Today Australia crushed Bangladesh to take a 1-0 lead in the 3 match ODI series.
Sent in to bat by Bangladesh Skipper Mohammed Ashraful, the wicket did prove to be slow and testing.
According the grounds man 250 was the safe route to go with setting the target.
After losing James Hopes (22) in an attempted pull and then Michael Clarke (14), who attempted to settle himself in for a long one, it seemed the run rate was slipping and the Bangladesh bowlers were pushing Australia into a low score zone.
Shaun Marsh continued to prove his position in the squad at the top of the order as he managed to play a great leading knock of 76.
Enter Michael Hussey. Huss continued his good streak with the bat in hand and managed to put together a very determined, hard working 85, in the end from 87 deliveries!
Brother David Hussey chipped in to add 24 to the total.
While there was some notably good bowling from the bowlers, credit must be given to Keeper Dhiman Ghosh. He was quick on his feet, very alert and had some great reflex moves.
The end total, due to some hard work at the end of the innings saw Clarke’s men reach 254.
Bangladesh opener, Tamim Iqbal, lashed out a quick fire 21 but his fellow teammates could not follow in any similar manner.
They ended up with their lowest ODI total of 74.
I expect more from this young side, who need to somehow find the path to step it up.
I found Michael Slater’s commentary on his guitar lessons on tour’s ‘back in the day’ the most entertaining part of the innings!
All the bowlers were brilliant. Debutant Brett Geeves ended up with 2/11 and a catch to seal a solid start to his ODI career.
Stuart Clark was exceptional with the ball and also in the field. His figures were 1/18, including a catch and a direct hit to send Alok Kapali back to the showers.
Cameron White picked up his best ODI figures of 3/5, and Michael Clarke complemented those wickets with 2 great catches in the slips.
Like Hussey, Mitchell Johnson continued his good form from the warm-up match and ended with 2/10.
Brad Haddin’s wicket keeping was flawless!
A victory by 180 runs seemed too easy for the Aussie’s but I do hope from an entertainment value for the Bangladesh supporters, their side offer a bit more substance to the attack.
But for Australian cricket supporters it was great to see a less familiar team really rise to the occasion and do themselves proud!
Michael Hussey was man-of-the-match.
The next ODI will be played this coming Wednesday in this 3 Match ODI series.
In more controversial news, Andrew Symonds has been sent home by order of the senior members. According to the commentators and reports, the current reason is he missed a team meeting, which was stated to be compulsory, to enjoy some time fishing.
So Roy has gone home ‘n gone fishing…say the sources.
A player of his class should not be this poorly disciplined, and as harsh as it is I have to stand by the decision against Roy as it is not on, more so these simple actions let down supporters and his fans. But these things happen, pity Roy is in the midst of it again.
More news on this soon, I’m just glad history didn’t repeat itself today!
Source (1) and (2) regarding above mentioned story.
30 August 2008
29 August 2008
SWOT ANALYSIS: AUSTRALIA vs BANGLADESH ODI SERIES
Here's a quick preview of the series, taking a look at Australia's SWOT analysis.
STRENGHTS:
Despite the loss of Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden and Brett Lee for the series, there are plenty players who are able to fill this very big gap.
Michael Clarke takes on the Captaincy. Michael has a good Captaincy record, is a quality strokeplayer, world class fieldsman and a nifty spin bowler.
Michael Hussey showed promise in the warm-up game on a slow wicket and Huss was starting to fire towards the end of the West Indies tour, after a very below par tour by his standards.
Shane Watson has found his way back in and is a promising all-rounder who really does bring a certain element of depth into the squad.
Nathan Bracken is an ODI specialist, whether it's with the new ball or as first change.
Andrew Symonds is devastating against the younger teams and will be looking to maintain his terrific form and dominating aggression in this form of the game. Also a shark in fields inner circle.
The bowling line up looks good, even without Lee, and will be looking to find the edge over the Bangladesh top order.
