Cricket Champs - Coaching clinics for disabled children

As you know, this blog is about supporting the Australian cricket team with analytical match articles, support driven articles based on ongoing matters in the Australian cricket world and of course where possible it's everything in between the Baggy Green and Green & Gold.
However, support to those who also try to enhance the game for all concerned is equally important in my opinion and where this blog can help an organisation get some kind of awareness, I will try do what I can.


CRICKET CHAMPS:
After being contacted by Justin Sambell on Twitter, I had a look at what Cricket Champs is all about.
In a nutshell it is a non-profit program aimed at encouraging children (both boys and girls) with varying disabilities, from the ages of 6-16, to get involved in a club at junior level where Cricket Champs is able to offer coaching in a fun, inspiring and interactive environment.
*For Children with restricted movement or who require wheelchairs, there are some venues which operate indoors on hard floors.

One thing that is so good about the program is that it is done in an environment where these kids can have a great time having a go at our great game and not feel under pressure with making mistakes and they can learn about the game as well!
From the junior levels of developing their game with other children in a similar situation to theirs, they can make mates, get an opportunity with cricket that every person deserves and importantly the Coaches and Volunteers can do their best to further develop the hand-eye co-ordination and ball skills of these special needs children to get hooked on cricket.

The clinic was originally trialled with the Ardross Junior Cricket Club and ahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giffter being successful, Justin and his team are looking to branch out.

The clinic breakdown is as follows:
- The program takes place over 12 weeks.
- Each Coaching session takes place over 1.5 hours (One and a half hours).
- The clinic cost is $75.
- Each child gets a good quality Cricket Champs shirt and a bucket cap to keep the sun at bay.
- Children who take part in the clinic will be given an attendance/participation Trophy at their relevant clubs prize giving.

Now, doesn't this just sound fantastic?
I think it's outstanding and both the children and parents will just get such an epic experience out of Cricket Champs in an environment with no judgement. Instead it is just a good, healthy team effort directly related to expanding our great game.

The program seems to have made wonderful progress already with Tom Moody stepping up as the Ambassador, who can definitely play a huge role in getting the word out there for Cricket Champs.
We all know Tom as a bloke who has represented Australia at the elite level in Test and limited overs cricket and when his eye was in he could club any bowler into the stands with monstrous shot execution!
It is so important that all channels of developing the game is taken into consideration so a huge cheers to Tom for assisting the Cricket Champs crew.
After finding a source where Tom commented on the program, he had the following to say which is very encouraging for the future of this setup:
“We’re currently having discussions with the Australian Cricketers’ Association and Cricket Australia to raise awareness, with the long-term view that this could one day be rolled out across Australia.”


The Australian Cricketers Association is hopefully going to get involved in someway, so I would assume Paul Marsh will be heading this. The Baggy Green Blog have also had the odd chat with him on Twitter. He's got some major challenges within his own job at the ACA but I hope he can assist in some way.

At the moment Cricket Champs is active in Western Australia at three clubs who also have involvement with the Milo In2 Cricket clinics, which has a huge sponsorship backing courtesy of both Milo and Cricket Australia.
The direct contact personnel are mentioned on the "Where Can You Play" tab on the Cricket Champs website, but here's the clubs website addresses as well;
Ardross Junior Cricket Club
Gosnells Cricket Club
Ocean Ridge Cricket Club

Hopefully some of these children will be able to play at senior level in the long-run having had the assistance of Cricket Champs and it would be especially great if other cricket organisations are able to assist with this outreach.
With the sponsorship and support, anything is possible.

My best wishes to Cricket Champs as they try and take this to another level.
If you know of any way you can assist them, be it if you are in the WA area or not, below you will find all the relevant contact details:

General Information for Parents and Volunteers contact;
Justin Sambell
Mob: 0403 574 930
Email: info@cricketchamps.org.au

Cricket Champs Website
Contact Page on Cricket Champs Website
FACEBOOK page for Cricket Champs
TWITTER page for Cricket Champs





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Fixtures updated

If you wish to get all the fixtures here at the blog, please check the 'Fixtures' tab.
If you also have any questions regarding the fixtures please feel free to send me an Email as well.

This is just a quick update that our Squad departs for Sri-Lanka tomorrow ahead of the series with two T20s, three ODIS and three Tests.
It is going to be interesting how the weather dictates the passage of play but I am really excited to see our team in action again.

I will leave you with the following article where Brad Hodge (the Baggy Green in the scrapyard) has stated his honest views regarding the mash up with the tradition of the game versus the Twenty20 emergence.
I have always admired Brad for his honesty and the way he had no shame in expressing his distaste with the selection policies, of which all of those against him have been slightly contradicted over the years, especially after recently seeing Simon Katich given the boot.
It isn't exactly positive what he has to say and while there may still be some frustration at his own path, Hodgey is on the good draw come Twenty20 pay day.

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The contradictions and bizarre comments from Hilditch continue

The NSP have done a decent job with the recently selected Squads, as I mentioned in the previous article listing the Squad, so before you read my emotive writing in a slightly negative tone, please understand that I am actually supportive of the selected Squad.
I am simply reading a bit deeper into the motives and concept behind the infamous National Selection Panel and their selections.
Some minor changes were made; some players have been given the call-up (deservedly) while there were also some serious surprises.

Having had more time to think about things, I have decided to share my annoyance at Andrew Hilditch, who I still hope to see removed in the not too distant future.
The cricketing world still laughs at us, no thanks to Hilditch and his cronies…Simon Katich is laughing!

Starting with Jason Krejza, “Unfortunately Jason did not bowl as well as we, or I am sure he, would have liked during this tour and therefore he has not been rewarded with selection."
So what about Usman Khawaja then?
As a mate said to me, is this a selection based on potential or is there another underlying motive?
As mentioned many times I strongly believe Usman has the temperament and skill to deliver at Test level and it is highly possible he will kick into top gear should he get a game, but to omit Jason Krejza on the basis of form and select Usman Khawaja over Callum Ferguson for example who is very good form (based on the Hilditch statement), is a contradiction!
This is one of many Hilditch has made. I also show enthusiasm and encouragement at a player’s selection but with Nathan Hauritz still being overlooked (Injury still I believe), Steven O’Keefe not being given consideration despite being a far more reliable guy than the rest (and he is a Blues player!) and the selection of Michael Beer (who was not a hell of a lot more impressive than Jason) is just another sign of NO control over the spin stocks.
I am very happy for Nathan Lyon but I was surprised at his selection as I would have thought his call-up would have been for the limited overs team.
“bowled beautifully during the one-day component of the A squad's recent tour where he was named player of the series.” This is a quote from Hilditch, so why is he in the Test Squad? Typical.
It could be a very damaging move sending him to Sri-Lanka. We have evidence of this, going back 5 years with other victims.
The NSP must stick with their spin options otherwise they will not develop. I look at th way India have stuck with Ishant Sharma, how the Windies have stuck with Bishoo and you will see how they developed by just being given the extra opportunities and not treated like a flash in the pan because they didn't take 5 wickets per innings in their first game.

On the note of contracts, why was Krejza given a contract? Why was Xavier Doherty given a contract? Why?

The Steven Smith experiment failed and I hate to say it, but I am glad.
It is a harsh kick in the teeth for Steven because it is a result of Hilditch and companies policies of injected, “exciting young talent” into the team well before the players has a) proven themselves for TEST cricket and b) had decent time in First-class cricket.
Let me state I am upset for Steven but he is so young, seriously, he has so much time on his hands to eventually become a regular Australian cricketer but it has all been a ride taken too soon.
As a supporter I said it all along and I just enjoy seeing the plans backfire where Hilditch is concerned, especially when he said it was a “harsh” call on Steven. As it was for Simon Katich.
It is such a dent to a players career and confidence, but Steven will be able to carry on with his limited overs credentials…some players weren’t so lucky to get out alive.

