Shane Watson's 'risky' push up to the top of order in his readmission into the Test team, after countless injuries have burdened his career, has paid of thus far, and the all-rounder who has stepped in for Phillip Hughes is unbeaten on 62*.
Little doubt in my mind that Watto is edging to get back out on the Edgebaston grounds and have a further dig into the English attack!
The late commencement of play, after a very bogged outfield caused delays, was finally given the green light and what a cracking start on a 30 over restricted 1st day of play.
It is what Australia needed having lost valuable time as the Baggy Green plot and plan the ways to level the playing fields 1-1.
Phillip Hughes was left out for Watto, which many may pin point at Phillip's technical flaws well exposed to the shorter rib cage bowling from England's quicks (notably Flintoff), but it could also be the factor of taking in another bowler who gives the strong skill as a batsman. With Mitchell Johnson struggling a bit out there (in comparison to his major achievements in recent months) and carrying the all-rounder tag, Watto's inclusion would make sense in this regard to stock the bowling, while bringing in an important X factor with the bat. It does give Marcus North another great chance too make some runs, and a chance to maybe toss a ball or two alongside Nathan Hauritz! But would mean that Phillip is the likely candidate to luck out in making way for Watto.
Further upsetting news was Brad Haddin reportedly breaking a finger after the toss. Now, this has its ironic attachments.
In 2005 Glen McGrath twisted his ankle on a cricket ball, prompted in trying to catch a footy after Brad flung Pigeon a rather wayward pass. Now, at the same ground, same Test series, Had's has found himself in a similar situation. So it's a massive blow, but the exciting news from a Baggy Green perspective is that Graham Manou, the South Aussie Keeper, has got his moment in the most unexpected circumstances. He is making his debut and is the 411th player to represent the Baggy Green!
A proud moment for Graham, and I know he can handle the situation well.
Wear your Baggy Green with pride! What a series to debut!
Atleast we are batting so it's not as a big a shock to adjust. Still, really upsetting for Hads!
Ricky Ponting is unbeaten on 17*, and is 8 runs shy of becoming the highest Test run-scorer for Australia. Allan Border holds the record that has been standing since 1994! AB set the tone for years to come in Australian cricket, and is a man I have boundless respect for, followed by Steve 'Tugga' Waugh. Punter is a fine cricketer, has had his flops in recent times, but the record is epic and I hope to be watching when that record is achieved. I saw his Test debut, saw his Maiden Test ton, watched that memorable 100th Test where he scored back to back centuries against the Proteas, and then saw him reach the 10 000 run landmark against the Windies last year.
I hope to see the next milestone!
Both Watto and Punter played very assertively, and showed no lack of confidence pushing Graeme Swann to the leg-side, or punishing any short pitched balls from England's speedsters. The pull shots were on display, and the running was alert and very quick to keep the board ticking over.
After all his injury hassles and a below average return to Test cricket in India, Watto has worked his way back into plans with his ODI cricket. He has become our opening batsman, and in the UAE he was doing nothing other than making up for lost time. A second century to his ODI career, and for a guy who has been tossed in and out of cricket over the last few years, he has shown respectable maturity in his approach and how he has managed himself. His patience in the middle was admirable too, but still manages to keep the runs out a drought.
Now while I do want Phillip Hughes back in our future plans as soon as possible, and would liked him to have been playing in this game, I am personally thrilled at Watto's return, and for the sake of the Ashes and his career, to see him keep the focus and continue his cricket in this style is going to push our chances. Great start to his Ashes series!
Watto created spectacular momentum with Simon Katich and they really did Baggy Green supporter's proud under rather unusual circumstances.
Katto was playing equally well, with cracking power to the off-side and showed his desire to impose himself upon the varying length. The LBW, falling to Swann's first over, was a major upset as Katto continues to impress at the top of the order. Similar to Brad Haddin there have been quite a few 40's behind his name since his return to Test cricket against the Windies, where Hads made his debut in Test cricket.
The LBW was plumb, and after the 80 run stand, Punter and Watto have steadily kept things ticking. Under these circumstances of losing valuable time, the run-rate was a big positive moving into Day 2.
62 for Watto, and looking fit for a big-one (who said the warm-up's mean nothing?) and Punter pushes closer to the milestone. Although to be honest it'll be great when that is all done so he can get on past it, and focus on the job at hand, which is to get runs on the board, and win this Test!
Winning the toss was crucial, and with the bad luck of Brett Lee early on, now Brad Haddin's dilemna, followed by Phillip Hughes' sidelining and Stuart Clark's lack of presence, some luck with the weather and the actual game at hand would be more than appreciated by all means!
Atleast we have plenty options for Test cricketer's again, now the Baggy Green just need to claim this series.
The ODI's are another headache to nurse in a few weeks time.
A sigh of relief with Watto going strongly, but for a bloke who hasn't batted higher than no.6 in Test cricket, it is encouraging to see this for Australian cricket.
The Queensland efforts over the season may be indirectly pushing his case for willingness to pursue the challenges at any level. Inspiring stuff but plenty more work ahead, for everyone!
Day 2, another day of Ashes cricket, another day of exciting unknowns!
As for the 'twitter' incident with Phillip Hughes, it's nothing big, just the media having a dig at it. Sure, it shouldn't have gone out until team announcement, but it's a minor incident, no need to read into it. Pathetic it's been made so major, although the Haddin/Manou incident overshadowed it in the end.
Done and dusted, let's pick up the Ashes now!
30 July 2009
29 July 2009
HISTORY AND CHANGE EXCITE THE 3rd TEST
In 2005 one of the greatest Ashes Test matches, possibly one of the Greatest Test Matches, took place down in a place called Birmingham, on the grounds of Edgebaston.
The final day approaches with England needing just 2 wickets for victory, Australia still needing a few more than a hundred runs for victory.
As the battle commenced, and the fans both at the game and at home sat glued to the action and the likely prospect of a quick English victory, the game took a surprising turn.
Slowly English fans slipped further to edge of their seats, biting their nails, feet nervously tapping about and putting the flow of bitter beer on hold as Australia stalked upon what was looking like an incredible victory, scripted by the Australian cricket Gods.
Brett Lee and Michael Kasprowicz (who was stepping in for an injured Glen McGrath after rolling his ankle over a cricket ball at practice, as he attempted to catch a Rugby League ball after a 'poor pass' by Brad Haddin while tossing it on the field) started to build overwhelming momentum, and a surreal stage for Australian supporters as victory came closer, and closer. 2 runs needed and the short-ball became the moment killer, as Kasprowicz took one on the glove, flying up and caught.
So close, but what a game, what a Test match!
Now we stand 1-0 down in the Ashes series of 2009, with three Tests left, the third resuming tomorrow at the grounds of that 2005 match!
With the excitement of that Historical game in the minds of many supporters, it would have been an even better occassion for Brett Lee to rejoin the playing team, after he was left at the non-striker's end to witness the final wicket in 2005, which now indicates as a defining chance for England's Ashes heroics. Sadly, the script is once again not in the Australian cricketer's favour!
It has been an interesting period of time on and away from the field since the 2nd Test at Lord's,
The Baggy Green had a tour match against the Northants, which many may say don't read into too much, but how important was it that Stuart Clark, Shane Watson and even current stugglers Phillip Hughes,Mitchell Johnson and even Marcus North (with the all-rounder battles), were all given a chance? It was essential as the team and supporters regroup and ponder through the options and possible ways to rip back momentum and take the win.
Mitchell Johnson and Phillip Hughes are experiencing Cricket's ugly head, and have been far from their best and most convincing, however the call's for these guys to be dropped is far from a logical thought process.
Dropped would mean that these two players must fall away from any immediate and possible future plans for Australia. However being given a break, as Allan Border suggested for Mitchell Johnson's scenario, is a wiser choice, as it just gives the player/s a chance to refocus, get mentally in tact and be ready to once again take the ball in hand, or the bat and set their game alive once again. I have little doubts regarding the selected Australian's and am very confident in both of these two young cricketer's stamping their authority on the game.
But, it may be a wait for Mitchell Johnson, with the pending decision to play Shane Watson and Stuart Clark, with Andrew McDonald well in-line too.
Stuart Clark is an important figure for this team, as the bowling attack need the experience and composure he brings into the bowling squad. Ben Hilfenhaus and Peter Siddle, look towards Mitch as their strike bowler and leader of the pack after his performances in Australia and South Africa in recent times, but when the leaders isn't firing, the inexperienced can often be left on their own. Which is not a bad thing as this can lead to a natural game development, or a chance to discover the true Test of International cricket, but in a series like the Ashes, the leadership, experience and mentorship is essential.
Shane Watson, far off from Johnson's pace, cuts his way in line as an all-rounder. He can bowl economically and can bat with patience or turn on the after-burner and blaze his way through all bowlers on the cricketing circuit. His Test record offer's little credibility, but any cricketer will see it as an opportunity too boost their cause.
What I like about Watto and Clark is that they are their to win, they have experienced the high's and low's in big series' to impose their authority and get stuck in the game, the Australian way.
It will be an interesting call for the Selectors to make, and one both Australian and English supporters will be watching eagerly.
The fact James Anderson and Ravi Bopara have mentioned their opinions on Mitchell's case makes an interesting point regarding his achievements. Then again would playing Mitch again, and England making him an easy target be apart of these statements?
Would leaving Mitch out of the next game affect his confidence too, or would it be even more destructive if he were to play and things continued as they are now?
On this note, the major area Mitchell needs to improve on is quite simply his accuracy. If he can stop spraying the ball too all areas of the wicket, and prevent Brad Haddin's overly animated (yet needed) acrobatics behind the stumps, it will boost his cause.
That dismissal of Matt Priors, where he cut the ball back beautifully into the right hander would indicate that if Mitch can find his form, and control his delivery options, all this hype and drama will be quickly ironed out.
We have been very generous in donating extra's to England too.
Ricky Ponting has given possible indication for the inclusion of Nathan Hauritz. Nathan's bowling has been alot more aggressive and at times 'teasing', which is a positive step away from his usual defensive tactics. Maybe Nathan feels like he belongs in the squad. And any guy whose finger gets dislocated, and returns to the field to continue bowling (and pick up 2 wickets) deserves the respect and acknowledgement from the supporters. While the media makes nothing of this, I think it was showing Nathan's toughness to be out their representing the Baggy Green!
The positive indication by Ricky Ponting at Nathan's inclusion, makes the standings for spots in the starting XI even more daunting for all the players concerned!
The conditions will be playing a big role in thinning out the potentials into the chosen, and suggestions are that it will not favour Nathan.
It is just another contributing factor to the mystery regarding tomorrow's game, and what changes we may or may not see will be revealed soon enough.
It is an exciting time for Ricky too, as he is only 25 runs short of becoming Australian cricket's leading Test run scorer, as he currently sits behind Allan Border's 11,174.
Michael Hussey's batting has started to show better sign's of the Huss the cricket world knows and respects, and a possible reason for this change in Huss' game has been the correction of a technical error, which was causing a 'blind spot' when facing up to the bowlers. The middle order strength, boosted by a century by Michael Clarke at Lord's (a flashy one at that!), looks better than England's stocks, but the partnership of Cook and Strauss is overwhelming Simon Katich and Phillip Hughes' efforts in the Ashes thus far. So some good rivalry and matching up going on too!
England have Ian Bell coming into the side in place of Kevin Pietersen. Now Bell hasn't had the greatest track record recently, but around this time last year he plowed out 199 runs against the Proteas, and he is a potential batsmen to keep England's middle order together. Shane Warne's taunts at Bell could only do so much, right?
Michael Clarke has been doing alot correct lately, and himself and Simon Katich have some very dissapointing memories of that 2nd innings at Edgebaston in 2005, and I think Pup stated it to the point, what it means to wear that Baggy Green and why each guy is in this team; We play this game for one reason: to win. We love the game we play, we'll be out there on Thursday backing ourselves 100% to win this game."
The Flintoff factor was massive back in 2005, and will the Freddy Factor follow us from Lord's too Edgebaston?
Very interesting and exciting times for the Ashes, but whether the weather gives us enough action to see, it is seeming a bit of a gloomy situation at the moment!
The final day approaches with England needing just 2 wickets for victory, Australia still needing a few more than a hundred runs for victory.
As the battle commenced, and the fans both at the game and at home sat glued to the action and the likely prospect of a quick English victory, the game took a surprising turn.
Slowly English fans slipped further to edge of their seats, biting their nails, feet nervously tapping about and putting the flow of bitter beer on hold as Australia stalked upon what was looking like an incredible victory, scripted by the Australian cricket Gods.
Brett Lee and Michael Kasprowicz (who was stepping in for an injured Glen McGrath after rolling his ankle over a cricket ball at practice, as he attempted to catch a Rugby League ball after a 'poor pass' by Brad Haddin while tossing it on the field) started to build overwhelming momentum, and a surreal stage for Australian supporters as victory came closer, and closer. 2 runs needed and the short-ball became the moment killer, as Kasprowicz took one on the glove, flying up and caught.
So close, but what a game, what a Test match!
Now we stand 1-0 down in the Ashes series of 2009, with three Tests left, the third resuming tomorrow at the grounds of that 2005 match!
With the excitement of that Historical game in the minds of many supporters, it would have been an even better occassion for Brett Lee to rejoin the playing team, after he was left at the non-striker's end to witness the final wicket in 2005, which now indicates as a defining chance for England's Ashes heroics. Sadly, the script is once again not in the Australian cricketer's favour!
It has been an interesting period of time on and away from the field since the 2nd Test at Lord's,
The Baggy Green had a tour match against the Northants, which many may say don't read into too much, but how important was it that Stuart Clark, Shane Watson and even current stugglers Phillip Hughes,Mitchell Johnson and even Marcus North (with the all-rounder battles), were all given a chance? It was essential as the team and supporters regroup and ponder through the options and possible ways to rip back momentum and take the win.
Mitchell Johnson and Phillip Hughes are experiencing Cricket's ugly head, and have been far from their best and most convincing, however the call's for these guys to be dropped is far from a logical thought process.
Dropped would mean that these two players must fall away from any immediate and possible future plans for Australia. However being given a break, as Allan Border suggested for Mitchell Johnson's scenario, is a wiser choice, as it just gives the player/s a chance to refocus, get mentally in tact and be ready to once again take the ball in hand, or the bat and set their game alive once again. I have little doubts regarding the selected Australian's and am very confident in both of these two young cricketer's stamping their authority on the game.
But, it may be a wait for Mitchell Johnson, with the pending decision to play Shane Watson and Stuart Clark, with Andrew McDonald well in-line too.
Stuart Clark is an important figure for this team, as the bowling attack need the experience and composure he brings into the bowling squad. Ben Hilfenhaus and Peter Siddle, look towards Mitch as their strike bowler and leader of the pack after his performances in Australia and South Africa in recent times, but when the leaders isn't firing, the inexperienced can often be left on their own. Which is not a bad thing as this can lead to a natural game development, or a chance to discover the true Test of International cricket, but in a series like the Ashes, the leadership, experience and mentorship is essential.
Shane Watson, far off from Johnson's pace, cuts his way in line as an all-rounder. He can bowl economically and can bat with patience or turn on the after-burner and blaze his way through all bowlers on the cricketing circuit. His Test record offer's little credibility, but any cricketer will see it as an opportunity too boost their cause.
What I like about Watto and Clark is that they are their to win, they have experienced the high's and low's in big series' to impose their authority and get stuck in the game, the Australian way.
It will be an interesting call for the Selectors to make, and one both Australian and English supporters will be watching eagerly.
The fact James Anderson and Ravi Bopara have mentioned their opinions on Mitchell's case makes an interesting point regarding his achievements. Then again would playing Mitch again, and England making him an easy target be apart of these statements?
Would leaving Mitch out of the next game affect his confidence too, or would it be even more destructive if he were to play and things continued as they are now?
On this note, the major area Mitchell needs to improve on is quite simply his accuracy. If he can stop spraying the ball too all areas of the wicket, and prevent Brad Haddin's overly animated (yet needed) acrobatics behind the stumps, it will boost his cause.
That dismissal of Matt Priors, where he cut the ball back beautifully into the right hander would indicate that if Mitch can find his form, and control his delivery options, all this hype and drama will be quickly ironed out.
We have been very generous in donating extra's to England too.
Ricky Ponting has given possible indication for the inclusion of Nathan Hauritz. Nathan's bowling has been alot more aggressive and at times 'teasing', which is a positive step away from his usual defensive tactics. Maybe Nathan feels like he belongs in the squad. And any guy whose finger gets dislocated, and returns to the field to continue bowling (and pick up 2 wickets) deserves the respect and acknowledgement from the supporters. While the media makes nothing of this, I think it was showing Nathan's toughness to be out their representing the Baggy Green!
The positive indication by Ricky Ponting at Nathan's inclusion, makes the standings for spots in the starting XI even more daunting for all the players concerned!
The conditions will be playing a big role in thinning out the potentials into the chosen, and suggestions are that it will not favour Nathan.
It is just another contributing factor to the mystery regarding tomorrow's game, and what changes we may or may not see will be revealed soon enough.
It is an exciting time for Ricky too, as he is only 25 runs short of becoming Australian cricket's leading Test run scorer, as he currently sits behind Allan Border's 11,174.
Michael Hussey's batting has started to show better sign's of the Huss the cricket world knows and respects, and a possible reason for this change in Huss' game has been the correction of a technical error, which was causing a 'blind spot' when facing up to the bowlers. The middle order strength, boosted by a century by Michael Clarke at Lord's (a flashy one at that!), looks better than England's stocks, but the partnership of Cook and Strauss is overwhelming Simon Katich and Phillip Hughes' efforts in the Ashes thus far. So some good rivalry and matching up going on too!
England have Ian Bell coming into the side in place of Kevin Pietersen. Now Bell hasn't had the greatest track record recently, but around this time last year he plowed out 199 runs against the Proteas, and he is a potential batsmen to keep England's middle order together. Shane Warne's taunts at Bell could only do so much, right?
Michael Clarke has been doing alot correct lately, and himself and Simon Katich have some very dissapointing memories of that 2nd innings at Edgebaston in 2005, and I think Pup stated it to the point, what it means to wear that Baggy Green and why each guy is in this team; We play this game for one reason: to win. We love the game we play, we'll be out there on Thursday backing ourselves 100% to win this game."
The Flintoff factor was massive back in 2005, and will the Freddy Factor follow us from Lord's too Edgebaston?
Very interesting and exciting times for the Ashes, but whether the weather gives us enough action to see, it is seeming a bit of a gloomy situation at the moment!