A younger squad that showed alot of promise in the West Indies tour. A well balanced team with plenty guys hungry to get a shot in the 11 man-squad. These are players like, Shaun Marsh, Cameron White, Brett Geeves.
WEAKNESSES:
The loss of senior players as monstrous as Ponting, Hayden and Lee, will take an edge away from a World leading side like Australia. But this weakness is made up with the raw talent in this side and the step up we have seen with the less experienced players over the last 2 or 3 seasons.
Slower wickets have not always favoured the Australian bastman so I imagine this will be combatted with the bowling of Nathan Bracken, Stuart Clark and Mitchell Johnson. They will be used to try use the wicket against the Bangladesh squad.
Bangladesh have had plenty warm-up games to tweak a few things, whereas Australia have had one, and the batting was far from threatening.
OPPORTUNITES:
A series win will make the margin bigger between Australia and South Africa on the ICC ODI Ranking list.
This series gives the younger, less experienced players a chance to prove their skills and get more international exposure.
A home series will always be beneficial, and the Darwin folks rarely get to see their heroes in action, so this is a good opportunity from a spectators point of view.
Clarke gets to learn more from the Captaincy perspective and the series, which is not as hyped as any of the others later this year, gives players a chance to focus and learn alot as a unit.
THREATS:
Two players from Bangladesh with the bat I see as a threat, especially in the 50 over form of the game. They are Mohammad Ashraful (Captain) and Tamim Iqbal.
I am not certain of the Bangladesh side regarding their bowling, but I do see their batting line up as the biggest threat. They surprised the boys in Cardiff back in 2005, but history hasn't repeated itself since.
If any Bangladesh fans can warn us who too look out for, please do!
OVERALL:
I am sure Bangladesh will fight like Tigers. Eager to get into the higher rankings and prove themselves as a young squad, I am sure there will be a few highlights for them in this series.
Even if they do go down 3-0, which is a possibility with Australia fresh from a 5-0 win against the Windies, they will learn alot and be able to handle pressure against Australia and themselves.
As for Australia, there is no reason for them to win 3-0 if they arrive with the attitude that Bangladesh could easily threaten, even surprise them, and understand this is a new era in Australian cricket and they are the chosen players to represent the younger generation.
STRENGHTS:
Despite the loss of Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden and Brett Lee for the series, there are plenty players who are able to fill this very big gap.
Michael Clarke takes on the Captaincy. Michael has a good Captaincy record, is a quality strokeplayer, world class fieldsman and a nifty spin bowler.
Michael Hussey showed promise in the warm-up game on a slow wicket and Huss was starting to fire towards the end of the West Indies tour, after a very below par tour by his standards.
Shane Watson has found his way back in and is a promising all-rounder who really does bring a certain element of depth into the squad.
Nathan Bracken is an ODI specialist, whether it's with the new ball or as first change.
Andrew Symonds is devastating against the younger teams and will be looking to maintain his terrific form and dominating aggression in this form of the game. Also a shark in fields inner circle.
The bowling line up looks good, even without Lee, and will be looking to find the edge over the Bangladesh top order.
A younger squad that showed alot of promise in the West Indies tour. A well balanced team with plenty guys hungry to get a shot in the 11 man-squad. These are players like, Shaun Marsh, Cameron White, Brett Geeves.
WEAKNESSES:
The loss of senior players as monstrous as Ponting, Hayden and Lee, will take an edge away from a World leading side like Australia. But this weakness is made up with the raw talent in this side and the step up we have seen with the less experienced players over the last 2 or 3 seasons.
Slower wickets have not always favoured the Australian bastman so I imagine this will be combatted with the bowling of Nathan Bracken, Stuart Clark and Mitchell Johnson. They will be used to try use the wicket against the Bangladesh squad.
Bangladesh have had plenty warm-up games to tweak a few things, whereas Australia have had one, and the batting was far from threatening.