Why was Callum Ferguson not selected? I am harping on about this, but is it because he wears a red helmet and not a blue one?
Is it because his First-class statistics aren’t up too scratch? Well, that is a joke looking at Michael Beer (who is still a seasoned club cricketer in many regards, selected on a Shane Warne glass ball statement) and Nathan Lyon’s stats.
Bowler versus batsman but the principle is the same. Ferguson isn’t even mentioned in any way, nevermind he was overlooked for the ODI series.
Does recent performance count for shit now? No, it is reputation and a player must have God-given potential that Hilditch and his cronies smell as attractive to keep their asses in their high chairs as the Emperors of scouting successful talent.
When I grew up it was proven form first and then having the skill to justify it at the elite level.
Matty Hayden caned opponents for QLD and it took ages for him in many regards to become a cemented test cricketer, we all asked “What more does he have to do?”
It wasn’t favouritism, it was because the players were performing and when given extra chances they capitalised. Those at State Level had to battle the psychological challenges and maintain their skills.
Yes, we are in a different era to be comparing but honestly this is a principle of “the best of the best”.
This may be seen as a defence of Callum Ferguson and personal grievance, but it is the principle behind the selections. Clearly the Zimbabwe Tour was just a hit out for the players.
Same applies for Aaron Finch who was just given a Twenty20 call-up, not even a limited overs chance to debut for us!

Doug Bollinger was told to, “improve his ability to bowl spells at full intensity and maintain it over the course of a match, particularly in these days of back-to-back Tests."
Interesting comment, I will keep my opinion to myself on this but I find this interesting.
Ben Hilfenhaus was left out and rightly so.
It bites as I have always been a massive supporter for Hilfy’s cricket, but he hasn’t put in the performances, so they have some backbone.
Peter Siddle, while still taking wickets, will need to find some magic with the new ball in hand and be penetrative against top order batsmen.

The inconsistency is frustrating to support it any way and their criterion for selection is absolutely bizarre.
Yes, we all play arm chair selector and of course it is a challenging job the NSP has, but I am so sick of the inconsistent policies and actually just reading any public statements made by Hilditch. In all fairness I do believe this team can win in Sri-Lanka which is number one priority. And yes, I do see the reasoning behind each and every player’s selection and I know I will support each and every player that has been selected! I may not agree with it though.

I want any player who plays for Australia to play their best cricket and make runs or take wickets, but I also have a right as a supporter to be vocal about my dislike for the Andrew Hilditch policies that himself and the NSP endorse. They are clearly still hell bent on finding the next Shane Warne, which is a concern 4 years later.
We must support our team, but I am merely questioning the system and stating that while it is a good Squad it still reeks of inconsistent selection methods and the performance based system is not a major factor.

Best of luck to the Baggy Green Squad for the Tour!
Hopefully the NSP will use this Squad as a benchmark to see who will head over to South Africa and what changes may be needed come that Tour and of course India and New Zealand during the summer. Don’t hold your breath!
This is the time to get it right and have a CORE group of players with CONTINGENCIES in place.

I wrap this up with an article placed on Cricinfo soon after I concluded this article.
Well done Brydon Coverdale, check here for his sharp points.

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The Test Squad to tour Sri-Lanka

The official Test Squad to tour Sri-Lanka.
I have my reservations but you can see things are moving in the right direction so I am actually pleased with the Squad that has been selected.
Still selections being made based on potential rather than form but the selection of Trent Copeland and the surprise call-up of Nathan Lyon is exciting.

Shane Watson, Phillip Hughes, Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke (Captain, Michael Hussey, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Brad Haddin (wk), Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, Peter Siddle, Trent Copeland, James Pattinson, Nathan Lyon, Michael Beer

James Pattinson and Trent Copeland are the two seam bowlers to step in for Ben Hilfenhaus and Doug Bollinger. I understand Hilfy's ommission but I honestly thought Doug would be in the mix. As I said, Copeland totally deserves his opportunity and I am excited at the thought of him debuting for us! Well done TC!
Ryan Harris is in the side which is the GOLDEN announcement. Great to Ryano back!

I seriously thought Callum Ferguson would have his chance. As Dan Stapo pointed out to me, had Fergal not been subject to injury in 2009 he would have probably earned his Baggy Green.
While I see Usman's technique and ability tailored for test cricket (and no denying the man is a gifted young batsman) if we want to base selection on form, Fergal is edging ahead of him, but the Shaun Marsh factor maybe gave Khawaja the edge as Fergal's role is probably in similar contest to that of Shaun's, although Shaun is a bit more versatile in the batting line-up and fully deserves to be in our team. Must be quite something for his old man seeing his son on the verge of receiving a Baggy Green.
Well done to Usman, but I am a bit frustrated Callum will still be waiting. People often start throwing out Shield statistics, which I understand, but you can't deny Fergal has been in reliable form. Next time.

Steven Smith has been left out of the side which is something I am glad the NSP did. The reason it isn't disheartening is because Steven is so young still. He's got more than enough time to find his true identity within the Blues and find his way back in to present more consistent performances and see whether it with the bat in hand or bowling leggies.
Nathan Lyon, I didn't see that one coming! My Squad prediction would have included him had I had any hint of surprise that Krejza and Beer were in a bowl off against Lyon. Good to see him in the side! Even better to see competitive spin stocks in rotation. Now for the NSP TO STICK WITH WHAT THEY BARGAIN ON!

The side is highly capable of performing to the heighest standard and with some new Coaching Staff members, Baggy Green debutants in the waiting and competition very much alive for places in the Squads the upcoming months will be good, but to give credit where credit is due, the NSP made some good calls for this Tour.
Lines up observation for what lies ahead.

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Discuss the likely/unlikely Test Squad

The proposed team that will Tour Sri-Lanka consists of the following players; a proposition I don’t agree with if it materialises.

Shane Watson, Michael Clarke (Skipper), Phillip Hughes, Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, Peter Siddle, Shaun Marsh, Usman Khawaja, Mitchell Starc, Steven Smith, Jason Krejza/ Michael Beer.

Now we all play arm chair selector on the side but this predicted side over at Cricinfo is not a side I would be agreeing to.
Here is a side I would be happy seeing head over to Sri-Lanka (14 players), three debutants aboard, without getting overly analytical and opinionated:

Shane Watson, Michael Clarke (Skipper), Phillip Hughes, Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey, Brad Haddin, Callum Ferguson, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, Doug Bollinger, Trent Copeland, Jason Krejza, Michael Beer.

The big question in Sri-Lanka is how do you gamble on your spinners?
Until Nathan Hauritz is ready and fully fit while seeing Nathan Lyon and Steve O’Keefe aren’t in the frame for this Tour, may as well take Krejza and Beer. Both have Baggy Green caps and have recently tossed their arm over for Australia A.
I think Steven Smith needs more time at State level for Shield contests and I ask you the question again:
While Steven is an exciting prospect what has he consistently delivered for Australia to justify his repeated selection? More importantly what is his role?
I like being proven wrong by a player but I know I am not alone on this.
I’m purely looking at performance facts and a reason why I haven’t even mentioned Ben Hilfenhaus who is a guy whose career I have followed avidly, as his recent performances haven't justified his selection unfortunately.

While I do agree that Usman Khawaja is a very technically equipped and astute cricketer, I don’t agree that his selection is a guaranteed. His County stint was far from what he is capable of and even when he had an opportunity to have a decent hit out against Zimbabwe XI he didn’t make runs.
He will play again for Australia, quite likely over the upcoming months, but I do strongly back Callum Ferguson.
He contributes to the limited overs team but gets overlooked. He was not only Vice-Skipper for the Australia A tour, but on top of that he made runs!
This includes runs in both the limited overs games and the first-class games including 156 runs in the two day warm-up. I don’t see why he can’t be given an opportunity, seeing as he was up against Usman Khawaja during the Ashes to see who would play at the SCG. Usman got the home game nod. Fergal has played cricket in the sub-continent as well.
Shaun Marsh, while inconsistent, had a good Sheffield season for WA and my gut instinct is that he has the goods already and understands the pressure at the elite level being not only a contracted player but also a regular show in limited overs. He is versatile like Usman in this regard but I’d be taking Shaun and seeing how he wasn’t selected for the Australia A tour, I imagine he is already in the mix.

