Australian 1st innings: 397 all out
Shaun Marsh 148, Steven Smith 100
Dale Steyn 4-78
South African 1st innings: 206 all out
AB de Villiers 52*
Mitchell Johnson 7-68, Nathan Lyon 2-38
Australian 2nd innings: 4/290 declared
David Warner 115, Alex Doolan 89, Shaun Marsh 44
South African 2nd innings: 200 all out (Target 482)
AB de Villiers 48
Mitchell Johnson 5-59, Ryan Harris 2-35
Mitchell Johnson started the Ashes series with 205 wickets from 51 Tests.
After this Test he now has 254 wickets from 57 Tests, 49 wickets added to the collection. This Test match he has taken a career-best 12 wickets, a phenomenal achievement and done so against the number one ranked side. It was all too easy against England? I think the hard answers were smashed into the grills of the pessimists as Mitchell Johnson delivered another scary spell against the Proteas, the most fearsome since the 90s. Remember it, embrace it!
It was no surprise these scintillating performances with the ball earned Mitch the Man of the Match award (the 9th award in his Test career). Of his last 6 Tests he has claimed the award four times.
The spells were frightening, devastating, and more than enough to put Mitchell Johnson into the ranks as one of the most fearsome bowlers in the history of the game. I hope viewers realise what they saw this summer and in this game against South Africa. It rarely comes along and when it does it should be engraved into your memory banks. This game reminded me of his spell at Kingsmead, Durban, 2009. Initially that is. Well done Mitch.
Besides Mitch, the difference was evident. Our batsmen showed that gritty determination on display during the Ashes. The result was three centurions at Centurion (Shaun Marsh 148, Steven Smith 100, David Warner 115), a debutant who held his nerve superbly (Alex Doolan 27, 89), a bowling unit who presented synergy amongst some minor fatigue, and fielding standards carried on from where they were raised to the highest of benchmarks over the Australian summer.
Chris Rogers will be the one man who will feel disappointed with his output. He never looked settled and struggled to showcase the patience and caution he usually displays to see off the new ball. It was uncharacteristic and I hope to see a stronger performance from him.
The day started off though with the Proteas batsmen surely knowing they'd have a rough time out there. Variable bounce, good pace off the track, and a bowling attack ready for the kill.
Morne Morkel was terrific with the ball as the day began, but simply demonstrated to Michael Clarke what the track had to offer for day 4 and lead to a very quick declaration. Shaun Marsh didn't add to his overnight score of 44, but his simple prod at the ball to get caught behind indicated there was little intention to go out to claim more runs to the already monstrous lead. With Morkel's demo done, Clarkey called for the declaration and the proceedings began for The Baggy Greens to take the win, draw first blood of the 3-match Test series.
It didn't take long. Alviro Petersen has been playing away from his body, a trigger movement to his leg stump, and Mitchell Johnson hasn't let him settle. His dismissal was inevitable with this technique, very well analysed by Shaun Pollock in the commentary box versus the way AB de Villiers handled himself.
Alex Doolan had a brilliant debut. Besides his composure of day 3, his catches taken at short leg were freakish to say the least. The most bizarre factor was the way he actually got his hands into a position to take the catches. It didn't just seem to be pure reflex, but someone with freakish reflexes who instinctively went for the catch. Simon Katich was very good in the position, as was the original player I watched under the helmet - David Boon. Alex Doolan has quickly taken a likening to the role and helped Mitch grab two wickets, the big one of Graeme Smith and then JP Duminy.
Mitchell's damage of the day was that of his wicket taking. However, physical intimidation included smashing a bouncer into Hashim Amla's grill, first ball which nearly took his helmet straight off.
Ryan McClaren had ducked and weaved quite well until he ducked into a fast ball back of a length from Mitch. It bashed into the side of his head and drew blood from his ear. The battle is exciting, but it is a bit sickening when something like that happens. Even the bowler who executes the pain doesn't like it, but that is the game and that is the job of the intimidator. Cricket is a tough game and a red ball coming at you around 150km/h is terrifying.
After the break, McClaren was dismissed shortly after and would have been quite pleased to get off the ground and ease the pounding in his head. Hope he recovers okay.
Vernon Philander took a delivery onto his finger, then his bat broke.
Mitchell's job was done with another 5 wickets in the bag. Ryan Harris and Peter Siddle finished proceedings. Both of them have done a grand job this Test, nothing too flash or overly effective, but that effectiveness has come from tight bowling with little pressure release from their duties. Both looked a little down on energy but I still have high expectations of these two experienced campaigners.