OPPORTUNITES:
A series win will make the margin bigger between Australia and South Africa on the ICC ODI Ranking list.
This series gives the younger, less experienced players a chance to prove their skills and get more international exposure.
A home series will always be beneficial, and the Darwin folks rarely get to see their heroes in action, so this is a good opportunity from a spectators point of view.
Clarke gets to learn more from the Captaincy perspective and the series, which is not as hyped as any of the others later this year, gives players a chance to focus and learn alot as a unit.
THREATS:
Two players from Bangladesh with the bat I see as a threat, especially in the 50 over form of the game. They are Mohammad Ashraful (Captain) and Tamim Iqbal.
I am not certain of the Bangladesh side regarding their bowling, but I do see their batting line up as the biggest threat. They surprised the boys in Cardiff back in 2005, but history hasn't repeated itself since.
If any Bangladesh fans can warn us who too look out for, please do!
OVERALL:
I am sure Bangladesh will fight like Tigers. Eager to get into the higher rankings and prove themselves as a young squad, I am sure there will be a few highlights for them in this series.
Even if they do go down 3-0, which is a possibility with Australia fresh from a 5-0 win against the Windies, they will learn alot and be able to handle pressure against Australia and themselves.
As for Australia, there is no reason for them to win 3-0 if they arrive with the attitude that Bangladesh could easily threaten, even surprise them, and understand this is a new era in Australian cricket and they are the chosen players to represent the younger generation.
28 August 2008
HUSSEY & JOHNSON SHINE IN ODI WARM-UP MATCH
Taking on the Australian Institute of sports, in Darwin at the Mararra Cricket ground, Australia, led by Captain Michael Clarke, ended winning the match, on a very slow and low scoring wicket.
Batting first the World Champions only managed to put on 177 runs.
Michael Hussey was the key in the innings as Huss scored 69 runs coming from 95 deliveries.
He was backed up by Michael Clarke (21) and Cameron White with a relatively quick fire 31 off 40 deliveries. Judging by the slow pitch and deliveries per batsman to try get going, it seems a good knock.
Requiring 178 to win, the Australian Institute only managed to tally up 123 runs, falling short in the end.
Michael Hill, who Captained the Australian Under/19 squad this year in the U/19 World Cup, managed to top score with 34 runs.
Mitchell Johnson was the danger man. Mitchell's figures were outstanding with 3 wickets for just 9 runs in 4 overs. Is this a good sign for Mitchell on the slower conditions?
Stuart Clark chipped in with 2/27 and David Hussey with 2/15.
Nathan Bracken as always was economically staggering with 1/11 in 6 overs.
No doubt there will be a few cobwebs to clear out but I am very confident in the team for this short series. Fresh off a 5-0 victory against the West-Indies, I am looking forward to seeing this team against a new challenge.
A new challenge is exciting and no doubt creates alot of opportunity to chirp on about.
Batting first the World Champions only managed to put on 177 runs.
Michael Hussey was the key in the innings as Huss scored 69 runs coming from 95 deliveries.
He was backed up by Michael Clarke (21) and Cameron White with a relatively quick fire 31 off 40 deliveries. Judging by the slow pitch and deliveries per batsman to try get going, it seems a good knock.
Requiring 178 to win, the Australian Institute only managed to tally up 123 runs, falling short in the end.
Michael Hill, who Captained the Australian Under/19 squad this year in the U/19 World Cup, managed to top score with 34 runs.
Mitchell Johnson was the danger man. Mitchell's figures were outstanding with 3 wickets for just 9 runs in 4 overs. Is this a good sign for Mitchell on the slower conditions?
Stuart Clark chipped in with 2/27 and David Hussey with 2/15.
Nathan Bracken as always was economically staggering with 1/11 in 6 overs.