Trent Copeland deserves a chance especially after winning awards for his bowling performances for the Blues drawing comparisons to Glenn McGrath. He has an edge over Mitchell Starc in my opinion. Starc is an emerging limited overs cricketer for us, while Trent is a seasoned Test cricketer in the making. Give him the opportunity as a guy who can keep it tight and bowl a stack of overs on the trot.
Peter Siddle struggled in Zimbabwe and while I am a vocal supporter for Sids, Ryan Harris has the swing ability, consistent pace, a ridiculous ability to skid the new and old ball along the track while also being our best bowler in my opinion. He is most comparable to Sids so I’d be giving Ryano the nod.
Doug Bollinger isn’t even in the proposed Squad. Having the left arm seam of Bollinger and the ferocity of Mitchell provides two left arm seam prospects who can be lethal on their good days, while TC alongside Ryano is a worthy versatile right arm duo to put to test in the heat of the battle.
Sids could still make the cut as I am also not sure on Doug’s injury status or what’s the story, so I may be a bit misinformed on this opinion. Sids has the ability to show up and really destroy a team with quick succession.

We will await the NSPs verdict but we definitely know Phillip Hughes is in there and has unquestionably shown epic form again. This does suggest Simon Katich, the toughest Aussie cricketer around, is gone.
I don’t see David Warner getting a surprise call-out despite his tremendous tour of Zimbabwe. Another State season ought to assess his stamina, hoping the Blues give him as many opportunities as possible in First-class games!

This Tour is also a big one for senior representatives and both Baggy Green legends, Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey. I look forward to seeing how Punter's first test series without the Captaincy duty will go for him. With the recent Simon Katich incident their careers are also under fire, which will make them realise nothing is a guarantee for them.
Tim Paine will still on the sidelines as Hads' understudy for a while longer, especially with Steve Rixon on as fielding coach.

Please comment and have your say as to what your Squad would be.
The side will be announced tomorrow morning according to reports.

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Collective bowling effort results in an innings victory

Scorecard for the final match
Won by an innings and 18 runs.

A huge congratulations to Australia A for their 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe as well as their Tri-series win prior to the 4-day contests.

David Warner's double century (211 runs) was something special so early in his first-class career and his monstrous partnership with Aaron Finch. I never agree with the comments of, "it was just Zimbabwe". You still have to go out there at get the runs and to play an assertive innings, whilst maintaining an aggressive natural game to overcome the pyschological challenges that face any young batsman during the certain milestones along the way to a double century. Before the match his average was just below 40.00. After being dismissed for 211, his First-class average sits at 53.35.
David's excellent effort is just one of the few batting efforts that has made me positive for what is ahead for Australian cricket. The talent has always been there, but hopefully more of these Australia A fixtures will bring together the emerging players within the State system to showcase their collective skills.
Then of course we hope the NSP will bring them in at the correct time for their career development.

The bowling has been the concern but I would rather take a look at it as a wicket that was offering very little to all concerned. The track was a flat one, perfect for the batsmen but the way we rolled Zimbabwe for 180 in the second innings was as a result of a combined bowling effort.
If we are to point out a concern, it would be the lack of top order wickets that were taken by Ben Hilfenhaus and Peter Siddle, but Sids did a tremendous job in wrapping up the middle to lower order. This has been a bit of an issue for us in Test cricket so if he can take that into the elite level for the upcoming months it will be good. Looking at the LBW and bowled dismissals he's bowling dead on target.
He still took the most wickets and his average was excellent. Top order wickets is all he needed to round off a good tournament leading the attack.

Trent Copeland I would have enjoyed seeing with the new ball but Mitchell Starc would have gained some awesome experience this series.
Jason Krejza (who also scored a half-century) was up against the odds on this sort of a wicket but he still contributed two wicket in the 2nd innings with a middle order wicket and of course taking the last wicket to call it a day!
Mitch Marsh will still be in the State system for a while longer but his effectiveness with the bowling was encouraging. Lacked runs but will see how his all-rounder efforts emerge for the Warriors this season.
Ben Hilfenhaus, well I am upset how Hilfy went. I had a feeling this was his last chance to really put in a top performance to get him a spot for the upcoming tours. It will be back to Tassie for the State season to see if he can get more wickets again. Economically he is still keeping things tight, but if he can build pressure again and just do SOMETHING to get wickets again, he could add onto those 55 test wickets.

Not really going to get into anything else as being unable to watch the game you rely on very basic elements of analytical value.
I was impressed by Callum Ferguson's form this series as he continues to fight for a consistent limited overs spot while also showcasing why he is a valuable candidate for the Baggy Green in the not too distant future.
Aaron Finch made an epic one match appearance, while Phillip Hughes has shown enough form over his 10 innings to have the nod for the opening spot alongside Watto.
Phillip may have some technical aspects of his game that will always draw speculation and criticism, the reality is if he gets runs he gets runs. He will develop further maturity and his attitude is enough to pull him through the challenges. I have always admired his attitude and confidence in his game.
With David Warner and Aaron Finch in form and in the co-pilot seat for State opening opportunities, sadly Simon Katich will unlikely get a call back.
Usman Khawaja was unable to have some good time out in the middle and while we all know he's a well grounded batsman, it may be a bit more time at State level until two or three gaps open up in the batting line-up in our test team.
You have to admit seeing scorecards over 400 runs next to 'Australia' was a breath of fresh air.

That is the end of the Tour and it was highly successful. I see so many positives coming out of it. Below is a screen shot of the statistics for our batsmen and bowlers.
Tim Paine showed some moments in his Captaincy where I thought he had left things a bit too late, but he is the professional and his decisions were justified and well executed. He definitely had his plans in order and also knew how to execute his teams skills. Callum Ferguson, as Vice-Skipper, can also be proud as he also put runs on the board as well while taking on a leadership role.



David Warner reaches the 200 run mark. If he can develop his first-class game in a way like Matthew Hayden was able to, watch out for the destruction!

© Getty Images

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The Finch/Warner partnership crushes the Zim bowlers

Scorecard for the match:

Before ducking into this article for Day 2 of play, here are some answers:
- Why was Phillip Hughes dropped? Hughes was rested for the game, not dropped.
- Why was Hughes not played instead of Warner? Warner needs first-class exposure to dig himself out of T20 hype and unrealistic expectations of him to always be the entertainer. He’s doing an excellent job.
- Why were two seamers added? Butterworth needed a game, as did Mitch Starc. This is part of player rotation for the tour given there will only be two games played.
- Why did our seam bowlers seem so ineffective? The wicket is flat! It is lifeless for a Seamer so it is a batsman’s paradise. This was confirmed when I read a tweet of Mitchell Starc’s after day 1.

Peter Siddle rips through the lower order
Before play began, I had plotted that Peter Siddle would take on the second new ball and clean up the Zimbabwean tail-enders, as he did so efficiently in the 1st 4-day game. Sure enough he did the job and Zimbabwe was knocked over for 300. A good job in the end by our boys on an awesome batting track!
I am not too concerned regarding Sids’ lack of top order wickets this series.
As he develops more versatility in his bowling repertoire, the more effective he will become. We have lacked a bowler capable of caning lower order batsman so I was mighty pleased to see him just get the job done out there!

Trent Copeland picked up one wicket and both an anonymous reader and I would really like to see TC get the new ball duty alongside Peter Siddle in the 2nd innings.
I think that Mitch Starc will learn a lot having had a go with both the new ball and first change.

The Warner/ Finch partnership debut is a ferocious one!
David Warner and Aaron Finch, take a bow!
The two of them have made mincemeat of Zimbabwe’s 300 runs, trailing by 18 runs with two days to go.
We went into this series with three aggressive batsmen lined up, with the versatility of the traditionalist technique within Usman Khawaja on stand-by to open, but also needing time in the middle.

David Warner has been exciting to follow with his first-class emergence.
As a test match traditionalist I am enjoying the challenges he is facing to cast aside the Twenty20 hype that surrounds his name, while he develops an ability to perform at the elite level, while also maintaining that aggressive temperament.
After 152 runs in the two day warm-up (following his limited overs century alongside Phillip Hughes) and his wild batting to seal the victory for the first 4 day game, this is just outstanding stuff from him!
I do hope he considers a County Stint, if possible to see how he handles the English conditions.
I can see many similarities in both stamina and dominance with David’s very young career matched with Matthew Hayden who we all remember as an opening legend for the Baggy Green.
Not really much more to say other than I just wish I could see him actually bat in this contest!!!
Another good thing to note is that his innings plodded along at a consistent 70.00 Strike-rate with a six also being presented when he was in the nineties. This is a sign of confidence to play a natural game even in the nineties…nervous nineties. He went into cruise mode thereafter, but still passed the 150 mark in good time. No nervous nineties for David, job extremely well done.
Heading into this series David’s average was below 40.00 it is now comfortably above 50.00, 53.07 to be exact.
Easily adjusted when you have few games to your stats, but it’s a terrific achievement in any case, especially in an away territory.

