Another T20 loss is a bit upsetting, but am I the only one here who has noticed an interesting pattern?
In Australia, the Proteas won the Test series 2-1, with Aus winning the last. In South Africa, Australia won the Test series 2-1, with the Proteas winning the last one.
In Australia, Aus won both the T20's, whereas in South Africa, The Proteas have clinched victory in both T20's. So, will Australia be blessed with a 4-1 victory in the ODI matches?
The first thing I will comment on was the absoultely aweful camera angle coordination from the camera crew at last nights T20 match.
What the heck are they thinking? I have come to discover it is SABC and not the major sporting company Supersport, who are responsible for managing the camera angle feeds and directing the match. So I have to say, 'Get lost and find another sport to work with!' How pathetic were those side views, and then even better were the views from third man partly cutting off the batsman! Thrilling, it was how I always wanted to capture the atmosphere of cricket in my own bloody living room!! Idiots. Just hope they get it right, because I think I may have to sit with a bucket by my seat as I deal with the nauseating feeling with the rapid switches and frustration when a wicket falls with these 'innovative' camera views. I also have noticed a couple times where I have been left to decide for myself whether the feed shown is a replay or live! Anyway, whether they get it right for the ODI's or not, we'll see, but even in the Tests the camera switching was useless.
I have never found South African sport viewing this poor and it seems standards have dropped. But I DONOT blame the camera men, it is the camera crew (directors of the feed, camera management and coordination etc.) who need to watch some cricket matches and see how it is meant to be done.
Well, I guess that will be longer than my match report.
Simply, my feeling is official that either Ricky Ponting must not play T20 cricket, or take a rest in these T20's, and rather take part in the T20 Champions Trophy! Punter's batting has been of no value in both matches, and I would have rather seen him come back fresh into the 5 ODI's to lead our team. I have seen him play one good T20 innings, and that was his 98* against England a few years back.
Michael Clarke fielded better, but something is wrong there because I don't sense his mind is in the game. His hitting of the ball is uncharacteristically off, his shot selection is baffling and his ability to control the game with his batting is not even on the map! Come on Pup, get back in the game mate! In the ODI's he will be crucial. Maybe he needs a reminder of his personal pledge, that he would never be dropped from the Australian squad again, even after his initial one was 'never get dropped'! I think he tends to annoy alot of people, but I always rated his cricket quite highly and I would like to see him bat like he did in the 2007 World Cup!
Otherwise I just think we let too many runs slip. The target wasn't at all imposing, but similar stuff happened again, although I must ask Tim Nielson if he has some bizarre plan with these full-toss deliveries from every bowler?
Was a bit embarrassing, especially seeing Nathan Bracken bowl his last two overs with highly contrasting results to the first two. It will happen, but the unnecessary runs we spilt was yet again, frustrating to watch.
However, I really enjoyed seeing Ben Laughlin (1/32) give it his best. It would have been great though if he'd not been hit for six off the last ball of the innings.
But he's a good candidate as a bowling stock option.
Shane Harwood (2/21) was way better! His short balls were controlled and his variation baffled a few of the batsmen.
Otherwise James Hopes looked a bit more relaxed, and David Hussey did a decent job, although I would have liked Cam White to have another over as he often creates opportunities. It wasn't the ideal bowling line-up, but we are dealing with player rotation here.
Well the batting I will make it short and sweet. Michael Clarke was in all sorts, Ricky Ponting, as I expected unfortunately, didn't get anywhere and the middle order didn't use their opportunities wisely as the Proteas bowlers were far from immaculate. David Hussey's efforts were great, as I could see how he really wanted those runs! Cam White tried, but go out at a stage where he was at the end of a big hitting order. It left James Hopes and Brad Haddin with too much to work with I would think, and Cal Ferguson getting run out first ball, like Michael Hussey the other night, was a turning point as he was valuable in attempting to chase down those runs after a slow start at the top. David Warner tried, but it hasn't paid off for him here and it's back to NSW for him.
I think it's fair to say we got outplayed by the tempo of the match!
And I have to make a point of purely observation. Johan Botha got cited by the ICC for his bowling action a while back. Just on a few of those quicker deliveries he angles towards leg stump, it doesn't look like a legit delivery at all too me, and I wouldn't mind having another look at the footage to see his natural slower delivery vs his quicker 'chuck like' action.
So, The Proteas take the T20's 2-0, and now we move onto the serious arena!
The 5 match ODI series! The first game will only be played on Friday, so a bit of a break till then, and I hope the squad get there game in order because this is another important final leg of the series. 4-1, how great would it be!
On a last note, I had to laugh at the NSP telling Brad Hodge that he wasn't going to be selected because of his age, but they selected Shane Harwood, who is a few years his senior. I am not having a go at Harwood, just pointing out that it is very amusing to still spot the NSP's contradiction!
30 March 2009
28 March 2009
T20 STARTS OFF WITH HIGH INTENSITY!
Australia didn't come on top due to some loose fielding and nervous bowlers in the later stages of the Proteas innings. But we have to admit here that it was a great game in the end!
Sent into bat, on a good batting wicket at the Wanderers, by Johan Botha (Proteas skipper for the evening), it didn't start off well for Aus. Michael Clarke (3) is still being haunted by my guess being wedding planning, and Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey and Brad Haddin didn't have much of a part in the rest of the evening their quick appearances with the bat.
David Hussey (88*) was brilliant! No-one has really seen Huss and what destructive forces he can bring into ODI and T20 cricket with the bat in hand!
He gave all of you a good look last night. I have always found David to be quite unorthodox, and I usually find these players the most exciting to watch in shorter versions of the game. He belted 6 sixes and really gave the ball a damn good swat! Support from David Warner (38) at the top had moments of excitement! He took a while to get the cogs going but once he did he cruised along, but Robin Peterson took a quick caught and bowled to end Warners night! Hope Warner gets some big hits in come Sunday. Cam White and Mitchell Johnson offered brief support at the wicket to assist David Hussey in pursuing a total that would be somewhat defendable!
I liked Huss' quick running, clever placement and total commitment to his shots. Last series for Aus there were lots of complacency issues on his part, and towards the end of the Black Caps series, he began to find the confidence. Things look good for him!
That catch of AB deVilliers was quite a gripper, but he stumbled over the rope, so didn't equate to much on his part as it was a six, but was still an awesome take!
Things started off well when Punter took a steamer catch off a blast from Herschelle Gibbs. I liked the send off he gave Gibbs!
Hashim Amla offered a very valuable knock at the top of the order, but David Hussey got the better of him and van Jaarsveld with his slow spin. His yorkers are perfectly placed and the line he is sending them on makes it quite a battle with bat and ball! Keep it up David! 2/21 in 4 overs in a fine contribution from a 'part timer'!
Brett Geeves did a good job I thought with his first 2-3 overs. Sure, the over at the death was done in two balls, but I do feel his composure out there was great, but it would have helped if he'd taken that catch on the boundary ropes. Couldn't quite pull off one like JP Duminy took back in Aus in the one T20!
Mitchell Johnson, despite a few extras, did a very good job with figures of 1/20 in his 4 overs! I feel that Mitch will find his natural game in this ODI series, where last series he looked tired and in all sorts of bad habits with the ball. His fielding was flawless too, where Michael Clarke oddly looked very off-the-ball, with a few little slip ups here and there.
While you can look at guys like Shane Harwood, James Hopes and Brett Geeves, who all went at over 10 an over, nerves can get the better of you, and when you want to find that yorker, and you can't, the pressure builds, the frustration digs in, the crowd volume increases and before you know it your spells have turned the match inside out! Pity, but it happens!
Result was Mark Boucher and Albie Morkel stole the match, and the Proteas' late innings heroics set them 1-0 up in the two matches of T20 cricket.
I imagine Nathan Bracken will play in the next T20 to just loosen up, and get that freakishly accurate bowling up and running!
Next game will be played on Sunday. Should be another good one, too add to the series excitement and a bit of a good time on my part, it would be terrific if Ricky and the guys could win the next T20 and setup a good foundation going into the ODI series!
Sent into bat, on a good batting wicket at the Wanderers, by Johan Botha (Proteas skipper for the evening), it didn't start off well for Aus. Michael Clarke (3) is still being haunted by my guess being wedding planning, and Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey and Brad Haddin didn't have much of a part in the rest of the evening their quick appearances with the bat.
David Hussey (88*) was brilliant! No-one has really seen Huss and what destructive forces he can bring into ODI and T20 cricket with the bat in hand!
He gave all of you a good look last night. I have always found David to be quite unorthodox, and I usually find these players the most exciting to watch in shorter versions of the game. He belted 6 sixes and really gave the ball a damn good swat! Support from David Warner (38) at the top had moments of excitement! He took a while to get the cogs going but once he did he cruised along, but Robin Peterson took a quick caught and bowled to end Warners night! Hope Warner gets some big hits in come Sunday. Cam White and Mitchell Johnson offered brief support at the wicket to assist David Hussey in pursuing a total that would be somewhat defendable!
I liked Huss' quick running, clever placement and total commitment to his shots. Last series for Aus there were lots of complacency issues on his part, and towards the end of the Black Caps series, he began to find the confidence. Things look good for him!
That catch of AB deVilliers was quite a gripper, but he stumbled over the rope, so didn't equate to much on his part as it was a six, but was still an awesome take!
Things started off well when Punter took a steamer catch off a blast from Herschelle Gibbs. I liked the send off he gave Gibbs!
Hashim Amla offered a very valuable knock at the top of the order, but David Hussey got the better of him and van Jaarsveld with his slow spin. His yorkers are perfectly placed and the line he is sending them on makes it quite a battle with bat and ball! Keep it up David! 2/21 in 4 overs in a fine contribution from a 'part timer'!
Brett Geeves did a good job I thought with his first 2-3 overs. Sure, the over at the death was done in two balls, but I do feel his composure out there was great, but it would have helped if he'd taken that catch on the boundary ropes. Couldn't quite pull off one like JP Duminy took back in Aus in the one T20!
Mitchell Johnson, despite a few extras, did a very good job with figures of 1/20 in his 4 overs! I feel that Mitch will find his natural game in this ODI series, where last series he looked tired and in all sorts of bad habits with the ball. His fielding was flawless too, where Michael Clarke oddly looked very off-the-ball, with a few little slip ups here and there.
While you can look at guys like Shane Harwood, James Hopes and Brett Geeves, who all went at over 10 an over, nerves can get the better of you, and when you want to find that yorker, and you can't, the pressure builds, the frustration digs in, the crowd volume increases and before you know it your spells have turned the match inside out! Pity, but it happens!
Result was Mark Boucher and Albie Morkel stole the match, and the Proteas' late innings heroics set them 1-0 up in the two matches of T20 cricket.
I imagine Nathan Bracken will play in the next T20 to just loosen up, and get that freakishly accurate bowling up and running!
Next game will be played on Sunday. Should be another good one, too add to the series excitement and a bit of a good time on my part, it would be terrific if Ricky and the guys could win the next T20 and setup a good foundation going into the ODI series!
26 March 2009
T20 CRICKET IS HERE ALREADY!
Heck, it only seems like yesterday we were having pre-talk about the Proteas Test tour to Australia!
Each team has now got a Test series under their belt, but there is an issue!
Australia need to get an ODI series back under the title, and this is the ODI series I always want to win. The Ashes for the Test arena, The Proteas ODI leg is always a great one!
It all begins with T20 this Friday!
Last series Australia secured both the T20's against the Proteas!
We had the introduction of young David Warner into the Aussie line-up who had a good bash out, and is keen for more! I look forward to seeing him hopefully get a great chance to blast away the Proteas T20 bowling line-up.
I do wonder if Dale Steyn will be played regarding his work load?
T20, it's fast paced, exciting, hard hitting, loud audience driven and no doubt there is eager anticipation for Fridays clash at the Bull Ring, Wanderers, Jo'burg!
The IPL will be played in South Africa right after the ODI series, and after a Test series that attracted fairly good response, it is no doubt that the T20 cricket bug will be biting hard!
T20 has become more than a hit and giggle affair, but there is still a great element of excitement!
The T20's will kick start the anticipation for the ODI's to kick off, and I want Aussie to take it in style against a very good Proteas ODI line-up!
Why do I want Australia to really outplay them?
Is it because the major sporting broadcast company Supersport and their arrogant, pig-headed adverts? Probably, but mostly because I want Aussie to get back that No.1 spot and also move on past the 438 game, at the Wanderers where it happened!
Sure, we won the Semi final in 2007's World Cup, but that game (438), as epic as it was and on a par with the 1999 Semi Final, was a win that edged The Proteas closer to hold no.1 spot in ODI cricket for a bit of time till the World Cup was concluded.
I really want Aussie to take this one and get ahead of the Proteas, with wins in all forms of the game!
It will still be a great series, I really do have a feeling we are in line for another very intense clash out there, and hopefully with some centuries too!
I am not sure what the squad for Aussie will be tomorrow, but I hope it is packed with big hitters and enthusiastic bowlers!
The NSP will be looking at candidates for the T20 World Champions Trophy, which will be the more important aspect for cricket enthusiasts to watch this game from!
I can't wait for the game, and I am honestly going to be able to watch this one open mindedly and more interested in looking at the T20 Champions Trophy squad possibilities.
I am also looking forward to seeing Mitchell Johnson up those ODI batting stats, more importantly finding his natural bowling game in ODI cricket!