Sids was able to vary the seam and get variable bounce off the track, especially with fuller paced bowling, while Ryano was like a metronome. This output gave him the reward of Hashim Amla's wicket. Craig McDermott's 101 plan.
The victory came in good time, with the boys having one day extra to rest their bodies, clear their minds and prepare for a quick turnaround before the Test down in Port Elizabeth.
Since South Africa's readmission into sports only one Test has been played in PE, St George's Park, which we won. Mark Waugh took the Man of the Match award after a century which ensured we were able to squeeze out a victory by 2 wickets. I remember it very well.
It's a good vibe when games get played at St. George's. Usually there's a band belting out some regular anthems and it should make the atmosphere at the smaller ground a good advertisement in a big clash for both sides. We look to take the series, South Africa look to stay alive.
So, it the next venue has some history in our favour as the boys will fight hard to go 2-0 up and claim another Test series in South Africa. Newland's hasn't been a good hunting ground for us, but we ended South Africa's good run at Centurion and have gained momentum to go 1-0 up.
Tough work ahead still in my opinion and I hope our bowlers rest up well to be ready to do it all again on Thursday.
Verdict: Proud to write we took each day of this Test. Very happy.
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Showing posts with label Alex Doolan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alex Doolan. Show all posts
15 February 2014
14 February 2014
South Africa versus Australia, 1st Test, day 3
Australian 1st innings: 397 all out
Shaun Marsh 148, Steven Smith 100Dale Steyn 4-78
South African 1st innings: 206 all out
AB de Villiers 52*
Mitchell Johnson 7-68, Nathan Lyon 2-38
Australian 2nd innings: 3/288 from 69.0 overs
David Warner 115, Alex Doolan 89, Shaun Marsh 44*
The match situation now reads that we lead by 479 runs, 7 wickets in hand, two days of play remaining.
If you watched the game last night, you would have noticed South Africa began to disintegrate in the field, with their high standards plummeting. Misfields, overthrows, drop catches (three off David Warner's blade), and body language that showed they will only play for a draw now, despite AB de Villiers stating their team culture is to never give up, although I believe this is a trait belonging almost solely to him. Recent history indicates this too. The match is ours for the taking now, but against a top side it still requires immense hard work not just for these final two days, but another two Tests. Clinical execution required.
Mighty Mitch, yep, he did it again.
Mitchell Johnson's 7 wicket haul will go down as another one of his spells to remember. Since the Ashes, Mitchell's figures have read as follows: 4/61, 5/42, 7/40, 1/73, 2/62, 4/78, 5/63, 3/25, 3/33, 3/40 and now 7/68.
Whether it remains short or medium term for Mitchell, it will go down as one of the greatest spells for a fast bowler in this history of the game - and this patch of his as a golden run. Mitch will be remembered for his frightening spells and his mental strength to come back from a nightmare run. Embrace what you are witnessing. I have watched cricket for over 20 years to know these performances are a rarity. Michael Holding gave Mitch plenty of praise, and when one of the great fast bowlers of the game gives that recognition, you know it means something massive.
Well done Mitchy! Hope our other bowlers can back him up in the second dig. It's needed to get all 10 wickets. Mitch is also going to be on a hat-trick with his first delivery in the innings, after claiming AB de Villiers (for 91 excellent runs) for delivery 59.6, and Morne Morkel for a golden duck in over 61.1.
South Africa got off to a perfect start to remove Chris Rogers in Dale Steyn's first over. Chris didn't look comfortable at all in the 1st innings either, oddly not handling the pace and additional bounce, odd given his WACA background. He played a strange shot to chop one onto his stumps, a rising delivery back of a length from Steyn. 1/1 was our score and you could sense many South African supporters murmuring about the 47 all out day. Not this time.
David Warner scored his 6th Test century, amidst some luck due to low fielding standards, and Alex Doolan held his own mighty well in his second Test innings to score 89 runs. They brought up the record second wicket partnership at Centurion (passing the record set by South Africa against us in 1996/7) totaling 205 runs. Only double-century partnership after Shaun Marsh and Steven Smith's efforts.
Davey's straight bat shots were powerful, his cross bat shots quick and crisp, while his running between the wickets was as fast as ever. High energy helped fatigue the South African fielders, which Doolan assisted from his end.
Davey appeared as relaxed as ever, offering plenty of smiles, acknowledging the luck he had until he settled into a cruise control gear and belted away his opposition. 13 fours and 2 sixes added to his total, with his innings giving more of a psychological dampener on the South African parade, as opposed to the simple score line advancement.