Aaron Finch played his first game stepping in for Hughesy who has been rested.
Phillip’s form is in good stead (as we have seen in African conditions) with his most recent performances listing as follows; 54,115, 138,93, 138, 27, 125,32.
His technique may concern us, but when he does lift the confidence bar the runs come at a monstrous rate!

It was positive to see that Aaron took control of the innings, while David took some time to get settled into the batting conditions. Aaron (who also sent down a few overs) cruised away with boundaries ticking away next to his stats bar, clearly asserting himself as quickly as possible.
The unknown partnership combination between himself and David proved to be brutal as they ended the day with 282 runs for 71.0 overs.
Aaron steadied his pace as he came closer to the century mark, while David settled his triple-figure land mark.
Aaron is going to be a definite limited overs candidate in a few years time, but these opportunities in the first-class format will ensure our stocks have more depth.
His century came with 15 boundaries and 1 six. Control and very little running between the wickets in a test match environment. What a really like see. Wait for the loose ball and dispatch it.

David Warner: 154* runs x17 fours x2 sixes 65.53strike-rate
Aaron Finch: 122* runs x17 fours x1 sixes 63.54 strike-rate

What value I see with Australia A fixtures
Australia A should play far more and our crop of emerging talent as far as State representatives go should be thrown out there against unknown opponents, away from the State system.
I have a few publications from the early nineties and the number of games Australia A teams participated in was very encouraging the notice and nurture players before hitting the intensity of the elite level!
More of these games should be organised, taking the best players in the State system.
Here the “nurture the young players” philosophy can be carried out, while ensuring players representing the Baggy Green are in the rightful place and not being cast out by the National Selection Panel like lambs to the slaughter!


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Luke Butterworth turns the game around

Scorecard courtesy of Cricinfo.com coverage

Australia A ended day 1 on top after Zimbabwe’s top order initially managed another resilient stand against our bowlers until two wickets at the close of play switched the momentum.
If we can somehow rip through the next 5 wickets and keep that score under 300, that would be ideal, but it needs to be done in good time as we head into Day 2.
Trent Copeland kept things extremely tight once again, while it was Tasmania’s Luke Butterworth who ended up turning the day over into the hands of the A team!
I was really pleased to see Luke get a game as I put him and TC right up there and the next two seamers who deserve (or are atleast not far off) a chance at the elite level within the next 6-12 months.

Jason Krejza, picked ahead of Michael Beer, struggled with 3 no-balls and no wickets. Again, the track may be flat and lifeless for any bowler as the key wickets came with the ball in slightly newer condition. So it could just be tough going for Krazy. His average is also looming close to 50.00.
Luke Butterworth struck with the second new ball at the close of play, just after he removed Brendan Taylor, who we all remember as that bloke who won the game for Zimbabwe against us in the first ICC World T20 back in 2007. He played a superb innings and Taylor, from what I have noticed, struggles to convert starts into promising innings with an issue of impatience and naturally aggressive instinct, which is why he is often a no-show for Zimbabwe in the longer form of the game.
Luke finished the day with 2-28 with an economy rate of 2.15 RPO and his new ball scalp (along with the few picked up earlier in the day) indicates that this is a key for wickets on this track…perhaps?
That’s a job very well done and his effort at the close of play has put us right on top!

So with Krejza toiling away, Peter Siddle also struggled to get any victims with the new ball in hand but has kept things in order as far as runs conceded would be concerned.
Hopefully Sids will walk onto the field tomorrow, take the new ball and clean out the lower order which he did so effectively in the first match during Zimbabwe’s first innings. We all want to see him take top order wickets though.
Mitchell Marsh just got on with his job to force the batsman to play their shots and create opportunities. He picked up 1 wicket for just 12 runs in his 12 overs.
Top stuff from the young all-rounder!
Trent Copeland bowled 20 overs with figures of 1-42 and I am very excited to see how his game will shape up over the next year. You get that gut feeling with a player sometimes and I don’t know, but there’s something that makes me confident about this young guns future.
Mitchell Starc shared new ball duty with Peter Siddle and took 1 wicket bowling the inform Vusi Sibanda.

Phillip Hughes has been rested to make way for Aaron Finch at the top of the order, so it will be Warner partnering with Finch.
Michael Beer made way for an additional seamer (Butterworth) to allow Krejza the spinner duty, while Ben Hilfenhaus was left out of the side for Mitchell Starc, who has begun a limited overs career for Australia.
Not sure what the status is for Hilfy, but unfortunately it leaves you with the sad impression that it may be back to Tasmania for him during the summer to try and put those Ashes blues of last summer behind him. He was economical but needs to take wickets again. I hope he does cause I have followed Hilfy’s career with great interest. If anything it seemed a lack of “aggression” in his bowling and when the swing factor isn’t on offer he is a bit too predictable.
Wishing him the best though whatever the case is, to try and get that Baggy Green back on and add plenty more wickets to his 55 Test victims.

On the other side of the globe the 2000th test match (100th between India & England) is being played at Lord’s, the Home of Cricket.
The big news is Sachin Tendulkar chases his 100th International century and tries to get his name onto the Lord’s visiting team centurion board, which is a tick on his CV unsettled.
Quite incredible all these milestones and attempted ones in this encounter.
Test cricket, got to love it!
I will admit that while England have found a core group of players to work with and established a very solid team (driven strongly by solid performances by Trott, Cook, Bell & Strauss) I had to laugh at his idea of England being the best team.
In all honesty I don’t think there’s a hell of a lot between the top 5 teams in the rankings, besides some just being more consistent.
When Strauss’ team can hold their consistency for a decade and not lose a home series within that time, then it’s safe to say we ARE the best.
Sour grapes, I want the Urn back.
http://www.espncricinfo.com/thebig_2000_test/content/current/story/523260.html

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David Warner's dominant 82 ensures victory

Update: AU Squad page updated with 2011/12 Contracted Players with Cricket Australia.
*Pages for Patrick Cummins and James Pattinson not uploaded yet.

Australia A won by 7 wickets:
Scorecard: First 4-day match versus Zimbabwe XI
Player-of-the-match: Phillip Hughes (126 and 32 with 2 catches)

It was a good win for Australia A versus a resilient Zimbabwean team.
Tim Paine, who seemed to be well in control with the Skipper duties, maybe cut things fine but we got home and there were some outstanding performances by the notable candidates looking for their opportunities at the elite level for the Baggy Green.
Some aspects are a concern for the players and the supporters, but with one game to go I hope these players can turn their pain into gain.

I did a report on Day 1 and 2, but here are the snippets for 3 and 4.
I really wish I could have watched the game as it seemed to map out well with some excitement and really outstanding cricket on display by even some of the Zimbabwean batsmen!

1st innings closure:
After Phillip Hughes’ century and Callum Ferguson’s demanding half-century, the lead was in place which Tim Paine decided to keep building upon.
After reaching a lead advancing 100 with Tim playing a conservative innings with definite patience and the responsibility of a Skipper, he reached his half-century.
Running out of top order partners Trent Copeland emerged as the anchor role, scoring 32 runs in his stand of 66 with Tim Paine, which was a joy to see. Tim seems the type of guy who can tap into his batting partners temperament and find a way to create a survival mission to suit his own course of action.
Michael Hussey is a batsman who comes to mind with this skill.
So while Tim grafted away with TC playing the anchor role, the lead moved on slowly but steadily.

Hitting the 400 run mark I was amazed Tim kept things going until we were all out, but he ended up pushing for his century, ideally mapping the innings out as a “play until we’re all out” scenario instead of “this lead is adequate” one. It was refreshing to see a total alongside Australia over 400.
Playing for himself and not the team?
Well, we won so it is fair to back Tim, baring in mind he is also looking to continue his own grounding within his batting to affirm himself as a future Test match cricketer when Brad Haddin goes, as either a Batsman or Keeper. So I say good on him for his innings. Yes, he could have upped the momentum in the 90s, but patience is a factor our current test team has been lacking so it was good to see some steady batting out there.
Obviously it was a bit in vain when he got out caught on 98! Well done though to the Skipper.
I am also sure he wouldn’t have done this had he not had he faith and strategy in place for his bowlers.