Expect large crowds, plenty noise, a few moments of tension and no doubt some classic T20 moments!
But for this final chapter of the summer between these two teams, the ODI's are where I want to see it all go down!
Each team has now got a Test series under their belt, but there is an issue!
Australia need to get an ODI series back under the title, and this is the ODI series I always want to win. The Ashes for the Test arena, The Proteas ODI leg is always a great one!
It all begins with T20 this Friday!
Last series Australia secured both the T20's against the Proteas!
We had the introduction of young David Warner into the Aussie line-up who had a good bash out, and is keen for more! I look forward to seeing him hopefully get a great chance to blast away the Proteas T20 bowling line-up.
I do wonder if Dale Steyn will be played regarding his work load?
T20, it's fast paced, exciting, hard hitting, loud audience driven and no doubt there is eager anticipation for Fridays clash at the Bull Ring, Wanderers, Jo'burg!
The IPL will be played in South Africa right after the ODI series, and after a Test series that attracted fairly good response, it is no doubt that the T20 cricket bug will be biting hard!
T20 has become more than a hit and giggle affair, but there is still a great element of excitement!
The T20's will kick start the anticipation for the ODI's to kick off, and I want Aussie to take it in style against a very good Proteas ODI line-up!
Why do I want Australia to really outplay them?
Is it because the major sporting broadcast company Supersport and their arrogant, pig-headed adverts? Probably, but mostly because I want Aussie to get back that No.1 spot and also move on past the 438 game, at the Wanderers where it happened!
Sure, we won the Semi final in 2007's World Cup, but that game (438), as epic as it was and on a par with the 1999 Semi Final, was a win that edged The Proteas closer to hold no.1 spot in ODI cricket for a bit of time till the World Cup was concluded.
I really want Aussie to take this one and get ahead of the Proteas, with wins in all forms of the game!
It will still be a great series, I really do have a feeling we are in line for another very intense clash out there, and hopefully with some centuries too!
I am not sure what the squad for Aussie will be tomorrow, but I hope it is packed with big hitters and enthusiastic bowlers!
The NSP will be looking at candidates for the T20 World Champions Trophy, which will be the more important aspect for cricket enthusiasts to watch this game from!
I can't wait for the game, and I am honestly going to be able to watch this one open mindedly and more interested in looking at the T20 Champions Trophy squad possibilities.
I am also looking forward to seeing Mitchell Johnson up those ODI batting stats, more importantly finding his natural bowling game in ODI cricket!
Expect large crowds, plenty noise, a few moments of tension and no doubt some classic T20 moments!
But for this final chapter of the summer between these two teams, the ODI's are where I want to see it all go down!
25 March 2009
NEW POST AT CRICSCENE!
I have a new post up at my other site, Cricscene (http://www.cricscene.blogspot.com) on Steve Bucknor. Check it out and have a read when you get a chance.
23 March 2009
MITCH THE ALL-ROUNDER!!
First things first, well done to The Proteas on managing to win a game in convincing style, but we have still won the series, retained our no.1 spot and no doubt we have managed to turn things around with this squad, who really have made me proud, no doubt every other Aussie supporter!
Starting the day with Huss and Katto I thought we'd be well in it till day 5, but when Katto got dismissed the road did seem a long one to get to any chance of a draw, a victory unlikely after the serious deficit after the Proteas intense first innings.
Katto did manage to clock in another half century with 54 (and 55 in the 1st) and Huss tired his best but got out to a quick body nipper that sailed off to point. He is finding some form, but it seems the ODI's - where he played excellently back in Aus - are his best chance at leaving with confidence!
Keep going Huss!
Michael Clarke (47) seemed to avoid his probable wedding planning distractions and got stuck in with some runs, but can easily count himself unlucky when dragging a half volley from Dale Steyn back into his front pad and watched it delicately clip of the bails. Unlucky for Clarkey but he will also have his chances in the ODI games where he really needs to up his game to something similar of the 2007 World Cup, where he left averaging 80!
But the two guys who deserve all the credit were Mitchell Johnson and Andrew MacDonald!
Ron had a highest score of 15 going into his fourth Test with a weak average. Now, he did enter the series as a medium pace bowler but people forget back in AU for Victoria his role is an all-rounder. A modest average just under 40 doesn't boast much, but I always knew he would get the runs sometime!
Our hopes were lifted as Ron played a very composed innings of 68 from 99 deliveries.
His partnership with Mitch was absolutely outstanding and was thrilling to watch!
A 163 run-partership was the contribution but I save the best for last!
Mitchell Johnson (123*) is no longer an upcoming fast bowler, but is an official all-rounder and at last has managed to score his maiden Test century for Australia! And he did it in entertaining style! After making 96* in the first Test, very few thought he would ever get near it again, but wrong were they! A smashing six to deep mid-wicket brought up his ton which was celebrated with confidence and relief, and highly appreciated by all Aussie supporters! 5 sixes, 11 fours and a strike-rate of 119.41 is one to remember and never forget!
I had mentioned on a number of occassions that Mitch was taking his batting quite seriously and the intentions to become an all-rounder was very obvious, and highly promising!
Ben Hilfenhaus (12) did a very good cameo role with the bat in playing his shots to give Mitch just that last bit of support but his dismissal ended it, and only 20 short of reaching the deficit!
So, sure it would have been excellent to have taken this game, but just winning this series was essential! That was accomplished!
Mitch was Man of the series with the following stats:
BATTING: 255 runs, H/S 123*, and an average of 85.00!
BOWLING: 16 wickets, 139 overs and needs 6 wickets to get to 100 Test wickets! The Ashes is where it will happen!
Phil , sorry, Phillip Hughes was the top run scorer with 415 runs, with three centuries, H/S 160 runs and an average of 69.16!
It is very simple to analyse this match as to where we went wrong. You cannot be bowled out on the first day of a Test match! Simple as that. Our batting in the second innings wasn't spectacular as far as the top order is concerned, but it wouldn't have been an ideal kick start to the first two days and no doubt given more confidence to our bowlers with runs to defend!
But it's all done now, the Proteas got themselves a good victory, the Test series' of the summer are at a closure now and time for our Test squad players to return home to Australia before the ODI and T20 squads have to get their minds and skills in tact!
The first T20 will be this Friday, the second on Sunday, and after that the ODI's start where the boys will be looking to redeem themselves after the 4-1 loss last series as well as attempting to make sure no incredible comebacks - like the 438 game - are to occur by the Proteas.
Well done to all the guys representing the Baggy Green! Next stop, the Ashes!
Starting the day with Huss and Katto I thought we'd be well in it till day 5, but when Katto got dismissed the road did seem a long one to get to any chance of a draw, a victory unlikely after the serious deficit after the Proteas intense first innings.
Katto did manage to clock in another half century with 54 (and 55 in the 1st) and Huss tired his best but got out to a quick body nipper that sailed off to point. He is finding some form, but it seems the ODI's - where he played excellently back in Aus - are his best chance at leaving with confidence!
Keep going Huss!
Michael Clarke (47) seemed to avoid his probable wedding planning distractions and got stuck in with some runs, but can easily count himself unlucky when dragging a half volley from Dale Steyn back into his front pad and watched it delicately clip of the bails. Unlucky for Clarkey but he will also have his chances in the ODI games where he really needs to up his game to something similar of the 2007 World Cup, where he left averaging 80!
But the two guys who deserve all the credit were Mitchell Johnson and Andrew MacDonald!
Ron had a highest score of 15 going into his fourth Test with a weak average. Now, he did enter the series as a medium pace bowler but people forget back in AU for Victoria his role is an all-rounder. A modest average just under 40 doesn't boast much, but I always knew he would get the runs sometime!
Our hopes were lifted as Ron played a very composed innings of 68 from 99 deliveries.
His partnership with Mitch was absolutely outstanding and was thrilling to watch!
A 163 run-partership was the contribution but I save the best for last!
Mitchell Johnson (123*) is no longer an upcoming fast bowler, but is an official all-rounder and at last has managed to score his maiden Test century for Australia! And he did it in entertaining style! After making 96* in the first Test, very few thought he would ever get near it again, but wrong were they! A smashing six to deep mid-wicket brought up his ton which was celebrated with confidence and relief, and highly appreciated by all Aussie supporters! 5 sixes, 11 fours and a strike-rate of 119.41 is one to remember and never forget!
I had mentioned on a number of occassions that Mitch was taking his batting quite seriously and the intentions to become an all-rounder was very obvious, and highly promising!
Ben Hilfenhaus (12) did a very good cameo role with the bat in playing his shots to give Mitch just that last bit of support but his dismissal ended it, and only 20 short of reaching the deficit!
So, sure it would have been excellent to have taken this game, but just winning this series was essential! That was accomplished!
Mitch was Man of the series with the following stats:
BATTING: 255 runs, H/S 123*, and an average of 85.00!
BOWLING: 16 wickets, 139 overs and needs 6 wickets to get to 100 Test wickets! The Ashes is where it will happen!
Phil , sorry, Phillip Hughes was the top run scorer with 415 runs, with three centuries, H/S 160 runs and an average of 69.16!
It is very simple to analyse this match as to where we went wrong. You cannot be bowled out on the first day of a Test match! Simple as that. Our batting in the second innings wasn't spectacular as far as the top order is concerned, but it wouldn't have been an ideal kick start to the first two days and no doubt given more confidence to our bowlers with runs to defend!
But it's all done now, the Proteas got themselves a good victory, the Test series' of the summer are at a closure now and time for our Test squad players to return home to Australia before the ODI and T20 squads have to get their minds and skills in tact!
The first T20 will be this Friday, the second on Sunday, and after that the ODI's start where the boys will be looking to redeem themselves after the 4-1 loss last series as well as attempting to make sure no incredible comebacks - like the 438 game - are to occur by the Proteas.
Well done to all the guys representing the Baggy Green! Next stop, the Ashes!
21 March 2009
WHITE WASH NOT ON, BUT PRIDE NEVER LOSES!
I can safely say that the series hasn't ended the way I was hoping for it too end up!If I can share a kind word, well done to the Proteas for being able to fight back to have a sniff at making it 2-1, but I am hopingthat it won't happen. Nothing better for me than seeing their team get so to speak, 'bogged down!'
My apologies too, I have just been taking a brief time out on the articles.
Cricscene will also have a new article later next week if I can get the cricket mind on a rampage!
In both innings' the score for AU has ended up with 57 before Phillip Hughes has been dismissed both times by Paul Harris who, I am sure most of you are aware of, I find to be a mindless drone.
But he has gotten key wickets in the series, and has been a big push for The Proteas in a bowling stock option.
Simon Katich is still plugging away currently just short of a half-century, with Mike Hussey at the other end, who I really hope can salvage some runs out there to keep us in the game, and assist him to lift his game. I could see Huss' heart-break when he played that ball back onto his stumps for 20 in the first innings. He was playing his strokes, pulling like a champ, but like things have been for Aussie in this Test, not much has gone the way we hoped for. Keep in there Huss!
Ricky Ponting has had a bleak Test including a drop catch, which was on the bright side of things, at the end of the Proteas monstrous 2nd innings total of over 650!
Ashwell Prince, Jacques Kallis and AB DeVilliers all got in with centuries with support from the batting order where it mattered. With credit to them for their strokeplay and contributions to really add intensity where it counted to a huge total, I think our bowlers are fried, mentally not looking inventive and Punter's fielding strategies were rather illogical in many cases.
Bryce McGain, I will rather attempt to empathise with rather than banter at, because it really was just tough to watch, but even as AB deVilliers said 'It was really tough to be out there because I know the guy is going through a hard time. But it's unfortunately part of the game. Hopefully he'll get a chance again.'
His figures aren't mentionable and it is very evident the Ashes call up will probably not be happening for him.
Had Marcus North not fallen ill, Bryce wouldn't have played, but at the same time Nathan Hauritz was my intial choice, simply regarding experience and age, but I thought Bryce would have had a better bowl out. Instead it went the other way for him, and the runs were to easy. This opened up a free channel to let loose at Andrew MacDonald! Ron needed the support from the other end with tight bowling, while he plugged away with his line and length deliveries! He got the wicket of Albie Morkel (who made fifty on debut), but it was still a fifty odd runs thatwe could have gladly done without!
But again, it seems sad that Bryce's International career seems to be questioned already for any longevity or hope of a second Test! The way the game goes!
But don't give in Bryce, this is how the game is and reality is that when the stats are in, what can you do?
So the spinner woes continue, but part-time should be the way to go till the need for a spinner is genuine, and the spinner is exactly that, not like a dolly stock bowler like 'a Paul Harris'.
Mitchell Johnson managed to pick up 4 wickets after having a day in hell on the field in day 2, but was looking alot better and more relaxed in day 3!
Simon Katich, who I was routing for to have a few overs well before Bryce took a further punishing, ended up with another handy contributionof 2-9! Nice on Katto!
With 55 in the first innings and now unbeaten a few short of another half-century, I really hope he can fight on to make a ton along side Huss, his former WA team mate!
Phillip Hughes' dismissals I am gutted over, purely on the noted facts that he didn't do an aweful lot wrong and looked good to go onto fifty! But come the Ashes, all you England supporters better watch out!
Overall, the only possibility I can see occuring at this point of the match, from an Australian supporters perspective, would be a solid display to play for the draw.
Will be tough, statistically unlikely, but this is Test cricket, Australia are out there, and anything can happen! But The Proteas total was excellent and they did it correctly from the top to the middle order. Three centurions vs one half-centurion tells the tale of this Test!