26 July 2009
CHANGES ARE SEEMING INEVITABLE!
It is quite an exciting and frustrating time for Australian supporters.
In South Africa we saw Mitchell Johnson bowl with venom, ferocious fast bowling, that tipped him for some great things. His batting was on the ascendancy (his last Test innings proves this), and he added to his stature with a maiden Test century! He broke fingers, smashed helmets, tucked it into the oppositions rib cage, and rarely found his speed under 145km/h.
Phillip Hughes made a fairytale like entrance into test cricket with a fourth-ball duck, followed by a streaky 75. This fuelled a competitive ambition after a nightmare start, but in Durban he scored back to back centuries! He showed no fear in the 'nervous nineties', and very few will forget the two sixes, slog swept too the deepest boundaries of Kingsmead. Our opening void had been filled in two Test matches.
Sadly, like Mitch, he has found his time in England an unpleasant one at the crease so far, where Mitch has lacked all his attributes that have enabled him to become such a hero for Australian cricket.
For some reason though I haven't been too worried by Phillip Hughes' performances. Perhaps currently being 65*, along with Andrew McDonald who has made 75, is the break he needed? Think back to that fourth ball duck. It was in an instance that people were laughing at Phillip, critically analysing his un-orthodox technique, and Matthew Hayden's name was being missed already from the top two. That followed an scratchy, yet worthy 75 in his second innings at the Wanderers.
What did this one innings do? It gave Phillip enormous confidence and the small bloke powered his way with determination and aggression to reach his maiden Test century!
Now think back to a period in his career that wasn't too long ago.
The Middlesex stint was another eye-opening time. Phillip blazed through various English bowling attacks, and in 6-weeks rounded off his time in the County circuit as the leading run-scorer in his division with a statistically fascinating average.
England were starting to worry! But what has happened?
Phillip has had a rough time with the short ball, he has seemed extremely tense and rattled at the crease with quite a bit, in terms of luck, not going his way.
But I believe cricket has a pattern with momentum and luck can play a big part!
New South Wales, success; 1st Test against the Proteas, concerning and unconvincing (including 75); 2nd Test, two centuries and a man-of-the-match award; Middlesex stint, terrific and convincing to many; Ashes debut, dissapointing and concerning.
If we look back to the Australian domestic efforts and then the English domestic efforts, we can see these strong performances were followed by below average performances. There was an injection of competitiveness and Hughes ended up dominating at the top of the order! Like that 75 against The Proteas, maybe his current standing of 65* is what was needed?
Now this is quite an analytical view point, and in cricket nothing is a given, but it is just a view point from momentus patterns that may get you thinking!
As for Mitchell, it maybe a slightly different tale.
Stuart Clark, to our relief, wrapped up with figures of 2/45, and Shane Watson scribbled his name onto the prospective 3rd Test list after scoring 84 and 2/20!
Where Watto would fit in is a tough call if Phillip Hughes stays with Simon Katich at the top (which must stay as it is), but one may believe he is slipping into the place of Marcus North! Watto's bowling can be used to greater effect, and Marcus has gotten into a pattern himself where he either grafts out a century, or doesn't really get anywhere.
So I would see himself and Marcus North going head-to-head.
Watto doesn't have the Test stats to prove much to his cause, but he can bat very, very well and is a mighty strong bloke. He can tear his way through a bowling attack and even better is that he can slot in anywhere. And never doubt the poor stats, as it can often become a big thing a player sets out to correct.
Just look at Ricky Ponting who shut up the critics as he made his first Test century in India last year! Players may dismiss the Stats, but it does prove alot for their legacy in years to come!
Stuart Clark is, in my mind, guaranteed to put his Baggy Green back on, and will be fighting with Mitchell Johnson or Peter Siddle for a spot. Stuart has been on the sidelines so far, and an experienced bowler who has tasted Ashes success will not be a content man on the side, especially seeing his team 1-0 down!
Ben Hilfenhaus has played super cricket and it wouldn't make sense to take him out.
At the moment the only thing separating Mitch from Sid's is his batting! Take the bowling in the series standings at present and Sid's takes the prize.
But we will have to see what the selector's decide upon, because Shane Watson's possible call-up brings in an all-rounder, which may be indirectly putting Mitch out the side for the Edgebaston Test.
On a batting and leadership note Michael Hussey, who has been our Captain for the game, has handled the player rotation and opportunities really well, and I am proud how Huss has dealt with it all. Even better is his 75 retired. I read in a source that they discovered he has been creating a sort of 'blind-spot' with his batting stance. A few variations to this technique has given Huss better alignment to the effect that he his finding his game alot better. That 75 may have proven this, and I wouldn't doubt a player who is such a disciplined, hard-working cricketer knows what his flaws have been.
So Shane Watson (currently batting with Hughes) and Stuart Clark have raised their chances for an Edgebaston appearance, while Phillip Hughes has given himself a fighting chance to continue as our opening bastman.
Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle and Marcus North are the players to watch out for come squad selection.
One thing in sporting terms that MUST be noted is the difference here between a player being dropped and a player being left out.
People are calling for Hughes and Mitch to be dropped.
Dropped would mean the player's fall out of current and future plans, with someone else coming in with immediate affect.
Mitch is more likely looking at being left out, meaning someone else will get a chance, while that player is given a moment of space to work on what may be wrong with their game, sorting out any mental battles, dealing with issues outside of the game. Glen McGrath stated that most of the time a player's form takes a dip is due to mental pressures, be it in or out of the game.
So quite simply, Mitch may need a game where he is left out to just get back into his prime zone where I know Mitch will continue to hassle batsmen and be a key wicket taker! Don't write him off, in fact don't write anyone of this Australian team off!
But with the current standing of things it would just seem that changes for the 3rd Test are inevitable.
This warm-up game has opened a few doors for our squad and come selection for the next Ashes battle, expect a very strategically picked team.
The reality is we are 1-0 down in Test cricket's ultimate battle! And this is enough to get every Australian cricket supporter and every player in the mood for a hard-fought clash, the Australian branded way! This brand of cricket is aggressive, attacking, imposing and laying down the options for the competition. This series is still very much alive, and if we were to base the excitement upon the 2005 contest at Edgebaston where we fell short by 3 runs (a reason Brett Lee was edging to be in this Test), you would be correct in assuming that a thrilling contest looms, and we haven't been shy of such cricket to this point!
As always though, that's just my chirp anyway!
In South Africa we saw Mitchell Johnson bowl with venom, ferocious fast bowling, that tipped him for some great things. His batting was on the ascendancy (his last Test innings proves this), and he added to his stature with a maiden Test century! He broke fingers, smashed helmets, tucked it into the oppositions rib cage, and rarely found his speed under 145km/h.
Phillip Hughes made a fairytale like entrance into test cricket with a fourth-ball duck, followed by a streaky 75. This fuelled a competitive ambition after a nightmare start, but in Durban he scored back to back centuries! He showed no fear in the 'nervous nineties', and very few will forget the two sixes, slog swept too the deepest boundaries of Kingsmead. Our opening void had been filled in two Test matches.
Sadly, like Mitch, he has found his time in England an unpleasant one at the crease so far, where Mitch has lacked all his attributes that have enabled him to become such a hero for Australian cricket.
For some reason though I haven't been too worried by Phillip Hughes' performances. Perhaps currently being 65*, along with Andrew McDonald who has made 75, is the break he needed? Think back to that fourth ball duck. It was in an instance that people were laughing at Phillip, critically analysing his un-orthodox technique, and Matthew Hayden's name was being missed already from the top two. That followed an scratchy, yet worthy 75 in his second innings at the Wanderers.
What did this one innings do? It gave Phillip enormous confidence and the small bloke powered his way with determination and aggression to reach his maiden Test century!
Now think back to a period in his career that wasn't too long ago.
The Middlesex stint was another eye-opening time. Phillip blazed through various English bowling attacks, and in 6-weeks rounded off his time in the County circuit as the leading run-scorer in his division with a statistically fascinating average.
England were starting to worry! But what has happened?
Phillip has had a rough time with the short ball, he has seemed extremely tense and rattled at the crease with quite a bit, in terms of luck, not going his way.
But I believe cricket has a pattern with momentum and luck can play a big part!
New South Wales, success; 1st Test against the Proteas, concerning and unconvincing (including 75); 2nd Test, two centuries and a man-of-the-match award; Middlesex stint, terrific and convincing to many; Ashes debut, dissapointing and concerning.
If we look back to the Australian domestic efforts and then the English domestic efforts, we can see these strong performances were followed by below average performances. There was an injection of competitiveness and Hughes ended up dominating at the top of the order! Like that 75 against The Proteas, maybe his current standing of 65* is what was needed?
Now this is quite an analytical view point, and in cricket nothing is a given, but it is just a view point from momentus patterns that may get you thinking!
As for Mitchell, it maybe a slightly different tale.
Stuart Clark, to our relief, wrapped up with figures of 2/45, and Shane Watson scribbled his name onto the prospective 3rd Test list after scoring 84 and 2/20!
Where Watto would fit in is a tough call if Phillip Hughes stays with Simon Katich at the top (which must stay as it is), but one may believe he is slipping into the place of Marcus North! Watto's bowling can be used to greater effect, and Marcus has gotten into a pattern himself where he either grafts out a century, or doesn't really get anywhere.
So I would see himself and Marcus North going head-to-head.
Watto doesn't have the Test stats to prove much to his cause, but he can bat very, very well and is a mighty strong bloke. He can tear his way through a bowling attack and even better is that he can slot in anywhere. And never doubt the poor stats, as it can often become a big thing a player sets out to correct.
Just look at Ricky Ponting who shut up the critics as he made his first Test century in India last year! Players may dismiss the Stats, but it does prove alot for their legacy in years to come!
Stuart Clark is, in my mind, guaranteed to put his Baggy Green back on, and will be fighting with Mitchell Johnson or Peter Siddle for a spot. Stuart has been on the sidelines so far, and an experienced bowler who has tasted Ashes success will not be a content man on the side, especially seeing his team 1-0 down!
Ben Hilfenhaus has played super cricket and it wouldn't make sense to take him out.
At the moment the only thing separating Mitch from Sid's is his batting! Take the bowling in the series standings at present and Sid's takes the prize.
But we will have to see what the selector's decide upon, because Shane Watson's possible call-up brings in an all-rounder, which may be indirectly putting Mitch out the side for the Edgebaston Test.
On a batting and leadership note Michael Hussey, who has been our Captain for the game, has handled the player rotation and opportunities really well, and I am proud how Huss has dealt with it all. Even better is his 75 retired. I read in a source that they discovered he has been creating a sort of 'blind-spot' with his batting stance. A few variations to this technique has given Huss better alignment to the effect that he his finding his game alot better. That 75 may have proven this, and I wouldn't doubt a player who is such a disciplined, hard-working cricketer knows what his flaws have been.
So Shane Watson (currently batting with Hughes) and Stuart Clark have raised their chances for an Edgebaston appearance, while Phillip Hughes has given himself a fighting chance to continue as our opening bastman.
Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle and Marcus North are the players to watch out for come squad selection.
One thing in sporting terms that MUST be noted is the difference here between a player being dropped and a player being left out.
People are calling for Hughes and Mitch to be dropped.
Dropped would mean the player's fall out of current and future plans, with someone else coming in with immediate affect.
Mitch is more likely looking at being left out, meaning someone else will get a chance, while that player is given a moment of space to work on what may be wrong with their game, sorting out any mental battles, dealing with issues outside of the game. Glen McGrath stated that most of the time a player's form takes a dip is due to mental pressures, be it in or out of the game.
So quite simply, Mitch may need a game where he is left out to just get back into his prime zone where I know Mitch will continue to hassle batsmen and be a key wicket taker! Don't write him off, in fact don't write anyone of this Australian team off!
But with the current standing of things it would just seem that changes for the 3rd Test are inevitable.
This warm-up game has opened a few doors for our squad and come selection for the next Ashes battle, expect a very strategically picked team.
The reality is we are 1-0 down in Test cricket's ultimate battle! And this is enough to get every Australian cricket supporter and every player in the mood for a hard-fought clash, the Australian branded way! This brand of cricket is aggressive, attacking, imposing and laying down the options for the competition. This series is still very much alive, and if we were to base the excitement upon the 2005 contest at Edgebaston where we fell short by 3 runs (a reason Brett Lee was edging to be in this Test), you would be correct in assuming that a thrilling contest looms, and we haven't been shy of such cricket to this point!
As always though, that's just my chirp anyway!
23 July 2009
CONGRATULATIONS JL! SOME ASHES CHIRPS TOO!
Before I mention any views on the upcoming warm-up game, a big congratulations to one of the finest cricketer's to represent the Baggy Green!
Justin Langer, yesterday, became the highest run-scorer (27 913) in Australian First-class cricket history, while playing for Somerset in England!
JL was such a feature in the middle, and was a mighty tough bloke. He copped so many deliveries to the head and body, which I remember so clearly watching him as a youngster, and I always admired his fighting spirit, even when the odd's were against our top-order. Himself and Haydos formed a formiddable opening partnership, and are without question one of Australia's greatest opening pairs ever.
They were almost telepathic out in the middle together and gave us many victories due to some solid foundations. It was even more fitting when they concluded the 2006/07 Ashes series out together!
JL passed Sir Donald Bradman's record, and that is nothing but spectacular to be by him in such an elite standing! The record had been standing for 60 years!
So many congrats JL!
JUSTIN LANGERS TEST & FIRST CLASS STATS
(in brief for those of you who don't know)
Tests: 105 matches, 182 innings, 7696 runs, H/S 250, 45.27 average, 23 (100's), 30 (50's)
First-class: 353 matches, 614 innings, 27 973 runs, H/S 342, 50.22 average, 85 (100's), 107 (50's)
Here is an Ashes feature, courtesy of Chris Stocks, the English cricket columnist who statistically and analytically rants on about his team, and is riding a wave of relief as I type...but we have 3 tests looming!
Chris does work for Metro, in London, and Simon Katich is currently a guest columnist for them, so don't hesitate, CLICK HERE to take a look at Katto's recent say!
In Ashes news (see my previous article for more opinions), Michael Hussey will Captain our team in the upcoming warm-up match! It's a great leadership moment for Huss (he has done it for us a few times, in ODI's too), and what is even better is the logic behind the squad selection is brilliant!
Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke and Brad Haddin have been given a rest, while Shane Watson and Andrew MacDonald will at last be given a bit of a run in the middle! Both of them are edging for that all-rounder spot, and it is a wise move to include to two of them. Graham Manou will also be able to get in some time behind the stumps while Brad puts his feet up.
Stuart Clark will also feature, which puts all the bowlers at work to see who will be looked at for the 3rd Test. We have options and that is a positive thing, even if there is big competition between the guys.
Brett Lee will not be playing in the game, as team management feel it will be a risk to play him at present, so still a waiting game for Binga.
I can't wait to see how this game goes!
Alot to work for, and I know the guys will treat this game seriously, especialy when a few places are definitly up for grabs in the starting XI come the 30th!
So, what do all of you think?
BTW you DONOT have to be registered with blogspot to comment, to answer a question someone asked me.
SQUAD TO TAKE ON NORTHANTS:
Phillip Hughes, Simon Katich, Michael Hussey (Captain), Marcus North, Shane Watson, Andrew McDonald, Graham Manou, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Stuart Clark, Ben Hilfenhaus, Nathan Hauritz
Justin Langer, yesterday, became the highest run-scorer (27 913) in Australian First-class cricket history, while playing for Somerset in England!
JL was such a feature in the middle, and was a mighty tough bloke. He copped so many deliveries to the head and body, which I remember so clearly watching him as a youngster, and I always admired his fighting spirit, even when the odd's were against our top-order. Himself and Haydos formed a formiddable opening partnership, and are without question one of Australia's greatest opening pairs ever.
They were almost telepathic out in the middle together and gave us many victories due to some solid foundations. It was even more fitting when they concluded the 2006/07 Ashes series out together!
JL passed Sir Donald Bradman's record, and that is nothing but spectacular to be by him in such an elite standing! The record had been standing for 60 years!
So many congrats JL!
JUSTIN LANGERS TEST & FIRST CLASS STATS
(in brief for those of you who don't know)
Tests: 105 matches, 182 innings, 7696 runs, H/S 250, 45.27 average, 23 (100's), 30 (50's)
First-class: 353 matches, 614 innings, 27 973 runs, H/S 342, 50.22 average, 85 (100's), 107 (50's)
Here is an Ashes feature, courtesy of Chris Stocks, the English cricket columnist who statistically and analytically rants on about his team, and is riding a wave of relief as I type...but we have 3 tests looming!
Chris does work for Metro, in London, and Simon Katich is currently a guest columnist for them, so don't hesitate, CLICK HERE to take a look at Katto's recent say!
In Ashes news (see my previous article for more opinions), Michael Hussey will Captain our team in the upcoming warm-up match! It's a great leadership moment for Huss (he has done it for us a few times, in ODI's too), and what is even better is the logic behind the squad selection is brilliant!
Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke and Brad Haddin have been given a rest, while Shane Watson and Andrew MacDonald will at last be given a bit of a run in the middle! Both of them are edging for that all-rounder spot, and it is a wise move to include to two of them. Graham Manou will also be able to get in some time behind the stumps while Brad puts his feet up.
Stuart Clark will also feature, which puts all the bowlers at work to see who will be looked at for the 3rd Test. We have options and that is a positive thing, even if there is big competition between the guys.
Brett Lee will not be playing in the game, as team management feel it will be a risk to play him at present, so still a waiting game for Binga.
I can't wait to see how this game goes!
Alot to work for, and I know the guys will treat this game seriously, especialy when a few places are definitly up for grabs in the starting XI come the 30th!
So, what do all of you think?
BTW you DONOT have to be registered with blogspot to comment, to answer a question someone asked me.
SQUAD TO TAKE ON NORTHANTS:
Phillip Hughes, Simon Katich, Michael Hussey (Captain), Marcus North, Shane Watson, Andrew McDonald, Graham Manou, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Stuart Clark, Ben Hilfenhaus, Nathan Hauritz
22 July 2009
AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONS TROPHY PRELIM SQUAD
ICC Champions Trophy Preliminary squad:
Ricky Ponting (capt), Michael Clarke, Doug Bollinger, Nathan Bracken, Callum Ferguson, Brett Geeves, Brad Haddin, Ryan Harris, Nathan Hauritz, Moises Henriques, Ben Hilfenhaus, Jon Holland, James Hopes, Phillip Hughes, David Hussey, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Jason Krejza, Brett Lee, Shaun Marsh, Andrew McDonald, Clint McKay, Marcus North, Tim Paine, Peter Siddle, Shaun Tait, Adam Voges, David Warner, Shane Watson, Cameron White.