2nd innings bowling effort:
Having the lead I was sure we could knock Zimbabwe out before they obtained a lead of their own. However, they had different plans as they ended up setting us a target of 138. Sure, our batsmen had 40 overs to try and seal the deal but I am sure their 346 was more than we’d have wanted.
I did hear the wicket was a flat road with no grass cover and not easy to pick up wickets, so discipline and some additional skills were needed.
For this reason it is understandable but quite concerning on an experience level that neither Peter Siddle or Ben Hilfenhaus (both Baggy Green representatives) were able to exploit top order weaknesses.
Having been unable to watch the game I have no idea on their effectiveness or how their line and length was but the 5 wickets between them, all being lower order wickets is a concern.
Conditions may have been a huge obstacle which I understand but I hope that they get one more game to find a way back into the wicket taking column. I am confident Sids can but Hilfy is a worry!
I am a huge supporter of his game and when he finally made his debut in 2009 I was so proud of him. But it is concerning that despite the work horse role he does so economically, he is not taking wickets.
Why? I don’t know, I'm not even sure Hilfy or the bowling staff are certain, but even for Tassie the wickets weren’t coming easy. Back track 3-4 years ago he was taking stacks against batsmen in a much stronger State system.
Has the knee injury got the better of him? Swing too much of a dependency for him now? I hope he can turn it around, I really do.
Best of luck to Hilfy and Sids should they make the second match to get some more wickets and deliver for the team.

I was stoked at how Trent Copeland went. I have been following his progress since his brilliant debut for the Blues at First-class level. He went wicketless in the first innings but the word out there was that many deliveries just missed the bat and he beat the Zim batsmen in the heat of the battle just with little luck, so it’s no biggie for a young gun. What was good was hearing the way he built pressure in the second innings with Michael Beer at the other end of Day 3 and ensured we claimed 3 wickets before close of play. He ended with 3-64 in his 20 overs.
Mitch Marsh also played a silent role taking 3 wickets at just 2 runs an over. A tidy job from the young man!

The battle between the spinners, Krejza and Beer, is exciting as Krejza pulled out 3-24 in the 1st innings, with Beer claiming 3-66 in the 2nd innings, proving to be match winning figures. In the context Michael did a solid job but Jason did give us a huge favour taking some top order wickets with the ball in hand. Both of them ended the game with 4 wickets in hand, a combination of 8.
I think it is impressive from the two potential front-line spinners, one who can thanks Shane Warne's public craving of prediction and opinion.
The question will be who will make the Sri-Lankan tour?
Both have Baggy Green caps so NO MORE debutants in the spin department (which I like) but I do hope they will step in for Steven Smith in order to open up for an additional seam bowler or an additional batsman (e.g. Ferguson, Khawaja).
Again I emphasise this is not a bad mouthing session (I don't do that to a player that respects the Baggy Green), I just don't see what Steven has done as of yet to have a default spot in the side and I do believe he needs more time in the State system. Young and talented but needs more State time to make way for a candidate with more experience and a specialist role.

Finishing off the match:
David Warner played a brutal innings (yet another one) but this one had significance. It reminded me a lot of Matthew Hayden’s ability to wrap games up with a massive assault against any bowling attack.
Phillip Hughes gave him invaluable support with 32 runs (following his 126 in the 1st innings) as David slammed 9 fours and 2 sixes, in limited overs style. It was a ferocious attack by the top order slogger to knock off the runs in a First-class run chase.
In some ways it was a limited overs scenario so it was great to see David mow ahead making sure he took on the responsibility to dig into his natural game in a First-class setup and play a match-winning innings of 82 runs from 57 balls.
After his departure the task was easy for the middle order to get us over the line with less than 10 overs remaining. His First-class average increased by 6 runs with this innings.

Matthew Hayden comes to mind as mentioned and given Shane Watson’s true class and form over the last 2 years, it’s exciting to imagine David Warner moving AWAY from Twenty20 cricket to become a more experienced first-class cricketer to eventually bat alongside Watto.
Phillip Hughes is the main contender but it is really exciting to see David play well in a game that really counts for the future of Australian cricket, especially alongside a guy who may be his future batting partner at the elite level in 5 years time. If he can learn the art of aggressive opening batting at test level (like the legend Matthew Hayden) while developing a keen sense of conservative, cautious batting against the new ball (like he did in the 1st innings), David Warner may very well be a top order name.
I am so glad he arrived at the party. Both himself and Phillip have scored two centuries this tour with comfortable form in place.
Usman Khawaja managed 18 runs and definitely needs some more time in the middle for the 2nd game but he’s a definite future test batsman fur us.

The final game will be starting on Thursday with many opportunities on offer while we also watch in anticipation to see how some questions (both exciting and concerning) get answered.
A huge congrats to Tim Paine and Callum Ferguson on a leadership frontier. It was also fitting to see them out there when Tim hit the winning boundary.
I can see many future Baggy Green representatives in the side and while I won’t speak to soon on the matter, I can see many of these Australia A cricketers being familiar faces if Test cricket survives in this world with a fractured value-system and “money first” priority infested in the games protectors.

Well done Australia A, you guys have made us very proud with this win.


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Phillip Hughes finds his best form in Africa

We all remember his first series so well when he scored two centuries in his second game for the Baggy Green at Kingsmead, Durban.
After that he had an insane stint with Middlesex, which was followed by a shocking Ashes series where we all found ourselves asking, "What happened to Phillip?"
Some said it was an issue facing short pitched bowling, some said it was that his unorthodox technique would not hold him in good stead at the elite level. The reality is when his style comes off, he usually belts the runs out at a furious rate at a decent amount as well. Africa is certainly the place he likes to do it!
A century in the final limited overs game of the Tri-series has now been met by a demanding century where Phillip scored 125 runs.

David Warner, who has spoken up that he wants a Baggy Green cap, was hot on Phillip's heals after his 152 runs in the 2 day warm-up (following his century in the limited overs final as well during his 206 run partnership with Phillip) but Phillip will have the edge of selection favouritism again after his delightful century. It is good to see a young man regain his confidence, but the question we all want is answered is, "What happened to Phillip, as in the Baggy Green bloke?"
David struck out a brilliant innings with the momentum needed to ensure we raced ahead of Zimbabwe's 230 runs.
David scored 48 runs and Australia A are now 4/294, a comfortable 64 run lead with 6 wickets in hand.

Usman Khawaja was the only player to luck out after he put together a decent start with 26 runs before getting caught behind.
However, Callum Ferguson has continued his fine form (why isn't he in the ODI Squad?) scoring a valuable contributing total of 56 runs which was brought to an end when he was bowled by Waller.
I wish I could see exactly how his batting is actually looking because he has good experience at State Level and a cool head at International Level (limited overs). I can't wait to see how he would perform in the cricketing whites for the Baggy Green.
Got a good feeling about his prospects, but this is a good start from Redbacks middle order batsman in his quest to be the gut to step in one day for Mike Hussey.

Phillip Hughes is eyeing the opening spot left after an appauling move the National Selection Panel to get rid of Simon Katich (the manner in which it was done is still shocking), while Shaun Marsh has publicly stated he wants to job.
David Warner is usually an immediate call up for the Twenty20 d$$$$$$s but his focus is evident this tour. Aaron Finch I see as a definite limited overs candidate for the opening slot alongside Shane Watson.
Usman Khawaja is tipped to step in for Ricky Ponting one day and I also thought George Bailey was in with a chance but he wasn't selected for this series so there went that idea.
Bottom line is this series is about seeing how the cards stack up when the current ones fall down. I am feeling very good about the batting potential but PATIENCE is my biggest concern.
Our test cricketers were always aggressive and capable at ending a day with a run-rate of over 4 an over (sometimes 4.50) but there was always an inspiring blend of total patience and determination with a keen appeal for collective attack against any team. The patience has gone. These guys need to make sure it returns for our future as bowling teams have shown drastic improvement while our bowling reamins a grey area.