Sure, we may go down in this one, but just one thing...we won the series folks, and don't forget it because next time it's going to be 3-0!
My apologies too, I have just been taking a brief time out on the articles.
Cricscene will also have a new article later next week if I can get the cricket mind on a rampage!
In both innings' the score for AU has ended up with 57 before Phillip Hughes has been dismissed both times by Paul Harris who, I am sure most of you are aware of, I find to be a mindless drone.
But he has gotten key wickets in the series, and has been a big push for The Proteas in a bowling stock option.
Simon Katich is still plugging away currently just short of a half-century, with Mike Hussey at the other end, who I really hope can salvage some runs out there to keep us in the game, and assist him to lift his game. I could see Huss' heart-break when he played that ball back onto his stumps for 20 in the first innings. He was playing his strokes, pulling like a champ, but like things have been for Aussie in this Test, not much has gone the way we hoped for. Keep in there Huss!
Ricky Ponting has had a bleak Test including a drop catch, which was on the bright side of things, at the end of the Proteas monstrous 2nd innings total of over 650!
Ashwell Prince, Jacques Kallis and AB DeVilliers all got in with centuries with support from the batting order where it mattered. With credit to them for their strokeplay and contributions to really add intensity where it counted to a huge total, I think our bowlers are fried, mentally not looking inventive and Punter's fielding strategies were rather illogical in many cases.
Bryce McGain, I will rather attempt to empathise with rather than banter at, because it really was just tough to watch, but even as AB deVilliers said 'It was really tough to be out there because I know the guy is going through a hard time. But it's unfortunately part of the game. Hopefully he'll get a chance again.'
His figures aren't mentionable and it is very evident the Ashes call up will probably not be happening for him.
Had Marcus North not fallen ill, Bryce wouldn't have played, but at the same time Nathan Hauritz was my intial choice, simply regarding experience and age, but I thought Bryce would have had a better bowl out. Instead it went the other way for him, and the runs were to easy. This opened up a free channel to let loose at Andrew MacDonald! Ron needed the support from the other end with tight bowling, while he plugged away with his line and length deliveries! He got the wicket of Albie Morkel (who made fifty on debut), but it was still a fifty odd runs thatwe could have gladly done without!
But again, it seems sad that Bryce's International career seems to be questioned already for any longevity or hope of a second Test! The way the game goes!
But don't give in Bryce, this is how the game is and reality is that when the stats are in, what can you do?
So the spinner woes continue, but part-time should be the way to go till the need for a spinner is genuine, and the spinner is exactly that, not like a dolly stock bowler like 'a Paul Harris'.
Mitchell Johnson managed to pick up 4 wickets after having a day in hell on the field in day 2, but was looking alot better and more relaxed in day 3!
Simon Katich, who I was routing for to have a few overs well before Bryce took a further punishing, ended up with another handy contributionof 2-9! Nice on Katto!
With 55 in the first innings and now unbeaten a few short of another half-century, I really hope he can fight on to make a ton along side Huss, his former WA team mate!
Phillip Hughes' dismissals I am gutted over, purely on the noted facts that he didn't do an aweful lot wrong and looked good to go onto fifty! But come the Ashes, all you England supporters better watch out!
Overall, the only possibility I can see occuring at this point of the match, from an Australian supporters perspective, would be a solid display to play for the draw.
Will be tough, statistically unlikely, but this is Test cricket, Australia are out there, and anything can happen! But The Proteas total was excellent and they did it correctly from the top to the middle order. Three centurions vs one half-centurion tells the tale of this Test!
Sure, we may go down in this one, but just one thing...we won the series folks, and don't forget it because next time it's going to be 3-0!
17 March 2009
THE LAST PHASE OF THE 3 TESTS!
According to the incredible, ground breaking 5 votes I had on the second poll, 80% reckon the current Australian team are pretty promising, while one lonely bloke, making up the remaining 20%, believes they are sensational! Now it wasn't me because I don't vote. But I would have to agree with the current 80%! Second poll done, new one up.
The question is; 'What will be the Aussies strong point on the 3rd Test?' Vote for it! Here's the article now!
The final ground for the third phase of this Test series is set!
Weather forecasts for Cape Town look good, and Newlands will be the frontier where the guys will be aiming for a white wash, being 3-0!
This Test series was the fightback for the Australian cricket team to give the supporters some world-class performances as a team, make a statement as a fresh side, and ensure The Proteas victory last series was quickly made a thing of the past!
But, with one more Test to go between two of world crickets leading teams, it can still be a tough contest, even if it is a dead-rubber encounter.
Since 1994, when it was South Africa's first Test series with games at Newlands since the readmission into International sports against Australia, there have been three Test matches between the two teams.
Australia have a 100% victory rate for the Newlands Test match encounters from the years 1994, 2002 and 2006! Three out of three! Newlands was not a Test match venue for the 1997 series.
So the history looks good, the current standing looks good, but as we have seen with both these teams, history is not a safe thing to bet upon.
From the South African teams perspective Graeme 'Captain Courageous' Smith is out injured having had his other hand given some special treatment with a 150km/h Mitchell Johnson pacer!
Neil McKenzie (expected) and Morne Morkel (not expected) have been axed from the team and As
hwell Prince has made his way back into the team. When one door closes another one usually opens! Ashwell has had that go in his favour! Imran Kahn will enter the team with Wayne Parnell. Prine and Kahn have been performing consistently in the Super sport domestic series for South African cricket.
Be interesting to see how the first modified Proteas team in sometime goes along with their business! Jacques Kallis, who I personally don't see as a leader in terms of Captaincy, will take on Skipper duties.
As for the Baggy Green men, it would seem Bryce McGain has been tipped to make a start if the conditions permit for spin. I do like the NSP's decision on the spinners role and that is that specialist spinners will be nurtured, but will not be in the team to fill the status quo, but rather to be apart of the line-up when the spin conditions are looking promising. Part-timers like Michael Clarke, Marcus North and Simon Katich will be called-upon otherwise.
Then again if he doesn't play in this game, would he even be taken for the trip to England and be used?
The bowling selection for the Ashes series will be very, very interesting!
That aside I can't imagine too many changes. Also, I wonder if Michael Clarke is still dealing with his thumb issues?
I hope to see Ricky Ponting get at least one ton in the series, and another for Phil Hughes would be nifty as well!
But if this team can just put in one last major effort as a group before having a breathing period before the T20's and ODI's start, and really play to win this series 3-0, it would be a great start for the Ponting era to be a tag of awareness for the Ashes! A few members of the Test squad will leave South Africa so they will be edging to leave an impression branded in the selectors' minds.
But it's this Test first and another top performance WITH MUCH BETTER FIELDING is going to be essential!
The rest you know it all; top order must make the starts, the middle order must build upon the foundation effectively, the bowlers must continue to complement one another as excellently as they have and the fielders must take the chances first time!
I feel good about this one, and although it is a day away I will be taking a break for a bit with the writing. So, will have my say when something to chirp about!
One last thing I found amusing;
"He's got a different technique, I guess you could say it's a weird technique." Phillip Hughes' batting is not out of the textbook, but if it works it works, says Michael Clarke
The question is; 'What will be the Aussies strong point on the 3rd Test?' Vote for it! Here's the article now!
The final ground for the third phase of this Test series is set!
Weather forecasts for Cape Town look good, and Newlands will be the frontier where the guys will be aiming for a white wash, being 3-0!
This Test series was the fightback for the Australian cricket team to give the supporters some world-class performances as a team, make a statement as a fresh side, and ensure The Proteas victory last series was quickly made a thing of the past!
But, with one more Test to go between two of world crickets leading teams, it can still be a tough contest, even if it is a dead-rubber encounter.
Since 1994, when it was South Africa's first Test series with games at Newlands since the readmission into International sports against Australia, there have been three Test matches between the two teams.
Australia have a 100% victory rate for the Newlands Test match encounters from the years 1994, 2002 and 2006! Three out of three! Newlands was not a Test match venue for the 1997 series.
So the history looks good, the current standing looks good, but as we have seen with both these teams, history is not a safe thing to bet upon.
From the South African teams perspective Graeme 'Captain Courageous' Smith is out injured having had his other hand given some special treatment with a 150km/h Mitchell Johnson pacer!
Neil McKenzie (expected) and Morne Morkel (not expected) have been axed from the team and As
hwell Prince has made his way back into the team. When one door closes another one usually opens! Ashwell has had that go in his favour! Imran Kahn will enter the team with Wayne Parnell. Prine and Kahn have been performing consistently in the Super sport domestic series for South African cricket.Be interesting to see how the first modified Proteas team in sometime goes along with their business! Jacques Kallis, who I personally don't see as a leader in terms of Captaincy, will take on Skipper duties.
As for the Baggy Green men, it would seem Bryce McGain has been tipped to make a start if the conditions permit for spin. I do like the NSP's decision on the spinners role and that is that specialist spinners will be nurtured, but will not be in the team to fill the status quo, but rather to be apart of the line-up when the spin conditions are looking promising. Part-timers like Michael Clarke, Marcus North and Simon Katich will be called-upon otherwise.
Then again if he doesn't play in this game, would he even be taken for the trip to England and be used?
The bowling selection for the Ashes series will be very, very interesting!
That aside I can't imagine too many changes. Also, I wonder if Michael Clarke is still dealing with his thumb issues?
I hope to see Ricky Ponting get at least one ton in the series, and another for Phil Hughes would be nifty as well!
But if this team can just put in one last major effort as a group before having a breathing period before the T20's and ODI's start, and really play to win this series 3-0, it would be a great start for the Ponting era to be a tag of awareness for the Ashes! A few members of the Test squad will leave South Africa so they will be edging to leave an impression branded in the selectors' minds.
But it's this Test first and another top performance WITH MUCH BETTER FIELDING is going to be essential!
The rest you know it all; top order must make the starts, the middle order must build upon the foundation effectively, the bowlers must continue to complement one another as excellently as they have and the fielders must take the chances first time!
I feel good about this one, and although it is a day away I will be taking a break for a bit with the writing. So, will have my say when something to chirp about!
One last thing I found amusing;
"He's got a different technique, I guess you could say it's a weird technique." Phillip Hughes' batting is not out of the textbook, but if it works it works, says Michael Clarke
15 March 2009
ROY DONE WITH THE DREADLOCKS
I always said it would be the first step to Andrew Symonds cleaning up his act!
Seems all the seniors are starting to up their game after the 'Ponting era' players are earning their rightful place with excellent performances!
It has finally happened...Roy has shaved the dreads and the trademark look is gone.
Instead we got the clean cut Roy deal I remember watching live back in 2001 and notably who we saw smash Pakistan around in the 2003 World Cup. It has been reported that Roy has really decided to up his game, came out personally with his personal demons off the field and glad to see the next step being taken.
Can't take a bloke with dreads seriously enough in my experience!
Roy has let many down, fans and aspiring young kids dreaming to be cricketers.
But he has accepted the responsibility and even if he were to play in the ODI squad only, I would still support him none the less! Probably a better option for him, we need the big middle order hitters.
But seriously though, the dread loss was to show support for the leukemia foundation.
I am a definite supporter of any cancer awareness association for personal reasons, and glad to see Andrew stepping up with the Cricket cares cause.
Roy is daring others to join him the fund raiser 'Great Shave' by shaving their locks or awefully long hair!
“I have visited the kids in hospital a few times and it hits pretty hard to see them not have the opportunities that we take for granted, " Symonds said."Hopefully shaving off the locks can help a little but more importantly I want to encourage others to get involved. It is all a little bit of fun and it will grow back so be brave and shave!”
Good on ya Roy! And to be honest I'd rather see you smashing the ball around in the ODI arena than in the Test domain...just my opinion and gut feeling.
Seems all the seniors are starting to up their game after the 'Ponting era' players are earning their rightful place with excellent performances!
It has finally happened...Roy has shaved the dreads and the trademark look is gone.
Instead we got the clean cut Roy deal I remember watching live back in 2001 and notably who we saw smash Pakistan around in the 2003 World Cup. It has been reported that Roy has really decided to up his game, came out personally with his personal demons off the field and glad to see the next step being taken.
Can't take a bloke with dreads seriously enough in my experience!
Roy has let many down, fans and aspiring young kids dreaming to be cricketers.
But he has accepted the responsibility and even if he were to play in the ODI squad only, I would still support him none the less! Probably a better option for him, we need the big middle order hitters.
But seriously though, the dread loss was to show support for the leukemia foundation.
I am a definite supporter of any cancer awareness association for personal reasons, and glad to see Andrew stepping up with the Cricket cares cause.
Roy is daring others to join him the fund raiser 'Great Shave' by shaving their locks or awefully long hair!
“I have visited the kids in hospital a few times and it hits pretty hard to see them not have the opportunities that we take for granted, " Symonds said."Hopefully shaving off the locks can help a little but more importantly I want to encourage others to get involved. It is all a little bit of fun and it will grow back so be brave and shave!”
Good on ya Roy! And to be honest I'd rather see you smashing the ball around in the ODI arena than in the Test domain...just my opinion and gut feeling.
13 March 2009
CRICSCENE! http://www.cricscene.blogspot.com
* Previous article on Brett Lee below.
CRICSCENE is my new site!
It is just aimed at broader articles on major talking points or controversial issues in International cricket.
To kick start it I have an article up on the Referral system.