An interesting squad. I like it that the NSP took into consideration some of the performances from the Australia A series.
Tim Paine is a bloke I am pleased to see in the squad. He is a young Tassie cricketer, who blasted a thrilling century in the final ODI to steer us to victory, and even better is that he is a wicket-keeper, so continuing our stocks of specialist keepers, who can bat aggressively when needed, is promising for our future cricket. He is developing a better first-class game too, so I am hoping he makes the squad for some experience. Luke Ronchi fell out of the mix sadly after a very poor time with WA.
Cameron White has recently played some solid ODI and T20 cricket for Aus A, so hopefully we will see him get some more games in, should he make the team.
Jason Kreja and Jon Holland are pitching it up against Nathan Hauritz for the spinner's role. On this one we'll have to hold our breath for the NSP's decision.
Another important factor here is that quite a few of these guys could find themselves heading over to England for the two T20's and seven ODI's following the Ashes.
Stuart Clark and Brad Hodge didnot make the 30 members, which is surprising, but reasonably expected. It is a short tournament though, so they maybe in the pipelines for the upcoming summer games against West-Indies and Pakistan!
If I were to cut 15 men from those 30? I would go with the following:
Ponting, Clarke, Haddin, M.Hussey, D.Hussey, Ferguson, Hopes, Marsh, Lee, Hilfenhaus, Johnson, Watson, White, Bollinger, Bracken.
Brett Geeves, Tim Paine, Phillip Hughes, David Warner and Adam Voges will get serious consideration too, with possibly James Hopes, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, and Ben Hilfenhaus competing for their spots, notably because it is a shorter series in ODI cricket, and the NSP may be looking strongly towards the youth factor. This is evident with Hodge and Clark not in the prelim.
Anyway, we will know come August 23rd.
Back the Ashes now.
Ricky Ponting (capt), Michael Clarke, Doug Bollinger, Nathan Bracken, Callum Ferguson, Brett Geeves, Brad Haddin, Ryan Harris, Nathan Hauritz, Moises Henriques, Ben Hilfenhaus, Jon Holland, James Hopes, Phillip Hughes, David Hussey, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Jason Krejza, Brett Lee, Shaun Marsh, Andrew McDonald, Clint McKay, Marcus North, Tim Paine, Peter Siddle, Shaun Tait, Adam Voges, David Warner, Shane Watson, Cameron White.
An interesting squad. I like it that the NSP took into consideration some of the performances from the Australia A series.
Tim Paine is a bloke I am pleased to see in the squad. He is a young Tassie cricketer, who blasted a thrilling century in the final ODI to steer us to victory, and even better is that he is a wicket-keeper, so continuing our stocks of specialist keepers, who can bat aggressively when needed, is promising for our future cricket. He is developing a better first-class game too, so I am hoping he makes the squad for some experience. Luke Ronchi fell out of the mix sadly after a very poor time with WA.
Cameron White has recently played some solid ODI and T20 cricket for Aus A, so hopefully we will see him get some more games in, should he make the team.
Jason Kreja and Jon Holland are pitching it up against Nathan Hauritz for the spinner's role. On this one we'll have to hold our breath for the NSP's decision.
Another important factor here is that quite a few of these guys could find themselves heading over to England for the two T20's and seven ODI's following the Ashes.
Stuart Clark and Brad Hodge didnot make the 30 members, which is surprising, but reasonably expected. It is a short tournament though, so they maybe in the pipelines for the upcoming summer games against West-Indies and Pakistan!
If I were to cut 15 men from those 30? I would go with the following:
Ponting, Clarke, Haddin, M.Hussey, D.Hussey, Ferguson, Hopes, Marsh, Lee, Hilfenhaus, Johnson, Watson, White, Bollinger, Bracken.
Brett Geeves, Tim Paine, Phillip Hughes, David Warner and Adam Voges will get serious consideration too, with possibly James Hopes, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, and Ben Hilfenhaus competing for their spots, notably because it is a shorter series in ODI cricket, and the NSP may be looking strongly towards the youth factor. This is evident with Hodge and Clark not in the prelim.
Anyway, we will know come August 23rd.
Back the Ashes now.
WHO'S IN, WHO'S OUT?
Kevin Pietersen has been ruled out of the 2009 Ashes! If this hasn't added additional interest to the standing of things, I don't know what will be the overall talk from the English teams perspective!
Ian Bell will be the bloke to step in and fill the void. If I remember clearly, it was about a year ago Bell just missed a double-century against the Proteas, so he is always a candidate to try knock away early on!
There is talk though in our camp that Brett Lee is not likely to appear in the upcoming warm-up, which he had tipped himself probable to play and hoped to appear in the Edgebaston Test match. Stuart Clark is looking like the more likely bowler to make his way into our team, and it would be great to get a familiar character from the 2006/07 Ashes. Stuart polished off a number of English wickets in our 5-0 Ashes series win, and I tip him to do it once again. I think himself and Ben Hilfenhaus, with support from the faster men, can add a major pressure factor in the English conditions. I would be very enthusiastic to give Stuart a shot out there!
I always enjoy it when he bowls at his best, and his 2006 series against the Proteas and his efforts in the West-Indies were sensational too watch and to me, unforgettable!!
Nathan Hauritz, despite his slightly mashed up finger, will possibly be overlooked to bring in someone like Stuart or Shane Watson, he is edging to get a game in. Andrew McDonald seems to not be entirely in the picture at the moment, and against Watson this will be purely because of their batting differences.
Watto is a flexible batsman to shuffle around the middle and top order, and his bowling has more flare to it than Andrew. I am not putting Ron in a corner, but Watto is a more experienced Aussie cricketer and has a bit more on offer in the all-rounder department, and Watto is more attacking.
Watto's Test record is also nothing too impressive, so he has some great motivation for himself and can add value to the side.
Even more concerning is alot of talk regarding Phillip Hughes!
I was worried about the overhype and expectation placed upon him.
I don't think he is doing particularly badly, but is just looking a little high on nerves, and maybe, just maybe having things go a little bit against him.
Will see the standing there on his spot, but it would be stupid too not give him a go in the 3rd Test as I don't have lots of faith in Watto opening in Test cricket. If it were to happen and he did perform, I'd bite my tongue, but I do not think it is a wise move. Some may wonder for such a circumstance where is a Brad Hodge, Phil Jaques, Chris Rogers or Michael Klinger?
I'm not losing faith in the top-order. They didn't have a good round in the 2nd Test, so I am sure they'll make this one count.
Phillip also looked very upset after that Strauss 'catch'. The young guy can pick himself up though. Some fine cricketer's in our team to motivate each other!
Otherwise not much more views from my side, but having watched the hi-lites footage of the game, it is safe to say that critical errors were made, and these errors were the ones that made sure we lost the Test series to the Proteas earlier this year and fell down to them in the ODI's also.
Momentum is a dangerous thing to lose in a game of patience and mental stamina.
I am looking forward to the build up to the next Test!
Ian Bell will be the bloke to step in and fill the void. If I remember clearly, it was about a year ago Bell just missed a double-century against the Proteas, so he is always a candidate to try knock away early on!
There is talk though in our camp that Brett Lee is not likely to appear in the upcoming warm-up, which he had tipped himself probable to play and hoped to appear in the Edgebaston Test match. Stuart Clark is looking like the more likely bowler to make his way into our team, and it would be great to get a familiar character from the 2006/07 Ashes. Stuart polished off a number of English wickets in our 5-0 Ashes series win, and I tip him to do it once again. I think himself and Ben Hilfenhaus, with support from the faster men, can add a major pressure factor in the English conditions. I would be very enthusiastic to give Stuart a shot out there!
I always enjoy it when he bowls at his best, and his 2006 series against the Proteas and his efforts in the West-Indies were sensational too watch and to me, unforgettable!!
Nathan Hauritz, despite his slightly mashed up finger, will possibly be overlooked to bring in someone like Stuart or Shane Watson, he is edging to get a game in. Andrew McDonald seems to not be entirely in the picture at the moment, and against Watson this will be purely because of their batting differences.
Watto is a flexible batsman to shuffle around the middle and top order, and his bowling has more flare to it than Andrew. I am not putting Ron in a corner, but Watto is a more experienced Aussie cricketer and has a bit more on offer in the all-rounder department, and Watto is more attacking.
Watto's Test record is also nothing too impressive, so he has some great motivation for himself and can add value to the side.
Even more concerning is alot of talk regarding Phillip Hughes!
I was worried about the overhype and expectation placed upon him.
I don't think he is doing particularly badly, but is just looking a little high on nerves, and maybe, just maybe having things go a little bit against him.
Will see the standing there on his spot, but it would be stupid too not give him a go in the 3rd Test as I don't have lots of faith in Watto opening in Test cricket. If it were to happen and he did perform, I'd bite my tongue, but I do not think it is a wise move. Some may wonder for such a circumstance where is a Brad Hodge, Phil Jaques, Chris Rogers or Michael Klinger?
I'm not losing faith in the top-order. They didn't have a good round in the 2nd Test, so I am sure they'll make this one count.
Phillip also looked very upset after that Strauss 'catch'. The young guy can pick himself up though. Some fine cricketer's in our team to motivate each other!
Otherwise not much more views from my side, but having watched the hi-lites footage of the game, it is safe to say that critical errors were made, and these errors were the ones that made sure we lost the Test series to the Proteas earlier this year and fell down to them in the ODI's also.
Momentum is a dangerous thing to lose in a game of patience and mental stamina.
I am looking forward to the build up to the next Test!
21 July 2009
2nd Test conclusion: A BIG LOSS OR CRITICAL ERRORS?
History can't repeat itself in 2009, so the Lord's chapter is closed.
England take the Ashes so far 1-0, and that drawn 1st Test is starting to hit home a bit.
I have had my say over the last few days, and excuse my belated reply to the conclusion of the Test, but losing a big Test match is always a bit of a tough one for me to get my head around, otherwise I start to sledge every possible aspect of the game. But, as those of you know who have been following my site for over a year, I try my best too keep my blog in a good, competitive, opinionated and open-minded way.
I had my say on the Umpiring, but it's all irrelevant when you see a loss of 115!
But, there are positives!
The Strauss/Cook partnership (I say it yet again) nailed us badly, and the poor fielding and bowling in the 2nd innings didn't help one bit. When you look at how well we fought back in our 2nd innings, those uncharacteristically Australian field antics, in the English 2nd innings, had a big impact! Catches taken and better focus in not showing any intimidation regarding England's lead, would have minimised that lead too. But England had momentum, and it really does great things for a team. We can agree that England had huge momentum throughout most of the Test match!
We were outplayed, and my hopes for the Haddin/Clarke partnership to steer us closer didn't equate to much, as it was all done and dusted within a few deliveries.
Michael Clarke batted brilliantly, and can be very proud with how he handled his game! It was without a doubt at his best with the bat, but he even stated that his century seems irrelevant now, which is quite a big statement too make. It really shows how eager he is too lead as a senior, which should be a good sign for Australian supporters who maybe feel a bit concerned with him in leadership duties.
Sadly, he didn't even make the first hour of the day before yorking himself of Graham Swann's bowling.
With Hads and Pup back in the Pavillion, it was starting to look like 1-0!
Andrew Flintoff bowled like a demon, a one footed demon at that too! His taunts from 2005 are starting to emerge, but it seems the English supporters have clearly forgotten about 2006/07. It seems that Ashes series never occured!
Mitchell Johnson batted brilliantly, and I think we all knew he was batting like his life depended on it. Some may say, he was batting for his place! His bowling has been disappointing, and off-field incidents and obvious distraction haven't put him in a good place to show his true brilliance for us!
His batting was great, and when he was bowled I think we all dropped our heads with Mitch, knowing it was so close, but so far off still! His batting though is certainly in a professional category now!
115 isn't much when you think of the poor dismissals of Katto, Hughes and Huss, the early departure of Hads and Pup on Day 5, but that is it and now the lone figure of 115 is a horrible sight.
But, we fought back the Australian way, and let's be fair, it was a much better performance second time around!
Ben Hilfenhaus has continued to impress, but a bloke can only give so much if no-one else is applying the pressure from the other end! He has been consistent and reliable.
Hilfy was first in line to be made drinks man if either Stu Clark and Brett Lee returned, but now funny enough, Hilfy's performances have made this a little more difficult with regards to our bowling options!
Peter Siddle's ambitious over-drive and constant efforts to get the next wicket have not gone unnoticed! I believe he has deserved so much more up to this point in the series! I really do.
Nathan Hauritz, as my one readers Jawad and I have agreed, is a defensive bowler.
But he has shown more luring tactics. Better flight of the ball, better turn wide of the stumps, creating game plans etc. It is great to see and he has been able to get key wickets, and while he is nursing a rather buggered up middle finger, he has performed very well, with a lot of expectation on his shoulders as our only 'specialist spinner'. And any bloke who gets his finger dislocated and returns to the field deserves respect from every supporter!
He also needs to feel like he is meant to be there, and this HAS been a huge problem with a lot of younger, less-experienced guys coming into this team. It has affected our performances, and if I look at other teams regarding their spin bowling options, the few players that come to mind, are only performing as they are because they have been made to believe and given the edge that they are there because they have earned it, not because they are just filling the void!
Mitchell Johnson is the concern. His batting is very important, as we saw on Day 5, but we have him in the side as our strike-bowler, and maybe with Brett Lee looking good for Edgebaston, a rest would be best for Mitch. Just too clear his mind, get back into his rhythm and maybe at 1-1 he can get back in the squad to get some big wickets! Mitch is a top athlete and a highly promising bowler, but things just seem a bit too inconsistent right now, where we need the guys to be on the ball!
I am no cricketer, but as a supporter I am sure I am not the only one stating simply what I've observed!
And hey, maybe having an old-foe from the 2006/07 Ashes could get the Pom's just a little on edge, knowing the series is far from wrapped up, although, we have to take the next Test, we simply have too! We made the mistakes against India and The Proteas where we overplayed and over-relied on various players who weren't able to ride on with the form they had. Player's have form drops but when those signs are seen, it is best to move along till they have gotten it together, and it may even be just one game needed for some guys. Even during the Post-Waugh era, with all those guys around, if a few of them weren't playing to their best, he made way for another bloke, and 90% of the time that player would return to their old standards. Brett Lee showed indication of this against the Lions!
The last thing I would like to note with the bowling, is that maybe Hauritz will miss a few games if Lee or Clark come in the squad, maybe the part-time spinners will be given the heads up? The selectors may be doing some thinking, not too say it has been a bad show from our team, just that there are some players who may be fresh and ready to fire to push us up to leveling the series.
That is what it is about right now, just getting the right guys in there under the circumstances to push us up to a lead in the series.
Every guy in our team has a lot to play for, and we have a lot of positives from both these games, and these guys can well and truly set us up for a series win, but I hope the team really have identified their weaknesses and can fix them. The batting in the 1st innings was, as Ricky Ponting stated at the post match presentation, well short of what was needed to make that lead smaller.
I must admit Punter seemed rather relaxed about the whole outcome. Not sure whether it's a good thing or a bad thing, but the knowledge is that we can still win the Ashes and retain the Urn.
There is a practice match coming up before the 3rd Test, where I hope things will see a change and some good preps will be done.
Mistakes can be identified, players can be taken out of the Ashes hot-zone for a breather, and maybe we can find a more balanced approach to winning these remaining games.
People have a tendency to forget this is still a bit of groundwork with a less-experienced squad where most of the guys are participating in their first Ashes series outside of Australia, and that isn't the easiest. We also forget the Allan Border had a torrid time in rebuilding Australian cricket, and look, he set us up for things to come!
So stay positive as we were close, and let's not forget that while we have young guys learning game by game, and have a lot they are trying to live up too, we are in one of Test match crickets most epic battles, and winning this Ashes series, well, imagine the positives that will stream into the careers of these younger, less experienced Aussie cricketers! Let's hope for a good show to come!
The Ashes is alive though and so far proving a lot for Test cricket!
* DON'T FORGET to take a look at Chris Stocks' cricket column, from an English supporters perspective. He was at the game for all 5 days!
You will find his site in my links list!
England take the Ashes so far 1-0, and that drawn 1st Test is starting to hit home a bit.
I have had my say over the last few days, and excuse my belated reply to the conclusion of the Test, but losing a big Test match is always a bit of a tough one for me to get my head around, otherwise I start to sledge every possible aspect of the game. But, as those of you know who have been following my site for over a year, I try my best too keep my blog in a good, competitive, opinionated and open-minded way.
I had my say on the Umpiring, but it's all irrelevant when you see a loss of 115!
But, there are positives!
The Strauss/Cook partnership (I say it yet again) nailed us badly, and the poor fielding and bowling in the 2nd innings didn't help one bit. When you look at how well we fought back in our 2nd innings, those uncharacteristically Australian field antics, in the English 2nd innings, had a big impact! Catches taken and better focus in not showing any intimidation regarding England's lead, would have minimised that lead too. But England had momentum, and it really does great things for a team. We can agree that England had huge momentum throughout most of the Test match!
We were outplayed, and my hopes for the Haddin/Clarke partnership to steer us closer didn't equate to much, as it was all done and dusted within a few deliveries.
Michael Clarke batted brilliantly, and can be very proud with how he handled his game! It was without a doubt at his best with the bat, but he even stated that his century seems irrelevant now, which is quite a big statement too make. It really shows how eager he is too lead as a senior, which should be a good sign for Australian supporters who maybe feel a bit concerned with him in leadership duties.
Sadly, he didn't even make the first hour of the day before yorking himself of Graham Swann's bowling.
With Hads and Pup back in the Pavillion, it was starting to look like 1-0!
Andrew Flintoff bowled like a demon, a one footed demon at that too! His taunts from 2005 are starting to emerge, but it seems the English supporters have clearly forgotten about 2006/07. It seems that Ashes series never occured!
Mitchell Johnson batted brilliantly, and I think we all knew he was batting like his life depended on it. Some may say, he was batting for his place! His bowling has been disappointing, and off-field incidents and obvious distraction haven't put him in a good place to show his true brilliance for us!
His batting was great, and when he was bowled I think we all dropped our heads with Mitch, knowing it was so close, but so far off still! His batting though is certainly in a professional category now!
115 isn't much when you think of the poor dismissals of Katto, Hughes and Huss, the early departure of Hads and Pup on Day 5, but that is it and now the lone figure of 115 is a horrible sight.