No doubt there will be a few cobwebs to clear out but I am very confident in the team for this short series. Fresh off a 5-0 victory against the West-Indies, I am looking forward to seeing this team against a new challenge.
A new challenge is exciting and no doubt creates alot of opportunity to chirp on about.
26 August 2008
CLARKE STAMPS FOCUS AS PRIORITY
Not official news but I have really enjoyed Michael Clarke's statements made towards the media over the last few weeks. With a clean slate, good stats and a positive, not over-confident, attitude I get a good feeling regarding his future.
When Punter decides to step down as Captain, in what I hope is still the distant future as Ricky has some unfinished business, Michael will be ready to fill those very big shoes.
However, every Captain must be different. Having matured into a fine cricketer and now a senior player with extra responsibility, it can do nothing but better Pup's career with the leadership role against Bangladesh.
Kevin Pietersen, in a similair age category and class to Pup, has done wonders for England since he took the throne and today lead England to a 10 wicket victory over South Africa.
Matthew Haydens recent comments regarding his thoughts of retiring from his ODI career haven't phased me at all.
Understandably, at 37 years of age the curtain is closing on Haydos' career, but if this is to be his final summer with the canary yellow..well he's going to go out in style. A monster in stature and with the bat in hand, a remarkable slip fielder, he has set a benchmark and after hard-work over the last 15 years since his Australia A days, he has done nothing but graft and deserves the best!
Shaun Marsh, Shane Watson, Phil Jaques, David Hussey, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Johnson and Brad Haddin, are players with more of a front line duty now and are ready to take it all the way. The seniors lead, the fresh blood learns and follows!
Here are some of Michael Clarke's recent views. I admire his to the point statements, especially seeing how much better he is handling the questions up front.
Pup regarding Marcus Trescothick's comments in his latest autobiography on the 'swing tactic' used in the 2005 Ashes;
"At the end of the day it's the past. Marcus has written a book, hasn't he, so good luck with that. That's the past,"
"Right now we are looking forward to the Bangladeshis in Darwin and our chance will come over the next 15 months to play against the Poms back in England. It actually doesn't bother me at all right now. We are looking forward, that's history."
Short 'n sweet and take a back seat Marcus.
Pup making sure the team stay focused on the present. One key with Australian cricket is always looking ahead, but only towards the next hurdle.
"Not in my mind, not at all. I think we need to look right now at playing Bangladesh in Darwin and as far as I am going to look is India, the Test series coming up. I think we would be silly to look any further."
Pup remaining optomistic and no doubt realistic regarding the younger squad;
"I think it is an opportunity for guys in the one-day team to push for selection, whether it be the Test matches in India or the Australian summer,"
Importantly the views from a future Captain on his own style of leadership;
"I've always played my cricket my own way and that's certainly the way I want to lead the team. I think I can do that, along with the help and advice of those who've come before me.
I plan to be a captain who leads in the same style that I play. I feel that I'm an attacking and positive sort of player. I love the challenge of a hard-fought game of cricket. I like being the one who is responsible for making the right or wrong decision."
Lastly and importantly showing support to a fellow team-mate, that is Brett Lee.
"Our 100 percent support in behind 'Binga'. Anytime he's ready to come back we are well and truly waiting for him. Obviously he's pretty busy at the moment, got a few things on his plate. He knows everybody is supporting him. We have all sent him a message wishing him well."
I will be posting my SWOT analysis and views looking ahead to this 3 match ODI series that will end the current 'mini-drought' in the cricketing calendar for Australia.
Current series' is the England & South African ODI series, as well as the Sri-Lankan & Indian ODI series.
The first ODI against Bangladesh kicks off this Saturday.
All 3 ODI's will be played in Darwin, Australia.
All sources quoted courtesy of: cricket.com.au and cricinfo.com
When Punter decides to step down as Captain, in what I hope is still the distant future as Ricky has some unfinished business, Michael will be ready to fill those very big shoes.
