance, which initially strikes you as less than athletic, does not get in his way when it comes to the game as evidenced by his bowling, which gets more wickets than you imagine it should (in the best traditions of Kiwis like Craig McMillan and Scott Styris). Dubious though his fitness may seem, he is still able to remain at the crease for the best part of 8 hours to compile 200 and for this reason he is an inspiration to us all. Of course, not all of us can hit the ball quite as well as he can, but I'd rather not let that get in the way just now. He also seems to have the measure of Ishant Sharma, which by my logic makes him better than Ricky Ponting.
Yeah, alright, maybe in a few years....
Ryder burst (or should that be waddled) onto the scene last year by scoring 198 runs @ 49 in the ODI series against England, only to ruin his chances of selection for the return series over here by getting mighty sloshed in Christchurch and putting his hand through a glass window. Faith has been shown in him, however, and he has rewarded the selectors' patience with some devastating one-day performances and back to back big scores in the current series.
A natural hitter, Ryder is the perfect addition to the New Zealand team which, in test matches at least, has struggled with a less-than-adhesive top order. Martin Guptill's emergence gives them a hope of forging a decent opening partnership for a long time in a while, but Ryder's contribution in the middle order, alongside the talented if infuriating Ross Taylor, offers Kiwis a bit of stability there too. Since the retirements of the likes of Fleming, Astle and McMillan gaps have emerged that have yet really to be filled until now. Ryder's appearance, which initially strikes you as less than athletic, does not get in his way when it comes to the game as evidenced by his bowling, which gets more wickets than you imagine it should (in the best traditions of Kiwis like Craig McMillan and Scott Styris). Dubious though his fitness may seem, he is still able to remain at the crease for the best part of 8 hours to compile 200 and for this reason he is an inspiration to us all. Of course, not all of us can hit the ball quite as well as he can, but I'd rather not let that get in the way just now. He also seems to have the measure of Ishant Sharma, which by my logic makes him better than Ricky Ponting.
Yeah, alright, maybe in a few years....
Sunday 29 March 2009
Spin off
Welcome to the spin-off series associated with the surprisingly popular (in Iran at least) Euroballs. Ever since the appalling events at Trafalgar Square in 2005, we've become even more cynical about the wonderful world of cricket and the seeming belief, in the media if nowhere else, that England are any cop. Stanford's helicopter landing at Lord's only heightened the feeling (he landed on the square. How could you not tell he was a wrong 'un?). Believe it or not, there's a whole world of cricket out there and most of it is worthy of attention that it rarely gets in these parts. We'll aim to do that, rant about England, pull off some shockingly bad puns etc. The usual nonsense, basically, so eyes down and tuck in.
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