Prior to the innings getting underway, I noted on The Baggy Green Blog Facebook page: "David Warner due a decent innings here. Come on boys, steady now, no panic." Glad my forecast materialised. It was a gut feeling Davey's confidence would suit the match situation.
Alex Doolan was patient to the point the commentators (a select few) were noting his low strike rate. It didn't matter given the collectivity of the two batsmen as they kept knocking South Africa out the match. It was a Test innings, patience, caution, playing to ones strengths. It was a number three's knock Alex played. The only fault was that he didn't get a century he deserved after his application. Once he was settled he drove the ball, cut it, and corrected his pull shot technique - which brought his downfall for 27 on day 1.
There's an element to Doolan's game reminding me of Damien Martyn. Still trying to put my finger on what it is exactly, but it's there and that is a very, very good sign. Well done Alex, outstanding performance on debut, high pressure, and against the number 1 Test side.
The question we have now is should Shane Watson be fit, does Doolan make way, or Shaun Marsh, who scored 148 in the 1st innings and is currently 44* not out - his previous best against The Proteas?
History indicates selectors have no issue casting aside someone even if in form. It was last done when Brad Hodge filled in for Michael Clarke during the Caribbean tour of 2008, 1st Test. Hodgey scored a half-century and had a very good game. Clarkey made his way over for the 2nd Test, and Hodgey made way. He never played a Test again for Australia.
I can only see validity to select Watto on the basis he can bowl and the importance of us having the additional seamer, but there's intense competition now based on Doolan and Marsh stepping up. It will put some pressure on Watto, which is what he needs. His competitive nature should accept the challenge. I feel strongly that his selection can only be tactical given what we've witnessed from these two batsmen.
Well, that would seem our biggest worry right now. Two days of play remain and we have a lead closing in on 500 runs. South Africa will fight for a draw, they will make us work bloody hard to win from here, but we've given ourselves the best possible chance to do so. The follow-on was avoided, so that plan was scrapped, even though Clarkey won't ever impose it. Rain would seem the biggest obstacle in our way right now.
I look forward to the challenge and how our boys further lift the intensity and energy out there. Elite fielding standards are a must, as we saw the effect it can have when not at the highest of standards. Day 4 will begin with us declaring and taking to the field, or Clarkey and Marsh just there to bully The Proteas a bit longer to get a lead over 500 runs.
Verdict: We take day 3 too. We're a step closer to 1-0.
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
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Shaun Marsh 148, Steven Smith 100Dale Steyn 4-78
South African 1st innings: 206 all out
AB de Villiers 52*
Mitchell Johnson 7-68, Nathan Lyon 2-38
Australian 2nd innings: 3/288 from 69.0 overs
David Warner 115, Alex Doolan 89, Shaun Marsh 44*
The match situation now reads that we lead by 479 runs, 7 wickets in hand, two days of play remaining.
If you watched the game last night, you would have noticed South Africa began to disintegrate in the field, with their high standards plummeting. Misfields, overthrows, drop catches (three off David Warner's blade), and body language that showed they will only play for a draw now, despite AB de Villiers stating their team culture is to never give up, although I believe this is a trait belonging almost solely to him. Recent history indicates this too. The match is ours for the taking now, but against a top side it still requires immense hard work not just for these final two days, but another two Tests. Clinical execution required.
Mighty Mitch, yep, he did it again.
Mitchell Johnson's 7 wicket haul will go down as another one of his spells to remember. Since the Ashes, Mitchell's figures have read as follows: 4/61, 5/42, 7/40, 1/73, 2/62, 4/78, 5/63, 3/25, 3/33, 3/40 and now 7/68.
Whether it remains short or medium term for Mitchell, it will go down as one of the greatest spells for a fast bowler in this history of the game - and this patch of his as a golden run. Mitch will be remembered for his frightening spells and his mental strength to come back from a nightmare run. Embrace what you are witnessing. I have watched cricket for over 20 years to know these performances are a rarity. Michael Holding gave Mitch plenty of praise, and when one of the great fast bowlers of the game gives that recognition, you know it means something massive.
Well done Mitchy! Hope our other bowlers can back him up in the second dig. It's needed to get all 10 wickets. Mitch is also going to be on a hat-trick with his first delivery in the innings, after claiming AB de Villiers (for 91 excellent runs) for delivery 59.6, and Morne Morkel for a golden duck in over 61.1.
