As Australia look to kick off their New Year in style on January 3, a number of young quicks around the country will be looking to follow in the paths of Cummins and Pattinson.
In this piece I take a look at some of the up and coming quicks looking to breakthrough and become the next Pat Cummins/James Pattinson.
Josh Hazlewood is spoke of very highly in Australian circles and has already made his ODI debut and was taken on the tour to India before a back stress fracture put his rise on halt. He missed most of last season through injury but has returned this season and after a slow start to the season, Hazlewood has finally cracked his 4 wicket hoodoo, after going 9 matches without a 4 wicket haul.
31 December 2011
30 December 2011
The 2011 year for Australian cricket: Statistics and talking points
*Ryan Harris has been added to the Test Squad for the SCG Test against India, due to the likely prospect of the track being beneficial for the quick bowlers.
The 2nd Test will be played on the 100th Test pitch at the SCG making it a very special occasion.
Don't forget to check these pages at the Blog!
Facebook - The Baggy Green Blog is on Facebook
Features - Supporters Graphics and Features we've been included in at the Blog or elsewhere.
Baggy Green Cap Numbers - View a list of all the Baggy Green representatives.
I am sure it's safe to say that 2011 was yet another mixed year for the Baggy Greens.
It was mixed from both a results, player performance and selection perspective but 2011 ended on a positive note with the Baggy Greens taking the 1st Test of the Border-Gavaskar series.
You can also hear my Podcast year end feature at Verbal Slogs hosted by Christopher David Poshin and a few other cricket fanatics where we discuss 2011.
Listen to the episode "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen".
In this article I will post the team results for the year, the player statistics for the year and also make a list of my favorite moments of the year.
I would like to hear yours as well so feel free to post a comment at the end of the article.
The 2nd Test will be played on the 100th Test pitch at the SCG making it a very special occasion.
Don't forget to check these pages at the Blog!
Facebook - The Baggy Green Blog is on Facebook
Features - Supporters Graphics and Features we've been included in at the Blog or elsewhere.
Baggy Green Cap Numbers - View a list of all the Baggy Green representatives.
I am sure it's safe to say that 2011 was yet another mixed year for the Baggy Greens.
It was mixed from both a results, player performance and selection perspective but 2011 ended on a positive note with the Baggy Greens taking the 1st Test of the Border-Gavaskar series.
You can also hear my Podcast year end feature at Verbal Slogs hosted by Christopher David Poshin and a few other cricket fanatics where we discuss 2011.
Listen to the episode "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen".
In this article I will post the team results for the year, the player statistics for the year and also make a list of my favorite moments of the year.
I would like to hear yours as well so feel free to post a comment at the end of the article.
29 December 2011
A journey on Australia's pace bowling roller coaster
*For the match article for the 1st Test which the Baggy Greens won by 122 runs, click here to view the article.
Latest article from our contributor Sylvester:
In the 90's and 2000's Australia's batting depth ensured the current top 6 batting for Australia were always on their toes. Now as we begin a new decade, Australia's fast bowling stocks appears to be on the way up and in time may rival the depth in the batting of yesteryear.
This time last year Australia's bowling stocks hit a low point with many asking where the 20 wickets would coming from. Two months ago, Shane Watson was regarded as the second best quick after his brilliant 5-17 in the 1st Test against South Africa.While brilliant for Watson, it was no compliment to the men being picked as bowlers. Johnson was doing what he did best and Siddle had just returned and following a relatively solid showing in his only test in Sri Lanka, he left South Africa with 4 wickets at 51. Fans were once again worried that Siddle had not improved and it appeared we had the inconsistent duo (Johnson and Siddle) back in full force. What did not help either bowler was the fact a bowler who had only played 3 First Class matches with a less than impressive average in the 40s, well and truly out bowled them with 7 wickets in the match including a match winning 6-79.
Latest article from our contributor Sylvester:
In the 90's and 2000's Australia's batting depth ensured the current top 6 batting for Australia were always on their toes. Now as we begin a new decade, Australia's fast bowling stocks appears to be on the way up and in time may rival the depth in the batting of yesteryear.
This time last year Australia's bowling stocks hit a low point with many asking where the 20 wickets would coming from. Two months ago, Shane Watson was regarded as the second best quick after his brilliant 5-17 in the 1st Test against South Africa.While brilliant for Watson, it was no compliment to the men being picked as bowlers. Johnson was doing what he did best and Siddle had just returned and following a relatively solid showing in his only test in Sri Lanka, he left South Africa with 4 wickets at 51. Fans were once again worried that Siddle had not improved and it appeared we had the inconsistent duo (Johnson and Siddle) back in full force. What did not help either bowler was the fact a bowler who had only played 3 First Class matches with a less than impressive average in the 40s, well and truly out bowled them with 7 wickets in the match including a match winning 6-79.
28 December 2011
1st Test, day 4: The Baggy Green bowlers secure victory
The Baggy Greens have taken the 1st Test for the eagerly awaited Border-Gavaskar series.
Tensions were high out there for all four days of the Test and this added to the dynamic for some highly competitive cricket.
Congratulations to the Baggy Greens!
The controversy was slightly owed to the ongoing debate regarding the DRS but it just means the Umpires must step it up and they had a questionable game. Hopefully they can dust off any uncertainties come the SCG. I'm not really up for any issues like the Bucknor ordeal and boycott threats.
After James Pattinson dug deep to keep advancing the lead with the bat in hand, after Michael Hussey was dismissed for 89 vital runs, James and his experienced counterparts, Ben Hilfenhaus and Peter Siddle, brought about a splendid batting collapse of this very daunting Indian batting line-up.
Rightly so James was named Man-of-the-match and he can just hold his head up high.
He's an outstanding youngster and with the awesome comeback of Hilfy, the roar of Pedro and knowing the likes of Patty Cummins, Ben Cutting, Trent Copeland, Mitch Starc, Peter George, Josh Hazlewood and then experienced campaigners like Ryano Harris, Mitchell Johnson and Douggie Bollinger are also in the mix, the bowling depth is returning and I mean this with respect to all forms of the game.
The batting brings about cause for concern as we can add a few batting collapses to the list our other contributor Sylvester put together a few weeks back.
The batsmen obviously acknowledge this. The younger blokes like Warner, Marsh and Cowan will come right but it was a relief to see our senior players of Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey's class step up when they were urgently needed (see day 3 article for this).
Tensions were high out there for all four days of the Test and this added to the dynamic for some highly competitive cricket.
Congratulations to the Baggy Greens!
The controversy was slightly owed to the ongoing debate regarding the DRS but it just means the Umpires must step it up and they had a questionable game. Hopefully they can dust off any uncertainties come the SCG. I'm not really up for any issues like the Bucknor ordeal and boycott threats.
After James Pattinson dug deep to keep advancing the lead with the bat in hand, after Michael Hussey was dismissed for 89 vital runs, James and his experienced counterparts, Ben Hilfenhaus and Peter Siddle, brought about a splendid batting collapse of this very daunting Indian batting line-up.
Rightly so James was named Man-of-the-match and he can just hold his head up high.
He's an outstanding youngster and with the awesome comeback of Hilfy, the roar of Pedro and knowing the likes of Patty Cummins, Ben Cutting, Trent Copeland, Mitch Starc, Peter George, Josh Hazlewood and then experienced campaigners like Ryano Harris, Mitchell Johnson and Douggie Bollinger are also in the mix, the bowling depth is returning and I mean this with respect to all forms of the game.
The batting brings about cause for concern as we can add a few batting collapses to the list our other contributor Sylvester put together a few weeks back.
The batsmen obviously acknowledge this. The younger blokes like Warner, Marsh and Cowan will come right but it was a relief to see our senior players of Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey's class step up when they were urgently needed (see day 3 article for this).
27 December 2011
1st Test, day 3: That long awaited 5 wicket haul for Hilfenhaus
Another day of momentum switches but India will feel they're in the drivers seat at the moment and rightly so after the way they brought about a batting collapse for the Baggy Greens, yet another one.
The lead is in place for the Baggy Greens due to the urgent rescue mission from the man who does it best, Michael Hussey. He's been in a career threatening drought with his Test game and along side him to save things was Ricky Ponting.
It was a day though that belonged to Ben Hilfenhaus who took his maiden 5 wicket haul. Really proud of him as he gets his career back on track while Huss fights to give himself an extended run with the Baggy Greens.
Day 4 is going to be very tough indeed and the bowling effort that we saw from the Baggy Greens today will need to be repeated come tomorrow.
Full scorecard via ESPN Cricinfo
Bowling:
India 282 all out
Ben Hilfenhaus 5-75 (26 overs), Peter Siddle 3-63, James Pattinson 2-55
After surviving some close encounters and having some luck go their way at our expense, India found themselves taking day 2 and being in a slightly dominant position.
However day 3 didn't start out as well as they'd hoped as India only managed to add 68 runs to their overnight total due to some really awesome seam bowling.
The lead is in place for the Baggy Greens due to the urgent rescue mission from the man who does it best, Michael Hussey. He's been in a career threatening drought with his Test game and along side him to save things was Ricky Ponting.
It was a day though that belonged to Ben Hilfenhaus who took his maiden 5 wicket haul. Really proud of him as he gets his career back on track while Huss fights to give himself an extended run with the Baggy Greens.
Day 4 is going to be very tough indeed and the bowling effort that we saw from the Baggy Greens today will need to be repeated come tomorrow.
Full scorecard via ESPN Cricinfo
Bowling:
India 282 all out
Ben Hilfenhaus 5-75 (26 overs), Peter Siddle 3-63, James Pattinson 2-55
After surviving some close encounters and having some luck go their way at our expense, India found themselves taking day 2 and being in a slightly dominant position.
However day 3 didn't start out as well as they'd hoped as India only managed to add 68 runs to their overnight total due to some really awesome seam bowling.
26 December 2011
1st Test, Day 2: Need to take those chances
Scorecard via ESPN Cricinfo.
Australia: 333 all out
Ed Cowan 68, Ricky Ponting 62, Peter Siddle 41
India: 3-214 from 65 overs.
Trail by 119 runs with 7 wickets in hand
James Pattinson 1-35, Ben Hilfenhaus 1-50, Peter Siddle 1-53
Resuming the innings with Brad Haddin and Peter Siddle as the batsmen who were unbeaten at the end of day 1, Hads didn't hang around too long. After being troubled a bit by Zaheer Khan he was dismissed trying to flash at a ball swing away from him which found the edge and flew to Sehwag in the gully. Hads had been so patient but couldn't resist the half-volley making his effort seem in vain.
Peter Siddle departed soon after unable to get his maiden half-century.
It was an excellent effort by Pedro under the circumstances and full credit to him for backing himself.
Ben Hilfenhaus provided some entertainment putting away a wide full toss for four first up and continued to attack during his innings of 19. Some of the shots weren't great to watch but he contributed runs and momentum. James Pattinson played a fairly cautious lower order knock of 18*.
Australia: 333 all out
Ed Cowan 68, Ricky Ponting 62, Peter Siddle 41
India: 3-214 from 65 overs.
Trail by 119 runs with 7 wickets in hand
James Pattinson 1-35, Ben Hilfenhaus 1-50, Peter Siddle 1-53
Resuming the innings with Brad Haddin and Peter Siddle as the batsmen who were unbeaten at the end of day 1, Hads didn't hang around too long. After being troubled a bit by Zaheer Khan he was dismissed trying to flash at a ball swing away from him which found the edge and flew to Sehwag in the gully. Hads had been so patient but couldn't resist the half-volley making his effort seem in vain.
Peter Siddle departed soon after unable to get his maiden half-century.
It was an excellent effort by Pedro under the circumstances and full credit to him for backing himself.
Ben Hilfenhaus provided some entertainment putting away a wide full toss for four first up and continued to attack during his innings of 19. Some of the shots weren't great to watch but he contributed runs and momentum. James Pattinson played a fairly cautious lower order knock of 18*.