The bowling?
I am really pleased for Jason Krejza. I was always so angry at the selectors after he took 12 wickets on debut only to be dropped after 1 test at the WACA versus South Africa on a wicket that any spinner would have been left scratching their head.
His call-up into the world cup team was due to injuries to Nathan Hauritiz and Xavier Doherty (who is highly capable performer in limited overs cricket) but he struggled understandably. His potential at the elite level in test cricket will be proven if he can just gain better control to attack with a consistent line and length, but maybe just giving a bit more flight here and there. The spin factor is there.
Jason ended with figures of 3-24. Quite an impressive start, as Michael Beer delivered 1-64.

Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus and Trent Copeland are the speedsters, or the seam attack is more appropriate term.
I am excited about TC's future but unfortunately he was wicketless after Zimbabwe were dismissed. In Australia I still think he will prove to be a lethal seamer!
Peter Siddle was a touch expensive but was able to tap into that killer instinct he developed in South Africa in 2009 when he learnt how to clean out the tail-enders.
He wrapped things up with figures of 3-50.
It is safe to say that Ben Hilfenhaus is under a bit of pressure this series. While I am backing Hilfy 100% that he can deliver the goods, it is both upsetting and frustrating that he has lost his wicket-taking ability. Every team needs a work horse, that guy who can bang the ball on the spot the whole day with moderation pace and consistency with line and length. Some of the work horse bowlers I can think of are; Glenn McGrath, Craig McDermott, Stuart Clark, Shaun Pollock, Courtney Walsh.
However they took wickets and Hilfy isn't doing this which is concerning.
This is his series to find a winning recipe. He was economical as usual, but there was just 1 wicket.

The concern was the ineffectiveness between TC, Hilfy and Sids with getting top order wickets, but let's be fair. We couldn't watch the game to see how things shaped up, the Zim batsmen definitely showed patience out there and 1 in every 5 games the opposition will manage a decent start. Conditions play a role and our performances maybe justify that this is certainly a batsmans wicket.
Word I picked up is that Trent Copeland did beat the bat on a number of occassions.
Still an innings left and a game to follow to see how Hilfy, Sids and TC go.

So Day 3 will resume with a 64 run lead with Tim Paine and Mitchell Marsh in the middle. A lead 150 should be sufficicient to have a bowl at Zimababwe.
I reckon Tim has the confidence in his bowlers to do exactly this. Maybe will even take a lead of 100?
Really looking forward to how this game maps out from this point.
Well done to Hughesy and Fergal though! Terrific stuff.

Phillip celebrates his century versus Zimbabwe XI. Well done young man.

© Zimbabwe Cricket

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Ferguson & Warner pile on the runs

Two-day match Scorecard for Australia A vs Zimbabwe XI....Ferguson, you beauty!

After being seriously proud seeing 156* next to the name of CJ Ferguson for Australia A’s two day fixture versus Zimbabwe XI, it was made even better when I saw Mitchell Johnson has decided not to take part in the Big Bash League and rather focus on the upcoming cricket, for Australia!
After also reading Brett Lee’s comments regarding Steve Rixon and the Coaching unit, I just had a return of confidence and a definite comfort amongst all the chaos which was really let loose with Simon Katich having a courageous dig at the Selection Panel.
I am still on a buzz after he came out with the confidence to tell it like it is, but obviously this also started to make me think of all the issues of what seems wrong with our cricket.
I am just holding on hope that things will come right amongst it all. The snippets below made me feel great!

Mitch, whatever your views may be, has a label as an inconsistent player but he is also a true athlete with the ability to win matches on the back of his own skills. We all know this is true.
Craig McDermott has been working hard with Mitch, as the two Queenslanders have been forming a bond during the training camp with Craig’s first stint as bowling Coach underway.
Besides working at fine tuning Mitchell’s seam handling, he also spoke about the Big Bash League. Instead of chasing the dollars, he opted out to focus on his job which will be representing the Baggy Green in some mighty intense cricket over the upcoming months!
"At the moment I've decided not to sign with any of the Twenty20 sides," Johnson told reporters in Brisbane at Australia's training camp. "The Scorchers approached me and at the moment I'm just happy to focus on the summer coming up.
"With India coming over, they're obviously a strong side, and it might give me a chance also to go back to grade cricket if the opportunity's there. We've got a big summer coming up, Sri Lanka first, then South Africa, they're going to be big Tests for us in their home towns, and a big summer here, so that's where my main focus is."

So after reading that encouraging report that priorities are falling into place and a definite praise for the new Coaching staff is in full song, I felt a lot better.
This is also reference to Brett Lee’s opinion on Steve Rixon, who certainly has the right attitude and I have no doubt will up our game in the field.
The best news though was seeing a century for Callum Ferguson for Australia A’s tour match versus Zimbabwe XI. It is just a 2 day fixture, with the 4 day beginning on the 15th of July.
Fergal wasn’t selected for limited overs side, which I am still mighty gutted about, but he picked up his bat and went out there and amassed 156* runs with 15 fours and 1 six.
My brother-in-law has always spoken about Fergal in high regard, so I adopted the attitude and after his debut for us against New Zealand I just hoped he’d be around a long time. I want him to receive a Baggy Green cap and after his stand out performances in the recent Tri-series for Australia A, this is the start needed to HOPEFULLY get the attention of the selectors for the Test Squad.
I am not holding my breath with Hilditch still running the show, but I really hope Fergal will make the Squad to play South Africa (where he has experience in limited overs) and of course the summer against India and New Zealand. Fergal, WELL DONE mate!

Dan Stapo also wrote an article a while back regarding his interest in Fergal’s cricket, amongst my subliminal messages of, “Ferguson for the Baggy Green”.

You may have also noticed DA Warner punished Zimbabwe. Behold, it is indeed David Warner!
His tour was really bleak but after his wild century in the Tri-nations final (alongside Phillip Hughes) he has put together a limited overs knock of a century for the two day game. I guess the time frame of two days is fitting for his innings stats; 152 runs, 14 fours, 4 sixes from 141 deliveries.
David did state last year that a Baggy Green cap is still very high on his list of agendas. He is a top favourite for lucrative deals in Twenty20 cricket, so I hope this will never cloud his vision.

Solid job by David, which was followed by another bloke who I thought deserved a spot in the limited overs team (not the damn Twenty20 Squad) is Aaron Finch.
Finchy scored 63 runs which was his individual contribution to the 146 run partnership with Fergal.

The four day games have yet to begin, but when they do there are definitely some guys who will be due a Baggy Green cap within the next 2 years. Our test cricket has been well below a standard even the present squad are capable of producing (especially our batsmen) but we just have to hope the blokes who put runs on the board will get their chance and that the opportunity is one of strategic implementation within the side to ensure confidence and a vote of longevity is in their favour.


© AFP, Courtesy of Cricinfo.com

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Some of my cricket memorabilia

I have decided to post something a bit different for all of you.
Before I do, Australia A begin their 4 day encounters versus Zimbabwe XI shortly, which will end on July 24th. The limited overs tour to Sri-Lanka will begin a while after, which should also be good viewing and marks the beginning of some mighty challenging months ahead for both the Baggy Green & Green and Gold sides.
I did follow the Sri-Lankan tour to England very closely. Their batting looked solid for the test matches, their bowling was questionable. In limited overs they were a bit mixed up, so I'm confident of a limited overs series victory, but don't want to get ahead of myself here.
The Australia A fixtures will be three matches I shall watch very closely.

Now, if you have been following the blog (atleast on and off) over the last 3 years and a bit you would have noticed I often make references to some memorabila items I have. I have also decided it may just be interesting for some of you to see what I have stashed away. I have unfortunately (and frustratingly) misplaced or lost some items of the years.
Three of these items include Glenn McGrath's autograph he gave to me after I had an unforgettable chat with him when I was 14. It lasted no more than 5 minutes but the time he gave me to talk about swing bowling and just a general interest in my brief story is something you just don't forget. He is of course my favourite bowler of all time...isn't he for all us anyways!
The other was Damien Martyn's autograph which was on a small bat, but I don't have a clue where it has gone.
I am a huge fanatic of fast bowling in test cricket, although I hated facing fast bowlers during my cricket days I couldn't get enough of the challenges they presented a top order batsman in test cricket! So sadly I don't have my Curtly Ambrose autograph anymore. The man is a giant!

Anyway, a few items I can share:

Middle stump (with removable bail top to input the stump camera) from the 1996 Wills Cricket World Cup. The lens is just below.