South Africa got off to a perfect start to remove Chris Rogers in Dale Steyn's first over. Chris didn't look comfortable at all in the 1st innings either, oddly not handling the pace and additional bounce, odd given his WACA background. He played a strange shot to chop one onto his stumps, a rising delivery back of a length from Steyn. 1/1 was our score and you could sense many South African supporters murmuring about the 47 all out day. Not this time.
David Warner scored his 6th Test century, amidst some luck due to low fielding standards, and Alex Doolan held his own mighty well in his second Test innings to score 89 runs. They brought up the record second wicket partnership at Centurion (passing the record set by South Africa against us in 1996/7) totaling 205 runs. Only double-century partnership after Shaun Marsh and Steven Smith's efforts.
Davey's straight bat shots were powerful, his cross bat shots quick and crisp, while his running between the wickets was as fast as ever. High energy helped fatigue the South African fielders, which Doolan assisted from his end.
Davey appeared as relaxed as ever, offering plenty of smiles, acknowledging the luck he had until he settled into a cruise control gear and belted away his opposition. 13 fours and 2 sixes added to his total, with his innings giving more of a psychological dampener on the South African parade, as opposed to the simple score line advancement.
Prior to the innings getting underway, I noted on The Baggy Green Blog Facebook page: "David Warner due a decent innings here. Come on boys, steady now, no panic." Glad my forecast materialised. It was a gut feeling Davey's confidence would suit the match situation.
Alex Doolan was patient to the point the commentators (a select few) were noting his low strike rate. It didn't matter given the collectivity of the two batsmen as they kept knocking South Africa out the match. It was a Test innings, patience, caution, playing to ones strengths. It was a number three's knock Alex played. The only fault was that he didn't get a century he deserved after his application. Once he was settled he drove the ball, cut it, and corrected his pull shot technique - which brought his downfall for 27 on day 1.
There's an element to Doolan's game reminding me of Damien Martyn. Still trying to put my finger on what it is exactly, but it's there and that is a very, very good sign. Well done Alex, outstanding performance on debut, high pressure, and against the number 1 Test side.
The question we have now is should Shane Watson be fit, does Doolan make way, or Shaun Marsh, who scored 148 in the 1st innings and is currently 44* not out - his previous best against The Proteas?
History indicates selectors have no issue casting aside someone even if in form. It was last done when Brad Hodge filled in for Michael Clarke during the Caribbean tour of 2008, 1st Test. Hodgey scored a half-century and had a very good game. Clarkey made his way over for the 2nd Test, and Hodgey made way. He never played a Test again for Australia.
I can only see validity to select Watto on the basis he can bowl and the importance of us having the additional seamer, but there's intense competition now based on Doolan and Marsh stepping up. It will put some pressure on Watto, which is what he needs. His competitive nature should accept the challenge. I feel strongly that his selection can only be tactical given what we've witnessed from these two batsmen.
Well, that would seem our biggest worry right now. Two days of play remain and we have a lead closing in on 500 runs. South Africa will fight for a draw, they will make us work bloody hard to win from here, but we've given ourselves the best possible chance to do so. The follow-on was avoided, so that plan was scrapped, even though Clarkey won't ever impose it. Rain would seem the biggest obstacle in our way right now.
I look forward to the challenge and how our boys further lift the intensity and energy out there. Elite fielding standards are a must, as we saw the effect it can have when not at the highest of standards. Day 4 will begin with us declaring and taking to the field, or Clarkey and Marsh just there to bully The Proteas a bit longer to get a lead over 500 runs.
Verdict: We take day 3 too. We're a step closer to 1-0.
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
@SylvesterAu
@Dan_Stapo
20 January 2014
2014 AB Medal & Australia Test Squad analysis
Having recently purchased my copy of the 2013/14 Ashes 5-0 victory on DVD, I can now relive the moments that saw our boys return the urn. I am now on another high as we have won the limited overs series, currently leading 3-0 with 2 matches remaining. It's been a splendid summer.
Some disturbing news has hit the cricket world, with a proposal from the super powers of cricket (in terms of the financial players) which may see a revamp of the ICC and the gradual destruction of competitive cricket of varied nature. The current model serving cricket is not the best solution, along with fixtures that do little to assist organisations to build demand and hype with supporters, but this recent one could dent the game beyond measure. I am very much about getting all the facts before having a thorough opinion, but here's a link to an article which should explain this recent burst of news.
Jarrod Kimber (Cricket with Balls) has summed up the issue by answering some FAQs. If I find the article, I will add it here.