However, every Captain must be different. Having matured into a fine cricketer and now a senior player with extra responsibility, it can do nothing but better Pup's career with the leadership role against Bangladesh.
Kevin Pietersen, in a similair age category and class to Pup, has done wonders for England since he took the throne and today lead England to a 10 wicket victory over South Africa.
Matthew Haydens recent comments regarding his thoughts of retiring from his ODI career haven't phased me at all.
Understandably, at 37 years of age the curtain is closing on Haydos' career, but if this is to be his final summer with the canary yellow..well he's going to go out in style. A monster in stature and with the bat in hand, a remarkable slip fielder, he has set a benchmark and after hard-work over the last 15 years since his Australia A days, he has done nothing but graft and deserves the best!
Shaun Marsh, Shane Watson, Phil Jaques, David Hussey, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Johnson and Brad Haddin, are players with more of a front line duty now and are ready to take it all the way. The seniors lead, the fresh blood learns and follows!
Here are some of Michael Clarke's recent views. I admire his to the point statements, especially seeing how much better he is handling the questions up front.
Pup regarding Marcus Trescothick's comments in his latest autobiography on the 'swing tactic' used in the 2005 Ashes;
"At the end of the day it's the past. Marcus has written a book, hasn't he, so good luck with that. That's the past,"
"Right now we are looking forward to the Bangladeshis in Darwin and our chance will come over the next 15 months to play against the Poms back in England. It actually doesn't bother me at all right now. We are looking forward, that's history."
Short 'n sweet and take a back seat Marcus.
Pup making sure the team stay focused on the present. One key with Australian cricket is always looking ahead, but only towards the next hurdle.
"Not in my mind, not at all. I think we need to look right now at playing Bangladesh in Darwin and as far as I am going to look is India, the Test series coming up. I think we would be silly to look any further."
Pup remaining optomistic and no doubt realistic regarding the younger squad;
"I think it is an opportunity for guys in the one-day team to push for selection, whether it be the Test matches in India or the Australian summer,"
Importantly the views from a future Captain on his own style of leadership;
"I've always played my cricket my own way and that's certainly the way I want to lead the team. I think I can do that, along with the help and advice of those who've come before me.
I plan to be a captain who leads in the same style that I play. I feel that I'm an attacking and positive sort of player. I love the challenge of a hard-fought game of cricket. I like being the one who is responsible for making the right or wrong decision."
Lastly and importantly showing support to a fellow team-mate, that is Brett Lee.
"Our 100 percent support in behind 'Binga'. Anytime he's ready to come back we are well and truly waiting for him. Obviously he's pretty busy at the moment, got a few things on his plate. He knows everybody is supporting him. We have all sent him a message wishing him well."
I will be posting my SWOT analysis and views looking ahead to this 3 match ODI series that will end the current 'mini-drought' in the cricketing calendar for Australia.
Current series' is the England & South African ODI series, as well as the Sri-Lankan & Indian ODI series.
The first ODI against Bangladesh kicks off this Saturday.
All 3 ODI's will be played in Darwin, Australia.
All sources quoted courtesy of: cricket.com.au and cricinfo.com
24 August 2008
ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY POSTPONED FOR OCTOBER 2009
Yes that's correct, another year we have to wait. Another addition to the blockbuster calendar of 2009.
It was confirmed today, after South Africa pulled out on Saturday, that Australia, New Zealand, England and The West Indies were to pull out the tournament. That of course leaves no point in the tournament occuring, and now the plan is to postpone the event for 2009, October being the time frame.
Yes, I am sure we all expected this, but if there's someone to blame, it's not the Pakistan cricket board, not the fans in Pakistan, not the players, but the ICC!
Every nation has its problems, sometimes these problems only occur at the least expected times, but logic is when there is an apparent threat, and safety measures have to be taken to such an extreme for a sporting event, there is no point going ahead with such risks.