These two autograph sheets are vintage! One was for the Australian Squad to tour South Africa during years when South Africa had sanctions against them for Government policies, better known as Apartheid.
The other was a bit before the situation intensified, notably the touring Squad of 1957-58 led by Ian Craig, who was the youngest batsman at the time for Australia to represent his state and score a double century. He then led Australia but his prolific start ended when he retired at 26.
Neil Harvey, Richie Benaud, Wally Grout (the best Keeper before Rod Marsh) and Bob Simpson are on there to. You may have heard of them?

The touring team of 1969/70 was led by the bloke we all know as a "past his sell by date" commentator, but his voice is unique...Bill Lawry.
Ian Chappell was Vice-Skipper and Doug Walters (an Australian Great all-rounder) are also very well known Australian legends.



This helmet belonged to Graeme Pollock, a batting great for South Africa who would have been even bigger had the sport teams not been banned due to Apartheid.


This is Ricky Ponting's Captains Diary he signed for me, regarding what was unquestionably his most insightful book which is also based upon the best two years in Australian cricket history. The World Cup win of 2007 and the 5-0 Ashes win, all of which Punter contributed to in maestro-like style.


I got Mike Hussey to sign my copy of his book, Mr.Cricket, which is a book I actually find very inspiring for my life in no way cricket related whatsoever. This book gave me a huge appreciation and understanding of his dedication, sacrifices and hard work to the game.


Given the fast bowler junkie I am, this original photograph of Allan Donald (aka "White Lightning") receiving his Cap ahead of debut for South Africa is a valuable one, which is also signed. He is receiving it from Dr. Ali Bacher.


A poster of the man with four fingers...Waqar Younis! What a mean seamer he was with his partner in crime, Wasim Akram. It was the era for epic fast bowling.


This isn't signed but was my first cricket poster ever and was of a cricketer who would become not just a legend of the game, but my personal favourite non-Australian batsman along with Gary Kirsten. I have often mentioned it in articles.
Brian Lara! I used to look at this poster and imagine the execution of this pull shot in live time. The front leg lifted up as he gets bat on ball is a trademark Lara shot. Still time to get it signed!


My Australian flag. The two signatures on the stars are those of Brett Lee and Shane Watson. They were super blokes to chat too (even after I'd had a few beers) and it was special to just see how friendly they were. My respect for them just became totally cemented.


A poster of Jonty Rhodes which a family mate got him to sign for me. Rhodes was the sharpest and most entertaining fielder the game had produced at the time. In my opinion Ricky Ponting followed but proved to be far more versatile in the field and had a better direct hit ability, but Rhodes was still pure class and made every kid love fielding.


The signature (a bit blurry in the photo) of Sir Garfield Sobers. Really special.


You have to have your teams gear!
My South Australian Redbacks shirt, T20 shirt, current away ODI shirt and the last issue of the home ODI shirt.


I STOLE THE URN!!! The ECB better check their cabinets.



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Tri-series Final: Australia A vs South Africa A – Australia A won by 2 runs

Click here to view the scorecard for the final match
Australia A – Played 4, Won 4, 18 points, +1.026 NRR

*Tour stats in image at the end of the article.

What a game! Agh, back to back games with thrilling finishes, how I wish I could have seen them. What are the chances two of these games occurred?
Exciting cricket, this is what has been needed but the thing I like most was that they were high scoring games where Australia held their nerve and produced splendid victories, especially during the game where Trent Copeland and Nathan Lyon scored the remaining 25 runs as the last wicket pair with Nathan hitting a six off the last ball!
A HUGE congrats to Australia A.
Pity their performances don’t count for squat in the Selection Panel’s verdict after they announced the Squad to tour Sri-Lanka.
Tim Paine and Callum Ferguson had a successful run leading the troops, is this a sign?

Batting:
David and Phillip who? Honestly, just as I was about to declare them as Pup’s Merry Men, the two young New South Wales opening batsmen launched the most awesome opening partnership in the game that counted the most versus South Africa A in Zimbabwe!
208 runs for the opening stand with Pitbull Warner finally delivering the brutal punishment with the blade in hand as he smashed 120 runs with 10 fours and 3 sixes.
Phillip Hughes, making a surprise debut in the series, dumbfounded me when I saw his innings…138 runs at a run a ball, with only 9 boundaries. He did a hell of a lot of running!
While I have my reservations about Hughesy returning to open for us in Test cricket, maybe this is a sign that he’s regained his mojo?
Maybe it is just something about the African territory that he calls his own. His dream start to his test career began there (forget the 4th ball golden duck) and now after a bit of time in the harsh world of a test cricketer, he has returned with a bloody marvellous limited overs knock.
Didn’t expect to see him feature, so will done Phillip! This is really good.
Sadly no statistic graphs are available to see where they mostly scored their runs, which I’d liked to have seen.

After the two were dismissed going at 5.54 runs an over, there weren’t any spectacular feats besides Aaron Finch (who has had a good series as our top run scorer) who hit 2 sixes during his innings of 20.
293 runs were on the board and you had a hunch it’d be game on after the last game.

Bowling:
Jacques Rudolph, who was an old campaigner for South Africa, continued his good form which gave his team a fighting chance, but after Nathan Lyon then hit back with another valuable contribution (3-55 from 10 overs) they began to sink.
A late innings assault was sparked as Vaughn van Jaarsveld, Vernon Philander and Rory Kleinveldt all played aggressive innings to give their side a serious injection of momentum, which is something our boys have done so well this series, even in low scoring encounters. By aggressive, I don’t just mean in terms of boundaries, but also ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking over.
But Mitchell Marsh, the glory boy of the previous game, decided to call it a day and picked up 4 wickets while also ensuring the 3 runs South Africa A needed off the last ball wasn’t achieved.
Top work from the young Western Warrior all-rounder as we ended the Tri-series both victorious and unbeaten!

This is a very encouraging sign as a number of the South African A players are either well experienced or have represented South Africa during major series. The future looks good on a limited overs platform.
I just hope the right guys get their opportunities that will be productive, tactful and worthwhile for some time.

The big series starts now though and that is the 4 day series. Our Test cricket has slipped so badly that I honestly see this as a massive benchmark as to where our test cricket is at just below the elite level. If the standard is good and the chosen Squad performs with synergy and obvious determination (which we won’t be seeing visually) then the future has hope.
I know the players are skilled enough but I hope a) the selectors will take notice of the proven performers who are not just “exciting young talent” and b) the blokes that perform are given an opportunity amongst a test squad that has now lost an opener and has certainly got very few default selections…which the NSP will of course prove otherwise despite the result.

Well done Australia A, I hope the boys celebrate hard and enjoy this moment. It is a big result for Australian cricket in my opinion. Something to smile about amongst the politics and The Simon Katich Movement, which I endorse, for the selectors to be sacked and accountability to be taken!

You can see the boys are really proud of their achievement!
Aaron Finch, Tim Paine, David Warner, Nathan Lyon, Steve O'Keefe, Johnny Hastings, Callum Ferguson, Luke Butterworth, Trent Copeland, Phillip Hughes, Mitch Starc, Mitch Marsh.

© Zimbabwe Cricket

The Stats:


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The Squad should make you question the system

Before getting into the article, I strongly suggest you read the following articles.

1) Tasmanian opener and former NSW cricketer, Eddie Cowan, shares his opinion on the lucrative offerings that are appealing to the State cricketer while also looking at his concerns for the player not tailored to the nature of T20 cricket, with a few other very good points. Always good to hear it from a players perspective, especially the reality of competing for a spot at the elite level.

Read the article at Cricinfo.com

2) New fielding Coach Steve Rixon is an honest bloke and his attitude is just AWESOME!

Read the article at Cricinfo.com

The limited overs Squads to tour Sri-Lanka:
Twenty20 squad:
Shane Watson, David Warner, Brad Haddin, Shaun Marsh, David Hussey, Cameron White (Captain), Aaron Finch, Steven Smith, Steve O'Keefe, John Hastings, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, James Pattinson.

ODI squad:
Shane Watson, Brad Haddin, Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke (Captain), Michael Hussey, David Hussey, Shaun Marsh, Steven Smith, John Hastings, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Xavier Doherty, James Pattinson, Doug Bollinger.