But, we fought back the Australian way, and let's be fair, it was a much better performance second time around!
Ben Hilfenhaus has continued to impress, but a bloke can only give so much if no-one else is applying the pressure from the other end! He has been consistent and reliable.
Hilfy was first in line to be made drinks man if either Stu Clark and Brett Lee returned, but now funny enough, Hilfy's performances have made this a little more difficult with regards to our bowling options!
Peter Siddle's ambitious over-drive and constant efforts to get the next wicket have not gone unnoticed! I believe he has deserved so much more up to this point in the series! I really do.
Nathan Hauritz, as my one readers Jawad and I have agreed, is a defensive bowler.
But he has shown more luring tactics. Better flight of the ball, better turn wide of the stumps, creating game plans etc. It is great to see and he has been able to get key wickets, and while he is nursing a rather buggered up middle finger, he has performed very well, with a lot of expectation on his shoulders as our only 'specialist spinner'. And any bloke who gets his finger dislocated and returns to the field deserves respect from every supporter!
He also needs to feel like he is meant to be there, and this HAS been a huge problem with a lot of younger, less-experienced guys coming into this team. It has affected our performances, and if I look at other teams regarding their spin bowling options, the few players that come to mind, are only performing as they are because they have been made to believe and given the edge that they are there because they have earned it, not because they are just filling the void!
Mitchell Johnson is the concern. His batting is very important, as we saw on Day 5, but we have him in the side as our strike-bowler, and maybe with Brett Lee looking good for Edgebaston, a rest would be best for Mitch. Just too clear his mind, get back into his rhythm and maybe at 1-1 he can get back in the squad to get some big wickets! Mitch is a top athlete and a highly promising bowler, but things just seem a bit too inconsistent right now, where we need the guys to be on the ball!
I am no cricketer, but as a supporter I am sure I am not the only one stating simply what I've observed!
And hey, maybe having an old-foe from the 2006/07 Ashes could get the Pom's just a little on edge, knowing the series is far from wrapped up, although, we have to take the next Test, we simply have too! We made the mistakes against India and The Proteas where we overplayed and over-relied on various players who weren't able to ride on with the form they had. Player's have form drops but when those signs are seen, it is best to move along till they have gotten it together, and it may even be just one game needed for some guys. Even during the Post-Waugh era, with all those guys around, if a few of them weren't playing to their best, he made way for another bloke, and 90% of the time that player would return to their old standards. Brett Lee showed indication of this against the Lions!
The last thing I would like to note with the bowling, is that maybe Hauritz will miss a few games if Lee or Clark come in the squad, maybe the part-time spinners will be given the heads up? The selectors may be doing some thinking, not too say it has been a bad show from our team, just that there are some players who may be fresh and ready to fire to push us up to leveling the series.
That is what it is about right now, just getting the right guys in there under the circumstances to push us up to a lead in the series.
Every guy in our team has a lot to play for, and we have a lot of positives from both these games, and these guys can well and truly set us up for a series win, but I hope the team really have identified their weaknesses and can fix them. The batting in the 1st innings was, as Ricky Ponting stated at the post match presentation, well short of what was needed to make that lead smaller.
I must admit Punter seemed rather relaxed about the whole outcome. Not sure whether it's a good thing or a bad thing, but the knowledge is that we can still win the Ashes and retain the Urn.
There is a practice match coming up before the 3rd Test, where I hope things will see a change and some good preps will be done.
Mistakes can be identified, players can be taken out of the Ashes hot-zone for a breather, and maybe we can find a more balanced approach to winning these remaining games.
People have a tendency to forget this is still a bit of groundwork with a less-experienced squad where most of the guys are participating in their first Ashes series outside of Australia, and that isn't the easiest. We also forget the Allan Border had a torrid time in rebuilding Australian cricket, and look, he set us up for things to come!
So stay positive as we were close, and let's not forget that while we have young guys learning game by game, and have a lot they are trying to live up too, we are in one of Test match crickets most epic battles, and winning this Ashes series, well, imagine the positives that will stream into the careers of these younger, less experienced Aussie cricketers! Let's hope for a good show to come!
The Ashes is alive though and so far proving a lot for Test cricket!
* DON'T FORGET to take a look at Chris Stocks' cricket column, from an English supporters perspective. He was at the game for all 5 days!
You will find his site in my links list!
19 July 2009
2nd Test, day 4: TWO SIDES OF HISTORY
Today we could either be holding onto our record streak at Lord's, or be making history with this run-chase ahead of us!
As I mentioned yesterday, luck hasn't been in our favour, but that continued when Michael Hussey was given out when he whacked the bottom of his bat onto the Lord's surface. With the ball spinning away from him, lured into the drive, the Umpire sent Huss on his way, which was the third duff call for us in this crucial innings.
However, there is a game at stake, and we need to focus on the thing going for us!
Michael Clarke has now made a debut century in an English Ashes series. He was younger in 2005, less-patient and ambitious. Now he is a leader, patient, mature in his 5-day game, and his century yesterday was fine display with lavish off-drives, cover-drives and nudged singles where possible!
He is currently 125* not out, and he backed his words yesterday in believing the chance of winning this Test is there!
Brad Haddin (80*) played an impressively well balanced innings, with his usual shot selections but with a major amount of focus on the job at hand. He gave few chances and once again himself and Pup have dug us out of a hole. They bat very well together, and these partnerships go a way back now!
They have given us the best possible chance to win this Test match!
Some might say we are dillusional, but 209 is needed. Knock of 100 odd runs, and it looks less daunting. We still Mitchell Johnson to bat, and he will be eager for an opportunity like this. And Nathan Hauritz and Peter Siddle would give it their best shot to ensure we cross the finishing line!
It could happen, and rest-assured, Pup will be more focused on getting us over that finish line, than knowing his name is on the visiting teams Centurion record board!
I am not going to jump to any conclusions, but today we will see history on the table with pride at the most intense level from both teams!
Pup and Had's face their most intense Test battle yet, and with Freddie Flintoff (injury aside) bowling really, really well and Graham Swann offering some valuable spin at the other end, England's bowling line-up will not be too worried...yet.
A great day's Test cricket ahead, but this current partnership is where it all rests.
Who said Test cricket was a boring game?
As I mentioned yesterday, luck hasn't been in our favour, but that continued when Michael Hussey was given out when he whacked the bottom of his bat onto the Lord's surface. With the ball spinning away from him, lured into the drive, the Umpire sent Huss on his way, which was the third duff call for us in this crucial innings.
However, there is a game at stake, and we need to focus on the thing going for us!
Michael Clarke has now made a debut century in an English Ashes series. He was younger in 2005, less-patient and ambitious. Now he is a leader, patient, mature in his 5-day game, and his century yesterday was fine display with lavish off-drives, cover-drives and nudged singles where possible!
He is currently 125* not out, and he backed his words yesterday in believing the chance of winning this Test is there!
Brad Haddin (80*) played an impressively well balanced innings, with his usual shot selections but with a major amount of focus on the job at hand. He gave few chances and once again himself and Pup have dug us out of a hole. They bat very well together, and these partnerships go a way back now!
They have given us the best possible chance to win this Test match!
Some might say we are dillusional, but 209 is needed. Knock of 100 odd runs, and it looks less daunting. We still Mitchell Johnson to bat, and he will be eager for an opportunity like this. And Nathan Hauritz and Peter Siddle would give it their best shot to ensure we cross the finishing line!
It could happen, and rest-assured, Pup will be more focused on getting us over that finish line, than knowing his name is on the visiting teams Centurion record board!
I am not going to jump to any conclusions, but today we will see history on the table with pride at the most intense level from both teams!
Pup and Had's face their most intense Test battle yet, and with Freddie Flintoff (injury aside) bowling really, really well and Graham Swann offering some valuable spin at the other end, England's bowling line-up will not be too worried...yet.
A great day's Test cricket ahead, but this current partnership is where it all rests.
Who said Test cricket was a boring game?
2nd Test, Day 4; SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK
As an Australian supporter you will feel a bit aggrieved at what has happened at the start of Day 4!
Simon Katich was caught off an apparent no-ball, and Phillip Hughes was sent on his way after Andrew Strauss claimed a catch at slip.
Now as i have said before, the speed of a ball flying low at you, and taken so close to the ground, the momentum of the ball being picked up so low would give you the impression the catch was taken. But as we saw in the series against the Proteas, referral system aside, the players from both teams were very honest in raising their hand saying the catch wasn't taken or there was doubt. The Umpires have their responsibility here too. It looked like the ball hit the ground and rolled into Strauss' hand. I don't think it was out, and Punter was right in making him stand his ground.
But this is Test cricket, and these incidents happen, and Punter is going along with aggressive intentions! Showing his toughness!
Mike Hussey has a great opportunity ahead for himself too.
As for the last 3 days! Rather dissapointing stuff from the guys.
I have been watching England's cricket very closely over the last 2 years, and I stress the importance again for them with that Cook/Strauss partnership! Those two get going, it can be very dangerous with regards to the bowling side! They got off to a flyer in the 1st innings, and taking that into serious consideration, it set the tone for things to come our way!
Mitchell Johnson did pick up his 100th wicket, but many will agree it wasn't in the best of circumstances. His bowling has been inconsistent, wayward, out of control and I will say it again, but something just doesn't seem right with his body language. I still reckon it is to do with off-field matters, and has possibly thrown him off track a bit.
Mitch is still our match winner, but it just seems his mind needs a bit of a cooling off session. If Brett Lee gets the nod for the 3rd Test, Mitch may find himself in hot water, as himself and Brett's roles are very similar. However, he still gets the break-throughs and has taken some big wickets with some eye-opening deliveries, but it hurts when your strike bowler is looking a bit off-colour.
The Cook/Strauss partnership aside, this game may have been in a much different place right now!
But we now face a monstrous climb needing 522!
A few mistakes have happened, but I am not concerned as England have not won this Test match, and there are 3 test to follow this one. Our team is highly capable of dominating England's line-up, but right now England are coming out on top.
This was a mild concern of mine after that drawn 1st Test.
Our batting performance didn't help the situation, where most of the guys played some rather eccentric shots to get out, notably some pull shots and instinctive twitches.
It was great to see Michael Hussey reach his half-century, but that was a brief celebration when he attempted to leave a delivery from Andrew Flintoff, which kept alot lower than many of us would have expected from Flintoff at line. Huss departed, and it didn't get much better!
One thing I have much better appreciation of, is tail-ender performances with the bat!
Glen McGrath showed this a few times, where he hung around to assist batsmen too reach their milestones. Fittingly, Mike Hussey is one of the blokes who come to mind with such an incident, when he reached a century against The Proteas, with Glen McGrath standing by him all the way!
Peter Siddle has proven that he can bat very well, and the batsmen should be able to have plenty confidence should they find themselves batting with him in the middle in any situation.
He made his highest score, and Ben Hilfenhaus, who has bowled exceptionally well given the circumstances, also made his first runs in the 1st innings for Aussie in a Test match. He got off the mark with a back-foot steer square of the wicket. Nathan Hauritz, along with Peter Siddle, came so close in helping our guys reach the follow on!
On that note of tail-enders, they are a bit of a thorn in our side, as once again we failed to knock over the last 2-3 wickets without leaking 50-100 odd runs.
We were short of the follow-on, England batted on, and drop catches, as well as below standard fielding didn't help our situation at all.
So, luck hasn't been on our side at all since arriving in England for the T20 Champions Trophy, and it continues to work against us, and we all know in Test cricket, that a bit luck can make the difference!
England have had it, and the dismissals of both Katto and Phillip, are plain and simply LUCKY!
A long way behind, but I will still support our guys to see it through, and with Punter and Huss at the wicket, I am not going too get hope till the game is concluded!
Simon Katich was caught off an apparent no-ball, and Phillip Hughes was sent on his way after Andrew Strauss claimed a catch at slip.
Now as i have said before, the speed of a ball flying low at you, and taken so close to the ground, the momentum of the ball being picked up so low would give you the impression the catch was taken. But as we saw in the series against the Proteas, referral system aside, the players from both teams were very honest in raising their hand saying the catch wasn't taken or there was doubt. The Umpires have their responsibility here too. It looked like the ball hit the ground and rolled into Strauss' hand. I don't think it was out, and Punter was right in making him stand his ground.
But this is Test cricket, and these incidents happen, and Punter is going along with aggressive intentions! Showing his toughness!
Mike Hussey has a great opportunity ahead for himself too.
As for the last 3 days! Rather dissapointing stuff from the guys.
I have been watching England's cricket very closely over the last 2 years, and I stress the importance again for them with that Cook/Strauss partnership! Those two get going, it can be very dangerous with regards to the bowling side! They got off to a flyer in the 1st innings, and taking that into serious consideration, it set the tone for things to come our way!
Mitchell Johnson did pick up his 100th wicket, but many will agree it wasn't in the best of circumstances. His bowling has been inconsistent, wayward, out of control and I will say it again, but something just doesn't seem right with his body language. I still reckon it is to do with off-field matters, and has possibly thrown him off track a bit.
Mitch is still our match winner, but it just seems his mind needs a bit of a cooling off session. If Brett Lee gets the nod for the 3rd Test, Mitch may find himself in hot water, as himself and Brett's roles are very similar. However, he still gets the break-throughs and has taken some big wickets with some eye-opening deliveries, but it hurts when your strike bowler is looking a bit off-colour.
The Cook/Strauss partnership aside, this game may have been in a much different place right now!
But we now face a monstrous climb needing 522!
A few mistakes have happened, but I am not concerned as England have not won this Test match, and there are 3 test to follow this one. Our team is highly capable of dominating England's line-up, but right now England are coming out on top.
This was a mild concern of mine after that drawn 1st Test.
Our batting performance didn't help the situation, where most of the guys played some rather eccentric shots to get out, notably some pull shots and instinctive twitches.
It was great to see Michael Hussey reach his half-century, but that was a brief celebration when he attempted to leave a delivery from Andrew Flintoff, which kept alot lower than many of us would have expected from Flintoff at line. Huss departed, and it didn't get much better!
One thing I have much better appreciation of, is tail-ender performances with the bat!
Glen McGrath showed this a few times, where he hung around to assist batsmen too reach their milestones. Fittingly, Mike Hussey is one of the blokes who come to mind with such an incident, when he reached a century against The Proteas, with Glen McGrath standing by him all the way!
Peter Siddle has proven that he can bat very well, and the batsmen should be able to have plenty confidence should they find themselves batting with him in the middle in any situation.
He made his highest score, and Ben Hilfenhaus, who has bowled exceptionally well given the circumstances, also made his first runs in the 1st innings for Aussie in a Test match. He got off the mark with a back-foot steer square of the wicket. Nathan Hauritz, along with Peter Siddle, came so close in helping our guys reach the follow on!
On that note of tail-enders, they are a bit of a thorn in our side, as once again we failed to knock over the last 2-3 wickets without leaking 50-100 odd runs.
We were short of the follow-on, England batted on, and drop catches, as well as below standard fielding didn't help our situation at all.
So, luck hasn't been on our side at all since arriving in England for the T20 Champions Trophy, and it continues to work against us, and we all know in Test cricket, that a bit luck can make the difference!
England have had it, and the dismissals of both Katto and Phillip, are plain and simply LUCKY!
A long way behind, but I will still support our guys to see it through, and with Punter and Huss at the wicket, I am not going too get hope till the game is concluded!
17 July 2009
TWO ADVENTURERS, 9 COUNTRIES, 80 DAYS, A CRICKET BAT & BALL!
This article is dedicated to the blokes who won the 'Johnnie Walker, Local to Lords' competition. I received a complementary Johnnie Walker Baggy Red for my efforts to assist Splendid Communications with the campaign, and here is the official write up for the blokes and their adventure!
All they need now is for Aussie to win this Test match! Epic stuff!
Having been to visit Lords last year for a tour of the ground and seeing the incredible history and significance of it, I can confirm these guys have ended their journey at a big event! Sometime I will share my experience of Lord's with you guys!
'Following an epic and pioneering journey around the world, two Melbourne lads have completed the Johnnie Walker Local to Lord’s cricketing adventure with their arrival in London for the 2nd test of the npower Ashes Series 2009.
Rick Liston, 24, and Josh Ogilvie, 28, both from Healesville, Victoria, began their overland expedition in Australia on April 24th with the task of taking cricket from their local pub in Victoria, through Asia, Mongolia and Russia and onto London for the npower Ashes Series.
Armed with a cricket bat signed by the Australian team and a pair of custom made Johnnie Walker baggy red caps, Rick and Josh have introduced cricket to local people through Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, China, Mongolia and Russia before getting to London where they are guests at cricket’s spiritual home – Lord’s to watch Australia take on England in the 2nd test of the npower Ashes Series 2009.
Rick and Josh managed to clock up over 30 games of impromptu cricket along the way in locations as diverse as the Mekong River, Great Wall of China and the back streets of Ho Chi Minh city. Upon their arrival at Lord’s the two adventurers were given behind the scenes access to the Australian team’s pre-match training session where they met Australian bowler Stu Clark.
For more information or to arrange an interview please contact Lloyd Major – 0450 351 855.'
For a very brief view on yesterday's play:
Yesterday was a tough day for the boys of the Baggy Green, but we had a great fightback after the Cook/Strauss partnership was finally broken up!
Hilfy was terrific, again, with the ball, and hopefully today Mitch, Sid's and our part-timer's can take to the field on day 2 and raise the intensity levels to snuff out those last 4 English batsmen! Our strike bowlers have been very wayward, and it is crucial that our guys kick back into gear, because they have been really outstanding with the duties they have been given for Australian Test cricket!
Andrew Strauss holds the key, who is still unbeaten on an impressive 161* not out. With the exception of Alastair Cooks(95), he led the way as a young Captain by experience, after his middle order were easily picked out by our bowlers.
Day 2 will be another big day in this Ashes series, as right now the standing is that England, possibly, have the edge with Strauss still there.
History follows in our wake, which places a battle for pride for our team!
Plenty cricket to follow!
Don't forget that Chris Stocks is at Lord's and keeping exclusive watchfullness on the match, with interviews too in his Extra Cover column with various player's in the Ashes series!
CLICK HERE for Chris' site, if you've yet to take your browser over there!
16 July 2009
ANALYTICAL CHIRPS...& PHILLIP HUGHES!
Chris Stock's, my contact who is a sports columnist for the Metro in England, has got some interesting stuff for all you blokes out there if you are interested. He does write from an Enlish supporter's perspective, so you know!
He will be at Lord's covering the game, with match analysis, news, information on the vibe at Lords etc.
So CLICK HERE and head over to Chris' extra cover column.