Massive congrats to mighty Mitchell Johnson on winning the Allan Border Medal for 2014. Sensational achievement in such a short space of time. Well done champ!
Mitchell's Ashes stats:
Batting: 165 runs @ 27.50. HS 64, x1 50
Bowling: 37 wickets @ 13.97. BBI 7/40, BBM 9/103
Michael Clarke seemed set to win it for a record fifth time, but Mitchell's heroic summer earned him the prize. His efforts with ball in hand for all 5 Tests, as well as a defining Ashes innings with the bat in hand at the Gabba with Brad Haddin - who was breathtaking to watch - was enough for him to win the prize. Usually the player who wins the medal does so for all round excellence across formats, but Mitchell's efforts were vital in us winning back the Ashes, and Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game.
Michael Clarke (Test award), George Bailey (ODI award), Aaron Finch (T20 award), Meg Lanning (Women's award), Cam White (State Player award), and Jordan Silk (Young Bradman award) all walked away with recognition for their elite efforts for Australian Cricket.
Well done to them all, but cannot forget their team mates.
Now, the big news is the Test squad announced for the South African tour. With out further to do, below is the squad, fixtures, and some squad analysis.
Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Jackson Bird, Alex Doolan, James Faulkner, Ryan Harris, Mitchell Johnson, Shaun Marsh, Nathan Lyon, James Pattinson, Chris Rogers, Peter Siddle, Steven Smith, David Warner, Shane Watson.
Wed Feb 5 - Sat Feb 8
South African Invitation XI v Australians
Senwes Park, Potchefstroom
Wed Feb 12 - Sun Feb 16
1st Test - South Africa v Australia
SuperSport Park, Centurion
Thu Feb 20 - Mon Feb 24
2nd Test - South Africa v Australia
St George's Park, Port Elizabeth
Sat Mar 1 - Wed Mar 5
3rd Test - South Africa v Australia
Newlands, Cape Town
The only exclusion for our victorious Ashes side is that of George Bailey. I anticipated this and think it was a wise call by John Inverarity's selection panel.
Here's what I wrote about George, shortly before the Ashes was concluded: "George Bailey, possibly playing his last Test innings, evidently enjoying himself just found the gaps, worked the ball away, lived on the edge but survived to stumps. He has 20* runs and tomorrow could be a memorable one for him if he just gives hit his best. He has little to lose. He is in our ODI team as a regular member, has now been a member of a winning Ashes campaign, and did manage a half-century in Adelaide."
A weakness outside of off stump was exposed by James Anderson, and this would have been far too easy for the South African pace attack to both target and further expose. The wickets in South Africa and Australia draw many similarities, so this weakness would have been a concern heading to their turf. He will always have the memory of being a member of a winning side, along with that record of 28 runs off one over against James Anderson (level with the record).
The head scratch comes with the inclusion of Shaun Marsh at Bailey's expense.
I have always viewed Shaun Marsh as a player of high class and a technique tailored to Test cricket. However, this selection was based on limited overs form and, once again, his potential which often doesn't reflect at the elite level. We saw what this did to George Bailey. Test players must be selected on the basis of the form for Test cricket, being the Sheffield Shield contest.
Shaun scored a Test century on debut against Sri Lanka in 2011, and has shown numerous moments of elite composure and ability but, like Mitchell Johnson, he is a confidence player and seems to be his own worst enemy. His Shield form has been poor to say the least and doesn't warrant selection.
He currently sits in position 34 for most runs scored this Shield campaign, with one century from 9 innings, averaging 31.
In contrast, Phillip Hughes was expected to make the tour based on his return to Shield cricket to score runs and earn his place. He currently has 549 runs at 61.00, and this includes his maiden double century of 204. Go figure and never mind this is a man who has somehow found a way to handle the South African attack time and time again.
Even Marcus North may have seemed a brighter option, while not long term he leads the Shield run scorers list. Don't forget this man scored a century against South Africa on debut at the Wanderers on the same tour where Hughesy scored back to back centuries at Kingsmead, Durban.
All in all, Marsh is the type of player that if he gets into his stride he can genuinely control any bowling attack, but his current form does not suggest this is a likely mindset he has right now. ODI form cannot justify this. Having written this, I know what he is capable of, most of us do and he is now in the side so we just have to hope that should he get a game (probably at number 3, moving Watson down to 6) he will put invaluable runs on the board for us to better our chances of winning this series.
Alex Doolan has been on the radar for some time. This is a long term look from the selectors and previous Shield seasons have showcased the man is a fine batsman. This campaign he has been well below his best but it hasn't affected the confidence in his skills from the selectors. At present he is the 17th highest run scorer in the campaign with 391 runs at 39.10.