I will still rant on about Australian cricket at this site, but when you maybe feel you have had enough AU cricket talk for the time being, you can cruise on over to Cricscene. Put it in your links list! A couple of other sites are already in the links list there!
CLICK HERE to check it out! Hope you guys like it and hope to have your chirps as always...even if at present there are only a handful of us!
CRICSCENE is my new site!
It is just aimed at broader articles on major talking points or controversial issues in International cricket.
To kick start it I have an article up on the Referral system.
I will still rant on about Australian cricket at this site, but when you maybe feel you have had enough AU cricket talk for the time being, you can cruise on over to Cricscene. Put it in your links list! A couple of other sites are already in the links list there!
CLICK HERE to check it out! Hope you guys like it and hope to have your chirps as always...even if at present there are only a handful of us!
BINGA SENSING THE URGENCY TO RETURN IN A TIME OF CHANGE?
Recently a few of us have spoken of our pride in this current Aussie squad, more importantly that we feel alot more confident that they are the team who have big promise to go forward to the Ashes!
This would mean many are looking ahead, which is what AU cricket was meant to be all about, in moving forward to keep competitve (although in recent times many have been in a state of denial over the loss of the dubbed modern legends).
As a result the comebacks of Brett Lee, Stuart Clark and Andrew Symonds probably aren't as eagerly anticipated as they were a while back.
But it seems with the current side improving and starting to build up well as a team, the sidelined seniors may be feeling the urgency to prove that they can regroup with this emerging team already being dubbed prematurely as 'the Ponting era'.
Andrew Symonds is playing for Queensland regularly and still trying to find some consistency to get a definite call-up to the Australian team, ideally for the Ashes, if not the ODI arena.
But I have been most surprised by Brett Lee's verbal return from the rehabilitation den.
I must admit, it does come across like Binga feels a bit of threat by the new Aussie unit, and this is not a threat as in dissatisfaction with the excellent efforts of his younger bowling comrades, but more a threat that the days may be nearer and more difficult for him to breach his way into the squad for the Ashes.
Binga's comments were packed with serious ambition, belief in his abilities, a desire to cause 'carnage' to Englands top order, and importantly his yearning to return and a sensed desperation a bit like a kid who really wants that new cricket bat for his birthday!
Here's the major statement he made that has maybe gotten many thinking hard, and maybe excited to see what the refreshed Lee may have to offer our current pace attack or maybe just dismissing it as hopeful statements.
"I'm not embarrassed to say that I expect to lead the pace attack and take that brand new ball again for Australia," Lee told Cricinfo. "I think it will add another dimension to our attack to have a right- and a left-hander out there capable of bowling over 150kph and swinging the ball in and out to the batsmen. Australian cricket is obviously in a very healthy state at the moment with the way the likes of Mitch and [Siddle] have been bowling, and I can't wait to be involved again. I hope that my record speaks for itself - I've worked hard to achieve ten years at the top of the game - and I can be out there creating a bit of carnage again alongside Mitch."
No doubt a good point there! Binga combined with Mitch and then Peter Siddle (who has improved drastically and impressed me immensely) firing in as first change, with a Hilfenhaus or possibly Stuart Clark at the other end.
It could be a very effective unit! But I'd prefer to see Binga back in action and having a good lashing out at some of the domestic teams top order's to back it up.
But he generate super control and maturity within his game, and if he is going to be able to maintain the strength and stamina to get quickies firing at 150km/h with a dangerous Mitch Johnson, it may be very intense!
Binga has proven himself to Australian cricket and cricket fanatics around the globe. He has been a key in many victories and has been the result of many major achievements for Australian cricket and himself too! His ineffectiveness in India and then the Perth Test against the Proteas was concerning and questions upon the team's decline became the biggest talking point, and his importance to the team being clearly noticed. He had a step up in the New Zealand Test series last year, but it seemed a 9 wicket haul in the one Test may have been to be one of his last.
Personally I am proud and more confident with the present team.
There is a definite sense of competitiveness and desire to become a strong force in cricket, something that was lacking in the seniors.
Ricky Ponting looks like a content Skipper again and his performances are becoming more confident in the middle. It is a team he can call his own!
So it will be a very tough decision for the NSP, who will no longer be looking to favouritism but more likely looking to stability and the best performers for the team.
In the next four years a handful of guys will be making their departures, Lee maybe being one of them! The changes here and there seem inevitable, and the younger players, like the ones we have seen in action on this current tour, seem the more likely candidates moving ahead, also depending how they manage their work loads.
Notably Phillip Hughes, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus and Doug Bollinger are the future.
Although commenting on his future stability and plans for Australian cricket?
"I am back up around 92-93kg now, and I'm feeling much stronger and energetic. My strength is up, my skin folds are down and I'm feeling much better for it. I am viewing the time off as a positive, as much as I can. It has helped me get my foot, ankle and general health back, and when you've built a great base like this, it can only create longevity."
'It can only create longevity', well that gives me the impression that Brett is really eager to get out there and cement his place at the front line of the bowling attack for a place in the emerging Australian cricket team!
Longevity? I think many will be waiting to see if the refreshed Brett Lee is as more threatening bowler than the previous one many have loved or on the other side feared when their team faced the fireworks. Then again, some may see it as talk.
So I ask all of you, what do you think? Should Australia move forward with the current side? Should the seniors mentioned be called up again for added depth?
Is the Binga factor still a possbility?
* NEW site launch soon. Keep you posted.
This would mean many are looking ahead, which is what AU cricket was meant to be all about, in moving forward to keep competitve (although in recent times many have been in a state of denial over the loss of the dubbed modern legends).
As a result the comebacks of Brett Lee, Stuart Clark and Andrew Symonds probably aren't as eagerly anticipated as they were a while back.
But it seems with the current side improving and starting to build up well as a team, the sidelined seniors may be feeling the urgency to prove that they can regroup with this emerging team already being dubbed prematurely as 'the Ponting era'.
Andrew Symonds is playing for Queensland regularly and still trying to find some consistency to get a definite call-up to the Australian team, ideally for the Ashes, if not the ODI arena.
But I have been most surprised by Brett Lee's verbal return from the rehabilitation den.
I must admit, it does come across like Binga feels a bit of threat by the new Aussie unit, and this is not a threat as in dissatisfaction with the excellent efforts of his younger bowling comrades, but more a threat that the days may be nearer and more difficult for him to breach his way into the squad for the Ashes.
Binga's comments were packed with serious ambition, belief in his abilities, a desire to cause 'carnage' to Englands top order, and importantly his yearning to return and a sensed desperation a bit like a kid who really wants that new cricket bat for his birthday!
Here's the major statement he made that has maybe gotten many thinking hard, and maybe excited to see what the refreshed Lee may have to offer our current pace attack or maybe just dismissing it as hopeful statements.
"I'm not embarrassed to say that I expect to lead the pace attack and take that brand new ball again for Australia," Lee told Cricinfo. "I think it will add another dimension to our attack to have a right- and a left-hander out there capable of bowling over 150kph and swinging the ball in and out to the batsmen. Australian cricket is obviously in a very healthy state at the moment with the way the likes of Mitch and [Siddle] have been bowling, and I can't wait to be involved again. I hope that my record speaks for itself - I've worked hard to achieve ten years at the top of the game - and I can be out there creating a bit of carnage again alongside Mitch."
No doubt a good point there! Binga combined with Mitch and then Peter Siddle (who has improved drastically and impressed me immensely) firing in as first change, with a Hilfenhaus or possibly Stuart Clark at the other end.
It could be a very effective unit! But I'd prefer to see Binga back in action and having a good lashing out at some of the domestic teams top order's to back it up.
But he generate super control and maturity within his game, and if he is going to be able to maintain the strength and stamina to get quickies firing at 150km/h with a dangerous Mitch Johnson, it may be very intense!
Binga has proven himself to Australian cricket and cricket fanatics around the globe. He has been a key in many victories and has been the result of many major achievements for Australian cricket and himself too! His ineffectiveness in India and then the Perth Test against the Proteas was concerning and questions upon the team's decline became the biggest talking point, and his importance to the team being clearly noticed. He had a step up in the New Zealand Test series last year, but it seemed a 9 wicket haul in the one Test may have been to be one of his last.
Personally I am proud and more confident with the present team.
There is a definite sense of competitiveness and desire to become a strong force in cricket, something that was lacking in the seniors.
Ricky Ponting looks like a content Skipper again and his performances are becoming more confident in the middle. It is a team he can call his own!
So it will be a very tough decision for the NSP, who will no longer be looking to favouritism but more likely looking to stability and the best performers for the team.
In the next four years a handful of guys will be making their departures, Lee maybe being one of them! The changes here and there seem inevitable, and the younger players, like the ones we have seen in action on this current tour, seem the more likely candidates moving ahead, also depending how they manage their work loads.
Notably Phillip Hughes, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus and Doug Bollinger are the future.
Although commenting on his future stability and plans for Australian cricket?
"I am back up around 92-93kg now, and I'm feeling much stronger and energetic. My strength is up, my skin folds are down and I'm feeling much better for it. I am viewing the time off as a positive, as much as I can. It has helped me get my foot, ankle and general health back, and when you've built a great base like this, it can only create longevity."
'It can only create longevity', well that gives me the impression that Brett is really eager to get out there and cement his place at the front line of the bowling attack for a place in the emerging Australian cricket team!
Longevity? I think many will be waiting to see if the refreshed Brett Lee is as more threatening bowler than the previous one many have loved or on the other side feared when their team faced the fireworks. Then again, some may see it as talk.
So I ask all of you, what do you think? Should Australia move forward with the current side? Should the seniors mentioned be called up again for added depth?
Is the Binga factor still a possbility?
* NEW site launch soon. Keep you posted.
12 March 2009
NEW SITE SOON & THE T20/ODI SQUADS ANNOUNCED
First things first, the squad announcement;
(For the Durban Test chirps see previous post)
THE T20 & ODI SQUAD :
Ricky Ponting (c) TAS
Michael Clark (vc) NSW
Nathan Bracken NSW
Callum Ferguson SA
Brett Geeves TAS
Brad Haddin NSW
Nathan Hauritz NSW
James Hopes QLD
David Hussey VIC
Michael Hussey WA
Mitchell Johnson WA
Ben Laughlin QLD
Adam Voges WA
Cameron White VIC
*David Warner NSW
*Shane Harwood VIC
* David Warner and Shane Harwood will only play in the two T20 matches.
INFO courtesy of cricket.com.au
In short, a good selection and I think the team can definitly be more competitive this time around.
I see Shaun Marsh will not be taking part in the series, and Shane Watson is still making his comeback for QLD.
Major additions are Breet Geeves, which I am really pleased about (he played in the Bangladesh series in Darwin last year if you never seen him), and the other is Ben Laughlin who will be a bowling stock for some added depth, with Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus returning home after the Test series to rest due to their hectic work load!
I hope Brad Haddin opens the batting, I hope Michael Hussey makes plenty runs, and am looking forward to David Warner getting a good hit out in the T20 games.
However, there is still one more Test to be played in the current series and I am still very focused on it so not ready for any ODI and T20 talk.
As for the NEW SITE I mentioned!
I will be launching a new site hopefully over the weekend.
The Baggy Green, Chirps & Quick Singles site WILL NOT be moving or changing content, but the new site will be more diverse and aimed at the broader picture of cricket for us to discuss.
That's all now guys! Hope you are all well... I am after a Test series win.
(For the Durban Test chirps see previous post)
THE T20 & ODI SQUAD :
Ricky Ponting (c) TAS
Michael Clark (vc) NSW
Nathan Bracken NSW
Callum Ferguson SA
Brett Geeves TAS
Brad Haddin NSW
Nathan Hauritz NSW
James Hopes QLD
David Hussey VIC
Michael Hussey WA
Mitchell Johnson WA
Ben Laughlin QLD
Adam Voges WA
Cameron White VIC
*David Warner NSW
*Shane Harwood VIC
* David Warner and Shane Harwood will only play in the two T20 matches.
INFO courtesy of cricket.com.au
In short, a good selection and I think the team can definitly be more competitive this time around.
I see Shaun Marsh will not be taking part in the series, and Shane Watson is still making his comeback for QLD.
Major additions are Breet Geeves, which I am really pleased about (he played in the Bangladesh series in Darwin last year if you never seen him), and the other is Ben Laughlin who will be a bowling stock for some added depth, with Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus returning home after the Test series to rest due to their hectic work load!
I hope Brad Haddin opens the batting, I hope Michael Hussey makes plenty runs, and am looking forward to David Warner getting a good hit out in the T20 games.
However, there is still one more Test to be played in the current series and I am still very focused on it so not ready for any ODI and T20 talk.
As for the NEW SITE I mentioned!
I will be launching a new site hopefully over the weekend.
The Baggy Green, Chirps & Quick Singles site WILL NOT be moving or changing content, but the new site will be more diverse and aimed at the broader picture of cricket for us to discuss.
That's all now guys! Hope you are all well... I am after a Test series win.
10 March 2009
THE NEW GENERATION MAKES YOU KNOW IT!
We've done it and the new generation of Aussie cricketer's have made the onlookers know it, that Aus is still a force to be taken seriously!!!
I think I should have a more open minded approach to things from now on cause it seems to back fire everytime I show any signs of negativity!
The Baggy green men have won by 175 runs, against the Proteas side that beat us in the last series!