He also had an interview recently with Phillip Hughes which will be up end of the day's play most likely.
He did an interview with Mitchell Johnson not too long ago, where I was fortunate to have a few of my questions answered!
There is a comments section so you can feel free to discuss things with Chris too.
Also, just a warm reminder to all of you about the 'Johnnie Walker, Journey to Lord's competition' I was involved in, with assisting in promoting the event via 'The Baggy Green, Chirps & Quick Singles'.
The good news is the blokes have made it to Lord's after a long trip through different parts of the world and finally arriving in London for the Test!
Some of the places they ventured through were; Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, China, Mongolia and Russia.
They educated many people about the great game of cricket.
Even better, the Australian way!
I will be receiving a picture soon of the two blokes, Rick Liston, 24, and Josh Ogilvie, 28, both from Healesville, Victoria who made the journey and are now, at the Ashes Test!
The Lord's Test, a strong record, the importance for the Ashes...come on Baggy Green!
He will be at Lord's covering the game, with match analysis, news, information on the vibe at Lords etc.
So CLICK HERE and head over to Chris' extra cover column.
He also had an interview recently with Phillip Hughes which will be up end of the day's play most likely.
He did an interview with Mitchell Johnson not too long ago, where I was fortunate to have a few of my questions answered!
There is a comments section so you can feel free to discuss things with Chris too.
Also, just a warm reminder to all of you about the 'Johnnie Walker, Journey to Lord's competition' I was involved in, with assisting in promoting the event via 'The Baggy Green, Chirps & Quick Singles'.
The good news is the blokes have made it to Lord's after a long trip through different parts of the world and finally arriving in London for the Test!
Some of the places they ventured through were; Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, China, Mongolia and Russia.
They educated many people about the great game of cricket.
Even better, the Australian way!
I will be receiving a picture soon of the two blokes, Rick Liston, 24, and Josh Ogilvie, 28, both from Healesville, Victoria who made the journey and are now, at the Ashes Test!
The Lord's Test, a strong record, the importance for the Ashes...come on Baggy Green!
15 July 2009
2nd Test Preview; LORDS!
Walking onto the sloped grounds of Lord's on the day of a Test match, this is the game every cricketer dreams of participating in, and everyone wants to witness!
From the comfort of the dressing rooms, then commencing the Long walk; heading down the flight stairs where many Legends of the game have graced the game with the presence, to making the final walk through the doors in between the member's of the Ground, and eventually stepping foot onto the ground as the crowd's near by politely applaud. When you take guard, you are well and truely in the arena to battle the English cricket team with the buzz of the crowd all around you, with you or against you!
How it goes from that moment? That is the beauty of this game, the unknown when the scoreboards are still set to zero!
Every member of our team will be edging to get a taste of this experience, be it their first time or not!
Australia have not lost a Test to Lord's, according to the Stats, since 1934!
That is staggering and each Ashes series onwards, seems to make that record even more impressive. This fact alone will just make both teams even hungrier for victory, raise the level of intensity and ensure there is no love loss between the Baggy Green and the English!
After the 'stall tactics' of the last game, the off-field banter is steaming away between player's, team associates and supporter's.
All apart of the Ashes!
With the possiblity of Andrew Flintoff announcing his retirement from Test cricket, along with another injury, don't be surprised if this cause a bit of havoc in the English camp! One less man from 2005 out the picture!
It wouldn't surprise me if it happens, as the endless injuries have made Flintoff's career less prolific as it could have been to the International setting and not just England, where his efforts in 2005 and against The Proteas made him valuable.
BATTING:
On the batting front there is little to comment on besides the fact the boys were outstanding and ensured we slaughtered England with our batting!
Phillip Hughes and Michael Hussey will be biting their nails to get in the run mix for this one to ensure every batsman is in a position to take control.
The major threat I see will be the inclusion of Steve Harmison, who bowled for the British Lions taking 6 wickets against us, and has done some fine work on the County Circuit.
He gave Phillip a rough time in that particular game, so if we can combat him, it will be an epic battle against one man! England's bowling is otherwise seemingly ordinary without him at the moment, and if one man strikes a memory or two from 2005, it is Harmison! Graham Onions could prove a handful with his medium-pacers too, but I doubt he will get the nod.
A couple more centuries will be on the table, so that a few of our guys can find themselves on that record board in the dressing room, listing player's to have made centuries at Lord's.
All our batsmen have yet to find their way on that board! Watch this space!
BOWLING:
Our bowlers taking 19 wickets, versus England's 6, makes it is safe to say our bowling department put theirs to shame!
However, with our younger bowling line-up, as valiantly as they have fought in recent times, they have had to really graft hard for the 20 wickets, and last match that wicket went flat, had little life to it and was always going to be a big challenge for the guys.
Mitchell Johnson is my only concern. He seemed highly distracted last game and his bowling indicated that. Wayward, off-course and inconsistent.
We will need our strike-bowler to make a quick comeback to his true abilities with Brett Lee still on the side looking on. Peter Siddle needs to go out there, using the emotions from that last game and just be vicious! Ben Hilfenhaus was on the beat and I am excited for him in this upcoming Test to get another shot at the elite level.
His place is going to be put to the Test against the likes of Brett Lee and Stuart Clark, possibly, at a later stage.
The competition between bat and ball should be a closer one than the Cardiff Test.
Nathan Hauritz proved alot to the public with his bowling, so here is another chance for him to stake his claim should the selectors enter the Test with him in the ranks.
The eagerness for a 5for is there, and England's batsmen will be looking to make better time in the middle, hopefully not to the effect of a Collingwood like role. Well, atleast ensuring the time but also maitaining the run flow at the top order.
MOMENTUM:
While the draw was disheartening and numbing to all of us who are Australian supporters, it was a great way to start the series from an excitement factor which has set up the remaining four Tests with plenty awareness.
England celebrated the draw as if they had won the series!
Now it may seem laughable, and many will say that they have momentum now, but I see the reaction as purely a major relief and the rejoicement in surviving.
If that last wicket had been taken, the result would have sent them with practically nothing to take into the 2nd Test. It has rather given them an early wake-up call that they need to up their game very, very quickly.
As for the Baggy Green, it is imperative the supporter's move onto the 2nd Test backing the boys knowing 4 Tests still await them, and the support can hopefully get the player's mentally in tune to the challenge ahead.
A major loss in momentum came from the 1st Test result, but the actual quality of our cricket is what gives enough momentum and confidence on the eve of the 2nd test.
I expect an even greater crowd response too with the Test in England, in London, at the home of cricket. Lord's awaits!
CLICK here to visit Chris Stocks' site, where he shares his views from an England supporter's perspectives, as well as plenty additional info regarding the player's!
From the comfort of the dressing rooms, then commencing the Long walk; heading down the flight stairs where many Legends of the game have graced the game with the presence, to making the final walk through the doors in between the member's of the Ground, and eventually stepping foot onto the ground as the crowd's near by politely applaud. When you take guard, you are well and truely in the arena to battle the English cricket team with the buzz of the crowd all around you, with you or against you!
How it goes from that moment? That is the beauty of this game, the unknown when the scoreboards are still set to zero!
Every member of our team will be edging to get a taste of this experience, be it their first time or not!
Australia have not lost a Test to Lord's, according to the Stats, since 1934!
That is staggering and each Ashes series onwards, seems to make that record even more impressive. This fact alone will just make both teams even hungrier for victory, raise the level of intensity and ensure there is no love loss between the Baggy Green and the English!
After the 'stall tactics' of the last game, the off-field banter is steaming away between player's, team associates and supporter's.
All apart of the Ashes!
With the possiblity of Andrew Flintoff announcing his retirement from Test cricket, along with another injury, don't be surprised if this cause a bit of havoc in the English camp! One less man from 2005 out the picture!
It wouldn't surprise me if it happens, as the endless injuries have made Flintoff's career less prolific as it could have been to the International setting and not just England, where his efforts in 2005 and against The Proteas made him valuable.
BATTING:
On the batting front there is little to comment on besides the fact the boys were outstanding and ensured we slaughtered England with our batting!
Phillip Hughes and Michael Hussey will be biting their nails to get in the run mix for this one to ensure every batsman is in a position to take control.
The major threat I see will be the inclusion of Steve Harmison, who bowled for the British Lions taking 6 wickets against us, and has done some fine work on the County Circuit.
He gave Phillip a rough time in that particular game, so if we can combat him, it will be an epic battle against one man! England's bowling is otherwise seemingly ordinary without him at the moment, and if one man strikes a memory or two from 2005, it is Harmison! Graham Onions could prove a handful with his medium-pacers too, but I doubt he will get the nod.
A couple more centuries will be on the table, so that a few of our guys can find themselves on that record board in the dressing room, listing player's to have made centuries at Lord's.
All our batsmen have yet to find their way on that board! Watch this space!
BOWLING:
Our bowlers taking 19 wickets, versus England's 6, makes it is safe to say our bowling department put theirs to shame!
However, with our younger bowling line-up, as valiantly as they have fought in recent times, they have had to really graft hard for the 20 wickets, and last match that wicket went flat, had little life to it and was always going to be a big challenge for the guys.
Mitchell Johnson is my only concern. He seemed highly distracted last game and his bowling indicated that. Wayward, off-course and inconsistent.
We will need our strike-bowler to make a quick comeback to his true abilities with Brett Lee still on the side looking on. Peter Siddle needs to go out there, using the emotions from that last game and just be vicious! Ben Hilfenhaus was on the beat and I am excited for him in this upcoming Test to get another shot at the elite level.
His place is going to be put to the Test against the likes of Brett Lee and Stuart Clark, possibly, at a later stage.
The competition between bat and ball should be a closer one than the Cardiff Test.
Nathan Hauritz proved alot to the public with his bowling, so here is another chance for him to stake his claim should the selectors enter the Test with him in the ranks.
The eagerness for a 5for is there, and England's batsmen will be looking to make better time in the middle, hopefully not to the effect of a Collingwood like role. Well, atleast ensuring the time but also maitaining the run flow at the top order.
MOMENTUM:
While the draw was disheartening and numbing to all of us who are Australian supporters, it was a great way to start the series from an excitement factor which has set up the remaining four Tests with plenty awareness.
England celebrated the draw as if they had won the series!
Now it may seem laughable, and many will say that they have momentum now, but I see the reaction as purely a major relief and the rejoicement in surviving.
If that last wicket had been taken, the result would have sent them with practically nothing to take into the 2nd Test. It has rather given them an early wake-up call that they need to up their game very, very quickly.
As for the Baggy Green, it is imperative the supporter's move onto the 2nd Test backing the boys knowing 4 Tests still await them, and the support can hopefully get the player's mentally in tune to the challenge ahead.
A major loss in momentum came from the 1st Test result, but the actual quality of our cricket is what gives enough momentum and confidence on the eve of the 2nd test.
I expect an even greater crowd response too with the Test in England, in London, at the home of cricket. Lord's awaits!
CLICK here to visit Chris Stocks' site, where he shares his views from an England supporter's perspectives, as well as plenty additional info regarding the player's!
12 July 2009
1st Test, Day 5; A TWIST HAD TO HAPPEN!
I am sure no one can deny what a thrilling Test match that was, and rightly stated it has set the 2009 Ashes ablaze!
I won't lie to you in saying I'll take the draw, I think we can count ourselves robbed on this one!
I am still a bit numb with the result and rather thrown off with the way things turned around. I mean, from Brett Lee and Shane Watson's injuries, and the string of upset's before the Ashes, you would get the feeling something had to not go in our favour! Not to mention the 2 hours play we lost on day 4.
Surprised we didn't take to the field earlier on Day 5, which would have been a more logical approach, as that is what happened in South Africa when bad light interupted play!
A win in Cardiff would have set us up brilliantly heading into the next Test at Lord's, but a heck of alot can be taken from this match.
Our team performed really well, and we can take alot from that as supporter's.
Our bowlers did give it their best, and our batsmen were unstoppable!
4 centurions, and Brad Haddin cashing in on his debut Ashes ton with Marcus North, was a really special achievement! Had's was in overdrive for that last fifty!
Sadly though, the number 10 and 11 kept us at bay after 5 days of aggressive Test cricket from the boys!
As Punter stated; "It depends how you look at it, I'm not looking at this as a let-down," he said. "I'm disappointed that we didn't win, but I'm not let down by the way we played. From the time we started batting there was only one team that could have won the game. From an hour left in the day's play, everyone here thought we would do that."
"We gave ourselves a great opportunity, we got extremely close, but stumbled at the last hurdle," "But I'm very proud of what the guys achieved. We proved a lot to ourselves." Source: Cricinfo
When I have a bit more energy on the matter I will give a better analysis and opinions regarding the result and looking ahead to Lords for the 2nd test.
But what I can say to all Australian supporter's is that, while the result is very dissapointing, it was an epic way to start the series from a fanatical perspective, and the way we performed in this Test, we are well on our way to being the best team in this series! ]
The team have to pick themselves up mentally and physically quite quickly though!
England will take momentum, but our cricket is on a much better platform!
Paul Collingwood's innings was most probably the most boring, uninspiring inning's I have witnessed, but to his credit if his top order had done the same, I would have credited his inning's as a really good one. 245 balls to make 74, I am pretty certain he didn't find concetrating in school very difficult with that stamina. What a graft!
Although we clearly have an edge on the English, it was like they had won the Ashes all over again! Laughable stuff, as well as that nonsense with the physio coming on at the end?!
If an Australian team rep has done such a thing you would never hear the end of it! That in itself was a poor show.
But, the game has hyped up the Ashes that extra bit and we can be sure to expect a very heated, fuming battle at Lord's!
Quite a bit has happened behind the scenes...controversial etc.
Mitchell and KP had a bit of a head to head, which may have been a part of Mitch just looking a bit off colour yesterday. I get the feeling it is more than just cricket, and have an idea what may be the extra pressure on Mitchell's mind.
Hilfy was on song, and I cannot wait for him to dig into the English top order at Lords! His line and length were consistent and his swing was exciting to watch! Ball of the day...bowling KP most definitly! Sid's showed hs aggression and deserved that last wicket, but couldn't get it! His figures did not reflect his efforts at all!
Nathan Hauritz bowled extremely well, and he will take a heck of alot of confidence from this match. Surprisingly the newer ball is what did him the world of good!
If Mitch gets into the correct rhythym, we will have a very fit and even stronger unit than the one in this Test! Our bowlers have yet to show their true colours.
Due to his batting efforts and incredible display of backward and forward defensive shots with Monty Panesar (making them overnight heroes), here is something worth checking, the James Anderson 'Drink Less, Miss Less with Jimmy Anderson' campaign.
CLICK HERE to see his campaign.
I must say that Monty did play those straight bat shots a bit better than a number 11 should. Clearly the batting buddy system is working for them.
More for you guys later. Meanwhile have your say!
I will also have something up for the Fan vs Fan campaign going on in England for the series. Jason 'Dizzy' Gillespie is our representative on that one!
I won't lie to you in saying I'll take the draw, I think we can count ourselves robbed on this one!
I am still a bit numb with the result and rather thrown off with the way things turned around. I mean, from Brett Lee and Shane Watson's injuries, and the string of upset's before the Ashes, you would get the feeling something had to not go in our favour! Not to mention the 2 hours play we lost on day 4.
Surprised we didn't take to the field earlier on Day 5, which would have been a more logical approach, as that is what happened in South Africa when bad light interupted play!
A win in Cardiff would have set us up brilliantly heading into the next Test at Lord's, but a heck of alot can be taken from this match.
Our team performed really well, and we can take alot from that as supporter's.
Our bowlers did give it their best, and our batsmen were unstoppable!
4 centurions, and Brad Haddin cashing in on his debut Ashes ton with Marcus North, was a really special achievement! Had's was in overdrive for that last fifty!
Sadly though, the number 10 and 11 kept us at bay after 5 days of aggressive Test cricket from the boys!
As Punter stated; "It depends how you look at it, I'm not looking at this as a let-down," he said. "I'm disappointed that we didn't win, but I'm not let down by the way we played. From the time we started batting there was only one team that could have won the game. From an hour left in the day's play, everyone here thought we would do that."
"We gave ourselves a great opportunity, we got extremely close, but stumbled at the last hurdle," "But I'm very proud of what the guys achieved. We proved a lot to ourselves." Source: Cricinfo
When I have a bit more energy on the matter I will give a better analysis and opinions regarding the result and looking ahead to Lords for the 2nd test.
But what I can say to all Australian supporter's is that, while the result is very dissapointing, it was an epic way to start the series from a fanatical perspective, and the way we performed in this Test, we are well on our way to being the best team in this series! ]
The team have to pick themselves up mentally and physically quite quickly though!
England will take momentum, but our cricket is on a much better platform!
Paul Collingwood's innings was most probably the most boring, uninspiring inning's I have witnessed, but to his credit if his top order had done the same, I would have credited his inning's as a really good one. 245 balls to make 74, I am pretty certain he didn't find concetrating in school very difficult with that stamina. What a graft!
Although we clearly have an edge on the English, it was like they had won the Ashes all over again! Laughable stuff, as well as that nonsense with the physio coming on at the end?!
If an Australian team rep has done such a thing you would never hear the end of it! That in itself was a poor show.
But, the game has hyped up the Ashes that extra bit and we can be sure to expect a very heated, fuming battle at Lord's!
Quite a bit has happened behind the scenes...controversial etc.
Mitchell and KP had a bit of a head to head, which may have been a part of Mitch just looking a bit off colour yesterday. I get the feeling it is more than just cricket, and have an idea what may be the extra pressure on Mitchell's mind.
Hilfy was on song, and I cannot wait for him to dig into the English top order at Lords! His line and length were consistent and his swing was exciting to watch! Ball of the day...bowling KP most definitly! Sid's showed hs aggression and deserved that last wicket, but couldn't get it! His figures did not reflect his efforts at all!
Nathan Hauritz bowled extremely well, and he will take a heck of alot of confidence from this match. Surprisingly the newer ball is what did him the world of good!
If Mitch gets into the correct rhythym, we will have a very fit and even stronger unit than the one in this Test! Our bowlers have yet to show their true colours.
Due to his batting efforts and incredible display of backward and forward defensive shots with Monty Panesar (making them overnight heroes), here is something worth checking, the James Anderson 'Drink Less, Miss Less with Jimmy Anderson' campaign.
CLICK HERE to see his campaign.
I must say that Monty did play those straight bat shots a bit better than a number 11 should. Clearly the batting buddy system is working for them.
More for you guys later. Meanwhile have your say!
I will also have something up for the Fan vs Fan campaign going on in England for the series. Jason 'Dizzy' Gillespie is our representative on that one!