These two players will have a chance to showcase against the South African Invitational, before the three match series gets underway.
Chris Rogers will partner David Warner at the top of the order. This is Davey's first Test tour to South Africa, while Chris Rogers has never even been to the country before so it is a first for him.
Michael Clarke was in the early stages of his sublime run of form when we last toured South Africa in 2011. I was at that weird match at Newland's where he scored 151 runs in our 1st innings, only to see us bowled out for 47 runs in the 2nd innings, as well as South Africa been bounced for 98 runs in their 1st innings. It was the best I'd seen Clarkey bat, but it was in vain. He changes Ashes fortune, time to do it again this time.
Steven Smith is on this tour to assist Clarkey in the middle order. Stevo came of age at the WACA and he's become a fine young cricketer, courtesy of the current selection panel giving him time away from international duty to define his role. Similar to Steve Waugh's story in some ways.
Our bowlers from the Ashes will all make the tour.
Mitchell Johnson may very well be the danger man for this tour, with Graeme Smith having the ambulance on standby, but Ryan Harris is the bowler I tip to be our key player tactically. His menacing swing and precision is perfect for South Africa conditions. He can best mirror Dale Steyn, so this series is definitely one where people will salivate come the contest of the fast bowlers. This is the contest that world cricket should care about!
Ryano also cast aside IPL duties to get his knee operation complete, which he's delayed so he can make this tour. Sacrifice at it's best. What a true champion.
Mitchell was so low on confidence on his last tour to South Africa, quite a contrast to his brutal tour there is 2009 where he took 16 wickets at 25.00, including the destruction of Graeme Smith's hand (round 2) and Jacques Kallis' jaw. In 2011 his run up was weak, and he was just not in it. Another reason to be so proud of his return to our side thinking back to those dark days.
Peter Siddle will be greeted by the chants of "Siddle is a wanker". The Newland's crowd in 2011 did substitute the word "wanker" with the word "anchor" in 2011 as they'd grown fond of Sids attitude. That is what Sids need to be though, the anchor of this bowling attack. He needs to play the anchor role, but no doubt the chants will return with the word "wanker" if he bowls well.
James Pattinson returns to the team. He looks very inspired at the moment and quite aggressive. The South African's don't like an aggressive Australian cricketer and there's a few of them in our team. JP is one of the main guns in this regard, so he will be eager to get out there. I hope he stirs with them.
I am also excited about Jackson Bird's inclusion. His Big Bash stint for the Stars has been brilliant, but what's most notable is his consistency come line and length, ability to bang in a short ball with a troublesome angle for the batsmen to stand up to, but best of all is he looks fit and ready to play. I think an attack of Johnson, Harris and Bird is very exciting.
Nathan Lyon remains the spinner of choice and rightly so. South Africa is the not the desired place for a spin bowler to perform, but it serves a purpose. Lyon is now a spin bowler rising to a higher quality of standard than when he first toured there with the 2011 squad. The South African attack is not one usually tipped to be the best against spin - with the exception of AB de Villiers. Lyon may have a decent role to play.
James Faulkner and Shane Watson stack up as our all-rounders and unless Watto is injured, James will likely be the drinks man for the 1st Test. Watto still needs to showcase better consistency to cement his spot for a while longer and we desperately need him to do so this tour. He was hit and miss in the Ashes, but we need the best of Watto this tour. It will make a massive impact on the series.
Brad Haddin gets the nod as keeper of choice. Two years ago I would not have imagined this to be the case, so that is just terrific for Hads that he still has so much to offer us. His ability to initiate rescue missions of late to our 1st innings inconsistencies was urn saving, but he can't do it all the time. In 2011 at Newland's he charged down the track when our team was in trouble. We were bowled out for 47 runs and it's a dismissal many of us just haven't been able to forget.
This is a firm reminder our batsmen need to find ways to believe in themselves to handle the 1st innings pressures in the top of the order. They can.
Other than that, it's now just a case of counting down the days. More build up analysis and opinions to follow. For now, enjoy the final two ODIs. I will be at the Australia Day ODI. Still quite surreal.
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
@SylvesterAu
@Dan_Stapo
Some disturbing news has hit the cricket world, with a proposal from the super powers of cricket (in terms of the financial players) which may see a revamp of the ICC and the gradual destruction of competitive cricket of varied nature. The current model serving cricket is not the best solution, along with fixtures that do little to assist organisations to build demand and hype with supporters, but this recent one could dent the game beyond measure. I am very much about getting all the facts before having a thorough opinion, but here's a link to an article which should explain this recent burst of news.