I am quite sure there is a high degree of over-hyped media regarding the issues within Pakistan, and especially regarding the political changes over the last few weeks, but we knew things were not stable and the decision is wise.
It is very unfortunate, and I for one feel quite upset for cricket enthusiasts living in Pakistan, and the PCB did all they could, but peace of mind just couldn't be found.
I don't think the players from the concerned teams are too blame at all. I think it would be hard to ease your mind knowing anything could happen on or off the field and put your life at risk.
The ICC could have taken quicker action, to finalise a better venue at this point in time, but again, slow thinking, sensitivity issues and importantly not thinking about the supporters.
Rescheduling involves alot. Venue inspection, ticket sales, travel packages, transport infrustructure, ground management, tour safety, merchandise shipments...it is a serious and important matter not to be rushed. Therefore moving it no another country would have been a mess up!
Time was the issue here, it ran out, and despite the 'writing on the wall', the ICC didn't handle the concerns in due course and well, we will have to wait another year.
Pakistan is still expected to host the event, so I hope all supporters of the game, especially those in Pakistan, will get to see their heroes or teams in action next year, and that people can travel to Pakistan to enjoy the cricket and have few, if possible no concerns.
For more information visit the following source:
CLICK HERE
It was confirmed today, after South Africa pulled out on Saturday, that Australia, New Zealand, England and The West Indies were to pull out the tournament. That of course leaves no point in the tournament occuring, and now the plan is to postpone the event for 2009, October being the time frame.
Yes, I am sure we all expected this, but if there's someone to blame, it's not the Pakistan cricket board, not the fans in Pakistan, not the players, but the ICC!
Every nation has its problems, sometimes these problems only occur at the least expected times, but logic is when there is an apparent threat, and safety measures have to be taken to such an extreme for a sporting event, there is no point going ahead with such risks.
I am quite sure there is a high degree of over-hyped media regarding the issues within Pakistan, and especially regarding the political changes over the last few weeks, but we knew things were not stable and the decision is wise.
It is very unfortunate, and I for one feel quite upset for cricket enthusiasts living in Pakistan, and the PCB did all they could, but peace of mind just couldn't be found.
I don't think the players from the concerned teams are too blame at all. I think it would be hard to ease your mind knowing anything could happen on or off the field and put your life at risk.
The ICC could have taken quicker action, to finalise a better venue at this point in time, but again, slow thinking, sensitivity issues and importantly not thinking about the supporters.
Rescheduling involves alot. Venue inspection, ticket sales, travel packages, transport infrustructure, ground management, tour safety, merchandise shipments...it is a serious and important matter not to be rushed. Therefore moving it no another country would have been a mess up!
Time was the issue here, it ran out, and despite the 'writing on the wall', the ICC didn't handle the concerns in due course and well, we will have to wait another year.
Pakistan is still expected to host the event, so I hope all supporters of the game, especially those in Pakistan, will get to see their heroes or teams in action next year, and that people can travel to Pakistan to enjoy the cricket and have few, if possible no concerns.
For more information visit the following source:
CLICK HERE
21 August 2008
LEE OUT OF BANGLADESH ODI SERIES
Brett Lee, our supreme paceman, has pulled out of the 3 match ODI series, in Darwin, against Bangladesh. The reason is due to issues within his marriage to his wife, Liz. As a result he has been granted short-term leave. This is unfrotunate for Brett and I hope things between him and his wife turn around for the better! Pity some things can't be kept out of the public's eyes.
So without skipper, Ricky Ponting, Brett Lee as well as the possibility of Matthew Hayden pulling out too as it is still advised that in his best interest he rest his injured heel, we have 3 important players out of the side.
However, this is a good time for things to be tweaked and players to be rested before the long summer kicks off. Younger players have serious responsibility and roles to play, senior players get to lead by example and this fresher Australian side have a good testing time in the 3 match ODI series to try tweak things a bit before the ICC Champions Trophy...if that is to actually take place with Australia, or not, we will only know on Sunday!