11 July 2009
1st Test, Day 4; MARCUS NORTH'S TURN FOR A DEBUT TON!
I am watching the test with a great feeling of appreciation towards our batsmen and the display they have shown!
Brad Haddin and Marcus North have just taken our lead past 100! So, this almost certainly makes the match standing with two possible outcomes; a draw or an Australian victory!
As always a reminder for you to head on over to Chris Stocks’ site, where he is covering the series from an English supporter’s perspective, with more in-depth articles such as interviews!
The wicket seems to have changed a considerably, and no doubt Nathan Hauritz will be anxious to get out and have a bowl in further attempts to prove his worth of a Baggy Green, since receiving it in 2004!
Ricky Ponting’s 150 was a sensational innings, showing our Skipper’s true class and the excellence he articulates in pressure situations on the big stage! I would strongly suggest you catch any highlights you can of his innings. Punter may still be a nervous starter but when he gets going you can be certain the way to dismiss him is through creating your own luck, and a thick inside edge of Moty Panesar’s bowling justified that!
Simon Katich played a terrific role in his first Ashes century, and it was great to see the trademark Katto, with some slightly more aggressive intentions as he neared his hundred and plodded along on the 3rd day’s morning session. Together Katto and Punter were the men who set us up to give the host team a bit of early concerns. Maybe they are worried about leaving out Onions and Harmisson?
Michael Clarke was highly unfortunate to be dismissed 2 overs before the close of day 3. His inning’s deserved more than 83, and I really do believe he played one of his best innings’.
His cover drives were powerful, his straight drives were demanding and his attitude showed leadership and responsibility. This early statement, alongside Punter’s innings, was something we all needed to see from our team leaders. Well done to the top order. Michael Hussey only contributed 3 runs before getting an outside edge being lured into a cover drive, but after the runs he made against the Lion’s, he is bound to cash in sometime soon!
Brad Haddin and Marcus North are powering along, with caution but are just keeping that lead on the rise!
Marcus has played a typical innings by his standards. Slow, steady, assertive, cautious and happy to let a couple go on by as he readies his sense for either a powerful slash sweep to the spinner’s, or a hard cut to the pace men.
His century has set him up nicely following 191* vs the Lions! I have just witnessed him make his ton, sliding in, and feeling his relief as he lifted his head from the Sophia Gardens turf, as he raises his bat on a debut Ashes ton, in his debut Ashes series! Good on ya' Marcus!
He was under question, and a couple people forgot his abilities and experience. It can get the best Australian cricketer’s through some very rough patches! Marcus is showing his value to our middle order, and as an Australian supporter it is very encouraging to see this!
As for Hads, who has partnered Marcus excellently, he is continuing his run grabbing, and I am sure many are wandering when he will get himself out! Subtle jokes aside, the man is dangerous if given the nod to attack! Don’t be surprised if you forget about Gilly in this Ashes series at the most of times!
He has just made his 50, and it has come in Haddin like fashion, and I am pleased to see Had’s settle so comfortably into the conditions in his first Ashes series!
Still, as well as every single bloke is making an early impact, this is the 1st of 5 intense Test matches, the consistency needs to continue onwards!
I think the writing is on the wall, that the order has been for our batsmen to keep the scoreboard ticking, and when that lead is well and truely putting England against a draw or loss, we will be taking the field to get the wickets, in a desperate attempt to win the 1st Test!
By the way, Sparrow, you keep waving the flag for us at the game mate!
Brad Haddin and Marcus North have just taken our lead past 100! So, this almost certainly makes the match standing with two possible outcomes; a draw or an Australian victory!
As always a reminder for you to head on over to Chris Stocks’ site, where he is covering the series from an English supporter’s perspective, with more in-depth articles such as interviews!
The wicket seems to have changed a considerably, and no doubt Nathan Hauritz will be anxious to get out and have a bowl in further attempts to prove his worth of a Baggy Green, since receiving it in 2004!
Ricky Ponting’s 150 was a sensational innings, showing our Skipper’s true class and the excellence he articulates in pressure situations on the big stage! I would strongly suggest you catch any highlights you can of his innings. Punter may still be a nervous starter but when he gets going you can be certain the way to dismiss him is through creating your own luck, and a thick inside edge of Moty Panesar’s bowling justified that!
Simon Katich played a terrific role in his first Ashes century, and it was great to see the trademark Katto, with some slightly more aggressive intentions as he neared his hundred and plodded along on the 3rd day’s morning session. Together Katto and Punter were the men who set us up to give the host team a bit of early concerns. Maybe they are worried about leaving out Onions and Harmisson?
Michael Clarke was highly unfortunate to be dismissed 2 overs before the close of day 3. His inning’s deserved more than 83, and I really do believe he played one of his best innings’.
His cover drives were powerful, his straight drives were demanding and his attitude showed leadership and responsibility. This early statement, alongside Punter’s innings, was something we all needed to see from our team leaders. Well done to the top order. Michael Hussey only contributed 3 runs before getting an outside edge being lured into a cover drive, but after the runs he made against the Lion’s, he is bound to cash in sometime soon!
Brad Haddin and Marcus North are powering along, with caution but are just keeping that lead on the rise!
Marcus has played a typical innings by his standards. Slow, steady, assertive, cautious and happy to let a couple go on by as he readies his sense for either a powerful slash sweep to the spinner’s, or a hard cut to the pace men.
His century has set him up nicely following 191* vs the Lions! I have just witnessed him make his ton, sliding in, and feeling his relief as he lifted his head from the Sophia Gardens turf, as he raises his bat on a debut Ashes ton, in his debut Ashes series! Good on ya' Marcus!
He was under question, and a couple people forgot his abilities and experience. It can get the best Australian cricketer’s through some very rough patches! Marcus is showing his value to our middle order, and as an Australian supporter it is very encouraging to see this!
As for Hads, who has partnered Marcus excellently, he is continuing his run grabbing, and I am sure many are wandering when he will get himself out! Subtle jokes aside, the man is dangerous if given the nod to attack! Don’t be surprised if you forget about Gilly in this Ashes series at the most of times!
He has just made his 50, and it has come in Haddin like fashion, and I am pleased to see Had’s settle so comfortably into the conditions in his first Ashes series!
Still, as well as every single bloke is making an early impact, this is the 1st of 5 intense Test matches, the consistency needs to continue onwards!
I think the writing is on the wall, that the order has been for our batsmen to keep the scoreboard ticking, and when that lead is well and truely putting England against a draw or loss, we will be taking the field to get the wickets, in a desperate attempt to win the 1st Test!
By the way, Sparrow, you keep waving the flag for us at the game mate!
09 July 2009
1st Test; day2: PUNTER & KATTO RAISE THEIR BATS!
* CLICK HERE to visit Chris Stocks' column (where Simon Katich has a say too!) and get his input of day 2's preceedings from an English cricket supporters perspective! Feel free to contact him too!
I don't think many were expecting what was awaiting for the remainder of day 2, after England blasted away to make 435 runs!
Their lower order launched an assault, that probably could have been avoided, but Mitchell Johnson and Nathan Hauritz wrapped it all up!
Nathan Hauritz impressed with 3/95, Mitchell Johnson kicked in with 3/83 - meaning he only needs 3 more for 100 wickets - and Peter Siddle took 2/121 and bowled alot better than his figures would indicate. He just took a bit of strain this morning.
Ben Hilfenhaus impressed, and the way he swung that ball will keep many eye brows lifted for the remainder of the series! He ended with 2/77 after 27 overs!So, all in all our bowlers chipped and key wickets fell when needed!
Although England definitly got away, and I am sure many Australian supporters, even myself, were a bit concerned and frustrated at the morning session!
But as I said to a mate of mine, we haven't even started our inningsm just wait!
249/1 at the close of play, well, I have only positive things to say!
Phillip Hughes set off briskly and while he didn't make a half-century, his opening stand of 60 with Simon Katich was so important to the foundation of this innings. They just had to better the Strauss/Cook partnership!
Phillip fell with a faint inside edge for 36. A little upsetting, but he has his first Ashes runs, and I reckon we are in line for many more!
But the major blow to the English today was the return of our Skipper, Ricky Ponting, and our unstoppable left-handed opener Simon Katich!
Both of them played majestic innings' as gave ourselves a fighting chance in chasing England's total. Maybe the English needed 500?
Punter has needed a ton for a long time, and as I mentioned in my 'Baggy Green Squad Spotter', Punter would need runs and plenty of them. More importantly Punter steps up when questioned eg. India last year, and the modern day legend lodged his 38th Test century! Even better Punter reached 11 000 Test runs! Allan Border's total is being chased down game by game! I am proud of Punter, and this century made up for the questionable field settings he had in place in the morning session!
The relief of this century will be like taking a major weight off his shoulders! Best part is that Punter and Katto can carry on where they left off tomorrow!
You can't forget Katto! You never can! His form has been so unbelievably consistent since returning to our team against the Windies, and he gets right into the action!
His strokes were cautious but confident, and after Phillip departed with 60 on the board, he refocused and with Punter they built up a massive partnership that is still standing, and tomorrow you can be sure they will be ready to fire on tomorrow!
Katto shuffled about excellently to the spinners, created space to punish a couple through the off-side, but played alot of the spin to the leg side with soft hands, and calm composure! All in all two sensational innings' I plan to take another look at! The seniors have stepped up in the first innings, so it will be important for them to take as much from this as they can, although Katto's form cannot be questioned from as far back as the last 2005 Ashes series!
His debut Ashes century and Punter's 11 000 runs, made it a special day.
So, I think it is easy to conclude, that despite a rough session England definitly dominated at the start of play, the Baggy Green fought back and our top 3 gave us the momentum like we did at the end of day 1!
Brilliant work, and will day 3 also have some action packed, edge of your seat entertainment!
Still plenty of batsmen to play and all of them are very, very hungry for some runs!
Importantly, there is still plenty work to do tomorrow to chase down, and potentially get a strong lead!
Have your say in the comments, or send me an email!
I don't think many were expecting what was awaiting for the remainder of day 2, after England blasted away to make 435 runs!
Their lower order launched an assault, that probably could have been avoided, but Mitchell Johnson and Nathan Hauritz wrapped it all up!
Nathan Hauritz impressed with 3/95, Mitchell Johnson kicked in with 3/83 - meaning he only needs 3 more for 100 wickets - and Peter Siddle took 2/121 and bowled alot better than his figures would indicate. He just took a bit of strain this morning.
Ben Hilfenhaus impressed, and the way he swung that ball will keep many eye brows lifted for the remainder of the series! He ended with 2/77 after 27 overs!So, all in all our bowlers chipped and key wickets fell when needed!
Although England definitly got away, and I am sure many Australian supporters, even myself, were a bit concerned and frustrated at the morning session!
But as I said to a mate of mine, we haven't even started our inningsm just wait!
249/1 at the close of play, well, I have only positive things to say!
Phillip Hughes set off briskly and while he didn't make a half-century, his opening stand of 60 with Simon Katich was so important to the foundation of this innings. They just had to better the Strauss/Cook partnership!
Phillip fell with a faint inside edge for 36. A little upsetting, but he has his first Ashes runs, and I reckon we are in line for many more!
But the major blow to the English today was the return of our Skipper, Ricky Ponting, and our unstoppable left-handed opener Simon Katich!
Both of them played majestic innings' as gave ourselves a fighting chance in chasing England's total. Maybe the English needed 500?
Punter has needed a ton for a long time, and as I mentioned in my 'Baggy Green Squad Spotter', Punter would need runs and plenty of them. More importantly Punter steps up when questioned eg. India last year, and the modern day legend lodged his 38th Test century! Even better Punter reached 11 000 Test runs! Allan Border's total is being chased down game by game! I am proud of Punter, and this century made up for the questionable field settings he had in place in the morning session!
The relief of this century will be like taking a major weight off his shoulders! Best part is that Punter and Katto can carry on where they left off tomorrow!
You can't forget Katto! You never can! His form has been so unbelievably consistent since returning to our team against the Windies, and he gets right into the action!
His strokes were cautious but confident, and after Phillip departed with 60 on the board, he refocused and with Punter they built up a massive partnership that is still standing, and tomorrow you can be sure they will be ready to fire on tomorrow!
Katto shuffled about excellently to the spinners, created space to punish a couple through the off-side, but played alot of the spin to the leg side with soft hands, and calm composure! All in all two sensational innings' I plan to take another look at! The seniors have stepped up in the first innings, so it will be important for them to take as much from this as they can, although Katto's form cannot be questioned from as far back as the last 2005 Ashes series!
His debut Ashes century and Punter's 11 000 runs, made it a special day.
So, I think it is easy to conclude, that despite a rough session England definitly dominated at the start of play, the Baggy Green fought back and our top 3 gave us the momentum like we did at the end of day 1!
Brilliant work, and will day 3 also have some action packed, edge of your seat entertainment!
Still plenty of batsmen to play and all of them are very, very hungry for some runs!
Importantly, there is still plenty work to do tomorrow to chase down, and potentially get a strong lead!
Have your say in the comments, or send me an email!
08 July 2009
1st TEST, day 1: WHOSE DAY IS IT?
It has begun, the 2009 Ashes are well and truly on the way!
The build up was brief, informative and let the build up over the months stream out.
England won the toss, decided to bat, which I wasn't too worried about. We just needed to knock out the Strauss/Cook partnership.
The anthems were sung - Katherine Jenkins could have sung all three as far as I'm concerned - and the players made their way out onto the Sophia Gardens turf, ready for the battle of the Ashes!
Mithcell Johnson deservedly started the series with the new ball.
All the English batsmen, with the exception of Al Cook, made sensible starts to their innings', but due to some perfect executions and the right times, our bowlers kept them on our radar.
Ben Hilfenhaus took the first wicket for us, which was possible by one of the sharpest catches at gully you will ever see!
Michael Hussey took that with the agility of a young athlete as he leapt up and took a flyer, to give Hilfy the wicket, and break up the Strauss/Cook partnership. Cook was on his way for 10!
Peter Siddle welcomed Ravi Bopara with a hostile, vicious Sid bouncer at the throat! Bopara and Skipper Strauss seemed to hold things together for a while before Mitchell Johnson decided it was time to get stuck into the English top order, and managed to pick up both their wickets with catches by Phillip Hughes and Michael Clarke.
We had the momentum, but our major threat with the bat, Kevin Pieterson, and the other ex.Skipper, Paul Collingwood, managed to save their team in the second session.
KP made 69, but his beloved sweep ended up giving away his prized wicket rather cheaply, and foolishly.
Nathan Hauritz claimed his prize and seized the moment! Hilfy was once again in the action, as he tied down the batsmen and generated the swing (which was a great spectacle) and Brad Haddin took his first catch of the series from behind the stumps. It was a very quick take by Had's.
With 5 wickets down we were back in the game, which KP and Collingwood attempted to steal from us.
But England's beloved Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff (37) and wicket-keeper, Matt Prior (56) led the way for quite an aggressive, quick fire partnership that definitly cast a shadow over our bowling efforts.
I admit to have been impressed by some of Prior's shots and Flintoff's cool attitude with the fans blaring away vocally (drunkedly?), but the breakthroughs were epic!
Peter Siddle had toiled out there all day, shown his bold pride to represent the Baggy Green and got the two wickets that were needed for momentum to swing back our way!
Flintoff chopped one onto his stumps, taken aback by his own onslaught, but the Flintoff show came to a closure. With James 'Jimmy' Anderson making his way out too the middle as night-watchman, it wasn't too long till the next bloke was due for a bat!
Delivery of the day for me was the gem of inswing Sid's generated, luring Prior into an off-drive, which blitzed it's way through the gap between bat and pad, and knocked his leg-stump, BOWLED!
The score at the close of play was 336/7, and in good time by the looks of it!
Ben Hilfenhaus was the pick of the bowlers.
In my article 'The Baggy Green Squad Spotter', I noted his strengths, but the obvious similarities between himself and Stuart Clark were obvious. In the end Hilfy got the call-up. It was a fair choice as this young pace-attack did the damage for us against the Proteas in South Africa, and the conditions, match-pressure and opportunity awaiting Hilfy is truely a brilliant opportunity for him! He stood up in fine style today and ended with 2/61 off 23overs. Sid's and Mitch chipped in with pace, intensity and both provided key wicket's in very close succession! They were a bit off their best, which is actually good to note!
It was a day for the pacemen, as Hauritz gave it his best shot, and generated some very impressive turn, and wasn't afraid to give the ball some better flight! Much better from him, and he did a job at getting KP's wicket, and keeping the run's dry for the English.
336 runs isn't a bad total on the board, and 3 wickets in hand gives the likes of Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann something to play with, but if our boys arrive with the intensity they started and ended with today, we could knock England off around 350 give or take.
I see it as three sessions:
Session 1: The Baggy Green; Session 2: England; Session 3: Nearly England's, but Peter Siddle sealed the deal for us in the end! That's my opinion anyway!
What is in line for us tomorrow?
Whatever it is, our batsmen have some runs too face up too, and I hope we have another day of exciting Test match cricket!
What do you think?
Also I think it is important to note, as it may very well happen in this Test, that Mitchell Johnson is 4 wickets short of reaching 100 Test wickets! A milestone to be aware of for our front-line seamer, with Brett Lee sadly on the sidelines.
The build up was brief, informative and let the build up over the months stream out.
England won the toss, decided to bat, which I wasn't too worried about. We just needed to knock out the Strauss/Cook partnership.
The anthems were sung - Katherine Jenkins could have sung all three as far as I'm concerned - and the players made their way out onto the Sophia Gardens turf, ready for the battle of the Ashes!
Mithcell Johnson deservedly started the series with the new ball.
All the English batsmen, with the exception of Al Cook, made sensible starts to their innings', but due to some perfect executions and the right times, our bowlers kept them on our radar.
Ben Hilfenhaus took the first wicket for us, which was possible by one of the sharpest catches at gully you will ever see!
Michael Hussey took that with the agility of a young athlete as he leapt up and took a flyer, to give Hilfy the wicket, and break up the Strauss/Cook partnership. Cook was on his way for 10!
Peter Siddle welcomed Ravi Bopara with a hostile, vicious Sid bouncer at the throat! Bopara and Skipper Strauss seemed to hold things together for a while before Mitchell Johnson decided it was time to get stuck into the English top order, and managed to pick up both their wickets with catches by Phillip Hughes and Michael Clarke.
We had the momentum, but our major threat with the bat, Kevin Pieterson, and the other ex.Skipper, Paul Collingwood, managed to save their team in the second session.