1st Test, Day 1: Ed Cowan's solid focus on debut
Before heading into a basic look at the days play, I would like to express my condolences to Lachy Patterson (Cricket Australia Media Manager) after the devastating tragedy his family will be working through.
The Baggy Greens wore black arm bands following the birth complications of Lachy and Louise Patterson's twin baby daughters Annie and Millie. It's just so sad and from the Baggy Green Blog we wish them a sense of comfort as they work through this loss.
Scorecard via Cricinfo.com
Australia: 6-277 from 89 overs.
Ed Cowan 68, Ricky Ponting 62, Peter Siddle 34*, Brad Haddin 21*
Ed Cowan was the debutant (Baggy Green #427) and what a sensational job he did!
He took a while to get nestled into the game and he negotiated some very good bowling from the Indian quicks with the new ball but after his partnership with Ricky Ponting began to take flight, Ed began to express his skills with some cracking drives and putting away 7 boundaries.
The Baggy Greens wore black arm bands following the birth complications of Lachy and Louise Patterson's twin baby daughters Annie and Millie. It's just so sad and from the Baggy Green Blog we wish them a sense of comfort as they work through this loss.
Scorecard via Cricinfo.com
Australia: 6-277 from 89 overs.
Ed Cowan 68, Ricky Ponting 62, Peter Siddle 34*, Brad Haddin 21*
Ed Cowan was the debutant (Baggy Green #427) and what a sensational job he did!
He took a while to get nestled into the game and he negotiated some very good bowling from the Indian quicks with the new ball but after his partnership with Ricky Ponting began to take flight, Ed began to express his skills with some cracking drives and putting away 7 boundaries.
23 December 2011
Boxing Day Test Squad announced
Due to time constraints I haven't managed to do my Podcast in time but here is my feature on an Indian Bloggers Podcast, Verbal Slogs. Here is the link.
Christopher David Poshin and Michael Wagener are the hosts of the show so go have a listen!
The Selectors have announced the Squad for Boxing Day:
1 David Warner,
2 Ed Cowan (debutant),
3 Shaun Marsh,
4 Ricky Ponting,
5 Michael Clarke (Captain),
6 Michael Hussey,
7 Brad Haddin (wk),
8 Peter Siddle,
9 James Pattinson,
10 Nathan Lyon,
11 Ben Hilfenhaus.
Christopher David Poshin and Michael Wagener are the hosts of the show so go have a listen!
The Selectors have announced the Squad for Boxing Day:
1 David Warner,
2 Ed Cowan (debutant),
3 Shaun Marsh,
4 Ricky Ponting,
5 Michael Clarke (Captain),
6 Michael Hussey,
7 Brad Haddin (wk),
8 Peter Siddle,
9 James Pattinson,
10 Nathan Lyon,
11 Ben Hilfenhaus.
20 December 2011
1st Test: Baggy Greens Squad announced
Before I dive into the Squad it must be said that it is fantastic to have a Chairman of Selectors who provides clarity upon the selections and furthermore bases the selections upon proven performance.
Some questions will still be asked why Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey and Brad Haddin are still lurking about but we all know it would be mighty bold for the selectors to have axed them from the Squad before the Border-Gavaskar series, which would effectively bring their Test careers to a curtain closure.
Well done to John Inverarity for not leaving us as Australian cricket supporters in the dark with the selections and for providing just enough tactical substance to back the selections. It is a breath of fresh air post-Hilditch and cronies.
The Boxing Day Squad (Baggy Greens):
Batsmen:
Michael Clarke (captain), Ed Cowan, David Warner, Shaun Marsh, Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey, Brad Haddin (wk).
All-rounder:
Daniel Christian.
Bowlers:
Peter Siddle, James Pattinson, Ben Hilfenhaus, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon.
Some questions will still be asked why Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey and Brad Haddin are still lurking about but we all know it would be mighty bold for the selectors to have axed them from the Squad before the Border-Gavaskar series, which would effectively bring their Test careers to a curtain closure.
Well done to John Inverarity for not leaving us as Australian cricket supporters in the dark with the selections and for providing just enough tactical substance to back the selections. It is a breath of fresh air post-Hilditch and cronies.
The Boxing Day Squad (Baggy Greens):
Batsmen:
Michael Clarke (captain), Ed Cowan, David Warner, Shaun Marsh, Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey, Brad Haddin (wk).
All-rounder:
Daniel Christian.
Bowlers:
Peter Siddle, James Pattinson, Ben Hilfenhaus, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon.
How things are shaping up for Boxing Day
It would seem that a probable starting XI is not easy to determine at this point but the probable players coming into consideration seems easy enough to pick out.
Inconsistency remains ever present and for our veteran players, like Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey, this is their moment to try and have a summer of Test cricket to remember.
Rahul Dravid went through a terrible form slump and came right but it was as extended a run as Punter. Hussey's poor form in his last four Tests has somewhat slipped under the radar due to the fact his limited overs form has remained solid and the Sri Lankan Test series gave him massive momentum after some sensational performances.
The big question is what will John Inverarity, his panel, Michael Clarke and Mickey Arthur decide upon as a starting XI?
Inconsistency remains ever present and for our veteran players, like Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey, this is their moment to try and have a summer of Test cricket to remember.
Rahul Dravid went through a terrible form slump and came right but it was as extended a run as Punter. Hussey's poor form in his last four Tests has somewhat slipped under the radar due to the fact his limited overs form has remained solid and the Sri Lankan Test series gave him massive momentum after some sensational performances.
Sylvester has been churning out the articles recently here at the Baggy Green Blog regarding these inconsistencies but it is a worrying. Article 1 - Batting Collapses, Article 2 - Michael Hussey's stats in recent times.
17 December 2011
3 on the trot for Warner
Sydney Thunder won their maiden match against the Melbourne Stars in the newly formed Big Bash League, thanks to David Warner who marked his return to domestic T20 cricket carrying on where he left off in his previous encounters – scoring an unbeaten hundred.
Warner’s previous domestic outing was for the now disbanded NSW Blues in the Champions League T20 semi-final against Royal Challengers Bangalore. In that game he scored 123 not out from 68 balls with 6 fours and 11 sixes.
Warner’s previous domestic outing was for the now disbanded NSW Blues in the Champions League T20 semi-final against Royal Challengers Bangalore. In that game he scored 123 not out from 68 balls with 6 fours and 11 sixes.
16 December 2011
Hussey outside of Australia and the Sub-Continent
I was doing some research into Michael Hussey for another post and stumbled upon some very surprising stats. No one has really noted this, not in the media, blogs or forums. How does Michael Hussey perform outside of Australia and the Sub-Continent?
Hussey started his career with a hiss and a bang averaging 120, 56, 64, 81, 92 and 150. Those are some amazing numbers to start a career and it made Hussey much loved and much talked about. The average of 64 was in Australia in South Africa Test Series, 2005/06. The reason why I single out this average is it remains the only time he has done anything of note outside of Australia and the sub-continent.
His following series outside of these places show the following:
Hussey started his career with a hiss and a bang averaging 120, 56, 64, 81, 92 and 150. Those are some amazing numbers to start a career and it made Hussey much loved and much talked about. The average of 64 was in Australia in South Africa Test Series, 2005/06. The reason why I single out this average is it remains the only time he has done anything of note outside of Australia and the sub-continent.
His following series outside of these places show the following:
- The Frank Worrell Trophy (Australia in West Indies), 2008 - 3 test, 137 runs at 22.83, HS 56 with 1 fifty
- Australia in South Africa Test Series, 2008/09 - 3 test, 132 runs at 22, HS 50 with 1 fifty
- The Ashes (Australia in England), 2009 - 5 test, 276 runs at 34.5, HS 121 with 1 hundred and 2 fifties
- Trans-Tasman Trophy (Australia in New Zealand), 2009/10 - 2 Test, 93 runs at 31, HS 67 with 1 fifty
- MCC Spirit of Cricket Test Series (Australia, Pakistan in England), 2010 - 2 Test, 69 runs at 23, HS 56* with 1 fifty
- Australia in South Africa Test Series, 2011/12 - 2 Test, 60 runs at 15, HS 39
Extra: - Trans-Tasman Trophy (New Zealand in Australia), 2011/12 - 2 Test, 23 runs at 7.66 (threw this in since they were seaming tracks)
15 December 2011
Where did it go so wrong for Hughes?
Philip Hughes is a man who has gone through an entire career worth of criticism at the ripe old age of 23. How have things gone so wrong for him?
Upon making his test debut, his first class average was above 60 and his runs had come in all kinds of situations. His display on a green Bellerive Oval (not to dissimilar to the second test against NZ) showed he was a class above the rest of the batsmen playing in this match.
Guys like George Bailey, Ed Cowan, Tim Paine, Usman Khawaja and Steven Smith were left in the wake of Hughes whose scores of 93 and 108 was so far above the next highest score in the match of 59, it was Bradman like.
In fact this was one of the few records he would go on to take from the great Don Bradman, in this game he recorded the greatest two-innings contribution to a team’s game total and brought up his 1000th FC run at a quicker rate. His other moment came a season earlier where he scored 116 in the Shield final (at the time known as the Pura Cup) leading NSW to a dominant 258 runs win against Victoria.
These amazing feats heightened expectations ahead of Hughes’ test debut in SA.
The moment had come and as quickly Hughes was on his way back to the pavilion, out to one of the more crazier shots you will see by a player making his debut. This was Hughes confidence on show. Not bothered by this, Hughes showed what all the fuss was about scoring 75 runs in the second innings, easily the highest score in this innings with Haddin’s 37 the next closest.
Upon making his test debut, his first class average was above 60 and his runs had come in all kinds of situations. His display on a green Bellerive Oval (not to dissimilar to the second test against NZ) showed he was a class above the rest of the batsmen playing in this match.
Guys like George Bailey, Ed Cowan, Tim Paine, Usman Khawaja and Steven Smith were left in the wake of Hughes whose scores of 93 and 108 was so far above the next highest score in the match of 59, it was Bradman like.
In fact this was one of the few records he would go on to take from the great Don Bradman, in this game he recorded the greatest two-innings contribution to a team’s game total and brought up his 1000th FC run at a quicker rate. His other moment came a season earlier where he scored 116 in the Shield final (at the time known as the Pura Cup) leading NSW to a dominant 258 runs win against Victoria.
These amazing feats heightened expectations ahead of Hughes’ test debut in SA.
The moment had come and as quickly Hughes was on his way back to the pavilion, out to one of the more crazier shots you will see by a player making his debut. This was Hughes confidence on show. Not bothered by this, Hughes showed what all the fuss was about scoring 75 runs in the second innings, easily the highest score in this innings with Haddin’s 37 the next closest.
12 December 2011
How much more sweeping can the Aussies do?
*For the 2nd Test match analysis written by Ian, click here to be navigated to that article or scroll down.
Latest article from Baggy Green Blog contributor, Sylvester.
Latest article from Baggy Green Blog contributor, Sylvester.
How much more sweeping under the carpet can the selectors do before the mess under the carpet is too much? That is the question which the Australian selectors will have to answer for the Boxing Day test.
Hilditch and cronies have left the new selectors in a tough position. By failing to move along some of the older out of form players, we have now come to the point where our batting is a complete and utter mess. The team now has young guys that are struggling to find their feet at the top level, coupled with experienced guys who are failing in the same innings far too often.
2ndTest: Warner’s century couldn’t prevent some Black Cap history
Another good game for Test cricket and even though the Baggy Greens weren't victorious, it was good to see a game where fast bowling dominanted with swing conditions on offer throughout all four days.
Low scoring games have proven to be exciting, but when you look at it in detail the Baggy Greens have been a big part of the low scoring dilemma.
It remains a big issue and while it can be expected every 5 Tests or so that a bad innings will occur for most sides, it has become a frequent matter.
You can’t help but feel the Selectors will be making some tough calls, which we all expected heading into this series.