Enter Brett Geevers, the young Tasmanian seam bowler. Some of you may remember him from the IPL, where he played a handful of games. He represented the Delhi Daredevils alongside Glen McGrath. He will stand in as the bowler to fill the void in Brett Lee's abscence. Some new blood is always good for the game.
The time for Australia to seek consistency with their team is now as, a Test series in India, a home and away series against South Africa, as well as next years Ashes series and ICC T20 World Champions Trophy, are not the type of battles to just show up at with a bat and ball.
Determination, tenacity and importantly clever cricket are just a few of the keys required to take these matches to the victory vaults.
If Australia click into the consistency zone, even with the younger players, there is no reason Ponting and his men can't win this summer's challenges.
It won't be easy, but it can be done.
So without skipper, Ricky Ponting, Brett Lee as well as the possibility of Matthew Hayden pulling out too as it is still advised that in his best interest he rest his injured heel, we have 3 important players out of the side.
However, this is a good time for things to be tweaked and players to be rested before the long summer kicks off. Younger players have serious responsibility and roles to play, senior players get to lead by example and this fresher Australian side have a good testing time in the 3 match ODI series to try tweak things a bit before the ICC Champions Trophy...if that is to actually take place with Australia, or not, we will only know on Sunday!
Enter Brett Geevers, the young Tasmanian seam bowler. Some of you may remember him from the IPL, where he played a handful of games. He represented the Delhi Daredevils alongside Glen McGrath. He will stand in as the bowler to fill the void in Brett Lee's abscence. Some new blood is always good for the game.
The time for Australia to seek consistency with their team is now as, a Test series in India, a home and away series against South Africa, as well as next years Ashes series and ICC T20 World Champions Trophy, are not the type of battles to just show up at with a bat and ball.
Determination, tenacity and importantly clever cricket are just a few of the keys required to take these matches to the victory vaults.
If Australia click into the consistency zone, even with the younger players, there is no reason Ponting and his men can't win this summer's challenges.
It won't be easy, but it can be done.
15 August 2008
AUSTRALIAN TEAM FOR BANGLADESH ODI's
Today the Australian squad was announced for the 3 One Day Internationals to be played against Bangladesh in Darwin, Australia.
The breaking news is that Michael Clarke will Captain the side in Ricky Ponting's absence. Ponting has been giving extra time off to rest his wrist, an injury he picked up during the West Indies ODI series. There is a long schedule ahead for Australia and the importance of resting Ricky is a major priority.
Andrew Hilditch, the Chairman of selectors had the following to say, “While it is disappointing not to have Ricky Ponting available we are confident continuing his recovery and missing this series will assure Ricky is ready for the demanding cricket schedule ahead for the Australian team."
Matthew Hayden makes a comeback into the squad after his hard work to get over his injury.
The first ODI takes place on Saturday 30th August.
Here is the squad:
Matthew Hayden,
Shane Watson,
Michael Clarke (capt),
Michael Hussey,
Andrew Symonds,
Brad Haddin (wk),
Shaun Marsh,
David Hussey,
James Hopes,
Cameron White,
Brett Lee,
Mitchell Johnson,
Stuart Clark,
Nathan Bracken.
Luke Ronchi is not in the standings, who was a major aspect of the last handful of games of the West Indies tour but no doubt he will be making an entrance as a specialist ODI batsman in the not to distant future.
As a result of a few changes outside of the International calendar, there has been a modification to the Indian test series as well as the 1st Test against South Africa in Australia.
* Click here to see the revised calendar.
The breaking news is that Michael Clarke will Captain the side in Ricky Ponting's absence. Ponting has been giving extra time off to rest his wrist, an injury he picked up during the West Indies ODI series. There is a long schedule ahead for Australia and the importance of resting Ricky is a major priority.