KP made 69, but his beloved sweep ended up giving away his prized wicket rather cheaply, and foolishly.
Nathan Hauritz claimed his prize and seized the moment! Hilfy was once again in the action, as he tied down the batsmen and generated the swing (which was a great spectacle) and Brad Haddin took his first catch of the series from behind the stumps. It was a very quick take by Had's.
With 5 wickets down we were back in the game, which KP and Collingwood attempted to steal from us.
But England's beloved Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff (37) and wicket-keeper, Matt Prior (56) led the way for quite an aggressive, quick fire partnership that definitly cast a shadow over our bowling efforts.
I admit to have been impressed by some of Prior's shots and Flintoff's cool attitude with the fans blaring away vocally (drunkedly?), but the breakthroughs were epic!
Peter Siddle had toiled out there all day, shown his bold pride to represent the Baggy Green and got the two wickets that were needed for momentum to swing back our way!
Flintoff chopped one onto his stumps, taken aback by his own onslaught, but the Flintoff show came to a closure. With James 'Jimmy' Anderson making his way out too the middle as night-watchman, it wasn't too long till the next bloke was due for a bat!
Delivery of the day for me was the gem of inswing Sid's generated, luring Prior into an off-drive, which blitzed it's way through the gap between bat and pad, and knocked his leg-stump, BOWLED!
The score at the close of play was 336/7, and in good time by the looks of it!
Ben Hilfenhaus was the pick of the bowlers.
In my article 'The Baggy Green Squad Spotter', I noted his strengths, but the obvious similarities between himself and Stuart Clark were obvious. In the end Hilfy got the call-up. It was a fair choice as this young pace-attack did the damage for us against the Proteas in South Africa, and the conditions, match-pressure and opportunity awaiting Hilfy is truely a brilliant opportunity for him! He stood up in fine style today and ended with 2/61 off 23overs. Sid's and Mitch chipped in with pace, intensity and both provided key wicket's in very close succession! They were a bit off their best, which is actually good to note!
It was a day for the pacemen, as Hauritz gave it his best shot, and generated some very impressive turn, and wasn't afraid to give the ball some better flight! Much better from him, and he did a job at getting KP's wicket, and keeping the run's dry for the English.
336 runs isn't a bad total on the board, and 3 wickets in hand gives the likes of Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann something to play with, but if our boys arrive with the intensity they started and ended with today, we could knock England off around 350 give or take.
I see it as three sessions:
Session 1: The Baggy Green; Session 2: England; Session 3: Nearly England's, but Peter Siddle sealed the deal for us in the end! That's my opinion anyway!
What is in line for us tomorrow?
Whatever it is, our batsmen have some runs too face up too, and I hope we have another day of exciting Test match cricket!
What do you think?
Also I think it is important to note, as it may very well happen in this Test, that Mitchell Johnson is 4 wickets short of reaching 100 Test wickets! A milestone to be aware of for our front-line seamer, with Brett Lee sadly on the sidelines.
07 July 2009
THE ASHES NOTES #14 : LET'S CREATE LEGENDS!
* THE BAGGY GREEN SQUAD SPOTTER ARTICLE BELOW!
The Ashes 2009 has finally arrived!!
All Australian supporter's everywhere, cheer and back the boys, and be proud to represent the Baggy Green. Grab an ice cold beer in your mit, sit back and let's silence English cricket and retain that Urn!
Come on The Baggy Green!
I may be quiet at times, but you can bet I will be following the game whenever I can!
CLICK HERE for a great article, and some sensational statements by our Skipper, Ricky Ponting!
CLICK HERE for another one at Nathan Hauritz' Cricket Australia Blog.
The Ashes 2009 has finally arrived!!
All Australian supporter's everywhere, cheer and back the boys, and be proud to represent the Baggy Green. Grab an ice cold beer in your mit, sit back and let's silence English cricket and retain that Urn!
Come on The Baggy Green!
I may be quiet at times, but you can bet I will be following the game whenever I can!
CLICK HERE for a great article, and some sensational statements by our Skipper, Ricky Ponting!
CLICK HERE for another one at Nathan Hauritz' Cricket Australia Blog.
06 July 2009
THE BAGGY GREEN ASHES '09 SQUAD SPOTTER
This is the Baggy Green squad spotter as we near the 1st Test of the 2009 Ashes series in England.
Bad news has hit our Ashes camp though just a couple of days before the 1st Test, as Brett Lee has suffered an injury, which has ruled him out of the first two Tests.
Typical story Australian cricket at the moment, which is pretty depressing. One thing after the next!
Brett performed outstandingly in the warm-up game vs the Lions, but his efforts and reverse swing hopes for our side will have to be cast aside for now as he will be rested while his recovery process begins.
The news is extremely disappointing as Brett had a lot to show for in his Test cricket comeback, and it changes the dynamics of our potential squad selection.
If Brett faces a worse case scenario, who is next in line?
After recently taking 8 wickets for Australia A, I'd be tipping Doug Bollinger to make his way over, but we are a way off that possibility at present!
The good news is we do have a squad with candidates eager to get their call-ups and take to the field wearing their Baggy Green proudly as they set out to defend our Ashes title from the 2006/07 battle!
Without further to do here is my basic analysis of our squad for the 2009 Ashes, taking into consideration their warm-up performances, track records and statistics for those who have played Test cricket in England.
CLICK HERE to take a look at Chris Stocks' (Metro sports, England) England squad spotter profiles on his column 'Extra cover'. Enjoy!
Stats bar:
Career span (Tests vs England, in England), Matches, Runs, H/S, Bat.average, 100's, wickets, Best Bowling, Bowling avaerge, 5-wicket hauls
Simon Katich
2001-2005/ 6/ 263/ 67/ 26.30/ 0/ 1/ 1-36/ 50.00/ 0
Role: Opening batsman (LH), Part-time spinner (LH)
Form: Katto has been logging in some valuable starts opening up! Since his re-entry in the Caribbean last year, he has been with out a doubt Australia's most consistent performer with the bat. With the intensity of the Ashes, his form holds him in a strong position at the top
Verdict: Katto's stats against England, in England, are far below average, and this bland stat on his CV, coinciding with his strong form for runs, makes him a massive threat to England as he marks his crease!
Natural Game: A conservative opener, who takes a very defensive approach early on in his innings', can quickly up his strike-rate and becomes quite a free playing, aggressive stroke maker. His crab-shuffle around his crease can be quite a headache to contend with for the opposition!
The X Factor: His part-time spin adds some needed depth to our bowling, but his abilities at the top of the order strengthened by his natural game are perfect for the English conditions.
He may seem like a quiet, laid-back bloke, but he was on the verge of knocking Gautam Gambhir's lights out in India last year during a bit of brawl in the middle, and reportedly held Michael Clarke by the throat in the change room for reasons related to singing our team song. I'd think twice before winding up Katto if I was an English supporter, or one of the drunken tenors of the Barmy Army...or Freddie Flintoff.
Phillip Hughes
Role: Opening batsman (LH)
Form: It would be unfair to judge Phillip regarding the warm-up games. The 20-year old spent 6 weeks in England playing for Middlesex, where he dominated the circuit, and that glimpse of form cannot be ignored.
Maybe a few nerves with the Baggy Green back on have ruffled him up a bit, but with 5 Tests ahead, I have little doubt that he will make an impact at the top.
Verdict: His age and his given record, which is extraordinary at this stage of his career will cause the English media to dig into him should he slip up in a few innings'. The expectations that have been placed upon him is a bit unfair, but with his cool attitude and unphased focus, my verdict is that a poor game against the Lions is what was needed to boost some ammo into Hughes' game!
Natural Game: An aggressive, unorthodox cricketer.
The X Factor: His natural game alongside Simon Katich in the top order, makes the two of them a fine opening pair. Both left-handed, both play for NSW, and they both have the ability to impose an aggressive assault leaving bowlers scratching their heads at what to do next. His bizarre technique leverages his game.
Ricky Ponting
1997-2005/ 13/ 938/ 156/ 42.63/ 3/ 1/ 1-9/ 17.00/ 0
Role: Batsman (RH, no.3)
Form: Punter has been frustratingly inconsistent, and has become a very nervous starter in the middle too, prone to edges and LBW, which can look quite clumsy from such a prolific cricketer. He made one decent score against Sussex, but his uncharacteristic form and odd post of a fifty here and there is not anything to boast about.
Verdict: His record in England is a good one, and this holds Punter's benchmark standard high. His training and intensity are outstanding, expecting his pace-men to fire new balls at him when he is in the nets. He will know all too well that the runs have dried up lately, and this is a big moment for him to fix it. To lead a less-experienced side as Captain in England, too retain the Ashes, means he will need to recall his experience in English conditions, and make runs, plenty of them!
Natural Game: A nervous starter who has become a lot more defensive, but he is an aggressive batsman by nature and not afraid to chirp a thing or two when he is in full-stride!
The X Factor: His experience, and the fact he is a modern day great with the bat, still makes Punter a strong force. The big occasions are where he shows his true colours, and don't be surprised if you see a few triple figure scores emerge next to his name at number 3! After the sub-fielder incident in 2005, Punter will be happy to stick it to the England squad with a victory this time around!
Michael Hussey
Role: Middle order batsman (LH)
Form: The Huss has been in a drought for runs and suffered a bit of fatigue during the Proteas series. However Australian supporters can let out a sigh of relief as Huss mashed together a sensational 150 runs, followed by 62* not out against the Lions, marking his return to Test cricket. The Ashes is where it will count, and his form is leaning back into the hot zone!
Verdict: As a very experienced cricketer in English conditions (where he has made it past 300), and a quality batsman who works mighty hard at his cricket, my verdict is that Huss – in his first Ashes series in England – could well be in for a big series, where he also has a big role to play in our middle order!
Natural Game: A patient batsman with plenty stamina, who likes to build an innings at his own pace. His stroke play, like Clarke, is picture perfect when he gets it right.
The X Factor: A batting fanatic. When he gets out there in the middle, with energy and ambition, it is very hard to send the man back to the Pavillion. He creates solid middle order foundations, and if the top order collapses, Huss' X factor can save an innings.
Michael Clarke
5/ 335/91/37.22/0/ 0/ -/ -/ 0
Role: Middle order batsman (RH) Part-time spinner (LH)
Form: Touch and go for Pup. He has made lots of runs in the Test arena and has grown into a very accomplished Test cricketer. His form does peak at odd intervals, but has recently shown he is in tune to the English conditions and ready to go.
Verdict: As vice Captain, in his 2nd Ashes series in England, where his performances brought on a fair bit of criticism, he has a lot to prove, for himself and to the general public. A fine player of spin, and a flexible cricketer, my verdict is that he has a big part to play in a more conservative style in the middle, and is capable to move on past that 2005 series and back his game! His personal challenge will be too watch out for the reverse swing!
Natural Game: Aggressive and alert!
The X Factor: A fine player of spin, a hard-hitting stroke player and his part-time spin can prove to be valuable at the best of times, but his fielding is at the highest level and can set the standards very high!
Marcus North
Role: Middle order batsman (LH), Part-time spin bowler (RH)
Form: Very similar to Mike Hussey, Marcus had been burdened in being unable to make any runs. However, in the same game Huss made 150, Marcus lashed out with 191 unbeaten runs, and in a time of desperation stuck his hand up and grabbed the opportunity that was a decider on his game. His form has peaked at the right time, and that innings will give him plenty confidence!
Verdict: An experienced cricketer, a versatile batsman in the middle order, and a very handy part-time spinner makes his need to appear very important. Some may question him being there, and see one innings as not enough, but he is a very well-grounded cricketer who knows what he needs to do.
A player with his experience, like Huss, will know when he has that confidence boost needed and will be backing his abilities to prove himself in his first Ashes series!
Natural Game: Like Hussey, a patient batsman who will build his innings at his own pace.
The X Factor: Having his experience and skill in the middle order adds to our squads depth and he is highly capable at generating break-through's with his part-time spin!
Brad Haddin
Role: Wicket-keeper/ Batsman (RH)
Form: Had's has been in the run-getting most of the time, but has a knack of getting himself out cheaply. His form is good enough to provide us with valuable runs at the lower end of the middle order. His wicket-keeping has risen back to a more Haddin like level, than the drop in standards he saw over last summer, but in the Pakistan ODI series, his keeping was right up at the elite level!
Verdict: A lot of pressure was placed upon Hads as Adam Gilchrist's successor. It was unfair, but if anyone was the best replacement it would have to have been Hads! He is a lively cricketer, with plenty to say behind the stumps and loves the big shots. An entertainer, and I expect the crowds to have a bit of fun with him, as he animates our boys from behind the stumps! In his 1st Ashes series he will be hungry for plenty, whether with the gloves or the bat! Ahead of Matt Prior by leaps and bounds in my opinion!
Natural Game: An aggressive, assertive cricketer, who likes to stamp his authority on the game when he is involved!
The X Factor: His ability to attack the opposition with brutality and a 'no-fear' attitude! He is no Gilchrist, but hopefully this series this X factor he brings with his batting, alongside his lively wicket-keeping may make him a Haddin to others, and no longer compared to Gilly!
Mitchell Johnson
Role: Batsman (LH), Pace bowler (LH)
Form: Mitch has been in unstoppable form since the home series against South Africa last year. His bowling is phenomenal, although time in the middle helped him on the last day against the Lions, where he showed better promise with the ball. His batting is on the ascendancy too! Mitch is far from rusty and expect big things from this fine Australian cricketer!
Verdict: A big part of missing puzzle in our bowling, Mitch gives us a left-arm pace bowler, who has now got a few tricks up his sleeve!
Whether he kept some of his plans in the bag during the warm-up against the Lions? I wouldn't be surprised if he did! He has become a good Test batsman, who plays his strokes like he should be batting higher up than he does, but with his name posted in the lower order, he gives valuable support to the middle order, and has the ability to make a few belting innings' of his own! Watch out for Mitch!
Natural Game: A bowler who shows his aggression with his bowling and not words, and thrives on imposing fear upon his opposition! With the bat he is an opportunist! He can see out the good balls, but give him a bad one he can send out the ground, and expect to be pummeled!
The X Factor: His focus with the ball in hand, and his newly developed bowling variations make him a key wicket taker against the top order, or to clean out the lower order. The bloke can bat a bit too!
Brett Lee
2001-2005/ 10/ 182/ 47/ 18.20/ 0/ 29/ 4-82/ 45.44/ 0
A rib injury has put his Ashes comeback in the sidelines for now, as he will not participate in the first two Tests. This is a major blow to our starting test, however he could return after so here's his profile!
Role: Batsman (RH), Pace-bowler (RH)
Form: Brett battled some personal demons before heading off to India last year, where his focus waned and then his ankle gave. He wasn't a threat and it was hard to believe his lapse in form after his series in the West Indies. However, after a poor T20 performance, he refocused for the Test cricket arena and against the Lions came out with a 6 wicket haul, and also gave the batsman a few surprises to deal with. Even better he is hitting the speed-o-meter with consistency! His form is back on the rise!
Verdict: I feel he still has a lot to prove as we go into the Ashes, but when he bowls with brutal force, heavy focus and calls on his experience, Brett is a bowler you wouldn't want to be having to protect your wicket against. I would also like too see him getting in the English batsmens faces a bit more, as opposed to the 'Mr. Nice guy , I want to be a Bollywood star Brett', we have had to endure for the past months. He needs to lead from the front, and with Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle in his ranks, they are a trio of lightning!
His bowling stats in England are impressive, and a 5-for is on the cards for the man! After some good batting in the warm-ups, he may be able to give himself some all-rounder credibility in England!
Natural Game: A hostile bowler who has an aggressive temperament, with the ball in hand or a few words.
The X Factor: The Bing factor, well, you all know about it!
Peter Siddle
Role: Pace-bowler (RH)
Form: Sid's is in terrific form and gets better with every match he plays, every over he bowls, and every snarl he hurls the striker's way. He is a must pick, not only because he can get under the English batsmens skin, but because he is such an ambitious young cricketer!
Verdict: With Brett's injury it seems certain that Sid's is going to be taking the new ball. This is an exciting prospect, but also places a lot of pressure on our younger bowlers, where Stuart Clark has an even bigger role to play! Sid's is going to be our silent assassin with ball in hand, but maybe not so silent with the verbals!
Natural Game: A vicious young man who loves to bang the ball into the deck nice and hard and his attitude, that is all about winning the contest, makes him an aggressive contender. Even when batting he doesn't back down!
The X Factor: His inspiring enthusiasm and patriotic ambition to lead with the ball in hand!
Stuart Clark
Role: Fast-medium bowler (RH)
Form: Like Binga, Stuart missed most of the South African tests after an elbow injury. He has performed very sub-standardly in the warm-ups, but with Brett injured he will need to quickly shape into form as he will be taking the field on the 8th most certainly. His overall form is unknown still, but watch this space closely!
Verdict: He can swing the ball, hit the deck hard, cramp up the batsmen, frustrate the opposition and may be our next hope of reverse swing with Brett out of the squad mix.
Natural Game: A calm and collected bowler who will graft away to get that break-through. Line and length!
The X Factor: His consistency to wear a batsman out ball after ball! His ability to swing the ball just a fraction with his given consistency is enough to create an edge or a mistimed shot to send the striker packing!
Nathan Hauritz
Role: Off-break Spin bowler (RH)
Form: Nathan is a defensive bowler and I have stated that Jason Krejza (who has recently performed very well for Australia A against Pakistan A) would have been a better pick from an imposing perspective. However he has a big role to play with his spin bowling if he is given the nod to play in the Tests as our only, dubbed, specialist spinner. It will be a tough slog for him to keep the English from slogging him. His form in the warm-ups hasn't been eye-opening.
Verdict: Shane Warne stated that Nathan must play. He needs overs and time in the competitive conditions as he did not feature in South Africa. If he plays he will have a big role to play and he will need to back himself with the confidence based upon the noted fact that the selectors have placed him in the side.
He will be competing with Ben Hilfenhaus for a spot!
Natural Game: A defensive spin bowler, who digs deep into his strengths as opposed to taking risks.
The X Factor: His defensiveness isn't Australian spin mentality by tradition, but it could tie down and create some opportunities. He can also provide very handy contributions with bat in hand!
Ben Hilfenhaus
Role: Fast-medium bowler (RH)
Form: Hilfy performed brilliantly in South Africa. While he didn't take dozens of wickets, he was able to create early break-through's and get key wickets. He generated some good seam and late swing against the right handed batsmen. He wasn't good in the warm-ups but was far from bad. His form will peak at the right time!