All the Aussie media talk that the inexperienced players would choke, media campaigns in South Africa sending off the sheep noises, the bigmouth talk of crushing Ricky's team in SA! Well I am pleased they've eaten their big talk and the series is claimed. 2-0, but I can admit I didn't expect this type of a victory!
A convincing one at that!
Kudos to my mate Matt, from Queensland, who told me the game would be all over by 3pm match time/South African time, and he was nearly spot on. He also informed me of this as I was stressing about Kallis and deVilliers' partnership...Kallis went out a few seconds after!
It is also Chuck Norris' birthday today apparently!
Folks, I will be enjoying a couple ice cold ones!
Jacques Kallis was looking like a hero out there. He was more aggressive in his batting and displayed some resemblance of his earlier days, and fell 7 short of a century. I will once again mention my many congrats on his achievement of 10 000 runs!
It didn't take long to see AB deVilliers fall soon after, but most importantly the key wicket of JP Duminy, which all but sealed the deal! That was a scorching delivery too! Morne Morkel batted pretty well this evening, and Mark Boucher assisted him in any glimpse of hope!
But Marcus North...that caught and bowled has made me forget about the drop catch of Jacques yesterday, because that catch to dismiss Mark Boucher was a thriller in the moment and that was the match!
I always get enjoyment watching any tail end bat, and was actually enjoyable seeing Makhaya Ntini smack a four, but I wanted a win, and a victorius win!
It was a win of competitiveness, of tenacity, of courage and more importantly, inexperience that has proven to be the key success factor of this victory!
The Ashes was lost in 2005 and we regained it winning 5-0! So it was fitting this was a reclaim. Despite some very poor fielding throughout the last two tests, the bowling has been excellent, and the batting has been drastically improved.
All the stand out players you now know!
Marcus North, the WA Skipper, scored a century in his first innings making 117 runs and chipping in with the ball!
Ben Hilfenhaus finally debuted and did a very supportive job to Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle! He picked up key wickets where it mattered and has put his hand up!
Peter Siddle, who I admit I also was involved in questioning his place, continued to be ambitious and fired each ball in with determination and made sure he carried on, even with a sore foot! He is a fast learner and from the WACA to Kingsmead, the improvement is quite something! VICTORIA'S confidence in him seems to be verified.
Mitchell Johnson has emerged not only with some new tricks with the ball (a mean inswinger) and extreme pace but also some fine batting! He edged short of what would have been a maiden century, and proved entertaining. He bowled with aggression, intensity and has worked hard. He deserves the rewards and I hope he can give it all at Newlands.
Andrew MacDonald has yet to prove anything with the bat but played a Nathan Bracken like role in keeping the economy rate low with his medium pacers, and pressuring the batsman to play him out. He proved to be a crucial contributor to the 1st innings downfall of this Test for the Proteas and a bit more confidence will set him up well with a very defined role!
Importantly one young bloke I will mention, you know who he is!
He became the youngest batsman to score two centuries in each innings and was man of the match!
That's Phillip Hughes! 20 years of age, and he has caught the attention of everyone out there! He was dismissed as a quick fix after his fourth ball duck in the opening match, but has struck out. Mickey Arthur was very quick to target him and publicly state they had found his weakness. Little did Mickey know it's not just technique to target. It's not feeding a guy what he feeds off! That is raw competitiveness. Hughes wants bowlers to attack him, come at him hard, make him work hard. The sledging seemed to just boost him! He really gives his shots total commitment and his power in launching those sixes gives signs for a bit of ODI recognition. His performances in the Ford Ranger cup aren't shabby!
75, 115 and 160 are the only run stats you will see behind his name at present.
Got to make you wonder, are the opponents that happy Matty Hayden is retired? Good on you Phillip! Hope you keep the competitive edge and don't be shy to give us some more tons in the not to distant future!
Having said all of that, the seniors have stepped up when needed.
Simon Katich made a century after failing at the Wanderers, and has taken quickly to partnering Hughes, the two of them both being cricketers for the same state and have batted together before! He also picked up 3 wickets in the last innings of the Proteas. Michael Hussey is in all sorts at the moment, but did get a half-century to give himself some confidence moving forward to Newlands. A bit strange after his rapid flow of runs in back to back ODI's!
Brad Haddin's wicketkeeping has had a few drops here and there, but did play a handful of innings' which contributed to the total where it mattered. Hope he gets a hit out at Newlands.
Ricky Ponting has handled the changes better.
He has some definite form with the willow, and has missed the chance to capitalise on a chance of tons in two innings, but has one more test to try.
It is important to note, which I will touch on depending how the Newlands test goes, he looks a more confident Captain. He seems more at ease with his side, prepared to move forward with his side, and a leaders confidence - as well as his individual efforts - should rub off onto his team mates! It is evident and this new generation of Baggy Green cricketers, are proving a good unit when synergy kicks in.
This can be a team Ponting can mould, and I think many of you would agree with me that he has a team build up to call his own.
How they prove to be down the line? I will eagerly wait!
But the players key performances and positives of a series win at long last against a strong opponent aside, there is still one more Test to focus on.
It will be a big one for AU and a chance for a whitewash!
Graeme Smith, who has another broken finger or two, will not take part in the next Test and he has become a big player for the Proteas and his performances seem to ignite moments of brilliance in his tean mates, so his absence could play a part.
Who do you think has stepped up for the Proteas thus far?
The team will see a change for the first time in a while. They will need alot of self motivation and a noted step up to win it. Their pace bowlers seem a bit exhausted too! Who will replace Smith? Ashwell Prince their dumped Vice-Captain?
The pace bowlers for AU will need a good rest for now, and I hope they come back refreshed and ready for the final kill! The top order have to continue their form, and the fielding has to be alot better, with much higher standards.
One Test still awaits us and I expect some standout performances from both sides.
That aside, everyone has played their part and there is still room for improvement moving forward, and that should be a very threatening sign for opponents!
And that is despite the outcome of the final test.
Have your say in the comments section!
And as always thanks to Marc (The SACS) and his input from his site too, but this time the round belongs to the Baggy Green.
As I said it's one more test to go, so let's see what's the outcome!
I think I should have a more open minded approach to things from now on cause it seems to back fire everytime I show any signs of negativity!
The Baggy green men have won by 175 runs, against the Proteas side that beat us in the last series!
All the Aussie media talk that the inexperienced players would choke, media campaigns in South Africa sending off the sheep noises, the bigmouth talk of crushing Ricky's team in SA! Well I am pleased they've eaten their big talk and the series is claimed. 2-0, but I can admit I didn't expect this type of a victory!
A convincing one at that!
Kudos to my mate Matt, from Queensland, who told me the game would be all over by 3pm match time/South African time, and he was nearly spot on. He also informed me of this as I was stressing about Kallis and deVilliers' partnership...Kallis went out a few seconds after!
It is also Chuck Norris' birthday today apparently!
Folks, I will be enjoying a couple ice cold ones!
Jacques Kallis was looking like a hero out there. He was more aggressive in his batting and displayed some resemblance of his earlier days, and fell 7 short of a century. I will once again mention my many congrats on his achievement of 10 000 runs!
It didn't take long to see AB deVilliers fall soon after, but most importantly the key wicket of JP Duminy, which all but sealed the deal! That was a scorching delivery too! Morne Morkel batted pretty well this evening, and Mark Boucher assisted him in any glimpse of hope!
But Marcus North...that caught and bowled has made me forget about the drop catch of Jacques yesterday, because that catch to dismiss Mark Boucher was a thriller in the moment and that was the match!
I always get enjoyment watching any tail end bat, and was actually enjoyable seeing Makhaya Ntini smack a four, but I wanted a win, and a victorius win!
It was a win of competitiveness, of tenacity, of courage and more importantly, inexperience that has proven to be the key success factor of this victory!
The Ashes was lost in 2005 and we regained it winning 5-0! So it was fitting this was a reclaim. Despite some very poor fielding throughout the last two tests, the bowling has been excellent, and the batting has been drastically improved.
All the stand out players you now know!
Marcus North, the WA Skipper, scored a century in his first innings making 117 runs and chipping in with the ball!
Ben Hilfenhaus finally debuted and did a very supportive job to Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle! He picked up key wickets where it mattered and has put his hand up!
Peter Siddle, who I admit I also was involved in questioning his place, continued to be ambitious and fired each ball in with determination and made sure he carried on, even with a sore foot! He is a fast learner and from the WACA to Kingsmead, the improvement is quite something! VICTORIA'S confidence in him seems to be verified.
Mitchell Johnson has emerged not only with some new tricks with the ball (a mean inswinger) and extreme pace but also some fine batting! He edged short of what would have been a maiden century, and proved entertaining. He bowled with aggression, intensity and has worked hard. He deserves the rewards and I hope he can give it all at Newlands.
Andrew MacDonald has yet to prove anything with the bat but played a Nathan Bracken like role in keeping the economy rate low with his medium pacers, and pressuring the batsman to play him out. He proved to be a crucial contributor to the 1st innings downfall of this Test for the Proteas and a bit more confidence will set him up well with a very defined role!
Importantly one young bloke I will mention, you know who he is!
He became the youngest batsman to score two centuries in each innings and was man of the match!
That's Phillip Hughes! 20 years of age, and he has caught the attention of everyone out there! He was dismissed as a quick fix after his fourth ball duck in the opening match, but has struck out. Mickey Arthur was very quick to target him and publicly state they had found his weakness. Little did Mickey know it's not just technique to target. It's not feeding a guy what he feeds off! That is raw competitiveness. Hughes wants bowlers to attack him, come at him hard, make him work hard. The sledging seemed to just boost him! He really gives his shots total commitment and his power in launching those sixes gives signs for a bit of ODI recognition. His performances in the Ford Ranger cup aren't shabby!
75, 115 and 160 are the only run stats you will see behind his name at present.
Got to make you wonder, are the opponents that happy Matty Hayden is retired? Good on you Phillip! Hope you keep the competitive edge and don't be shy to give us some more tons in the not to distant future!
Having said all of that, the seniors have stepped up when needed.
Simon Katich made a century after failing at the Wanderers, and has taken quickly to partnering Hughes, the two of them both being cricketers for the same state and have batted together before! He also picked up 3 wickets in the last innings of the Proteas. Michael Hussey is in all sorts at the moment, but did get a half-century to give himself some confidence moving forward to Newlands. A bit strange after his rapid flow of runs in back to back ODI's!
Brad Haddin's wicketkeeping has had a few drops here and there, but did play a handful of innings' which contributed to the total where it mattered. Hope he gets a hit out at Newlands.
Ricky Ponting has handled the changes better.
He has some definite form with the willow, and has missed the chance to capitalise on a chance of tons in two innings, but has one more test to try.
It is important to note, which I will touch on depending how the Newlands test goes, he looks a more confident Captain. He seems more at ease with his side, prepared to move forward with his side, and a leaders confidence - as well as his individual efforts - should rub off onto his team mates! It is evident and this new generation of Baggy Green cricketers, are proving a good unit when synergy kicks in.
This can be a team Ponting can mould, and I think many of you would agree with me that he has a team build up to call his own.
How they prove to be down the line? I will eagerly wait!
But the players key performances and positives of a series win at long last against a strong opponent aside, there is still one more Test to focus on.
It will be a big one for AU and a chance for a whitewash!
Graeme Smith, who has another broken finger or two, will not take part in the next Test and he has become a big player for the Proteas and his performances seem to ignite moments of brilliance in his tean mates, so his absence could play a part.
Who do you think has stepped up for the Proteas thus far?
The team will see a change for the first time in a while. They will need alot of self motivation and a noted step up to win it. Their pace bowlers seem a bit exhausted too! Who will replace Smith? Ashwell Prince their dumped Vice-Captain?
The pace bowlers for AU will need a good rest for now, and I hope they come back refreshed and ready for the final kill! The top order have to continue their form, and the fielding has to be alot better, with much higher standards.
One Test still awaits us and I expect some standout performances from both sides.
That aside, everyone has played their part and there is still room for improvement moving forward, and that should be a very threatening sign for opponents!
And that is despite the outcome of the final test.
Have your say in the comments section!
And as always thanks to Marc (The SACS) and his input from his site too, but this time the round belongs to the Baggy Green.
As I said it's one more test to go, so let's see what's the outcome!
09 March 2009
DAY 4: THE TWIST & THE SLIP
Despite Phillip Hughes getting a brilliant 160 runs in his fourth innings, things have not gone well despite his efforts.
Patience would be the key from the bowlers, understandably the batsmen, but I will say, 'CATCHES WIN MATCHES!' More importantly when it is the big matches you can't slip up.
The fielding today was questionable, with some pathetic overthrows and a serious drop in momentum. But even worse was Marcus North's drop catch.
That moment has sealed the outcome in my opinion.
Despite his excellent batting at the Wanderers, I have commented a few times on his work in the slips but dropping Jacques Kallis on a duck!! That folks is a big moment, and Kallis has gone on to a half-century.
Just cast your mind back to Shane Warne dropping Kevin Pietersen in the 2005 Ashes in the slips! Peter Siddle had been working hard for that moment too,
There were a few over throws, bowlers bowling loose lines and The Proteas have hope now, be it a win or a draw.
I mentioned partnership develop would prove costly and it has. I am not making any predictions for the outcome of this Test, but if Aus don't win it, well I don't know!
It was there for the taking, and last chance is tomorrow.
Patience would be the key from the bowlers, understandably the batsmen, but I will say, 'CATCHES WIN MATCHES!' More importantly when it is the big matches you can't slip up.