Jarrod Kimber (Cricket with Balls) has summed up the issue by answering some FAQs. If I find the article, I will add it here.
Massive congrats to mighty Mitchell Johnson on winning the Allan Border Medal for 2014. Sensational achievement in such a short space of time. Well done champ!
Mitchell's Ashes stats:
Batting: 165 runs @ 27.50. HS 64, x1 50
Bowling: 37 wickets @ 13.97. BBI 7/40, BBM 9/103
Michael Clarke seemed set to win it for a record fifth time, but Mitchell's heroic summer earned him the prize. His efforts with ball in hand for all 5 Tests, as well as a defining Ashes innings with the bat in hand at the Gabba with Brad Haddin - who was breathtaking to watch - was enough for him to win the prize. Usually the player who wins the medal does so for all round excellence across formats, but Mitchell's efforts were vital in us winning back the Ashes, and Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game.
Michael Clarke (Test award), George Bailey (ODI award), Aaron Finch (T20 award), Meg Lanning (Women's award), Cam White (State Player award), and Jordan Silk (Young Bradman award) all walked away with recognition for their elite efforts for Australian Cricket.
Well done to them all, but cannot forget their team mates.
Now, the big news is the Test squad announced for the South African tour. With out further to do, below is the squad, fixtures, and some squad analysis.
Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Jackson Bird, Alex Doolan, James Faulkner, Ryan Harris, Mitchell Johnson, Shaun Marsh, Nathan Lyon, James Pattinson, Chris Rogers, Peter Siddle, Steven Smith, David Warner, Shane Watson.
Wed Feb 5 - Sat Feb 8
South African Invitation XI v Australians
Senwes Park, Potchefstroom
Wed Feb 12 - Sun Feb 16
1st Test - South Africa v Australia
SuperSport Park, Centurion
Thu Feb 20 - Mon Feb 24
2nd Test - South Africa v Australia
St George's Park, Port Elizabeth
Sat Mar 1 - Wed Mar 5
3rd Test - South Africa v Australia
Newlands, Cape Town
The only exclusion for our victorious Ashes side is that of George Bailey. I anticipated this and think it was a wise call by John Inverarity's selection panel.
Here's what I wrote about George, shortly before the Ashes was concluded: "George Bailey, possibly playing his last Test innings, evidently enjoying himself just found the gaps, worked the ball away, lived on the edge but survived to stumps. He has 20* runs and tomorrow could be a memorable one for him if he just gives hit his best. He has little to lose. He is in our ODI team as a regular member, has now been a member of a winning Ashes campaign, and did manage a half-century in Adelaide."
A weakness outside of off stump was exposed by James Anderson, and this would have been far too easy for the South African pace attack to both target and further expose. The wickets in South Africa and Australia draw many similarities, so this weakness would have been a concern heading to their turf. He will always have the memory of being a member of a winning side, along with that record of 28 runs off one over against James Anderson (level with the record).
The head scratch comes with the inclusion of Shaun Marsh at Bailey's expense.
I have always viewed Shaun Marsh as a player of high class and a technique tailored to Test cricket. However, this selection was based on limited overs form and, once again, his potential which often doesn't reflect at the elite level. We saw what this did to George Bailey. Test players must be selected on the basis of the form for Test cricket, being the Sheffield Shield contest.
Shaun scored a Test century on debut against Sri Lanka in 2011, and has shown numerous moments of elite composure and ability but, like Mitchell Johnson, he is a confidence player and seems to be his own worst enemy. His Shield form has been poor to say the least and doesn't warrant selection.
He currently sits in position 34 for most runs scored this Shield campaign, with one century from 9 innings, averaging 31.
In contrast, Phillip Hughes was expected to make the tour based on his return to Shield cricket to score runs and earn his place. He currently has 549 runs at 61.00, and this includes his maiden double century of 204. Go figure and never mind this is a man who has somehow found a way to handle the South African attack time and time again.
Even Marcus North may have seemed a brighter option, while not long term he leads the Shield run scorers list. Don't forget this man scored a century against South Africa on debut at the Wanderers on the same tour where Hughesy scored back to back centuries at Kingsmead, Durban.
All in all, Marsh is the type of player that if he gets into his stride he can genuinely control any bowling attack, but his current form does not suggest this is a likely mindset he has right now. ODI form cannot justify this. Having written this, I know what he is capable of, most of us do and he is now in the side so we just have to hope that should he get a game (probably at number 3, moving Watson down to 6) he will put invaluable runs on the board for us to better our chances of winning this series.