As always you need to find the positives.
There were a few to make note of but many of the negatives will unlikely be swept aside by Inverarity.
Well done to the Black Caps though. Some special history for them with their first win in Australia since 1985 and Doug Bracewell made the most of the conditions, a green top wicket and was consistently swinging the ball bowling from a good length.
2nd Test: Black Caps won by 7 runs.
Scorecard
Series drawn 1-1, The Baggy Greens retain the Trans-Tasman Trophy.
BATTING:
1st innings 136 all out, Peter Siddle 38
2nd innings 233 all out, David Warner 123*
The 1st innings was atrocious. After The Black Caps fell for 150 I honestly didn’t expect them to win the Test. A mate in Hobart informed me the wicket would be tough for the first three days and then likely begin to flatten, further assisted if there was some sunshine to bake the track a bit.
His forecast was spot on with a tough batting track but it didn’t get much easier due to the lack of sunshine.
The track had variable bounce (at times keeping very low and rapidly darting off a short length), lovely conditions for swing bowling which both teams utilised and something in it for the spin bowling.
It was a good track for bowling and neither side was fully up for the challenge with the bat in hand.
The shot selection was tough to watch. Very loose strokes and not enough patience shown by the senior batsmen. The loss of Shaun Marsh appears to be big with that element of patience he brings to the batting order. Even when Usman Khawaja managed to be patient, as soon as David Warner showed slight discomfort after committing to a run in the 2nd innings, Usman tried to be more aggressive and got himself out. We needed someone to just hold the fort while Pitbull Warner continued his outstanding performance, scoring 52.8% of the teams runs.
David “Pitbull” Warner was great to watch. I am so proud of the bloke and I always felt he would do something this series. He took a few innings to get going but not only was he there until the end watching the experienced players drop around him but he scored his maiden century.
It is always a wonderful moment to see a batsman celebrate a Test century. Conditions were tough out there and it was an innings of hope from Warner as the Baggy Greens neared in a 2-0 series win.
Unfortunately while he played fluently and powerfully with his confidence on the rise as his time at the wicket increased, his batting partners didn’t maximise their time.
Early on David’s area of scoring was behind square of the wicket due to some edges and a fair bit of luck with some inside edges down to fine leg which accounted for a number of boundaries.
Some luck is needed but as he settled the shots became more controlled and excellently placed.
His wagon-wheel is good to look at to see how he became more assertive as he got down to business knowing he could get the team home, even if it was by his own means.
It was good to watch his performance and in my opinion he has arrived.
We’ve been in need of a young man with a sound technique and ability to switch his temperament at the top of the order with Shane Watson in a place of question whether he should continue opening or not.
It’s good to note his areas of placement for his runs. *Four runs not accounted for in Wagon-wheel.
The Black Caps bowled well but I feel the guys just weren’t able to give themselves enough time for some application on the track to adjust to the conditions. It wasn’t easy batting but they surely could have shown better patience out there.
It was disappointing but at the same time it forces the Selectors to have a long think about their plan of action for the Border-Gavaskar series.
It looks like Phillip Hughes’ time is up.
With Shaun Marsh set to play in one of the warm-up games prior to the Border-Gavaskar series and Shane Watson in line to return, it seems Hughes will be going. It would only seem right and David Warner has taken his opportunity.
Yes, Hughesy works hard at his game and has a hunger for the game but it probably isn’t sufficient. Consistency is needed within the team and with Warner there is a sense of stability and he has a sound technique with a very flexible game, which he’s been working bloody hard at.
Hughesy is still a young man but his dismissals have been carbon-copies now since the South African series and we’ve seen it all before.
A mental weakness seems to have become apparent due to a possible technical weakness and this is cause for concern. You could hear it in Michael Slater’s tone when Hughes was dismissed that this is the end of the line for now.
Bowled Martin, Caught Guptill. Four times it occurred. Quite something.
Michael Hussey had an excellent series in Sri Lanka but has struggled since. His enthusiasm is always refreshing. Huss is a remarkable limited overs cricket and possibly the best in the game. He is versatile, sharp between the wickets, can dominate any bowler and has won so many games for the Green & Gold’s.
Come Test cricket, despite his Ashes performances and the Sri Lankan series, he’s maybe lost the edge a bit, a slight let down of instinct. I’m not sure but as much as I’d like to see Huss play on in limited overs (where he’s remained consistent) maybe it is time for him to make way for an emerging player?
This could be said for Ricky Ponting as well, who is my favourite of all time and has been a massive inspiration to me. I don’t want to ever see him go but I can’t help but feel the end of his epic career is near.
This summer will surely be his final campaign as a Test cricket?
He has nothing left to prove, I’ve written about it before and the standing ovation at Bellerive when he walked off the park was symbolic. The crowd, at the ground where the journey began for Punter, seemed to accept it has all come to an end and that was the last time they’d see him in Test gear in Tasmania.
I hate to sound all doom and gloom but we often talk about the sake of progression.
It could easily turn around for Huss and Punter against India and we’d all love to see that, but for progression can it be depended on?
Can the Selectors be bold enough to make those tough calls amongst the good start they’ve already made?
Brad Haddin must surely be in this category as well when Tim Paine returns?
My best wishes to our senior players who have provided us with many cricketing memories and given us entertainment and pride with their respective performances.
I am just not sure if the Selectors will handing out the honours based on reputation for the Border-Gavaskar series. The gut instinct would be to give them another go but there’s that cloud of progression and the urgency for consistency to start developing with a team to look at for the next 2-3 years.
It was disappointing no one could support David Warner and it was a worry Pedro Siddle was the top run scorer in the 1st innings.
With other player’s eager to have their opportunity and a core group needed for Test cricket the bowling stocks have fallen beautifully into place with options available but the batting won’t progress with stagnant selection, a tough area of question for the new NSP.
Please understand I’m a staunch supporter so saying this isn’t easy but sometimes you need to look at the bigger picture rather than the individual accolades.
The batting was bleak but there’s still plenty to be proud about, especially the arrival of David Warner!
Nathan Lyon was devastated after the loss. I really felt for him but it wasn’t his fault, it wasn’t his ultimate responsibility. He tried his best as a guy who is highly capable with the bat but the batsmen up top fell like flies during a wonderful spell by Doug Bracewell.
It’s just a game of cricket and life goes on but as supporters we still need to discuss our views objectively.
BOWLING:
1st innings; James Pattinson 5-61, Peter Siddle 3-42
2nd innings, James Pattinson 3-54 , Peter Siddle 3-66 , Nathan Lyon 3-25
Our bowlers were awesome. Pattinson took another 5fer and consistently swung the ball with good pace. He pitched the ball up well and showed that similar element of composure to that of Patty Cummins. He deserves many more opportunities for the summer. I dig his Bree Lee-like attitude.
With the full length he bowled it regularly encouraged the Black Caps top order to play at the ball and this resulted in many edges to the slips.
I can see this menacing the Indian batsmen!
It is an area Craig McDermott seems to have nailed with the bowlers and an area that was deemed a weakness. The bowling attack also seems to have far better stability and consistency with the young guns coming through. Its splendid!
Well done to James as he was great to watch. That’s two 5 wicket hauls and an average of 14.00.
Pedro Siddle lead the attack excellently. I understand he has a lack of variation in what he brings to the table which results in criticism but his never ending fight within him is inspiring and he was good. Like Pattinson, when he pitched it on a fuller length it created opportunities rather than bowling back of a length which works for Pedro at the MCG.
His pace has been rising and rising to a stable point of very menacing pace. There was even some movement on offer for Pedro and he managed six for the game. Can’t forget his top score!
Mitchell Starc could have had far more success but unlike Pedro and Pattinson he was unable to find a consistent balance with his line and length. He’s also a young bloke so the taste of the elite level will do him the world of good but he’s another youngster in the waiting line. Nothing wrong with that and I look forward to seeing him get more exposure in limited overs cricket.
When the time is right I see him having more Test exposure.
Nathan Lyon continued things from the Gabba proving he is the guy to stick with.
He managed three for the game and even though he went wicket less in the first innings he kept things tidy while the pace bowlers wrapped things up.
I have mentioned it before but I am excited to see him go for the summer and I stand by my supportive outlook being that should he get a beating or two from India, he must be retained.
Only through patience, encouragement and variable opportunity (against the top opposition sides) will he discover his true skill set as a spin bowler and develop into our front line spin bowler.
Not much else to say other than with Ryan Harris, Shane Watson, Patrick Cummins and a few other blokes lurking about the system, I feel the bowling is on track.
Craig McDermott has also been given plenty of acknowledgements from the bowling units so he’s clearly doing the job well.
Pitbull Warner kisses the coat of arms on his helmet as he reaches his maiden-century. I strongly believe there will be many more to come. Despite the loss it was an outstanding achievement for him.
© Associated Press
I will be doing another Podcast prior to the Border-Gavaskar series but there’s a bit happening.
For one this weekend the Big Bash League kicks off.
If you want to join the Baggy Green fanatics in the Fox Sports Big Bash Fantasy League, please click here or scroll down to the previous article to find our League code.
There will also be two warm-up games which will assist the selectors with fine tuning a team for the Indian series. I look forward to the healthy competition.
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
TWITTER
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
Low scoring games have proven to be exciting, but when you look at it in detail the Baggy Greens have been a big part of the low scoring dilemma.
It remains a big issue and while it can be expected every 5 Tests or so that a bad innings will occur for most sides, it has become a frequent matter.
You can’t help but feel the Selectors will be making some tough calls, which we all expected heading into this series.
As always you need to find the positives.
There were a few to make note of but many of the negatives will unlikely be swept aside by Inverarity.
Well done to the Black Caps though. Some special history for them with their first win in Australia since 1985 and Doug Bracewell made the most of the conditions, a green top wicket and was consistently swinging the ball bowling from a good length.
2nd Test: Black Caps won by 7 runs.
Scorecard
Series drawn 1-1, The Baggy Greens retain the Trans-Tasman Trophy.
BATTING:
1st innings 136 all out, Peter Siddle 38
2nd innings 233 all out, David Warner 123*
The 1st innings was atrocious. After The Black Caps fell for 150 I honestly didn’t expect them to win the Test. A mate in Hobart informed me the wicket would be tough for the first three days and then likely begin to flatten, further assisted if there was some sunshine to bake the track a bit.
His forecast was spot on with a tough batting track but it didn’t get much easier due to the lack of sunshine.
The track had variable bounce (at times keeping very low and rapidly darting off a short length), lovely conditions for swing bowling which both teams utilised and something in it for the spin bowling.
It was a good track for bowling and neither side was fully up for the challenge with the bat in hand.
The shot selection was tough to watch. Very loose strokes and not enough patience shown by the senior batsmen. The loss of Shaun Marsh appears to be big with that element of patience he brings to the batting order. Even when Usman Khawaja managed to be patient, as soon as David Warner showed slight discomfort after committing to a run in the 2nd innings, Usman tried to be more aggressive and got himself out. We needed someone to just hold the fort while Pitbull Warner continued his outstanding performance, scoring 52.8% of the teams runs.
David “Pitbull” Warner was great to watch. I am so proud of the bloke and I always felt he would do something this series. He took a few innings to get going but not only was he there until the end watching the experienced players drop around him but he scored his maiden century.
It is always a wonderful moment to see a batsman celebrate a Test century. Conditions were tough out there and it was an innings of hope from Warner as the Baggy Greens neared in a 2-0 series win.
Unfortunately while he played fluently and powerfully with his confidence on the rise as his time at the wicket increased, his batting partners didn’t maximise their time.
Early on David’s area of scoring was behind square of the wicket due to some edges and a fair bit of luck with some inside edges down to fine leg which accounted for a number of boundaries.
Some luck is needed but as he settled the shots became more controlled and excellently placed.
His wagon-wheel is good to look at to see how he became more assertive as he got down to business knowing he could get the team home, even if it was by his own means.