The fielding today was questionable, with some pathetic overthrows and a serious drop in momentum. But even worse was Marcus North's drop catch.
That moment has sealed the outcome in my opinion.
Despite his excellent batting at the Wanderers, I have commented a few times on his work in the slips but dropping Jacques Kallis on a duck!! That folks is a big moment, and Kallis has gone on to a half-century.
Just cast your mind back to Shane Warne dropping Kevin Pietersen in the 2005 Ashes in the slips! Peter Siddle had been working hard for that moment too,
There were a few over throws, bowlers bowling loose lines and The Proteas have hope now, be it a win or a draw.
I mentioned partnership develop would prove costly and it has. I am not making any predictions for the outcome of this Test, but if Aus don't win it, well I don't know!
It was there for the taking, and last chance is tomorrow.
08 March 2009
WELCOME TO TEST CRICKET PHIL!
Phil Hughes was the talk before this series began. With Matthew Hayden recently retired and strolled along off into the sunset after a legendary career, a new day approached as Phil Hughes received the phone call he'd been dreaming of!
The young Bradman cricketer of the year award, and then a call up to no doubt receive a Baggy Green, what more could he want! After his duck in his first innings I think many people laughed and dismissed him as another attempted top order player and I don't think he imagined getting two centuries; in one innings, in his 2nd Test.
He's proven his worth at the elite level as he became the youngest player in the history of the game to make two centuries in one innings! One gets the impression that he may have won the game for Aussie, if our bowlers can then continue the great work they have done to take this series!
I was worried about JP Duminy finding a partner in Steyn or Ntini out there today, but luckily the prized find of Duminy, who now has an International cricker bounty upon himself with his impressive abilities out there, didn't get to face a ball as Peter Siddle wrapped up the innings in the first over of the morning in two consecutive balls. Bang, bang, all out for 138!
With the current situation for the Proteas, they will be looking for partnerships as it will be their only chance at staying in this match. So, if we keep knocking the odd guy down it will make their work too hard and ideally seal the match.
It's all about partnerships, and that is what JP needed out there.
In honesty he did deserve a ton, not to be.
Things got better! The Proteas pace bowlers didn't hit the deck like they did on Day 2, and Simon Katich and Phil Hughes got off to a solid start yet again. Simon managed 30, and that was really the only major jumping point for South African cricket supporters.
Ricky Ponting (81) joined young Hughes at the crease, with the lead already in a healthy state, but the two of them rounded up 164 runs in a partnership that just continued to frustrate and bog the opposition down. Punter played aggressively and had a rather quick fire session out there to ensure the top order made the lead a massive one, and an intimidating one for Smith's team. It is also important to note that Punter is now the second highest run scorer for Australian cricket as he passed Steve Waugh on the run listing's for Test cricket. Another tick to the CV!
But Phil Hughes has just been so superb out there and has gotten every one thinking, 'we got to see the end of Matthew Hayden...now we have this youngster to contend with'!
'Damn right', is what Phil Hughes is probably thinking in his mind.
He is on 136* runs, and 14 short of reaching 150 runs.
A natural born competitor, an exciting batsman to watch for his unique technique, and a confirmed run machine for NSW, Phil took the situation maturely and consistently, pacing his innings with moments of wild cut shots, powerful drives, and a couple more of those launched sixes to deep mid wicket's boundary, or just right down the ground!
His century was brought up in over 200 balls, and was a stamp on his place in Test cricket.
As I always say, there comes a form drop at some point, but for now it's excellent to have some competitiveness in this side again, and Phil and Mitchell Johnson have been the X factors, and Marcus North ignited the attitude for this series.
The effect is evident!
Michael Hussey had a small cameo on the back of a half century before Jacques Kallis took a pretty sharp slip catch, and then Michael Clarke came out looking to simply attack, and is 14*.
One observation is that the Proteas bowlers looked totally fried! They had a good rest before this series, but they really have looked rather worn out. I wonder if Dale Steyn will play in the T20 games after this?
But fatigue aside, looking at that lead...506 runs with 7 wickets in hand!
What a dominant position to be in.
The threats I see: Weather (although not looking probable for any issues), or a draw with some very patient batting. But it is a very difficult thing to do out there and with the mental and physical position, I don't like to speak to soon, it looks unlikely South Africa will take this one and it seems this series is there on a gold platter for the taking. If it goes that way, I will be ecstatic and it would be highly comforting seeing the Proteas defeated. I will have a few things to say if Aussie win it too!
I'm off now, and let's see when Punter's declaration choice comes on Day 4.
A 506 run lead is on the board, so maybe play up to a lead of 550, otherwise only other thing I can assume will be to see Phil Hughes get to 150 runs.
And then, it will be time for the kill and if conditions are good for the bowlers, it will be tough for the Proteas, but they have top class batsmen, so still a lot of cricket on the cards.
But Phil Hughes, brilliant batting mate!
The young Bradman cricketer of the year award, and then a call up to no doubt receive a Baggy Green, what more could he want! After his duck in his first innings I think many people laughed and dismissed him as another attempted top order player and I don't think he imagined getting two centuries; in one innings, in his 2nd Test.
He's proven his worth at the elite level as he became the youngest player in the history of the game to make two centuries in one innings! One gets the impression that he may have won the game for Aussie, if our bowlers can then continue the great work they have done to take this series!
I was worried about JP Duminy finding a partner in Steyn or Ntini out there today, but luckily the prized find of Duminy, who now has an International cricker bounty upon himself with his impressive abilities out there, didn't get to face a ball as Peter Siddle wrapped up the innings in the first over of the morning in two consecutive balls. Bang, bang, all out for 138!
With the current situation for the Proteas, they will be looking for partnerships as it will be their only chance at staying in this match. So, if we keep knocking the odd guy down it will make their work too hard and ideally seal the match.
It's all about partnerships, and that is what JP needed out there.
In honesty he did deserve a ton, not to be.
Things got better! The Proteas pace bowlers didn't hit the deck like they did on Day 2, and Simon Katich and Phil Hughes got off to a solid start yet again. Simon managed 30, and that was really the only major jumping point for South African cricket supporters.
Ricky Ponting (81) joined young Hughes at the crease, with the lead already in a healthy state, but the two of them rounded up 164 runs in a partnership that just continued to frustrate and bog the opposition down. Punter played aggressively and had a rather quick fire session out there to ensure the top order made the lead a massive one, and an intimidating one for Smith's team. It is also important to note that Punter is now the second highest run scorer for Australian cricket as he passed Steve Waugh on the run listing's for Test cricket. Another tick to the CV!
But Phil Hughes has just been so superb out there and has gotten every one thinking, 'we got to see the end of Matthew Hayden...now we have this youngster to contend with'!
'Damn right', is what Phil Hughes is probably thinking in his mind.
He is on 136* runs, and 14 short of reaching 150 runs.
A natural born competitor, an exciting batsman to watch for his unique technique, and a confirmed run machine for NSW, Phil took the situation maturely and consistently, pacing his innings with moments of wild cut shots, powerful drives, and a couple more of those launched sixes to deep mid wicket's boundary, or just right down the ground!
His century was brought up in over 200 balls, and was a stamp on his place in Test cricket.
As I always say, there comes a form drop at some point, but for now it's excellent to have some competitiveness in this side again, and Phil and Mitchell Johnson have been the X factors, and Marcus North ignited the attitude for this series.
The effect is evident!
Michael Hussey had a small cameo on the back of a half century before Jacques Kallis took a pretty sharp slip catch, and then Michael Clarke came out looking to simply attack, and is 14*.
One observation is that the Proteas bowlers looked totally fried! They had a good rest before this series, but they really have looked rather worn out. I wonder if Dale Steyn will play in the T20 games after this?
But fatigue aside, looking at that lead...506 runs with 7 wickets in hand!
What a dominant position to be in.
The threats I see: Weather (although not looking probable for any issues), or a draw with some very patient batting. But it is a very difficult thing to do out there and with the mental and physical position, I don't like to speak to soon, it looks unlikely South Africa will take this one and it seems this series is there on a gold platter for the taking. If it goes that way, I will be ecstatic and it would be highly comforting seeing the Proteas defeated. I will have a few things to say if Aussie win it too!
I'm off now, and let's see when Punter's declaration choice comes on Day 4.
A 506 run lead is on the board, so maybe play up to a lead of 550, otherwise only other thing I can assume will be to see Phil Hughes get to 150 runs.
And then, it will be time for the kill and if conditions are good for the bowlers, it will be tough for the Proteas, but they have top class batsmen, so still a lot of cricket on the cards.
But Phil Hughes, brilliant batting mate!
07 March 2009
DAY 2: EXTREME PACE MOULDS THE SITUATION!
The commentators didn't expect it, to be honest I did! The Kingsmead wicket will not, by tradition, be a batsman's paradise but always have a good contest between bat and ball, and with the wicket having a good knock in on Day 1, my initial feeling was that by day 3 it would be a tough wicket to bat on! Day 2 was freakish though and I couldn't get away from the tele!
My overnight strategy didn't go according to plan, no thanks to some erratic shots from the lower/middle order, but 352 was acceptable, but after the 184 run stand I can't say it was by any means impressive. The Proteas bowled impressively though, mostly Dale Steyn who was solid in his line variation and the signs of a changing wicket would be shown by no other than himself.
Didn't take long for Ntini and Steyn to wrap up our tail end for the first time. Was also hectic to see Huss lose his cool out there and seems he had a real go at Dale Steyn, but not being in Huss' character he was dismissed next over, maybe being a little to roughed up in his own character. Give him stick next time Huss! The fifty runs was needed for himself!
But the Proteas were in for a nasty, yet fantastic surprise!
Mitchell Johnson once again was the assassin up front! First over there was a wicket tally of WOW. Wicket (McKenzie), dot, Wicket (Amla).
Trouble for The Proteas, which wasn't helped when AB deVilliers was sent packing soon after and then Graeme Smith hit another bad luck patch. This time his right hand took a crunching 150km/h delivery from Mitchell and the result is that he in unlikely to continue. Captain Courageous is likely to pull off something I imagine that is quite drastic. Mitch has this inswinger now which he generates with pace, and it is now an extra addition in his tactics to his emerging career as an Aussie front line paceman! Short, fast and much better control! Control seems to be the major improvement!
JP Duminy gave the hope. He had a lifeline when he edged a delivery off Hilfy to first slip, but not for the first time Marcus North was standing too far back. So Duminy went on with some good stroke play to give his team a score worth commenting on. He still looks rattled with the short balls but did a decent job to get on top of a couple tough ones. Doesn't change the fact I am not a fan of his.
But Johnson aside (how about that yorker to Boucher!), Andrew MacDonald, who had been left stranded with the bat earlier, entered with the ball and struck gold! Another WOW combo was excellent and gave back some momentum!
I was just thinking before Punter brought him back in, that McDonald was the best option as Paul Harris was going nowhere, and is predominantly a back foot player. McDonald would force him onto the front foot, and well it didn't take long for his wickets to be punched. But then Jacques Kallis, who had taken a horrible one to the jaw (and has stitches now), came back out after being retired hurt. Apparently he is on 9 999 Test match runs FOR SOUTH AFRICA, as one game he played for the World XI goes down as a Test statistic which amounts his 10 000 runs.
However for Jacques he couldn't get that 1 run and was caught by a reflex by Punter. Morne Morkel wasn't around for long too.
The partnership I was worried about was the Steyn/Duminy combo! Out of all the tail enders, Dale Steyn works me up the most. I cannot tell you what it is exactly but it annoys the hell out of me!
But I will say this: He takes his risks and they pay off unnaturally, so maybe that's a part of it? He's the ideal guy you want to hang in with you as a middle order player.
All in all a great pull back for Aus, but in total honesty I am not happy with the entire package.
These end partnerships need to be closed off a lot quicker and I won't lie to you that I worry about Dale Steyn hanging around. If this partnership amounts to fifty I will be bloody annoyed and we need to snuff them out first thing tomorrow and importantly choke Duminy as soon as possible.
Top stuff from the bowlers though to create the opportunity before them with such a strong and imposing lead, but essential we don't fall into the trap of the MCG Test.
And these are the two blighter's were the ones who did, so let's wrap it up tomorrow, early and quickly!
My overnight strategy didn't go according to plan, no thanks to some erratic shots from the lower/middle order, but 352 was acceptable, but after the 184 run stand I can't say it was by any means impressive. The Proteas bowled impressively though, mostly Dale Steyn who was solid in his line variation and the signs of a changing wicket would be shown by no other than himself.
Didn't take long for Ntini and Steyn to wrap up our tail end for the first time. Was also hectic to see Huss lose his cool out there and seems he had a real go at Dale Steyn, but not being in Huss' character he was dismissed next over, maybe being a little to roughed up in his own character. Give him stick next time Huss! The fifty runs was needed for himself!
But the Proteas were in for a nasty, yet fantastic surprise!
Mitchell Johnson once again was the assassin up front! First over there was a wicket tally of WOW. Wicket (McKenzie), dot, Wicket (Amla).
Trouble for The Proteas, which wasn't helped when AB deVilliers was sent packing soon after and then Graeme Smith hit another bad luck patch. This time his right hand took a crunching 150km/h delivery from Mitchell and the result is that he in unlikely to continue. Captain Courageous is likely to pull off something I imagine that is quite drastic. Mitch has this inswinger now which he generates with pace, and it is now an extra addition in his tactics to his emerging career as an Aussie front line paceman! Short, fast and much better control! Control seems to be the major improvement!