Verdict: Hilfy's call-up is a tough one. If Nathan Hauritz plays he will miss out, if Hauritz plays, he will luck out. Also if Hilfy plays it is one less batsman in the line-up, but a potentially lethal bowler in the English conditions. He is on the edge of a call-up for now!
Natural Game: Similar to Stuart Clark, just lacking the experience.
The X Factor: His abilities to meddle with the right-handed batsmen at 140km/h. He also has the ability as getting key wickets! And in the English line-up there are a few big fish too catch out!
Shane Watson
Watto has once again been caught with an injury and did not play in the warm-up games.
He also been practicing really hard in his time on the sidelines.
He is underestimated regarding his batting, but without his bowling abilities, it does limit his call-up chances.
His Test record is far from spectacular and has only made his ODI comeback recently. His call-up was a risky one and is not paying off. His injury saga's continue and must frustrate him immensely. With Watto it is a wait and see game, which is a pity for a cricketer who really does have so much ability with the bat and ball, but I doubt that we will ever see his true colours as his younger days were messed about so much with injury. Still plenty to show for though!
Andrew McDonald
Andrew needs to pump himself up more, get a lot more intensity in his performances.
He did a very good support role with the ball in the Test series in South Africa and in his debut at the SCG. Stuart Clark's entrance has snuffed his chances at a call-up, but he will be contending with Shane Watson for that all-rounder position should either of them be facing a potential call-up. His batting was revealed to International viewers in the Newlands Test, showing that he is capable at posting runs. His bowling spell in Durban was excellent, but it seems unlikely he will feature in the Ashes 2009 though.
Graham Manou
Haddin's cover for the series. A keeper by trade, then a batsman. The South Australian wicket-keeper will only feature should Had's fall to injury, but Graham will be learning a lot from this trip as Had's claimed to do so back 2005, when he covered for Adam Gilchrist. The time with the squad will only push him to better his State performances this coming summer!
Probable starting XI for the 1st Test:
Simon Katich, Phillip Hughes, Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey, Michael Clarke, Marcus North, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Nathan Hauritz (Ben Hilfenhaus), Peter Siddle, Stuart Clark
* Hauritz vs Hilfenhaus most likely condition depending!
Bad news has hit our Ashes camp though just a couple of days before the 1st Test, as Brett Lee has suffered an injury, which has ruled him out of the first two Tests.
Typical story Australian cricket at the moment, which is pretty depressing. One thing after the next!
Brett performed outstandingly in the warm-up game vs the Lions, but his efforts and reverse swing hopes for our side will have to be cast aside for now as he will be rested while his recovery process begins.
The news is extremely disappointing as Brett had a lot to show for in his Test cricket comeback, and it changes the dynamics of our potential squad selection.
If Brett faces a worse case scenario, who is next in line?
After recently taking 8 wickets for Australia A, I'd be tipping Doug Bollinger to make his way over, but we are a way off that possibility at present!
The good news is we do have a squad with candidates eager to get their call-ups and take to the field wearing their Baggy Green proudly as they set out to defend our Ashes title from the 2006/07 battle!
Without further to do here is my basic analysis of our squad for the 2009 Ashes, taking into consideration their warm-up performances, track records and statistics for those who have played Test cricket in England.
CLICK HERE to take a look at Chris Stocks' (Metro sports, England) England squad spotter profiles on his column 'Extra cover'. Enjoy!
Stats bar:
Career span (Tests vs England, in England), Matches, Runs, H/S, Bat.average, 100's, wickets, Best Bowling, Bowling avaerge, 5-wicket hauls
Simon Katich
2001-2005/ 6/ 263/ 67/ 26.30/ 0/ 1/ 1-36/ 50.00/ 0
Role: Opening batsman (LH), Part-time spinner (LH)
Form: Katto has been logging in some valuable starts opening up! Since his re-entry in the Caribbean last year, he has been with out a doubt Australia's most consistent performer with the bat. With the intensity of the Ashes, his form holds him in a strong position at the top
Verdict: Katto's stats against England, in England, are far below average, and this bland stat on his CV, coinciding with his strong form for runs, makes him a massive threat to England as he marks his crease!
Natural Game: A conservative opener, who takes a very defensive approach early on in his innings', can quickly up his strike-rate and becomes quite a free playing, aggressive stroke maker. His crab-shuffle around his crease can be quite a headache to contend with for the opposition!
The X Factor: His part-time spin adds some needed depth to our bowling, but his abilities at the top of the order strengthened by his natural game are perfect for the English conditions.
He may seem like a quiet, laid-back bloke, but he was on the verge of knocking Gautam Gambhir's lights out in India last year during a bit of brawl in the middle, and reportedly held Michael Clarke by the throat in the change room for reasons related to singing our team song. I'd think twice before winding up Katto if I was an English supporter, or one of the drunken tenors of the Barmy Army...or Freddie Flintoff.
Phillip Hughes
Role: Opening batsman (LH)
Form: It would be unfair to judge Phillip regarding the warm-up games. The 20-year old spent 6 weeks in England playing for Middlesex, where he dominated the circuit, and that glimpse of form cannot be ignored.
Maybe a few nerves with the Baggy Green back on have ruffled him up a bit, but with 5 Tests ahead, I have little doubt that he will make an impact at the top.
Verdict: His age and his given record, which is extraordinary at this stage of his career will cause the English media to dig into him should he slip up in a few innings'. The expectations that have been placed upon him is a bit unfair, but with his cool attitude and unphased focus, my verdict is that a poor game against the Lions is what was needed to boost some ammo into Hughes' game!
Natural Game: An aggressive, unorthodox cricketer.
The X Factor: His natural game alongside Simon Katich in the top order, makes the two of them a fine opening pair. Both left-handed, both play for NSW, and they both have the ability to impose an aggressive assault leaving bowlers scratching their heads at what to do next. His bizarre technique leverages his game.
Ricky Ponting
1997-2005/ 13/ 938/ 156/ 42.63/ 3/ 1/ 1-9/ 17.00/ 0
Role: Batsman (RH, no.3)
Form: Punter has been frustratingly inconsistent, and has become a very nervous starter in the middle too, prone to edges and LBW, which can look quite clumsy from such a prolific cricketer. He made one decent score against Sussex, but his uncharacteristic form and odd post of a fifty here and there is not anything to boast about.
Verdict: His record in England is a good one, and this holds Punter's benchmark standard high. His training and intensity are outstanding, expecting his pace-men to fire new balls at him when he is in the nets. He will know all too well that the runs have dried up lately, and this is a big moment for him to fix it. To lead a less-experienced side as Captain in England, too retain the Ashes, means he will need to recall his experience in English conditions, and make runs, plenty of them!
Natural Game: A nervous starter who has become a lot more defensive, but he is an aggressive batsman by nature and not afraid to chirp a thing or two when he is in full-stride!
The X Factor: His experience, and the fact he is a modern day great with the bat, still makes Punter a strong force. The big occasions are where he shows his true colours, and don't be surprised if you see a few triple figure scores emerge next to his name at number 3! After the sub-fielder incident in 2005, Punter will be happy to stick it to the England squad with a victory this time around!
Michael Hussey
Role: Middle order batsman (LH)
Form: The Huss has been in a drought for runs and suffered a bit of fatigue during the Proteas series. However Australian supporters can let out a sigh of relief as Huss mashed together a sensational 150 runs, followed by 62* not out against the Lions, marking his return to Test cricket. The Ashes is where it will count, and his form is leaning back into the hot zone!
Verdict: As a very experienced cricketer in English conditions (where he has made it past 300), and a quality batsman who works mighty hard at his cricket, my verdict is that Huss – in his first Ashes series in England – could well be in for a big series, where he also has a big role to play in our middle order!
Natural Game: A patient batsman with plenty stamina, who likes to build an innings at his own pace. His stroke play, like Clarke, is picture perfect when he gets it right.
The X Factor: A batting fanatic. When he gets out there in the middle, with energy and ambition, it is very hard to send the man back to the Pavillion. He creates solid middle order foundations, and if the top order collapses, Huss' X factor can save an innings.
Michael Clarke
5/ 335/91/37.22/0/ 0/ -/ -/ 0
Role: Middle order batsman (RH) Part-time spinner (LH)
Form: Touch and go for Pup. He has made lots of runs in the Test arena and has grown into a very accomplished Test cricketer. His form does peak at odd intervals, but has recently shown he is in tune to the English conditions and ready to go.
Verdict: As vice Captain, in his 2nd Ashes series in England, where his performances brought on a fair bit of criticism, he has a lot to prove, for himself and to the general public. A fine player of spin, and a flexible cricketer, my verdict is that he has a big part to play in a more conservative style in the middle, and is capable to move on past that 2005 series and back his game! His personal challenge will be too watch out for the reverse swing!
Natural Game: Aggressive and alert!
The X Factor: A fine player of spin, a hard-hitting stroke player and his part-time spin can prove to be valuable at the best of times, but his fielding is at the highest level and can set the standards very high!
Marcus North
Role: Middle order batsman (LH), Part-time spin bowler (RH)
Form: Very similar to Mike Hussey, Marcus had been burdened in being unable to make any runs. However, in the same game Huss made 150, Marcus lashed out with 191 unbeaten runs, and in a time of desperation stuck his hand up and grabbed the opportunity that was a decider on his game. His form has peaked at the right time, and that innings will give him plenty confidence!
Verdict: An experienced cricketer, a versatile batsman in the middle order, and a very handy part-time spinner makes his need to appear very important. Some may question him being there, and see one innings as not enough, but he is a very well-grounded cricketer who knows what he needs to do.
A player with his experience, like Huss, will know when he has that confidence boost needed and will be backing his abilities to prove himself in his first Ashes series!
Natural Game: Like Hussey, a patient batsman who will build his innings at his own pace.
The X Factor: Having his experience and skill in the middle order adds to our squads depth and he is highly capable at generating break-through's with his part-time spin!
Brad Haddin
Role: Wicket-keeper/ Batsman (RH)
Form: Had's has been in the run-getting most of the time, but has a knack of getting himself out cheaply. His form is good enough to provide us with valuable runs at the lower end of the middle order. His wicket-keeping has risen back to a more Haddin like level, than the drop in standards he saw over last summer, but in the Pakistan ODI series, his keeping was right up at the elite level!
Verdict: A lot of pressure was placed upon Hads as Adam Gilchrist's successor. It was unfair, but if anyone was the best replacement it would have to have been Hads! He is a lively cricketer, with plenty to say behind the stumps and loves the big shots. An entertainer, and I expect the crowds to have a bit of fun with him, as he animates our boys from behind the stumps! In his 1st Ashes series he will be hungry for plenty, whether with the gloves or the bat! Ahead of Matt Prior by leaps and bounds in my opinion!
Natural Game: An aggressive, assertive cricketer, who likes to stamp his authority on the game when he is involved!
The X Factor: His ability to attack the opposition with brutality and a 'no-fear' attitude! He is no Gilchrist, but hopefully this series this X factor he brings with his batting, alongside his lively wicket-keeping may make him a Haddin to others, and no longer compared to Gilly!
Mitchell Johnson
Role: Batsman (LH), Pace bowler (LH)
Form: Mitch has been in unstoppable form since the home series against South Africa last year. His bowling is phenomenal, although time in the middle helped him on the last day against the Lions, where he showed better promise with the ball. His batting is on the ascendancy too! Mitch is far from rusty and expect big things from this fine Australian cricketer!
Verdict: A big part of missing puzzle in our bowling, Mitch gives us a left-arm pace bowler, who has now got a few tricks up his sleeve!
Whether he kept some of his plans in the bag during the warm-up against the Lions? I wouldn't be surprised if he did! He has become a good Test batsman, who plays his strokes like he should be batting higher up than he does, but with his name posted in the lower order, he gives valuable support to the middle order, and has the ability to make a few belting innings' of his own! Watch out for Mitch!
Natural Game: A bowler who shows his aggression with his bowling and not words, and thrives on imposing fear upon his opposition! With the bat he is an opportunist! He can see out the good balls, but give him a bad one he can send out the ground, and expect to be pummeled!
The X Factor: His focus with the ball in hand, and his newly developed bowling variations make him a key wicket taker against the top order, or to clean out the lower order. The bloke can bat a bit too!
Brett Lee
2001-2005/ 10/ 182/ 47/ 18.20/ 0/ 29/ 4-82/ 45.44/ 0
A rib injury has put his Ashes comeback in the sidelines for now, as he will not participate in the first two Tests. This is a major blow to our starting test, however he could return after so here's his profile!
Role: Batsman (RH), Pace-bowler (RH)
Form: Brett battled some personal demons before heading off to India last year, where his focus waned and then his ankle gave. He wasn't a threat and it was hard to believe his lapse in form after his series in the West Indies. However, after a poor T20 performance, he refocused for the Test cricket arena and against the Lions came out with a 6 wicket haul, and also gave the batsman a few surprises to deal with. Even better he is hitting the speed-o-meter with consistency! His form is back on the rise!
Verdict: I feel he still has a lot to prove as we go into the Ashes, but when he bowls with brutal force, heavy focus and calls on his experience, Brett is a bowler you wouldn't want to be having to protect your wicket against. I would also like too see him getting in the English batsmens faces a bit more, as opposed to the 'Mr. Nice guy , I want to be a Bollywood star Brett', we have had to endure for the past months. He needs to lead from the front, and with Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle in his ranks, they are a trio of lightning!
His bowling stats in England are impressive, and a 5-for is on the cards for the man! After some good batting in the warm-ups, he may be able to give himself some all-rounder credibility in England!
Natural Game: A hostile bowler who has an aggressive temperament, with the ball in hand or a few words.
The X Factor: The Bing factor, well, you all know about it!
Peter Siddle
Role: Pace-bowler (RH)
Form: Sid's is in terrific form and gets better with every match he plays, every over he bowls, and every snarl he hurls the striker's way. He is a must pick, not only because he can get under the English batsmens skin, but because he is such an ambitious young cricketer!
Verdict: With Brett's injury it seems certain that Sid's is going to be taking the new ball. This is an exciting prospect, but also places a lot of pressure on our younger bowlers, where Stuart Clark has an even bigger role to play! Sid's is going to be our silent assassin with ball in hand, but maybe not so silent with the verbals!
Natural Game: A vicious young man who loves to bang the ball into the deck nice and hard and his attitude, that is all about winning the contest, makes him an aggressive contender. Even when batting he doesn't back down!
The X Factor: His inspiring enthusiasm and patriotic ambition to lead with the ball in hand!
Stuart Clark
Role: Fast-medium bowler (RH)
Form: Like Binga, Stuart missed most of the South African tests after an elbow injury. He has performed very sub-standardly in the warm-ups, but with Brett injured he will need to quickly shape into form as he will be taking the field on the 8th most certainly. His overall form is unknown still, but watch this space closely!
Verdict: He can swing the ball, hit the deck hard, cramp up the batsmen, frustrate the opposition and may be our next hope of reverse swing with Brett out of the squad mix.
Natural Game: A calm and collected bowler who will graft away to get that break-through. Line and length!
The X Factor: His consistency to wear a batsman out ball after ball! His ability to swing the ball just a fraction with his given consistency is enough to create an edge or a mistimed shot to send the striker packing!
Nathan Hauritz
Role: Off-break Spin bowler (RH)
Form: Nathan is a defensive bowler and I have stated that Jason Krejza (who has recently performed very well for Australia A against Pakistan A) would have been a better pick from an imposing perspective. However he has a big role to play with his spin bowling if he is given the nod to play in the Tests as our only, dubbed, specialist spinner. It will be a tough slog for him to keep the English from slogging him. His form in the warm-ups hasn't been eye-opening.
Verdict: Shane Warne stated that Nathan must play. He needs overs and time in the competitive conditions as he did not feature in South Africa. If he plays he will have a big role to play and he will need to back himself with the confidence based upon the noted fact that the selectors have placed him in the side.
He will be competing with Ben Hilfenhaus for a spot!
Natural Game: A defensive spin bowler, who digs deep into his strengths as opposed to taking risks.
The X Factor: His defensiveness isn't Australian spin mentality by tradition, but it could tie down and create some opportunities. He can also provide very handy contributions with bat in hand!
Ben Hilfenhaus
Role: Fast-medium bowler (RH)
Form: Hilfy performed brilliantly in South Africa. While he didn't take dozens of wickets, he was able to create early break-through's and get key wickets. He generated some good seam and late swing against the right handed batsmen. He wasn't good in the warm-ups but was far from bad. His form will peak at the right time!
Verdict: Hilfy's call-up is a tough one. If Nathan Hauritz plays he will miss out, if Hauritz plays, he will luck out. Also if Hilfy plays it is one less batsman in the line-up, but a potentially lethal bowler in the English conditions. He is on the edge of a call-up for now!
Natural Game: Similar to Stuart Clark, just lacking the experience.
The X Factor: His abilities to meddle with the right-handed batsmen at 140km/h. He also has the ability as getting key wickets! And in the English line-up there are a few big fish too catch out!
Shane Watson
Watto has once again been caught with an injury and did not play in the warm-up games.
He also been practicing really hard in his time on the sidelines.
He is underestimated regarding his batting, but without his bowling abilities, it does limit his call-up chances.
His Test record is far from spectacular and has only made his ODI comeback recently. His call-up was a risky one and is not paying off. His injury saga's continue and must frustrate him immensely. With Watto it is a wait and see game, which is a pity for a cricketer who really does have so much ability with the bat and ball, but I doubt that we will ever see his true colours as his younger days were messed about so much with injury. Still plenty to show for though!
Andrew McDonald
Andrew needs to pump himself up more, get a lot more intensity in his performances.
He did a very good support role with the ball in the Test series in South Africa and in his debut at the SCG. Stuart Clark's entrance has snuffed his chances at a call-up, but he will be contending with Shane Watson for that all-rounder position should either of them be facing a potential call-up. His batting was revealed to International viewers in the Newlands Test, showing that he is capable at posting runs. His bowling spell in Durban was excellent, but it seems unlikely he will feature in the Ashes 2009 though.
Graham Manou
Haddin's cover for the series. A keeper by trade, then a batsman. The South Australian wicket-keeper will only feature should Had's fall to injury, but Graham will be learning a lot from this trip as Had's claimed to do so back 2005, when he covered for Adam Gilchrist. The time with the squad will only push him to better his State performances this coming summer!
Probable starting XI for the 1st Test:
Simon Katich, Phillip Hughes, Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey, Michael Clarke, Marcus North, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Nathan Hauritz (Ben Hilfenhaus), Peter Siddle, Stuart Clark
* Hauritz vs Hilfenhaus most likely condition depending!
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