It was good to watch his performance and in my opinion he has arrived.
We’ve been in need of a young man with a sound technique and ability to switch his temperament at the top of the order with Shane Watson in a place of question whether he should continue opening or not.
It’s good to note his areas of placement for his runs. *Four runs not accounted for in Wagon-wheel.
The Black Caps bowled well but I feel the guys just weren’t able to give themselves enough time for some application on the track to adjust to the conditions. It wasn’t easy batting but they surely could have shown better patience out there.
It was disappointing but at the same time it forces the Selectors to have a long think about their plan of action for the Border-Gavaskar series.
It looks like Phillip Hughes’ time is up.
With Shaun Marsh set to play in one of the warm-up games prior to the Border-Gavaskar series and Shane Watson in line to return, it seems Hughes will be going. It would only seem right and David Warner has taken his opportunity.
Yes, Hughesy works hard at his game and has a hunger for the game but it probably isn’t sufficient. Consistency is needed within the team and with Warner there is a sense of stability and he has a sound technique with a very flexible game, which he’s been working bloody hard at.
Hughesy is still a young man but his dismissals have been carbon-copies now since the South African series and we’ve seen it all before.
A mental weakness seems to have become apparent due to a possible technical weakness and this is cause for concern. You could hear it in Michael Slater’s tone when Hughes was dismissed that this is the end of the line for now.
Bowled Martin, Caught Guptill. Four times it occurred. Quite something.
Michael Hussey had an excellent series in Sri Lanka but has struggled since. His enthusiasm is always refreshing. Huss is a remarkable limited overs cricket and possibly the best in the game. He is versatile, sharp between the wickets, can dominate any bowler and has won so many games for the Green & Gold’s.
Come Test cricket, despite his Ashes performances and the Sri Lankan series, he’s maybe lost the edge a bit, a slight let down of instinct. I’m not sure but as much as I’d like to see Huss play on in limited overs (where he’s remained consistent) maybe it is time for him to make way for an emerging player?
This could be said for Ricky Ponting as well, who is my favourite of all time and has been a massive inspiration to me. I don’t want to ever see him go but I can’t help but feel the end of his epic career is near.
This summer will surely be his final campaign as a Test cricket?
He has nothing left to prove, I’ve written about it before and the standing ovation at Bellerive when he walked off the park was symbolic. The crowd, at the ground where the journey began for Punter, seemed to accept it has all come to an end and that was the last time they’d see him in Test gear in Tasmania.
I hate to sound all doom and gloom but we often talk about the sake of progression.
It could easily turn around for Huss and Punter against India and we’d all love to see that, but for progression can it be depended on?
Can the Selectors be bold enough to make those tough calls amongst the good start they’ve already made?
Brad Haddin must surely be in this category as well when Tim Paine returns?
My best wishes to our senior players who have provided us with many cricketing memories and given us entertainment and pride with their respective performances.
I am just not sure if the Selectors will handing out the honours based on reputation for the Border-Gavaskar series. The gut instinct would be to give them another go but there’s that cloud of progression and the urgency for consistency to start developing with a team to look at for the next 2-3 years.
It was disappointing no one could support David Warner and it was a worry Pedro Siddle was the top run scorer in the 1st innings.
With other player’s eager to have their opportunity and a core group needed for Test cricket the bowling stocks have fallen beautifully into place with options available but the batting won’t progress with stagnant selection, a tough area of question for the new NSP.
Please understand I’m a staunch supporter so saying this isn’t easy but sometimes you need to look at the bigger picture rather than the individual accolades.
The batting was bleak but there’s still plenty to be proud about, especially the arrival of David Warner!
Nathan Lyon was devastated after the loss. I really felt for him but it wasn’t his fault, it wasn’t his ultimate responsibility. He tried his best as a guy who is highly capable with the bat but the batsmen up top fell like flies during a wonderful spell by Doug Bracewell.
It’s just a game of cricket and life goes on but as supporters we still need to discuss our views objectively.
BOWLING:
1st innings; James Pattinson 5-61, Peter Siddle 3-42
2nd innings, James Pattinson 3-54 , Peter Siddle 3-66 , Nathan Lyon 3-25
Our bowlers were awesome. Pattinson took another 5fer and consistently swung the ball with good pace. He pitched the ball up well and showed that similar element of composure to that of Patty Cummins. He deserves many more opportunities for the summer. I dig his Bree Lee-like attitude.
With the full length he bowled it regularly encouraged the Black Caps top order to play at the ball and this resulted in many edges to the slips.
I can see this menacing the Indian batsmen!
It is an area Craig McDermott seems to have nailed with the bowlers and an area that was deemed a weakness. The bowling attack also seems to have far better stability and consistency with the young guns coming through. Its splendid!
Well done to James as he was great to watch. That’s two 5 wicket hauls and an average of 14.00.
Pedro Siddle lead the attack excellently. I understand he has a lack of variation in what he brings to the table which results in criticism but his never ending fight within him is inspiring and he was good. Like Pattinson, when he pitched it on a fuller length it created opportunities rather than bowling back of a length which works for Pedro at the MCG.
His pace has been rising and rising to a stable point of very menacing pace. There was even some movement on offer for Pedro and he managed six for the game. Can’t forget his top score!
Mitchell Starc could have had far more success but unlike Pedro and Pattinson he was unable to find a consistent balance with his line and length. He’s also a young bloke so the taste of the elite level will do him the world of good but he’s another youngster in the waiting line. Nothing wrong with that and I look forward to seeing him get more exposure in limited overs cricket.
When the time is right I see him having more Test exposure.
Nathan Lyon continued things from the Gabba proving he is the guy to stick with.
He managed three for the game and even though he went wicket less in the first innings he kept things tidy while the pace bowlers wrapped things up.
I have mentioned it before but I am excited to see him go for the summer and I stand by my supportive outlook being that should he get a beating or two from India, he must be retained.
Only through patience, encouragement and variable opportunity (against the top opposition sides) will he discover his true skill set as a spin bowler and develop into our front line spin bowler.
Not much else to say other than with Ryan Harris, Shane Watson, Patrick Cummins and a few other blokes lurking about the system, I feel the bowling is on track.
Craig McDermott has also been given plenty of acknowledgements from the bowling units so he’s clearly doing the job well.
Pitbull Warner kisses the coat of arms on his helmet as he reaches his maiden-century. I strongly believe there will be many more to come. Despite the loss it was an outstanding achievement for him.
I will be doing another Podcast prior to the Border-Gavaskar series but there’s a bit happening.
For one this weekend the Big Bash League kicks off.
If you want to join the Baggy Green fanatics in the Fox Sports Big Bash Fantasy League, please click here or scroll down to the previous article to find our League code.
There will also be two warm-up games which will assist the selectors with fine tuning a team for the Indian series. I look forward to the healthy competition.
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
08 December 2011
The Big Bash Fox Sports Fantasy League, it's back!
*Don't forget to read the latest article (scroll down): The concept of Australia's player rotation.
Yes, it is that time of year where all of us cricket geeks get together and play the Fox Sports T20 Fantasy League. This time around it is for the new Big Bash League set to start on Friday 16th December. See the fixtures here.
Head on over to Fox Sports' Big Bash Fantasy League (http://bigbashfantasy.foxsports.com.au/). Register yourself (if you took part last year your info will still be valid) and get your team setup!
To join our League, setup by the BGBs loyal follower Joel Chaos (CEO Bay 13 at the MCG), go the "Leagues" tab once you have set your team and enter the code below:
12152-2047
Hope to see you for the fun.
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
TWITTER
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
Yes, it is that time of year where all of us cricket geeks get together and play the Fox Sports T20 Fantasy League. This time around it is for the new Big Bash League set to start on Friday 16th December. See the fixtures here.
Head on over to Fox Sports' Big Bash Fantasy League (http://bigbashfantasy.foxsports.com.au/). Register yourself (if you took part last year your info will still be valid) and get your team setup!
To join our League, setup by the BGBs loyal follower Joel Chaos (CEO Bay 13 at the MCG), go the "Leagues" tab once you have set your team and enter the code below:
12152-2047
Hope to see you for the fun.
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
07 December 2011
The concept of Australia’s player rotation plan
Player rotation is an interesting topic of debate at the moment.
There’s a few ways you can look at it with the given pros and cons behind it.
On the surface I’d have to say I am in favour of it but let me go a little further into detail.
Pat Howard is the performance manager for the team. He has notable experience with the Wallabies as a player and will perfectly understand the management of hyper Rugby Union athletes having been General Manager of the High-performance Unit for the ARU (Australian Rugby Union).
I trust Howard’s stance on the matter and trust that he will be looking at what is the best for the team moving forward handling player management as a collective tactic rather than individual pampering.
Howard can also play a vital role in strategic execution for the side as well.
Mickey Arthur, recently selected full –time Coach, has stressed that player rotation will occur and, in conjunction with the Argus Review, the player’s must respect the concept and the matter must be handled maturely and subjectively.
It puts immense pressure on a Captain and Coach when new players get selected on the basis on desperation to fill the void for a player out injured.
Arthur is already in a tough place being new to operating within the Australian cricket landscape and having to also gel with his team.
A major positive with Arthur is he has little emotional history with the players in terms of loyalties having not played as an Australian State cricketer, worked in State coaching and has been in operation with an opposition side.
There won’t be any favouritism given to support an individual selection if a player repeatedly shows inconsistency and doesn’t deliver, despite that player’s legacy.
I can’t see politics playing a role with his time on the job and a support staff with immense knowledge of the game, the Australian cricket landscape and the players which will only enhance things for Arthur.
If a player needs to sit out, I can’t see him having sleepless nights about it if it is the right thing for the match, the team or the player.
Then there’s Michael Clarke who has been on the playing field with a dramatic peak in fixtures. He immediately made a point of stating that Patty Cummins needs to be handled with care if he is to be a player on longevity at the elite level. He (Cummins) is already injured and clearly demonstrates he must either be worked over at Test level or given more time in the shorter forms of the game.
A balance has to be found!
I also trust Michael will have the insight into his team and the courage to know when a player is reaching burnout.
A player being burnt out with fatigue, over played to the point of waning concentration or even given continual ego boosts of their invaluable role for the side can be handled by positive implementation and execution from a designated group of individuals to assess how the player rotation is to be managed.
This shouldn’t be confused or misused within an administrative position as a safety net for player’s showing inconsistency and continually struggling within their respective roles to be given endless life lines.
I think there has been some confusion on this matter with regards to Michael Hussey’s statements that he views player rotation as a worry. I think he was rather ranting on about inform players scoring runs being left out of a team just to protect their bodies and workload, even if there is no apparent threat.
A batsman shouldn’t be left out if he is scoring runs and has found rhythm purely because the game can turn around so quickly that a bloke in form today could be heading back to Sheffield cricket in two weeks’ time.
I feel that Michael Hussey’s views recently stated not agreeing with the rotation on a batting frontier could be seen as a defence mechanism for player’s who have been inconsistent. This seems to be where the confusion came in on the various forums and articles I have read. It would seem Hussey made a slightly confusing statement mixing player rotation for workload management with the concept of a player being on the verge of getting dropped for not scoring consistently.
Hussey made a point in a source where he stated;
“I think from a batting point of view, if you're playing well you want to keep batting, and if things aren't quite going right, you want to keep playing so you can get that big score.
"So I think it'd be more so with the bowling stocks, because there's so much cricket and back-to-back games, it is tough to keep backing up. Maybe more [rotation] with the bowlers, but I think from a batting point of view, once you get in there you want to keep the roll going.”
The first part of Hussey’s statement defends the obvious being that a player in-form and scoring runs should not be rested if he feels he’s handling things well. There is, in many respects, less pressure on a batsman’s body than that of a bowler’s.
So yes, Hussey is spot on when he says “if you're playing well you want to keep batting”
The supporters should definitely agree on this!
What I don’t agree on is Hussey’s statement that if things aren’t going well you want to keep players going until they get that big score.