JP Duminy gave the hope. He had a lifeline when he edged a delivery off Hilfy to first slip, but not for the first time Marcus North was standing too far back. So Duminy went on with some good stroke play to give his team a score worth commenting on. He still looks rattled with the short balls but did a decent job to get on top of a couple tough ones. Doesn't change the fact I am not a fan of his.
But Johnson aside (how about that yorker to Boucher!), Andrew MacDonald, who had been left stranded with the bat earlier, entered with the ball and struck gold! Another WOW combo was excellent and gave back some momentum!
I was just thinking before Punter brought him back in, that McDonald was the best option as Paul Harris was going nowhere, and is predominantly a back foot player. McDonald would force him onto the front foot, and well it didn't take long for his wickets to be punched. But then Jacques Kallis, who had taken a horrible one to the jaw (and has stitches now), came back out after being retired hurt. Apparently he is on 9 999 Test match runs FOR SOUTH AFRICA, as one game he played for the World XI goes down as a Test statistic which amounts his 10 000 runs.
However for Jacques he couldn't get that 1 run and was caught by a reflex by Punter. Morne Morkel wasn't around for long too.
The partnership I was worried about was the Steyn/Duminy combo! Out of all the tail enders, Dale Steyn works me up the most. I cannot tell you what it is exactly but it annoys the hell out of me!
But I will say this: He takes his risks and they pay off unnaturally, so maybe that's a part of it? He's the ideal guy you want to hang in with you as a middle order player.
All in all a great pull back for Aus, but in total honesty I am not happy with the entire package.
These end partnerships need to be closed off a lot quicker and I won't lie to you that I worry about Dale Steyn hanging around. If this partnership amounts to fifty I will be bloody annoyed and we need to snuff them out first thing tomorrow and importantly choke Duminy as soon as possible.
Top stuff from the bowlers though to create the opportunity before them with such a strong and imposing lead, but essential we don't fall into the trap of the MCG Test.
And these are the two blighter's were the ones who did, so let's wrap it up tomorrow, early and quickly!
06 March 2009
PHIL HUGHES & SIMON KATICH YOU BEAUTS!
At last an opening partnership worth remembering, and a good way to start this Test. Probably the first time since Simon and Phil Jaques' 200 run partnership against the West-Indies last year that we had such a dominant stand out there!
4/303 at the close of play? I am handing the day to us, despite a good session of play from The Proteas towards the end of of the day.
The best thing about Phil Hughes, besides his at times bizarre and extraordinary cricket strokes, is his focus, level headed coolness and competitive attitude. Mikey Arthur was pretty bold in his statements that they'd contain Hughes and Marcus North...bit of a backfire I think on his part as Phil played an entertaining opening stand to get his maiden century, in only his 3rd innings. To be honest I am not surprised. He pleaded the pace attack of Arthurs men to attack him, to come at him hard and aggressively as it was how he gets his competitive edge.
Simply, it's how he likes to play his game. So well done Phil on that achievement. The highlight of the innings is obvious. 2 sixes in a row blasted off Paul Harris to the deep mid on boundary to highlight an epic innings and bring up Phil's maiden century! Classy, and Phil won the battle, as I saw there was a bit of a verbal out there from Harris directed at him. He played some ferocious straight drives, powered cut shots and some clever crafting strokes to nudge the singles amongst his 19 fours and 2 sixes!
Simon Katich (108) didn't play one of his classier innings and escaped a fair deal of luck on his part, but still brought up another century, right after a poor start to the series and expectations upon him to make a ton. The opening stand 184 set the tone perfectly! The boundaries were in the running and I liked the way the guys went aggressively at the Proteas bowlers!
Ricky Ponting didn't set a good example out there, and lost his cool very quickly. Shocker for him, which was unnecessary and gave the Proteas the bit of ambition needed. Michael Clarke had a dud out there being bowled playing a forgettable forward defensive, and Michael Hussey had a referral go his way after a bit of an edgy start.
Good news though is we have ended the day on top. 4/303 is a very strong position to be in. Marcus North is out there on 17*, while Huss is on 37*.
My thoughts on day 2's passage of play? Well, I'd be looking to settle this partnership for the two WA boys, and try steer the total to 350 plus.
This leaves a passage of play to get the total close to 400 plus, ideally 450 again, which will put us in a position where we will be in a solid position for the bowlers to do their job with runs from their batsman to settle the confidence.
Brad Haddin and Andrew MacDonald, who has not yet stamped authority with the bat, as well as Mitchell Johnson are highly capable of making some runs to ensure we get those required 150 runs. That is how I'd be looking at the position, especially with Huss having some runs behind his name and some confidence.
So, 150 runs will be the run countdown in my mind as a target to work for, with the additional batsmen in tact, being 6 wickets.
If not...just get the damn score to 400 after that opening stand.
Top stuff from Phil and Simon, was a great start to this first Test. Let's make day 2 for the Baggy Green as well.
Oh yes referrals...resources still need better utilisation in my opinion.
4/303 at the close of play? I am handing the day to us, despite a good session of play from The Proteas towards the end of of the day.
The best thing about Phil Hughes, besides his at times bizarre and extraordinary cricket strokes, is his focus, level headed coolness and competitive attitude. Mikey Arthur was pretty bold in his statements that they'd contain Hughes and Marcus North...bit of a backfire I think on his part as Phil played an entertaining opening stand to get his maiden century, in only his 3rd innings. To be honest I am not surprised. He pleaded the pace attack of Arthurs men to attack him, to come at him hard and aggressively as it was how he gets his competitive edge.
Simply, it's how he likes to play his game. So well done Phil on that achievement. The highlight of the innings is obvious. 2 sixes in a row blasted off Paul Harris to the deep mid on boundary to highlight an epic innings and bring up Phil's maiden century! Classy, and Phil won the battle, as I saw there was a bit of a verbal out there from Harris directed at him. He played some ferocious straight drives, powered cut shots and some clever crafting strokes to nudge the singles amongst his 19 fours and 2 sixes!
Simon Katich (108) didn't play one of his classier innings and escaped a fair deal of luck on his part, but still brought up another century, right after a poor start to the series and expectations upon him to make a ton. The opening stand 184 set the tone perfectly! The boundaries were in the running and I liked the way the guys went aggressively at the Proteas bowlers!
Ricky Ponting didn't set a good example out there, and lost his cool very quickly. Shocker for him, which was unnecessary and gave the Proteas the bit of ambition needed. Michael Clarke had a dud out there being bowled playing a forgettable forward defensive, and Michael Hussey had a referral go his way after a bit of an edgy start.
Good news though is we have ended the day on top. 4/303 is a very strong position to be in. Marcus North is out there on 17*, while Huss is on 37*.
My thoughts on day 2's passage of play? Well, I'd be looking to settle this partnership for the two WA boys, and try steer the total to 350 plus.
This leaves a passage of play to get the total close to 400 plus, ideally 450 again, which will put us in a position where we will be in a solid position for the bowlers to do their job with runs from their batsman to settle the confidence.
Brad Haddin and Andrew MacDonald, who has not yet stamped authority with the bat, as well as Mitchell Johnson are highly capable of making some runs to ensure we get those required 150 runs. That is how I'd be looking at the position, especially with Huss having some runs behind his name and some confidence.
So, 150 runs will be the run countdown in my mind as a target to work for, with the additional batsmen in tact, being 6 wickets.
If not...just get the damn score to 400 after that opening stand.
Top stuff from Phil and Simon, was a great start to this first Test. Let's make day 2 for the Baggy Green as well.
Oh yes referrals...resources still need better utilisation in my opinion.
05 March 2009
A FEW LATE ADDITIONS
Just made a few changes to the site to increase the interaction and give you something different.
Firstly I have added a poll now, so feel free to have Your say on the poll. Starting off, I'd like to see what your gut instinct tells you about the 2nd Test's outcome!
Secondly at the end of each article, if you don't wish to post a comment, but liked the article, there is a 'tick box' you can click on to simply indicate to me that you enjoyed that particular article. Will give me an idea of what content you guys like to read about.
Otherwise time to relax my mind now, and looking forward to phase two of the battle between the Giants of International cricket.
2nd Test is on at Kingsmead Stadium, Durban. C'mon guys, make it 2-0 to The Baggy Green!
Firstly I have added a poll now, so feel free to have Your say on the poll. Starting off, I'd like to see what your gut instinct tells you about the 2nd Test's outcome!
Secondly at the end of each article, if you don't wish to post a comment, but liked the article, there is a 'tick box' you can click on to simply indicate to me that you enjoyed that particular article. Will give me an idea of what content you guys like to read about.
Otherwise time to relax my mind now, and looking forward to phase two of the battle between the Giants of International cricket.
2nd Test is on at Kingsmead Stadium, Durban. C'mon guys, make it 2-0 to The Baggy Green!
04 March 2009
STEVE MAGOFFIN TO FLY OFF TO SOUTH AFRICA!
Firstly, I just want to say how upset I am after the latest shock to the Cricket world, after Sri-Lanka's cricket team were attacked by a terrorist group yesterday. While it is the nature of their job, the security force members who were killed in the fire did so in protecting these players. On the same note, it is a relief the a few of the players only sustained injury and nothing fatal, but spare a thought for all the innocent involved in this mindless attack.
I don't know what consequences will be burdened upon Pakistan cricket by the ICC, but it is just another dent in their cricketing organisation. I am sure many respect Cricket Australia's decision to not tour Pakistan now. Even when The Proteas were there they had threats.
Cricket is an incredible game, and to see terror affecting it upsets me, and no doubt Pakistan cricket fans around the globe.
Glad the Sri-Lankan team can go and be back with their families.
Bad news to the Australian cricket team is that Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus have injury niggles. Siddle's foot has been aching and Hilfy is experiencing some lower back pain.
What the heck is happening to any player who performs well? Injuries are their own worst enemy now!
But, there is high possibility of both of them recovering before Friday's game commences in Durban. Would be another devastating blow to the new looking team, especially these two bowlers who performed so well out there along with their bowling attack mates.
But, good news is WA's Steve Magoffin will be flown over. A few months back I spoke about the possibility of his selection being a possibility.
He is at the 30 landmark, but as I say time and time again, Test cricket is about who can do the job, and along with Brett Geeves, they are solid performers with the red ball and I am relieved that the replacement is Steve. A tall bloke who can get the ball to smack into the wicket, Morne Morkel like posture if you want a comparison, only with alot more experience behind the stats bar!
Still hoping Siddle and Hilfy can pull through in time, but atleast a decent contingency plan is in place. Alot has to be executed well in this Test, and this team can do it once again!
I don't know what consequences will be burdened upon Pakistan cricket by the ICC, but it is just another dent in their cricketing organisation. I am sure many respect Cricket Australia's decision to not tour Pakistan now. Even when The Proteas were there they had threats.
Cricket is an incredible game, and to see terror affecting it upsets me, and no doubt Pakistan cricket fans around the globe.
Glad the Sri-Lankan team can go and be back with their families.
Bad news to the Australian cricket team is that Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus have injury niggles. Siddle's foot has been aching and Hilfy is experiencing some lower back pain.
What the heck is happening to any player who performs well? Injuries are their own worst enemy now!
But, there is high possibility of both of them recovering before Friday's game commences in Durban. Would be another devastating blow to the new looking team, especially these two bowlers who performed so well out there along with their bowling attack mates.
But, good news is WA's Steve Magoffin will be flown over. A few months back I spoke about the possibility of his selection being a possibility.
He is at the 30 landmark, but as I say time and time again, Test cricket is about who can do the job, and along with Brett Geeves, they are solid performers with the red ball and I am relieved that the replacement is Steve. A tall bloke who can get the ball to smack into the wicket, Morne Morkel like posture if you want a comparison, only with alot more experience behind the stats bar!
Still hoping Siddle and Hilfy can pull through in time, but atleast a decent contingency plan is in place. Alot has to be executed well in this Test, and this team can do it once again!
02 March 2009
DAY 5: FIRST BLOOD TO THE BAGGY GREEN!
In the legendary words of Frank Barone, 'Holy Crap!'
I made a statement last night for the punters to not back Aussie on a win, and I am sure many would have agreed with my off-gut instinct, and was probably a bit odd as in the past I have always been highly optomistic.
My sudden spurt lacking that seemed to backfire, and I am very pleased to have 'eaten my own words'. I can't believe the guys executed the victory to still restrict to Proteas to under 300 runs in their second innings!
Well, yesterday belonged to the Proteas, but day 5 went to us! I was worried with the way our bowlers performed yesterday. Inconsistent lengths, field errors, it just looked like the first two Tests from the last series, but finally they arrived to win. So damn good to see the game plan was executed well, more importantly that the guys looked like a team who wanted to win, and it looked like a different bowling attack today.
They simply gave nothing away. Excellent line and length, following through game plans and getting the result wanted. To go 1-0 up in this series in tremendous.
The Proteas have a knack of getting into the record books so I'm pretty pleased it didn't happen...again.
Hashim Amla (57) deserved his fifty, but I was so worried that he would play one of his monstrous innings. His wicket, initiated by Peter Siddle, was critical to the cause. The pace bowlers were well backed by Andrew 'Ginger Ninja' MacDonald, who definitely made up for his forgettable batting. He was so solid in that line that not one ball strayed down leg, but I was so impressed the way he makes the batsman play and constantly think, and that pace is never easy to score off. Think back to Shaun Pollock and Glen McGrath.