Alex Doolan has been on the radar for some time. This is a long term look from the selectors and previous Shield seasons have showcased the man is a fine batsman. This campaign he has been well below his best but it hasn't affected the confidence in his skills from the selectors. At present he is the 17th highest run scorer in the campaign with 391 runs at 39.10.
These two players will have a chance to showcase against the South African Invitational, before the three match series gets underway.
Chris Rogers will partner David Warner at the top of the order. This is Davey's first Test tour to South Africa, while Chris Rogers has never even been to the country before so it is a first for him.
Michael Clarke was in the early stages of his sublime run of form when we last toured South Africa in 2011. I was at that weird match at Newland's where he scored 151 runs in our 1st innings, only to see us bowled out for 47 runs in the 2nd innings, as well as South Africa been bounced for 98 runs in their 1st innings. It was the best I'd seen Clarkey bat, but it was in vain. He changes Ashes fortune, time to do it again this time.
Steven Smith is on this tour to assist Clarkey in the middle order. Stevo came of age at the WACA and he's become a fine young cricketer, courtesy of the current selection panel giving him time away from international duty to define his role. Similar to Steve Waugh's story in some ways.
Our bowlers from the Ashes will all make the tour.
Mitchell Johnson may very well be the danger man for this tour, with Graeme Smith having the ambulance on standby, but Ryan Harris is the bowler I tip to be our key player tactically. His menacing swing and precision is perfect for South Africa conditions. He can best mirror Dale Steyn, so this series is definitely one where people will salivate come the contest of the fast bowlers. This is the contest that world cricket should care about!
Ryano also cast aside IPL duties to get his knee operation complete, which he's delayed so he can make this tour. Sacrifice at it's best. What a true champion.
Mitchell was so low on confidence on his last tour to South Africa, quite a contrast to his brutal tour there is 2009 where he took 16 wickets at 25.00, including the destruction of Graeme Smith's hand (round 2) and Jacques Kallis' jaw. In 2011 his run up was weak, and he was just not in it. Another reason to be so proud of his return to our side thinking back to those dark days.
Peter Siddle will be greeted by the chants of "Siddle is a wanker". The Newland's crowd in 2011 did substitute the word "wanker" with the word "anchor" in 2011 as they'd grown fond of Sids attitude. That is what Sids need to be though, the anchor of this bowling attack. He needs to play the anchor role, but no doubt the chants will return with the word "wanker" if he bowls well.
James Pattinson returns to the team. He looks very inspired at the moment and quite aggressive. The South African's don't like an aggressive Australian cricketer and there's a few of them in our team. JP is one of the main guns in this regard, so he will be eager to get out there. I hope he stirs with them.
I am also excited about Jackson Bird's inclusion. His Big Bash stint for the Stars has been brilliant, but what's most notable is his consistency come line and length, ability to bang in a short ball with a troublesome angle for the batsmen to stand up to, but best of all is he looks fit and ready to play. I think an attack of Johnson, Harris and Bird is very exciting.
Nathan Lyon remains the spinner of choice and rightly so. South Africa is the not the desired place for a spin bowler to perform, but it serves a purpose. Lyon is now a spin bowler rising to a higher quality of standard than when he first toured there with the 2011 squad. The South African attack is not one usually tipped to be the best against spin - with the exception of AB de Villiers. Lyon may have a decent role to play.
James Faulkner and Shane Watson stack up as our all-rounders and unless Watto is injured, James will likely be the drinks man for the 1st Test. Watto still needs to showcase better consistency to cement his spot for a while longer and we desperately need him to do so this tour. He was hit and miss in the Ashes, but we need the best of Watto this tour. It will make a massive impact on the series.
Brad Haddin gets the nod as keeper of choice. Two years ago I would not have imagined this to be the case, so that is just terrific for Hads that he still has so much to offer us. His ability to initiate rescue missions of late to our 1st innings inconsistencies was urn saving, but he can't do it all the time. In 2011 at Newland's he charged down the track when our team was in trouble. We were bowled out for 47 runs and it's a dismissal many of us just haven't been able to forget.
This is a firm reminder our batsmen need to find ways to believe in themselves to handle the 1st innings pressures in the top of the order. They can.
Other than that, it's now just a case of counting down the days. More build up analysis and opinions to follow. For now, enjoy the final two ODIs. I will be at the Australia Day ODI. Still quite surreal.
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