This is what leads to inconsistency and is a clash with the concept of player rotation.
This persistence is what leads to an inability to confidently call on players to replace key players either dropped or injured after an extended run.
It is a waiting game which can be detrimental to progress. Even as supporters a degree of trust and belief must be shown to each and every player within a side but it’s not an old boys club. It is competitive sport and if a guy is not finding rhythm or consistency which is costing the side and retaining him is at the expense of a player ready for action or deemed worthy by the selectors, then he shouldn’t be played. It is surely as simple as that.
It would be a cop out if a player is under-performing but retained for two or three series waiting for them to come right having this policy in place to allow some players just a bit of breathing space. With some player’s I can understand this to a degree as it’s the nature of sport but there has to be a line, especially where inconsistency is concerned.
It’s important that player rotation is used for its ultimate goal to manage a player’s workload and then reel in recognised player’s with a stable and consistent skill set offering to be given a fair chance.
Player rotation must be seen as a positive. It will allow the selectors a chance to get the contingency players in the mix at the elite level and have players understand exactly where they are in terms of the team’s progression.
It will test the depth of the players for the NSP (National Selection Panel) to call upon and allow the Coach and Captain the knowledge to work with 20 to even 25 players worthy of contributing with their skill sets in whichever format they are to be needed.
The recent string of unfortunate injuries has actually been a blessing in disguise.
We now know the young emerging players who recently debuted are in actual fact not just “exciting prospects” but rather “young players of proven worth”.
Patrick Cummins, Mitchell Starc, James Pattinson, David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon and even Tim Paine were all given their opportunities indirectly or directly as a result of injury to players but having shown promise to know they could indeed handle Test cricket, the pinnacle of the game.
It is early days for most of them, some of whom have little First-class experience but sometimes observation in action is more powerful than statistical evaluation.
The injuries to some of the key players has now given the performance manager and the selection panel a huge advantage to be able to confidently have a player rotation policy in place to call upon a blend of youth and developing cricketers.
Had these injuries not occurred it may have left a side of predictable nature that would only sink the progression of Australian cricket whereas now, with the facts of what has presently happened, one can clearly see the contingency plans are blooming and risk of desperate selections to “fill the void for a senior player” is no longer seeming an obvious issue.
Sure, these young players will all struggle at times in their career but with a rotation policy they can be managed efficiently to play a role as either a front line player or a shadow player of worthy capability.
The player rotation policy can also ensure that with trialled and tested players capable at taking Australian cricket back to the top, they can be rested prior to massive series.
While I am a bloke who prefers to see the best team out there to win every game no matter what, I am also very open minded to the rotation of players for series that are seemingly “less anticipated” rather than poorly dubbed “less important”.
Every series the Baggy Greens or the limited overs players set out for, I want them to win at all costs. Even though my expectations understandably shift in accordance to the level of experience on the field, I still want the side to win, the best team possible out there to go for the kill.
So my support of players being rested prior to a big series mustn’t be seen as, “Don’t go easy on them! They’re professionals who get paid plenty to do what they do!”
This is a fair statement some might say but times have changed and player management is essential!
Overkill cricket is a big concern in my eyes and the players are sportsmen, not machines.
They get injured, they train, they rest, they play hard and give it their best putting their bodies through, in many ways, abnormal motions to do what they do. Injury is becoming inevitable for the full-time, versatile cricketer.
I just can’t see how a player rotation policy can be overlooked in this regard.
As Mickey Arthur recently stated as a direct point on this matter:
“We'll just have to see when we get down to Hobart how all the different permutations work out. We need to keep rotating guys through the summer because there is just so much cricket, guys are going to break down and we need others ready to come in at any given time."
Cricket has seen a dramatic peak in fixtures at both International and State/Domestic level.
Bowlers suffer the most and I can’t get over how many injuries all the major International sides have seen. It really is concerning but I owe a lot of it to the intensity of competitive cricket and the overkill fixtures in many regards. This isn’t just to do with say the length of a series but also the mash of formats where players also undergo mental shifts. This is tiring!
Therefore having looked at the concept a little closer I see it as a valuable tool moving forward.
With fair/consistent rotation the supporters will also have a better chance to know the team, get to know the players and anticipation can even be built up to a Squad announcement.
In conclusion to sum it all up, the major low I see of it is the absence of key players for many games where I want the side to win, which would be upsetting if a player is in sensational form.
However, with the modern day game as it is and progressive thinking required, I see fair rotation as important and the obvious benefit for domination being that the depth gets put to the test to find a core group of players and this way the selectors can have a solid contingency strategy.
Over the summer time will tell how well it will be executed but with the Argus Review changes having already been implemented and the right men for the job in place, I am going to remain confident for the remainder of the season.
Pat Howard is one of the key players in the strategic move forward for Australian cricket as Performance Manager.
Photo by Malcolm Fairclough/Getty Images AsiaPac
*Quoted article sources from Cricinfo.com
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
TWITTER
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
There’s a few ways you can look at it with the given pros and cons behind it.
On the surface I’d have to say I am in favour of it but let me go a little further into detail.
Pat Howard is the performance manager for the team. He has notable experience with the Wallabies as a player and will perfectly understand the management of hyper Rugby Union athletes having been General Manager of the High-performance Unit for the ARU (Australian Rugby Union).
I trust Howard’s stance on the matter and trust that he will be looking at what is the best for the team moving forward handling player management as a collective tactic rather than individual pampering.
Howard can also play a vital role in strategic execution for the side as well.
Mickey Arthur, recently selected full –time Coach, has stressed that player rotation will occur and, in conjunction with the Argus Review, the player’s must respect the concept and the matter must be handled maturely and subjectively.
It puts immense pressure on a Captain and Coach when new players get selected on the basis on desperation to fill the void for a player out injured.
Arthur is already in a tough place being new to operating within the Australian cricket landscape and having to also gel with his team.
A major positive with Arthur is he has little emotional history with the players in terms of loyalties having not played as an Australian State cricketer, worked in State coaching and has been in operation with an opposition side.
There won’t be any favouritism given to support an individual selection if a player repeatedly shows inconsistency and doesn’t deliver, despite that player’s legacy.
I can’t see politics playing a role with his time on the job and a support staff with immense knowledge of the game, the Australian cricket landscape and the players which will only enhance things for Arthur.
If a player needs to sit out, I can’t see him having sleepless nights about it if it is the right thing for the match, the team or the player.
Then there’s Michael Clarke who has been on the playing field with a dramatic peak in fixtures. He immediately made a point of stating that Patty Cummins needs to be handled with care if he is to be a player on longevity at the elite level. He (Cummins) is already injured and clearly demonstrates he must either be worked over at Test level or given more time in the shorter forms of the game.
A balance has to be found!
I also trust Michael will have the insight into his team and the courage to know when a player is reaching burnout.
A player being burnt out with fatigue, over played to the point of waning concentration or even given continual ego boosts of their invaluable role for the side can be handled by positive implementation and execution from a designated group of individuals to assess how the player rotation is to be managed.
This shouldn’t be confused or misused within an administrative position as a safety net for player’s showing inconsistency and continually struggling within their respective roles to be given endless life lines.
I think there has been some confusion on this matter with regards to Michael Hussey’s statements that he views player rotation as a worry. I think he was rather ranting on about inform players scoring runs being left out of a team just to protect their bodies and workload, even if there is no apparent threat.
A batsman shouldn’t be left out if he is scoring runs and has found rhythm purely because the game can turn around so quickly that a bloke in form today could be heading back to Sheffield cricket in two weeks’ time.
I feel that Michael Hussey’s views recently stated not agreeing with the rotation on a batting frontier could be seen as a defence mechanism for player’s who have been inconsistent. This seems to be where the confusion came in on the various forums and articles I have read. It would seem Hussey made a slightly confusing statement mixing player rotation for workload management with the concept of a player being on the verge of getting dropped for not scoring consistently.
Hussey made a point in a source where he stated;
“I think from a batting point of view, if you're playing well you want to keep batting, and if things aren't quite going right, you want to keep playing so you can get that big score.
"So I think it'd be more so with the bowling stocks, because there's so much cricket and back-to-back games, it is tough to keep backing up. Maybe more [rotation] with the bowlers, but I think from a batting point of view, once you get in there you want to keep the roll going.”
The first part of Hussey’s statement defends the obvious being that a player in-form and scoring runs should not be rested if he feels he’s handling things well. There is, in many respects, less pressure on a batsman’s body than that of a bowler’s.
So yes, Hussey is spot on when he says “if you're playing well you want to keep batting”
The supporters should definitely agree on this!
What I don’t agree on is Hussey’s statement that if things aren’t going well you want to keep players going until they get that big score.
This is what leads to inconsistency and is a clash with the concept of player rotation.
This persistence is what leads to an inability to confidently call on players to replace key players either dropped or injured after an extended run.
It is a waiting game which can be detrimental to progress. Even as supporters a degree of trust and belief must be shown to each and every player within a side but it’s not an old boys club. It is competitive sport and if a guy is not finding rhythm or consistency which is costing the side and retaining him is at the expense of a player ready for action or deemed worthy by the selectors, then he shouldn’t be played. It is surely as simple as that.
It would be a cop out if a player is under-performing but retained for two or three series waiting for them to come right having this policy in place to allow some players just a bit of breathing space. With some player’s I can understand this to a degree as it’s the nature of sport but there has to be a line, especially where inconsistency is concerned.
It’s important that player rotation is used for its ultimate goal to manage a player’s workload and then reel in recognised player’s with a stable and consistent skill set offering to be given a fair chance.
Player rotation must be seen as a positive. It will allow the selectors a chance to get the contingency players in the mix at the elite level and have players understand exactly where they are in terms of the team’s progression.
It will test the depth of the players for the NSP (National Selection Panel) to call upon and allow the Coach and Captain the knowledge to work with 20 to even 25 players worthy of contributing with their skill sets in whichever format they are to be needed.
The recent string of unfortunate injuries has actually been a blessing in disguise.
We now know the young emerging players who recently debuted are in actual fact not just “exciting prospects” but rather “young players of proven worth”.
Patrick Cummins, Mitchell Starc, James Pattinson, David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon and even Tim Paine were all given their opportunities indirectly or directly as a result of injury to players but having shown promise to know they could indeed handle Test cricket, the pinnacle of the game.
It is early days for most of them, some of whom have little First-class experience but sometimes observation in action is more powerful than statistical evaluation.
The injuries to some of the key players has now given the performance manager and the selection panel a huge advantage to be able to confidently have a player rotation policy in place to call upon a blend of youth and developing cricketers.
Had these injuries not occurred it may have left a side of predictable nature that would only sink the progression of Australian cricket whereas now, with the facts of what has presently happened, one can clearly see the contingency plans are blooming and risk of desperate selections to “fill the void for a senior player” is no longer seeming an obvious issue.
Sure, these young players will all struggle at times in their career but with a rotation policy they can be managed efficiently to play a role as either a front line player or a shadow player of worthy capability.
The player rotation policy can also ensure that with trialled and tested players capable at taking Australian cricket back to the top, they can be rested prior to massive series.
While I am a bloke who prefers to see the best team out there to win every game no matter what, I am also very open minded to the rotation of players for series that are seemingly “less anticipated” rather than poorly dubbed “less important”.
Every series the Baggy Greens or the limited overs players set out for, I want them to win at all costs. Even though my expectations understandably shift in accordance to the level of experience on the field, I still want the side to win, the best team possible out there to go for the kill.
So my support of players being rested prior to a big series mustn’t be seen as, “Don’t go easy on them! They’re professionals who get paid plenty to do what they do!”
This is a fair statement some might say but times have changed and player management is essential!
Overkill cricket is a big concern in my eyes and the players are sportsmen, not machines.
They get injured, they train, they rest, they play hard and give it their best putting their bodies through, in many ways, abnormal motions to do what they do. Injury is becoming inevitable for the full-time, versatile cricketer.