One of the biggest issues previously was not having 2 bowlers knuckling down at both ends and Peter Siddle deserves credit for his work. He didn't have a good start to his career, but he is finally peaking, and that spell to JP Duminy was a piece of strategic brilliance, and to get a bloke who really is a top run scorer sealed the deal.
Jaques Kallis deserved his 10 000th run in this Test series and bowled a very destructive spell on Day 4 to add to his all-rounder duties, but I feel his status as a senior was felt when he clipped the ball on the off stump, which was a defining moment for the days play.
Mark Boucher offered some resistance, but before tea was bowled by a Ben Hilfenhaus inswinger, and Ben really deserved his wickets, which were few, but he played a huge role in the end.
What a great way to end the match for Mitchell Johnson, who deserves his man of the match award entirely for that Match defining knock of 96 not out, and then 8 wickets for the game. How he keeps it together, I don't know. He is averaging over 50 overs per test, and with a performance like this, having never doubted Mitch, he is an impressive, defined Aussie cricketer now.
Probably pretty fried by now, so hope he gets a bit of a breather to just rebuild his energy levels...and maybe get some more runs!
Well done Mitch! The bowlers deserve a pat on the back. Inexperienced, questioned and hammered by the media, they have stuck to a game plan. The plans WILL NOT always work, but it is a start.
Marcus North debuted and brought up a maiden century to give himself a memorable start to a potential career and his experience shone through in that innings. Phil Hughes played a vital knock in the second innings, despite a flash of luck early on, and has 75 runs to his very young career and I hope he shows more gutsy opening stands, and sure he feels a little more relaxed. He also has a couple catches behind his name. Peter Siddle showed that ambitious intent I noted in the pre-series chirps, which was not present in India and the Perth test, but he showed better firepower out there and is living up to the Victorian praise.
Ben Hilfenhaus deserved his chance to debut, and deserves to hold his own.
As you saw he is a much better, suited player to the Test form of the game as opposed to ODI cricket, but he will have many more chances to make a better claim in this series.
So all in all, the younger inexperienced guys were the heroes for this Test.
Michael Hussey, Simon Katich and Michael Clarke have to now join them for a defined role of synergy to take effect.
Atleast Huss can lead the team song with a victory to have some contribution, but in Huss' defence he did repeatedly state for people not to overhype his immense flow of runs early on, and that a drought of runs can happen.
BUT the Proteas are wanting to fire back, they want to get back on top quickly and have the resources to do so. It will be a testing time for the Baggy Green representatives.
So, phase one complete, and a reasonably good start to it.
Plenty areas we could chirp about where to improve blah, blah, blah, but the newer looking outfit played damn well in the end to hold their composure and I'm just going to enjoy a winning start. But as I said, only phase one is complete, so how the next two are executed is the importance.
And the twists and turns, up's and down's never seize to amaze me with these two giant cricket teams!
Seeing the Proteas one down,well, it always makes me a very happy bloke.
Let's see how the next two go for us!
I made a statement last night for the punters to not back Aussie on a win, and I am sure many would have agreed with my off-gut instinct, and was probably a bit odd as in the past I have always been highly optomistic.
My sudden spurt lacking that seemed to backfire, and I am very pleased to have 'eaten my own words'. I can't believe the guys executed the victory to still restrict to Proteas to under 300 runs in their second innings!
Well, yesterday belonged to the Proteas, but day 5 went to us! I was worried with the way our bowlers performed yesterday. Inconsistent lengths, field errors, it just looked like the first two Tests from the last series, but finally they arrived to win. So damn good to see the game plan was executed well, more importantly that the guys looked like a team who wanted to win, and it looked like a different bowling attack today.
They simply gave nothing away. Excellent line and length, following through game plans and getting the result wanted. To go 1-0 up in this series in tremendous.
The Proteas have a knack of getting into the record books so I'm pretty pleased it didn't happen...again.
Hashim Amla (57) deserved his fifty, but I was so worried that he would play one of his monstrous innings. His wicket, initiated by Peter Siddle, was critical to the cause. The pace bowlers were well backed by Andrew 'Ginger Ninja' MacDonald, who definitely made up for his forgettable batting. He was so solid in that line that not one ball strayed down leg, but I was so impressed the way he makes the batsman play and constantly think, and that pace is never easy to score off. Think back to Shaun Pollock and Glen McGrath.
One of the biggest issues previously was not having 2 bowlers knuckling down at both ends and Peter Siddle deserves credit for his work. He didn't have a good start to his career, but he is finally peaking, and that spell to JP Duminy was a piece of strategic brilliance, and to get a bloke who really is a top run scorer sealed the deal.
Jaques Kallis deserved his 10 000th run in this Test series and bowled a very destructive spell on Day 4 to add to his all-rounder duties, but I feel his status as a senior was felt when he clipped the ball on the off stump, which was a defining moment for the days play.
Mark Boucher offered some resistance, but before tea was bowled by a Ben Hilfenhaus inswinger, and Ben really deserved his wickets, which were few, but he played a huge role in the end.
What a great way to end the match for Mitchell Johnson, who deserves his man of the match award entirely for that Match defining knock of 96 not out, and then 8 wickets for the game. How he keeps it together, I don't know. He is averaging over 50 overs per test, and with a performance like this, having never doubted Mitch, he is an impressive, defined Aussie cricketer now.
Probably pretty fried by now, so hope he gets a bit of a breather to just rebuild his energy levels...and maybe get some more runs!
Well done Mitch! The bowlers deserve a pat on the back. Inexperienced, questioned and hammered by the media, they have stuck to a game plan. The plans WILL NOT always work, but it is a start.
Marcus North debuted and brought up a maiden century to give himself a memorable start to a potential career and his experience shone through in that innings. Phil Hughes played a vital knock in the second innings, despite a flash of luck early on, and has 75 runs to his very young career and I hope he shows more gutsy opening stands, and sure he feels a little more relaxed. He also has a couple catches behind his name. Peter Siddle showed that ambitious intent I noted in the pre-series chirps, which was not present in India and the Perth test, but he showed better firepower out there and is living up to the Victorian praise.
Ben Hilfenhaus deserved his chance to debut, and deserves to hold his own.
As you saw he is a much better, suited player to the Test form of the game as opposed to ODI cricket, but he will have many more chances to make a better claim in this series.
So all in all, the younger inexperienced guys were the heroes for this Test.
Michael Hussey, Simon Katich and Michael Clarke have to now join them for a defined role of synergy to take effect.
Atleast Huss can lead the team song with a victory to have some contribution, but in Huss' defence he did repeatedly state for people not to overhype his immense flow of runs early on, and that a drought of runs can happen.
BUT the Proteas are wanting to fire back, they want to get back on top quickly and have the resources to do so. It will be a testing time for the Baggy Green representatives.
So, phase one complete, and a reasonably good start to it.
Plenty areas we could chirp about where to improve blah, blah, blah, but the newer looking outfit played damn well in the end to hold their composure and I'm just going to enjoy a winning start. But as I said, only phase one is complete, so how the next two are executed is the importance.
And the twists and turns, up's and down's never seize to amaze me with these two giant cricket teams!
Seeing the Proteas one down,well, it always makes me a very happy bloke.
Let's see how the next two go for us!
01 March 2009
DAY 4: AT LAST, THE TWIST OF THE MATCH
I was waiting for it, and as expected it happened. The twist in the Test has happened.
What a pathetic batting display from the guys today though! It leaked the confidence! Yeah, a few of you guys said it in the comments of the last post.
I was upset Phil Hughes (75) didn't go on to get a ton on debut, but he recovered well after the rough start he had yesterday, and the duck four balls into the first day.
Phil played some cracking strokes wide of off, but ended up watching a number of his senior colleagues tumble and fall.
Ricky Ponting added 24 to his over night score before pulling a ball of Jaques Kallis to Hashim Amla in the deep, and then Michael Hussey messed up again. Like Simon Katich he has had a forgettable Test match and has a lot to work on, which surprises me because before coming here he found some well grounded form. So much for it for this one. Michael Clarke didn't hang around long too being caught for a duck too. Oddly I expected it. Was just a vibe I picked up.
99 runs, 4 wickets down. Can't say it got better! The others didn't bring anything to the scorecard of value.
It took some effort from Brad Haddin (37) to give some hope to the total. He played one of those trademark lofted drives for six, but that was it. His innings was valuable, but how good was Peter Siddle! He stood up to the bullying from Dale Steyn, and really gave it his best, along with Ben Hilfenhaus to steer the lead to 454. That being the total for South Africa to chase down to win the first Test.
I enjoyed Siddle hitting Makhaya Ntini for a good looking six, but I didn't expect Ben Hilfenhaus to hang about much longer. Still proved to be valuable runs from the tail...again.
I was unimpressed with the bowling efforts from Aus. I thought the game plan started to look predictable, a bit of poor discipline from the young pace attack crept in and I am seeing signs like that of Perth. A lack of threat and aggression with the game plan.
But, Graeme Smith is out, and Neil McKenzie, thank goodness, went out before making a fifty. But that opening partnership set a tone. Hashim Amla is batting really well, but unfortunately at a time I do not want to see him batting with perfect stroke play.
There has been a bit of poor discipline in the field, being miss fields, overthrows, poor ground work, all little observations that contribute to an all-round performance.
Ben Hilfenhaus was my pick of the bowlers, and if they can follow his lead of consistent length with the odd surprise tactic, the lethal blow could come!
2/178, with Kallis and Amla out there?
I can't believe I am saying this but I think the Proteas are going to win.
If Aussie can not bring anything to the ground tomorrow morning to ensure a good session of play, South Africa will get the runs and once again it will be a very humiliating and embarrassing display. I don't want any momentum for the South African's, and I don't want them to win a single match. But tomorrow will be one hell of a battle and it will be interesting to see the result, because my gut instinct isn't giving me the good sign's to write optimistically.
But a lot of cricket to play tomorrow, but as long as the bowlers do the job by showing discipline, fielding well, and acting like they want to win, it should be enough to win.
But with the body language I pick up sometimes and intensity, or lack of, I am just not going to be ranting away too soon.
276 to win, 8 wickets in hand...it is a big task for the South African batsmen, but at the same time they have the resources and time to do it. As for Ricky and company, heck, all I can hope is that the bowlers and fielders arrive to win and do exactly that.
I hope I eat my words with my prediction...
What a pathetic batting display from the guys today though! It leaked the confidence! Yeah, a few of you guys said it in the comments of the last post.
I was upset Phil Hughes (75) didn't go on to get a ton on debut, but he recovered well after the rough start he had yesterday, and the duck four balls into the first day.
Phil played some cracking strokes wide of off, but ended up watching a number of his senior colleagues tumble and fall.
Ricky Ponting added 24 to his over night score before pulling a ball of Jaques Kallis to Hashim Amla in the deep, and then Michael Hussey messed up again. Like Simon Katich he has had a forgettable Test match and has a lot to work on, which surprises me because before coming here he found some well grounded form. So much for it for this one. Michael Clarke didn't hang around long too being caught for a duck too. Oddly I expected it. Was just a vibe I picked up.
99 runs, 4 wickets down. Can't say it got better! The others didn't bring anything to the scorecard of value.
It took some effort from Brad Haddin (37) to give some hope to the total. He played one of those trademark lofted drives for six, but that was it. His innings was valuable, but how good was Peter Siddle! He stood up to the bullying from Dale Steyn, and really gave it his best, along with Ben Hilfenhaus to steer the lead to 454. That being the total for South Africa to chase down to win the first Test.
I enjoyed Siddle hitting Makhaya Ntini for a good looking six, but I didn't expect Ben Hilfenhaus to hang about much longer. Still proved to be valuable runs from the tail...again.
I was unimpressed with the bowling efforts from Aus. I thought the game plan started to look predictable, a bit of poor discipline from the young pace attack crept in and I am seeing signs like that of Perth. A lack of threat and aggression with the game plan.
But, Graeme Smith is out, and Neil McKenzie, thank goodness, went out before making a fifty. But that opening partnership set a tone. Hashim Amla is batting really well, but unfortunately at a time I do not want to see him batting with perfect stroke play.
There has been a bit of poor discipline in the field, being miss fields, overthrows, poor ground work, all little observations that contribute to an all-round performance.
Ben Hilfenhaus was my pick of the bowlers, and if they can follow his lead of consistent length with the odd surprise tactic, the lethal blow could come!
2/178, with Kallis and Amla out there?
I can't believe I am saying this but I think the Proteas are going to win.
If Aussie can not bring anything to the ground tomorrow morning to ensure a good session of play, South Africa will get the runs and once again it will be a very humiliating and embarrassing display. I don't want any momentum for the South African's, and I don't want them to win a single match. But tomorrow will be one hell of a battle and it will be interesting to see the result, because my gut instinct isn't giving me the good sign's to write optimistically.
But a lot of cricket to play tomorrow, but as long as the bowlers do the job by showing discipline, fielding well, and acting like they want to win, it should be enough to win.
But with the body language I pick up sometimes and intensity, or lack of, I am just not going to be ranting away too soon.
276 to win, 8 wickets in hand...it is a big task for the South African batsmen, but at the same time they have the resources and time to do it. As for Ricky and company, heck, all I can hope is that the bowlers and fielders arrive to win and do exactly that.
I hope I eat my words with my prediction...
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