Andrew Hilditch, the Chairman of selectors had the following to say, “While it is disappointing not to have Ricky Ponting available we are confident continuing his recovery and missing this series will assure Ricky is ready for the demanding cricket schedule ahead for the Australian team."
Matthew Hayden makes a comeback into the squad after his hard work to get over his injury.
The first ODI takes place on Saturday 30th August.
Here is the squad:
Matthew Hayden,
Shane Watson,
Michael Clarke (capt),
Michael Hussey,
Andrew Symonds,
Brad Haddin (wk),
Shaun Marsh,
David Hussey,
James Hopes,
Cameron White,
Brett Lee,
Mitchell Johnson,
Stuart Clark,
Nathan Bracken.
Luke Ronchi is not in the standings, who was a major aspect of the last handful of games of the West Indies tour but no doubt he will be making an entrance as a specialist ODI batsman in the not to distant future.
As a result of a few changes outside of the International calendar, there has been a modification to the Indian test series as well as the 1st Test against South Africa in Australia.
* Click here to see the revised calendar.
04 August 2008
KP CROWNED AS ENGLAND'S CAPTAIN
Kevin Pietersen has been named England's Test match and ODI cricket Captain.
Not directly Australian cricket news, but indirectly it is, as Kevin Pietersen will most likely be Captain during next years Ashes in England.
In front of his home crowd, the hero of the 2005 Ashes victory in England will no doubt be backed immensely with his play it cool attitude and entertaining cricket.
Michael Vaughan stepped down as Captain of the ODI team after last years 2007 World Cup and has now decided to stand down from Test cricket as the leader. Vaughan was the Captain during the 2005 Ashes win. However, it was clear his reign was at an end and I am glad to see a fresh, entertaining character such as Kevin Pietersen taking over the role.
Paul Collingwood has in return stepped down as the ODI Captain after just over a year into the job. So KP has a big responsibility now and I am confident he can do the job for his team.
Quite a story his is and I am sure the 28 year old, born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, will have no remaining issues having left South Africa to fulfil his dream.
The quota systems are a poor strategy in development of South African sport, even in business at that, and KP was 100% correct in his move and showing his disapproval of the system.
Now as the England Captain, I am sure it's been a real journey for him.
Next year in the Ashes, well, that's when the journey will test him no doubt as Ricky and the rest of the Baggy Green battle on to hold the Ashes urn for another time around.
Other news is that Adam Gilchrist has spoken about his opinion and belief in pushing Twenty20 International cricket into the Olypics! Interesting point Gilly, will be tapping into this one soon.
Not directly Australian cricket news, but indirectly it is, as Kevin Pietersen will most likely be Captain during next years Ashes in England.
In front of his home crowd, the hero of the 2005 Ashes victory in England will no doubt be backed immensely with his play it cool attitude and entertaining cricket.
Michael Vaughan stepped down as Captain of the ODI team after last years 2007 World Cup and has now decided to stand down from Test cricket as the leader. Vaughan was the Captain during the 2005 Ashes win. However, it was clear his reign was at an end and I am glad to see a fresh, entertaining character such as Kevin Pietersen taking over the role.
Paul Collingwood has in return stepped down as the ODI Captain after just over a year into the job. So KP has a big responsibility now and I am confident he can do the job for his team.
Quite a story his is and I am sure the 28 year old, born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, will have no remaining issues having left South Africa to fulfil his dream.
The quota systems are a poor strategy in development of South African sport, even in business at that, and KP was 100% correct in his move and showing his disapproval of the system.
Now as the England Captain, I am sure it's been a real journey for him.
Next year in the Ashes, well, that's when the journey will test him no doubt as Ricky and the rest of the Baggy Green battle on to hold the Ashes urn for another time around.
Other news is that Adam Gilchrist has spoken about his opinion and belief in pushing Twenty20 International cricket into the Olypics! Interesting point Gilly, will be tapping into this one soon.
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