I just can’t see how a player rotation policy can be overlooked in this regard.
As Mickey Arthur recently stated as a direct point on this matter:
“We'll just have to see when we get down to Hobart how all the different permutations work out. We need to keep rotating guys through the summer because there is just so much cricket, guys are going to break down and we need others ready to come in at any given time."
Cricket has seen a dramatic peak in fixtures at both International and State/Domestic level.
Bowlers suffer the most and I can’t get over how many injuries all the major International sides have seen. It really is concerning but I owe a lot of it to the intensity of competitive cricket and the overkill fixtures in many regards. This isn’t just to do with say the length of a series but also the mash of formats where players also undergo mental shifts. This is tiring!
Therefore having looked at the concept a little closer I see it as a valuable tool moving forward.
With fair/consistent rotation the supporters will also have a better chance to know the team, get to know the players and anticipation can even be built up to a Squad announcement.
In conclusion to sum it all up, the major low I see of it is the absence of key players for many games where I want the side to win, which would be upsetting if a player is in sensational form.
However, with the modern day game as it is and progressive thinking required, I see fair rotation as important and the obvious benefit for domination being that the depth gets put to the test to find a core group of players and this way the selectors can have a solid contingency strategy.
Over the summer time will tell how well it will be executed but with the Argus Review changes having already been implemented and the right men for the job in place, I am going to remain confident for the remainder of the season.
Pat Howard is one of the key players in the strategic move forward for Australian cricket as Performance Manager.
Photo by Malcolm Fairclough/Getty Images AsiaPac
*Quoted article sources from Cricinfo.com
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
05 December 2011
1st Test: A match of luck, promise and entertainment
Another debutant takes a 5 wicket haul and another century for Michael Clarke.
It was great to see the Baggy Greens take the first Test of the two match series but to also see the depth put to the Test.
Heading into this Test match the circumstances were a bit bleak with 5 players out injured (some to be out a while) but I saw it as an exciting challenge for the selectors to show us what they’re made of with their backs against the wall. It gave them a chance to also test the depth of our bowling stocks.
The results look good!
The final Test will be down at Hobart where Dan Christian has been called into the Squad. Exciting promotion for him and there seems to be a push of younger, seasoned players to test the depth of availability so in the case of injury or further player rotation, Michael Clarke and the selectors will have a batch of players to call up.
With Shane Watson also in line for potential rotation given his return of bowling duties, Dan is a good option as an all-rounder capable at producing the goods in all-forms of the game.
Brydon Coverdale recently had an interview with DC on the call-up.
Only criticism I can see heading into the 2nd Test is that the boys need to take their catches!
Too many grassed chances and given the way our guys set the benchmark for fielding standards it was a bit disappointing.
On a further note three debutants featuring in this test. the thing I found with the emegring players with Hilditch and the gang I saw as threatening because it never seemed apparent that they had a definite game plan or contingency plan. It seemed desperate as opposed to tactical.
With these selectors I get the feeling that they are on the pulse and I am pleased with their plan to test young guys in situations where the opportunities genuinely request their abilities be on offer to serve the team, rather than just taking a chance to see if their “young emerging talent” can produce an instant superstar.
As for the opposition, I thought the Black Caps put up a good fight but just lost it with their missed chances.
I have always quite liked their team but they just lacked a winning attitude and the way they were rolled in the 2nd innings was enough.
1st Test vs New Zealand:
Australia won by 9 wickets (1-0)
Scorecard.
BATTING: 1st innings (continued) 427 all out
Michael Clarke 139, Brad Haddin 80, Ricky Ponting 78
Ricky Ponting would have been disappointed to have been dismissed LBW so early on day 3 but he made a good start to the summer. He had some luck, which is sometimes a needed element in a Test innings but he assisted the team and played some glorious shots. I know this will boost him for the Hobart Test where he will be ready to perform in the State where it all began.
Michael Clarke, well what can I say? He had his fair share of luck and Black Caps can only blame themselves as their wasted chances gave the Skipper the life line to score his third century as Captain making it a century per series.
It was the standard stuff. Excellent footwork against the spinners, great use of the angles of his bat with his off-side stroke play and confidence with quick bat speed! He executed some powerful pull shots (which is often plays on the front foot, which I like) and there was some urgency in his innings.
I hope it continues and we get to see him score his 18th century!
Here’s a comparison in the wagon-wheels with Michael Clarke's century from the 1st Test against the Proteas and this one against the Black Caps.
Look at the way he is playing to all areas of the ground which highlights his variation of execution against the bowlers and an all round game.
Brad Haddin could consider himself fortunate Tim Paine wasn’t recovered from injury given Matt Wade was also overlooked despite his solid input for Victoria and Australia ‘A’.
However in Watto’s absence Brad was given some leadership responsibility which may have been a strategic move as well to place some additional importance on his role within the team for the Test.
He’s had a very below par run and generally throws away his wicket. He scored a very well played 80 runs which was enjoyable to watch and his dismissal was one where he tried to play the lofted drive for six. He was out, throwing away his wicket but Hads managed to make a statement that he wants more opportunities for the summer.
I do feel the vice-captaincy played a part in this which meant he had to be headstrong going into the game. His work behind the stumps for the game was good with some sharp tricks here and there.
Kudos to Mitchell Starc as well for his batting performance where he contributed a valuable 32* runs having been dropped on a duck.
He played some lovely pull shots and had a solid defence. He gave Brad Haddin worthy support.
BOWLING: 2nd innings 150 all out
James Pattinson 5-27, Nathan Lyon 3-19
The Blacks threw away their wickets with some careless shots in both innings but our guys have done the exact same thing in many matches. It happens and having said that many catches on offer were put down. It was a game with plenty of luck on offer. Nothing should be taken away from James Pattinson and Nathan Lyon
James Pattinson got rid of Brendon McCullum at the close of play on day 3 and the next morning it just went better.
He bowled a beautiful line with enough deviation (an angle of about 2.0-2.7 degrees difference between actual and projected) to find the outside edges. In many ways a case of luck, in many regards a case of bad luck for many bowlers who repeatedly miss the edge, like Siddle who did his utmost best as leader of the pack.
It was a tough ask for the debutant and he delivered excellently to claim a 5wicket haul, just miss a hattrick (how lucky was Jesse Ryder?) and this has been another defining step in the emergence of the bowling stocks with some very young and very impressive bowlers.
His attitude reminds me so much of a young Brett Lee. He took his opportunity and was so driven!
It’s so exciting and with the injuries having gone around, these guys were called in to fill the void but asked to give their utmost best as with the change in tide it has opened the door for so many players to showcase their ambition and skills. This is a particular case where bowling is concerned.
What these performances have presented is a list of 20 worthy cricketers to play at the elite level, the pinnacle of the game being Test cricket.
It tests the depth and will start to look daunting for opponents. It’s look promising, very promising!
Nathan Lyon was in actual fact my bowler of the match.
He’s such a good bloke I want him to see find success. He was placed in the team in very intense circumstances to deliver a role that has been a bit of an emotional talking point in Australian cricket. He has done a wonderful job and he’s a champ for it.
He will get hammered around the park, he will have games where he will feel like trash and get criticised but if the selectors keep easing him ahead game by game and he’s given the encouragement, support and correct training to enhance his skills…watch out for Nathan Lyon!
His success was highlighted when Jesse Ryder tried to launch him over mid-off. His ability to get good shape out the hand, generate enough spin with his fingers and flight the ball into the right zones makes him a handful.
It forces batsmen to take him on and Michael picks excellent fielding placements for Nathan looking for edges off the bat at the right angles, having guys close to the bat, having the fielders in strategic places on the outfield.
Throw in the spin he can generate, quite sharp at times, and we have a very capable spin bowler. The only way he can improve is through more opportunities and for his first game at the Gabba, 7 wickets isn’t shabby at all.
It must also be said that Michael Clarke's public support for the players is spot on, particularly the case of Nathan.
Michael Hussey also managed a wicket with his handy part-time medium pace bowling and when he took his wicket his victory roar was priceless!
He may be having a below performance run with the bat in his last few innings but I always get a kick out of Huss’ enthusiasm.
Such a cricketing nerd and I will always admire his work ethic.
BATTING: 2nd innings
David Warner 12*
It was great to see Pitbull Warner hit the winning runs. The boundaries weren’t just shots where he was flogging the ball around but rather using raw muscle, raw power and solid shot execution.
He also sent down an over of leg spin and nearly took a wicket. I know Richie Benaud once noted he was impressed with what he saw in David Warner’s bowling at a net session or two so who knows? May be we get the spin option in the Pitbull like we had in Katto?
While he only scored 15 runs I stand by my firm belief in his abilities and I just know he can become a solid opener. His technique is trustworthy and he can definitely mould himself into a versatile batsman while still possessing the strong ability to dominate a bowling attack with monstrous power.
I feel he deserves another chance in the 2nd Test to such an extent I’d have zero issue seeing him stand in place of Hughes. It is too early to judge but I just have a gut feeling about David Warner as an opening batsman in Test cricket with someone like Shaun Marsh or Usman Khawaja at the other end.
Phillip Hughes, while I hate being critical of the players, seems to have a genuine technical issue that is detected very quickly by decent bowlers. In South Africa I can’t shrug off the way he was repeatedly dismissed in similar style each innings and this Test he was taken in the gully.
I want every player in this team to succeed but I don’t know, I just get the feeling that while Phillip has an unquestionable ability with the bat in hand he does seem to struggle for consistency and momentum at the elite level. He is young and has time on his side (as I have said many times).
I wonder if when Shaun Marsh is fit whether Phillip may fall victim to the “player rotation” system? In this case a cleaner way I am wishing to refer to the concept of being dropped.
Your opinion on the matter fanatics?
The 2nd Test will begin on Friday.
After the series the Big Bash commences which will be worth taking a look at with the new sides and selection policies?
Following the Big Bash the Border-Gavaskar series shall commence with the 1st Test on Boxing Day.
I will do a Podcast regarding that eagerly awaited series!
Congrats to the Baggy Greens. Go make it a clean sweep!
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
TWITTER
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
It was great to see the Baggy Greens take the first Test of the two match series but to also see the depth put to the Test.
Heading into this Test match the circumstances were a bit bleak with 5 players out injured (some to be out a while) but I saw it as an exciting challenge for the selectors to show us what they’re made of with their backs against the wall. It gave them a chance to also test the depth of our bowling stocks.
The results look good!
The final Test will be down at Hobart where Dan Christian has been called into the Squad. Exciting promotion for him and there seems to be a push of younger, seasoned players to test the depth of availability so in the case of injury or further player rotation, Michael Clarke and the selectors will have a batch of players to call up.
With Shane Watson also in line for potential rotation given his return of bowling duties, Dan is a good option as an all-rounder capable at producing the goods in all-forms of the game.
Brydon Coverdale recently had an interview with DC on the call-up.
Only criticism I can see heading into the 2nd Test is that the boys need to take their catches!
Too many grassed chances and given the way our guys set the benchmark for fielding standards it was a bit disappointing.
On a further note three debutants featuring in this test. the thing I found with the emegring players with Hilditch and the gang I saw as threatening because it never seemed apparent that they had a definite game plan or contingency plan. It seemed desperate as opposed to tactical.
With these selectors I get the feeling that they are on the pulse and I am pleased with their plan to test young guys in situations where the opportunities genuinely request their abilities be on offer to serve the team, rather than just taking a chance to see if their “young emerging talent” can produce an instant superstar.
As for the opposition, I thought the Black Caps put up a good fight but just lost it with their missed chances.
I have always quite liked their team but they just lacked a winning attitude and the way they were rolled in the 2nd innings was enough.
1st Test vs New Zealand:
Australia won by 9 wickets (1-0)
Scorecard.