I am not going to get into this too much other than these Squads;
a) Do not reflect the change of age and fortune as Tim Nielsen recently indicated
b) I thought the point of consistent or worthy performance, especially during a tour for the A side, would count in your favour for selection? Clearly not.

Where is Callum Ferguson in that ODI Squad? With an average of over 40, as a guy who regularly contributes to Australia's limited overs performances and importantly he is the Vice-Skipper playing some marvellous cricket on the Australian A tour to Africa that is currently on-going.
He has scored 176 runs, with an average of 58.66 and three fifties. But no, he is not selected. Something I am missing?
David Hussey, as much as I am a staunch supporter, hasn't exactly been mister consistent for us (which is so frustrating because he's waited so long to represent Australia) but perhaps it's his ability to contribute invaluably with the ball in hand.

What about Aaron Finch? Sure he is in the T20 squad for some hit and giggle cricket but surely he has proven himself to atleast have an opportunity as a young prospective opener in ODI side, given Shaun Marsh is being used as more of a middle order batsman (a POSSIBLE reason for Fergal's ommission).

On that note I am really glad Shaun has been given the call-up! He is also keen to try and fight his way into the Squad to get a Baggy Green Cap. A left handed opener with a sound technique. I would consider Shaun anyday. He had a good Sheffield season, why not try and get in a traditional batsman who can also belt the living daylights out of any bowling attack.
Marsh and Watto in test cricket...I like it!

Ryan Harris? Didn't he get over his injury? I am pretty sure he was quite vocal about getting out there and representing Australia. Maybe he can pull off something to get the nod for the Baggy Green Squad when it is announced?
But yeah, I don't get why on of our best and most ambitious bowlers isn't in the Squad. He has proven himself as our best ODI bowler by A LONG SHOT and still doesn't get the nod.
Douggie B, looking forward to seeing him back in action! Miss that chap.

Atleast John Hastings got his rightful place, but I also thought Nathan Lyon may have been given a bit more consideration.
I am still very amused Steven Smith manages to hold a place in the ODI team. The young is an exciting prospect but I am not sure about the default selection.
Xavier Doherty is the front line spinner, which is awesome to see as he has another opportunity, but what is Steven Smith's role?
Is he a hot and cold leg spinner? Is he a batsman who has (let's be honest) not exactly done anything to push aside some of the more proven limited overs specialists/ performances? Or is it because of his fielding?
His time will come but with the serious lack of contributing anything substantial I think Stevo is another product of Greg Chappell's bizarre belief of streamline the youth even if they aren't ready.
From what I have seen it does more harm than good.

I see David Warner has earned his default call up to try hit some sixes for the Twenty20 Squad while Steve O'Keefe gets the T20 call-up, as has Finchy.
On the final note, I have accepted, is that Cameron White has been dropped from the limited overs team.
He did state that it was a "kick in the guts" but he hasn't been delivering what WE KNOW Cam is capable of. He is a mighty reliable slip fielder, a good tactician and a mighty fine batsman on his day. Not sure what went wrong? Maybe just confidence issues and an identity crisis between conservative cricket and natural instinct?
He still has the Skipper licence to lead our Twenty20 side, but we all know Cam was looking for that place in the ODI side, where he wants to be!

Oh yeah, for a laugh read our Skipper's latest public relations, keep it clean, no being a bad boy comment.
Reading into it, I like what Michael stated and he has made a great effort to try and ensure the current Squad are working together, but I still feel all of this came at the expense of Simon Katich who fought like a wounded dog for us.
I wish someone else would come forward like Katto did and just blast the National Selection Panel, notably Andrew Hilditch for the disgraceful job they have done and the lack of accountability for their juggling, inconsistent policies and utter lack of care for the system or transparency in their handlings.


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What a victory for Australia A!

Game 1: AUSTRALIA A versus ZIMBABWE XI: Won by 4 wickets

For the last game against Zimbabwe Nathan Lyon (3-38 from 10 overs) delivered another excellent performance with the ball in hand, while John Hastings and Mitchell Starc (a serious limited overs full time prospect who took 3-34) kept things tight.
I was amused by Matthew Wade’s name appearing as the opening bowler for the game. He also didn’t bat and neither Tim Paine, nor a Cricinfo write up, were able to shed light on the very unique tactic having a full time wicket-keeper/batsman take on the new ball.
Perhaps something going back to days of their childhood where Tim and Matt would play backyard cricket?

The outstanding bowling effort kept Zimbabwe to a moderate total and the champ himself, Callum Ferguson (57*), put together a match-winning innings that earned him man-of-the-match.
Fergal has a scoring ability that I find very similar to Michael Hussey and it has been good to see have the opportunity in the number 4 position. He was there right until the end to make sure Australia A recorded another win.
As expected, Aaron Finch contributed with the bat in hand scoring 47 runs. Aaron fully deserves the recognition for an ODI debut this year. He’s been valuable for the Bushrangers and has been the standout batsman for us, alongside Fergal who was superb for us in the recent game versus South Africa A!

Game 2: AUSTRALIA A versus SOUTH AFRICA A: Won by 1 wicket

The game against South Africa A, now this looked like a cracking game! Wish I could have seen it.

The second game saw our guys tested to the maximum with a totally different batting output from South Africa A (with a number of over thirties in the side), after we snuffed their batsmen in the first ODI game.
Although a few bowlers who hadn’t played in a game as of yet, or just simply not bowled at all, were given a go so the batting dominance wasn’t a total surprise. I reckon Tim Paine was playing a bit with his opportunities given the boys have secured a place in the Tri-angular series final.
Mitchell Marsh was rather sheepish up until this match as he was the only bowler to exert any sort of authority over the South African A batsmen who had built a solid opening platform and wrapped things up well with a brutal late innings assault.
Mitch ended up with 2-15 from 5 overs as South Africa scored 298 from their 50 overs.

Batting would be tough, but the conditions were favourable for batting, at last.
David Warner has yet to contribute as to how both himself and the team would want, but I found David is often off song when playing for Australia. If we want to see him out of the T20 side (where his lucrative callings are nifty in State T20) these are the series where he’ll need to show his true fight. He did start off with aggression though, which was required from ball 1 chasing 299 to win.
Aaron Finch was amongst the run scoring again but frustratingly he wasn’t able to march on from the 39 runs he’d out behind his name.
Mitch Marsh, as mentioned in the paragraph above, was the star with the bat really bringing the axe down from the first few balls he faced.
72 runs from 73 balls, with 7 boundaries and 1 six, now that’s a damn fine contribution under the circumstances but was it a big enough contribution under the circumstances?
You can’t deny that is was a serious injection of momentum!

At 3-162, both the Skipper and the Vice Skipper (Paine and Ferguson) came out the crease. Still well away from the target, Fergal settled into his natural game while Tim wasted little time to ensure the momentum that Mitch Marsh had created was not lost!
Tim was caught behind after amounting 33 runs, which had helped lower the target to 86 runs to win. The batting stocks were limited but there was the presence of Butterworth, O’Keefe and Johnny Hastings.
Luke Butterworth helped knock 19 off the total wasting no time looking for the boundaries but it was still a big ask was still big with 60 runs still required. Fergal needed to be the go-to-guy again, something like Bevan or Hussey would do.
On 66 runs with only 25 to win, Fergal was bowled, leaving 2 wickets in hand. One hell of a fight back by our Green & Gold middle order grafter, but just wasn’t able to carry his bat!

However Trent Copeland decided it would come down to the wire with Nathan Lyon at the other end. Trent’s day with the ball wasn’t a good one, but he certainly gave us hope with the bat!
He is tailored to become a Baggy Green bowler but he is getting opportunities in limited overs cricket which is fantastic.
Anyways, with 5 runs needed from 6 balls, it was anyone’s game with South Africa A being the favourites.
Don’t leave it Copeland, LEAVE IT NATHAN LYON! What a champ!
14 runs, 1 four and 1 six which was the way he decided to end the match! Epic stuff from our tailenders as they scored the remaining 24 runs! Sensational stuff and that folks is a great sign of fight from Australia A, something I have missed.

So we remain unbeaten and it all comes down to the final which I reckon will be against South Africa A before the 4 day series commences. I can’t wait.
9/303 chasing 298…that’s what I’m talking about!

Check out the Scorecard

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