BATTING: 1st innings (continued) 427 all out
Michael Clarke 139, Brad Haddin 80, Ricky Ponting 78
Ricky Ponting would have been disappointed to have been dismissed LBW so early on day 3 but he made a good start to the summer. He had some luck, which is sometimes a needed element in a Test innings but he assisted the team and played some glorious shots. I know this will boost him for the Hobart Test where he will be ready to perform in the State where it all began.
Michael Clarke, well what can I say? He had his fair share of luck and Black Caps can only blame themselves as their wasted chances gave the Skipper the life line to score his third century as Captain making it a century per series.
It was the standard stuff. Excellent footwork against the spinners, great use of the angles of his bat with his off-side stroke play and confidence with quick bat speed! He executed some powerful pull shots (which is often plays on the front foot, which I like) and there was some urgency in his innings.
I hope it continues and we get to see him score his 18th century!
Here’s a comparison in the wagon-wheels with Michael Clarke's century from the 1st Test against the Proteas and this one against the Black Caps.
Look at the way he is playing to all areas of the ground which highlights his variation of execution against the bowlers and an all round game.
Brad Haddin could consider himself fortunate Tim Paine wasn’t recovered from injury given Matt Wade was also overlooked despite his solid input for Victoria and Australia ‘A’.
However in Watto’s absence Brad was given some leadership responsibility which may have been a strategic move as well to place some additional importance on his role within the team for the Test.
He’s had a very below par run and generally throws away his wicket. He scored a very well played 80 runs which was enjoyable to watch and his dismissal was one where he tried to play the lofted drive for six. He was out, throwing away his wicket but Hads managed to make a statement that he wants more opportunities for the summer.
I do feel the vice-captaincy played a part in this which meant he had to be headstrong going into the game. His work behind the stumps for the game was good with some sharp tricks here and there.
Kudos to Mitchell Starc as well for his batting performance where he contributed a valuable 32* runs having been dropped on a duck.
He played some lovely pull shots and had a solid defence. He gave Brad Haddin worthy support.
BOWLING: 2nd innings 150 all out
James Pattinson 5-27, Nathan Lyon 3-19
The Blacks threw away their wickets with some careless shots in both innings but our guys have done the exact same thing in many matches. It happens and having said that many catches on offer were put down. It was a game with plenty of luck on offer. Nothing should be taken away from James Pattinson and Nathan Lyon
James Pattinson got rid of Brendon McCullum at the close of play on day 3 and the next morning it just went better.
He bowled a beautiful line with enough deviation (an angle of about 2.0-2.7 degrees difference between actual and projected) to find the outside edges. In many ways a case of luck, in many regards a case of bad luck for many bowlers who repeatedly miss the edge, like Siddle who did his utmost best as leader of the pack.
It was a tough ask for the debutant and he delivered excellently to claim a 5wicket haul, just miss a hattrick (how lucky was Jesse Ryder?) and this has been another defining step in the emergence of the bowling stocks with some very young and very impressive bowlers.
His attitude reminds me so much of a young Brett Lee. He took his opportunity and was so driven!
It’s so exciting and with the injuries having gone around, these guys were called in to fill the void but asked to give their utmost best as with the change in tide it has opened the door for so many players to showcase their ambition and skills. This is a particular case where bowling is concerned.
What these performances have presented is a list of 20 worthy cricketers to play at the elite level, the pinnacle of the game being Test cricket.
It tests the depth and will start to look daunting for opponents. It’s look promising, very promising!
Nathan Lyon was in actual fact my bowler of the match.
He’s such a good bloke I want him to see find success. He was placed in the team in very intense circumstances to deliver a role that has been a bit of an emotional talking point in Australian cricket. He has done a wonderful job and he’s a champ for it.
He will get hammered around the park, he will have games where he will feel like trash and get criticised but if the selectors keep easing him ahead game by game and he’s given the encouragement, support and correct training to enhance his skills…watch out for Nathan Lyon!
His success was highlighted when Jesse Ryder tried to launch him over mid-off. His ability to get good shape out the hand, generate enough spin with his fingers and flight the ball into the right zones makes him a handful.
It forces batsmen to take him on and Michael picks excellent fielding placements for Nathan looking for edges off the bat at the right angles, having guys close to the bat, having the fielders in strategic places on the outfield.
Throw in the spin he can generate, quite sharp at times, and we have a very capable spin bowler. The only way he can improve is through more opportunities and for his first game at the Gabba, 7 wickets isn’t shabby at all.
It must also be said that Michael Clarke's public support for the players is spot on, particularly the case of Nathan.
Michael Hussey also managed a wicket with his handy part-time medium pace bowling and when he took his wicket his victory roar was priceless!
He may be having a below performance run with the bat in his last few innings but I always get a kick out of Huss’ enthusiasm.
Such a cricketing nerd and I will always admire his work ethic.
BATTING: 2nd innings
David Warner 12*
It was great to see Pitbull Warner hit the winning runs. The boundaries weren’t just shots where he was flogging the ball around but rather using raw muscle, raw power and solid shot execution.
He also sent down an over of leg spin and nearly took a wicket. I know Richie Benaud once noted he was impressed with what he saw in David Warner’s bowling at a net session or two so who knows? May be we get the spin option in the Pitbull like we had in Katto?
While he only scored 15 runs I stand by my firm belief in his abilities and I just know he can become a solid opener. His technique is trustworthy and he can definitely mould himself into a versatile batsman while still possessing the strong ability to dominate a bowling attack with monstrous power.
I feel he deserves another chance in the 2nd Test to such an extent I’d have zero issue seeing him stand in place of Hughes. It is too early to judge but I just have a gut feeling about David Warner as an opening batsman in Test cricket with someone like Shaun Marsh or Usman Khawaja at the other end.
Phillip Hughes, while I hate being critical of the players, seems to have a genuine technical issue that is detected very quickly by decent bowlers. In South Africa I can’t shrug off the way he was repeatedly dismissed in similar style each innings and this Test he was taken in the gully.
I want every player in this team to succeed but I don’t know, I just get the feeling that while Phillip has an unquestionable ability with the bat in hand he does seem to struggle for consistency and momentum at the elite level. He is young and has time on his side (as I have said many times).
I wonder if when Shaun Marsh is fit whether Phillip may fall victim to the “player rotation” system? In this case a cleaner way I am wishing to refer to the concept of being dropped.
Your opinion on the matter fanatics?
The 2nd Test will begin on Friday.
After the series the Big Bash commences which will be worth taking a look at with the new sides and selection policies?
Following the Big Bash the Border-Gavaskar series shall commence with the 1st Test on Boxing Day.
I will do a Podcast regarding that eagerly awaited series!
Congrats to the Baggy Greens. Go make it a clean sweep!
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
02 December 2011
1st Test: Some chances slip away but Punter fights back
It's fair enough to say the Baggy Greens let the Black Caps run away a bit with the game but it has given the game some life as the batsmen find themselves 141 runs behind, 7 wickets still in hand. Ricky Ponting is at the crease and he is batting with serious determination!
Prior to the start of the Test it was inevitable that we'd see a batch of debutants.
Come the morning of the Test James Pattinson (#424), Mitchell Starc (#425) and David Warner (#426) all received their Baggy Green caps.
Their caps were handed to them by legendary Richie Benaud, former opener and Channel 9 commentator/part-time comedian Michael Slater, and former player/ new selector Andy Bichel to mark the occassion. Well done boys!
1st Test at the Gabba.
Scorecard
BOWLING: 1st innings - New Zealand 295 all out from 82.5 overs
Nathan Lyon 4-69 (21.5 overs), Peter Siddle 2-57 (24 overs), Mitch Starc 2-90
I have been amused as to how much criticism has been let out on various cricket forums regarding the bowlers for this 1st Test. I think it's a very harsh call to make given this is one of the least experienced pace attacks we've seen in well over a decade and a young one at that too.
You get the impression that a fully fit bowling unit would only see Nathan Lyon make the bowling unit with Peter Siddle always being in some room for potential selection.
This Test Pedro was to lead the bowling attack and I don't buy into the critcism at all! If anything I think he did a bloody good job.
It was interesting that Pedro didn't bowl the first over of the game and it was a rattling start by James Pattinson but a good reality check.
All in all I have little to show concern about regarding Pedro. He beat the outside edge regularly, was able to get good movement throughout the days play and the length he bowled was spot on for him to trouble the batsmen. It kept things exciting throughout his spells.
He's always ambitious and gives it his utmost best. This is a strong reason why I rarely get frustrated watching him bowl. I know he is doing his best for the team and on his day I find him to be a world class bowler.
Given the responsibility to lead the attack was something I never expected him to do anytime soon but his opportunity is here and he did an excellent job.
The two wickets he claimed has little reflection of his true effort and performance. If he needed a boost for his confidence this was it! Well done Pedro.
It was also clear the bowlers who've already played for the Baggy Greens were the guys to work the overs. Pedro sent down 24 overs and Nathan Lyon sent down 21.5, as opposed to Pattinson and Starc who had a collective 35.
I said it before and I'll say it again, "Nathan Lyon must be given an extended run as the main spin bowler."
It seems to be the case as he has done a terrific job this Test. Not only is it his first Test in Australia but also his first ever game at the Gabba. Exciting stuff, maybe seen as a worry initially but certainly exciting. Only with an extended run and a chance to get flogged by good batsmen and gain success against good teams can he realise what his strengths are and what he can offer the team.
The stuff up Andrew Hilditch and his cronies made was by chopping and changing spinners looking for an instant superstar, effectively screwing up a few careers.
Nathan's journey is one of talent scouting and a unique rise to the elite level but he's being given fair opportunity and the PROPER SUPPORT needed to back himself.
His initial selection puzzled me given his impact was in limited overs but I have been excited for him since his call-up. I'm enjoying his performances even when he's been challenged.
When I met him a few weeks back I actually asked him if reality his sunk in yet given the way he's had one heck of a unique journey. In an amusing yet very honest way he said (four Tests into his career) he is still struggling to believe it all.
The general idea I get from my followers on Twitter is that he's an exciting bowler to watch. This is due to the fact he seems to be a guy who is an attacking spinner and every over you sit on the edge of your seat wondering what will give.
He has little fear to give the ball some flight, was able to get some menacing bounce of the track and created some very sharp spin that will definitely be important come the summer against India if he can get some more overs under his belt.
It's always a special moment to see a debutant get his first wicket. Fortunately both debutants managed to get in the action and it was fitting that Starc's first wicket was as a result of a catch taken by David Warner, the third debutant. If he can just tighten his line and pitch it up a bit more he may be in for some good pickings come the 2nd innings.
It was clear that there was a big step up for them and there were plenty of nerves but they can only improve. They are both very young men and statistics shouldn't be the core factor at play here. Personally I really thought Ben Cutting was the best option given his Sheffield performances and the obvious advantage that he's a resident player for the Queensland Bulls. Unfortunately he was overlooked but it's given these two young guns a chance.
An area that concerned me was the fielding where a few catches were grassed.
It's always been a key area of play for the team over many years so when the standards slip it is frustrating because fielding is the most important aspect. Your bowlers create the chances and if the fielding standards are bleak on the day, you will pay the price.
One example to rest my case is the fact Brownlie was dropped twice when he was still in single figures.
Don't blame the bowlers, don't blame the young bowlers. Catches may win matches but they also win passages of play and when grassed it can be what makes a quick look at a bowlers stats average versus invaluable.
BATTING: 3-154 from 46.0 overs
Ricky Ponting 67*, Usman Khawaja 38, Michael Clarke 28*
I must emphasise when I state I don't like the aggressive/aggressive opening duo it is no reference to the manner in which David Warner and Phillip Hughes were dismissed but rather a reference to their natural games or top of mind temperament.
It was a gamble that needed to be taken having the two of them open but as mentioned in my Podcast prior to this Test both of them play for the same State and this should be a temporary solution until Shaun Marsh is back along with Shane Watson to see how the opening partnership will be shaped.
David Warner received a damn fine delivery which he just struggled to avoid.
It's only his first innings and not everyone can have a memorable debut innings. If anything it will just give him extra hunger to cane the Black Cap bowlers next innings. I am still confident that he can adapt well to Test cricket and in many regards has a far more solid technique than some other players.
He can brush away all this Twenty20 hype which is what I'd be happy to see him do given the fact he wants to be a better player than that. He wants to be a quality batsman and his selection can be owed to hard work and determination to add a new dynamic to his game.
I hope he has a good run in the 2nd innings and I'd like to see him get a chance down in Hobart.
Phillip Hughes continues to be a concern with inconsistency. He also received an excellent delivery which Chris Martin made good use of the seam. Phillip was dismissed in three almost carbon copy ways in South Africa and even though he managed a half-century (as well as a century in Sri Lanka) you wonder what the selectors will start to think, mostly regarding the inconsistency and that there does seem to be a way in which good bowlers expose his technical weakness very quickly. There's still an innings to follow.
Usman Khawaja was simply unlucky. He'd really applied himself but Punter made a daft call for a run. Okay, Usman did hesitate a bit on a run which wasn't his call but it was a run that wasn't a necessity under the circumstances. It was a tough dismissal to accept as Ussie had looked good out there for his 38 runs with three boundaries.
The man of the moment was Ricky Ponting though for the excellent shots he executed and his call on experience to get through some tough moments of play. Once again it was experience and self-belief from the maestro! Going to miss his excellence and presence at the crease when he eventually goes, despite the obvious struggles of the last 2 years.
He had some luck this innings but I always believe this is a necessity in Test cricket even if it is one edge that doesn't carry to the slips in an innings, it is still some luck. So given those chances he must capitalise now and get the job done for the team and himself!
Punter is a team player so the century will be a milestone achievement (and a welcome relief for us) but most importantly will be knocking off the deficit to get ahead of the Black Caps.
He is 33 runs away from his 40th century which has been due for way too long now. I so badly want to see him get it and this is the ideal opportunity for him before the Hobart Test where he will receive an outstanding reception.
We need the best from him if he is to play in Border-Gavaskar series, which he should play a role in.
I have enjoyed this innings immensely, especially the way he has executed the shorter pitched shots. There was one particular pull shot he played before the close of play where everything was right, mostly importantly his head position when playing the pull shot. He was balanced and composed. Reflexes looked sharp as ever.
He has also scored the majority of his runs in boundaries (11 fours) with outstanding shot selection.
Come on Punter!
Michael Clarke also had some wonderful luck when he played one on to get bowled but the Umpires used their authority and it was a no-ball! The Skipper remains at the crease with the former-Skipper and together they can continue fresh on Day 3 to knock off that runs that we trail by.
Michael Hussey and Brad Haddin are still to come. Without Mitchell Johnson there is that slight loss in lower order strength but I am confident the four recognised batsmen can move us forward.
What a picture. Punter's following on from his half-century at the Wanderers ahead of a massive summer for this team and the maestro himself!
© Getty Images
Enjoying the contest but would like to see some domination kick in now.
Daily updates will be on the Facebook page for the blog (See the Baggy Green Blog Facebook banner in the sidebar at the top) while Twitter is where you can find random chirps in 140 characters.
Weather looks alright for Day 3 but hopefully there will be a full days play after bad light stopped the match yet again. It's becoming an expected ordeal now isn't it.
TWITTER
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
TWITTER
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
Prior to the start of the Test it was inevitable that we'd see a batch of debutants.
Come the morning of the Test James Pattinson (#424), Mitchell Starc (#425) and David Warner (#426) all received their Baggy Green caps.
Their caps were handed to them by legendary Richie Benaud, former opener and Channel 9 commentator/part-time comedian Michael Slater, and former player/ new selector Andy Bichel to mark the occassion. Well done boys!
1st Test at the Gabba.
Scorecard
BOWLING: 1st innings - New Zealand 295 all out from 82.5 overs
Nathan Lyon 4-69 (21.5 overs), Peter Siddle 2-57 (24 overs), Mitch Starc 2-90
I have been amused as to how much criticism has been let out on various cricket forums regarding the bowlers for this 1st Test. I think it's a very harsh call to make given this is one of the least experienced pace attacks we've seen in well over a decade and a young one at that too.
You get the impression that a fully fit bowling unit would only see Nathan Lyon make the bowling unit with Peter Siddle always being in some room for potential selection.
This Test Pedro was to lead the bowling attack and I don't buy into the critcism at all! If anything I think he did a bloody good job.
It was interesting that Pedro didn't bowl the first over of the game and it was a rattling start by James Pattinson but a good reality check.
All in all I have little to show concern about regarding Pedro. He beat the outside edge regularly, was able to get good movement throughout the days play and the length he bowled was spot on for him to trouble the batsmen. It kept things exciting throughout his spells.
He's always ambitious and gives it his utmost best. This is a strong reason why I rarely get frustrated watching him bowl. I know he is doing his best for the team and on his day I find him to be a world class bowler.
Given the responsibility to lead the attack was something I never expected him to do anytime soon but his opportunity is here and he did an excellent job.
The two wickets he claimed has little reflection of his true effort and performance. If he needed a boost for his confidence this was it! Well done Pedro.
It was also clear the bowlers who've already played for the Baggy Greens were the guys to work the overs. Pedro sent down 24 overs and Nathan Lyon sent down 21.5, as opposed to Pattinson and Starc who had a collective 35.
I said it before and I'll say it again, "Nathan Lyon must be given an extended run as the main spin bowler."
It seems to be the case as he has done a terrific job this Test. Not only is it his first Test in Australia but also his first ever game at the Gabba. Exciting stuff, maybe seen as a worry initially but certainly exciting. Only with an extended run and a chance to get flogged by good batsmen and gain success against good teams can he realise what his strengths are and what he can offer the team.
The stuff up Andrew Hilditch and his cronies made was by chopping and changing spinners looking for an instant superstar, effectively screwing up a few careers.
Nathan's journey is one of talent scouting and a unique rise to the elite level but he's being given fair opportunity and the PROPER SUPPORT needed to back himself.
His initial selection puzzled me given his impact was in limited overs but I have been excited for him since his call-up. I'm enjoying his performances even when he's been challenged.
When I met him a few weeks back I actually asked him if reality his sunk in yet given the way he's had one heck of a unique journey. In an amusing yet very honest way he said (four Tests into his career) he is still struggling to believe it all.
The general idea I get from my followers on Twitter is that he's an exciting bowler to watch. This is due to the fact he seems to be a guy who is an attacking spinner and every over you sit on the edge of your seat wondering what will give.
He has little fear to give the ball some flight, was able to get some menacing bounce of the track and created some very sharp spin that will definitely be important come the summer against India if he can get some more overs under his belt.
It's always a special moment to see a debutant get his first wicket. Fortunately both debutants managed to get in the action and it was fitting that Starc's first wicket was as a result of a catch taken by David Warner, the third debutant. If he can just tighten his line and pitch it up a bit more he may be in for some good pickings come the 2nd innings.
It was clear that there was a big step up for them and there were plenty of nerves but they can only improve. They are both very young men and statistics shouldn't be the core factor at play here. Personally I really thought Ben Cutting was the best option given his Sheffield performances and the obvious advantage that he's a resident player for the Queensland Bulls. Unfortunately he was overlooked but it's given these two young guns a chance.
An area that concerned me was the fielding where a few catches were grassed.
It's always been a key area of play for the team over many years so when the standards slip it is frustrating because fielding is the most important aspect. Your bowlers create the chances and if the fielding standards are bleak on the day, you will pay the price.
One example to rest my case is the fact Brownlie was dropped twice when he was still in single figures.
Don't blame the bowlers, don't blame the young bowlers. Catches may win matches but they also win passages of play and when grassed it can be what makes a quick look at a bowlers stats average versus invaluable.
BATTING: 3-154 from 46.0 overs
Ricky Ponting 67*, Usman Khawaja 38, Michael Clarke 28*
I must emphasise when I state I don't like the aggressive/aggressive opening duo it is no reference to the manner in which David Warner and Phillip Hughes were dismissed but rather a reference to their natural games or top of mind temperament.
It was a gamble that needed to be taken having the two of them open but as mentioned in my Podcast prior to this Test both of them play for the same State and this should be a temporary solution until Shaun Marsh is back along with Shane Watson to see how the opening partnership will be shaped.
David Warner received a damn fine delivery which he just struggled to avoid.
It's only his first innings and not everyone can have a memorable debut innings. If anything it will just give him extra hunger to cane the Black Cap bowlers next innings. I am still confident that he can adapt well to Test cricket and in many regards has a far more solid technique than some other players.
He can brush away all this Twenty20 hype which is what I'd be happy to see him do given the fact he wants to be a better player than that. He wants to be a quality batsman and his selection can be owed to hard work and determination to add a new dynamic to his game.
I hope he has a good run in the 2nd innings and I'd like to see him get a chance down in Hobart.
Phillip Hughes continues to be a concern with inconsistency. He also received an excellent delivery which Chris Martin made good use of the seam. Phillip was dismissed in three almost carbon copy ways in South Africa and even though he managed a half-century (as well as a century in Sri Lanka) you wonder what the selectors will start to think, mostly regarding the inconsistency and that there does seem to be a way in which good bowlers expose his technical weakness very quickly. There's still an innings to follow.
Usman Khawaja was simply unlucky. He'd really applied himself but Punter made a daft call for a run. Okay, Usman did hesitate a bit on a run which wasn't his call but it was a run that wasn't a necessity under the circumstances. It was a tough dismissal to accept as Ussie had looked good out there for his 38 runs with three boundaries.
The man of the moment was Ricky Ponting though for the excellent shots he executed and his call on experience to get through some tough moments of play. Once again it was experience and self-belief from the maestro! Going to miss his excellence and presence at the crease when he eventually goes, despite the obvious struggles of the last 2 years.
He had some luck this innings but I always believe this is a necessity in Test cricket even if it is one edge that doesn't carry to the slips in an innings, it is still some luck. So given those chances he must capitalise now and get the job done for the team and himself!
Punter is a team player so the century will be a milestone achievement (and a welcome relief for us) but most importantly will be knocking off the deficit to get ahead of the Black Caps.
He is 33 runs away from his 40th century which has been due for way too long now. I so badly want to see him get it and this is the ideal opportunity for him before the Hobart Test where he will receive an outstanding reception.
We need the best from him if he is to play in Border-Gavaskar series, which he should play a role in.
I have enjoyed this innings immensely, especially the way he has executed the shorter pitched shots. There was one particular pull shot he played before the close of play where everything was right, mostly importantly his head position when playing the pull shot. He was balanced and composed. Reflexes looked sharp as ever.
He has also scored the majority of his runs in boundaries (11 fours) with outstanding shot selection.
Come on Punter!
Michael Clarke also had some wonderful luck when he played one on to get bowled but the Umpires used their authority and it was a no-ball! The Skipper remains at the crease with the former-Skipper and together they can continue fresh on Day 3 to knock off that runs that we trail by.
Michael Hussey and Brad Haddin are still to come. Without Mitchell Johnson there is that slight loss in lower order strength but I am confident the four recognised batsmen can move us forward.
What a picture. Punter's following on from his half-century at the Wanderers ahead of a massive summer for this team and the maestro himself!
© Getty Images
Enjoying the contest but would like to see some domination kick in now.
Daily updates will be on the Facebook page for the blog (See the Baggy Green Blog Facebook banner in the sidebar at the top) while Twitter is where you can find random chirps in 140 characters.
Weather looks alright for Day 3 but hopefully there will be a full days play after bad light stopped the match yet again. It's becoming an expected ordeal now isn't it.
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
Welcome to The Baggy Green Blog!
Thanks for reading this article written by Ian.
To comment on this article, click on the 'Comments' tag at the end of the article.
@BaggyGreenBlog
@Ianbaggygreen
@Dan_Stapo
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