Australia are in control of the 5th Ashes test after day 1 at The Oval, after winning the toss, choosing to bat first on a dry but flat pitch, and then closing the opening day on 307/4. Shane Watson dominated the scoring for Australia, making a magnificent and much needed 176 batting at no.3, which is his first century of the series and his first in test matches since 2010. That should now answer any questions the Australian and English critics had, and secure his place now for the winter, just as I suggested he would in this match.
England started the day with 2 debutants, bringing in Chris Woakes and Simon Kerrigan for Tim Bresnan and Jonny Bairstow. Meanwhile Australia announced their 2 changes 24 hours ahead of the match, with debutant James Faulkner and Mitchell Starc replacing Usman Khawaja and Jackson Bird. Neither of those 2 had a part to play today, with Australia's top 5 doing the damage as England's bowlers, especially the debutants, toiled.
The day started reasonably well for England, with a bit of movement with the new ball, making openers Rogers and Warner uncomfortable. Warner didn't really last long at all, falling in the fifth over to James Anderson for 6. Warner got stuck in the crease and had a drive at Anderson, but he could only find the edge which left a comfortable catch for Matt Prior. Chris Rogers continued to struggle, but Shane Watson looked good as the pair put on 107 for the second wicket, with the big hitting Watson making most of those. He took advantage of some poor, and perhaps nervy opening spells from Woakes, and Kerrigan particularly as started to come up with the goods, now that it is all to late in the series for the tourists.
Chris Rogers was the next to fall for 23 off of 100 balls to his nemesis of the series Graeme Swann, getting a thick edge to Jonathon Trott at slip. Michael Clarke fell shortly afterwards for a hard fought 7, after struggling with the short stuff from Stuart Broad, as James Anderson got one to squeeze through the captain's defences and onto the stumps.
Shane Watson continued to dominate though, and Steven Smith also played well along with him, as Watson made his new test match best and Steven Smith got his 3rd half century of the series, as the England attack struggles for a breakthrough in the evening session. The 2 of them had put on 145 before Watson finally went for 176. Taking on a Broad short ball, Watson could only pick out Kevin Pietersen at deep fine leg, who took an excellent catch diving to his left, to give the hosts the breakthrough they dearly needed. Night-watchman Peter Siddle and Steven Smith saw Australia through to the close on 307/4, Smith not out on 66 and Siddle on 18 not out himself.
It was certainly Australia's day, and England will need quick wickets tomorrow to fight back and then to bat well in their own first innings if they are to win this final test match. Tomorrow should be another good day of Cricket as England look to get back into it.It should be another good day for batting, on what will be a good batting pitch until around late day 3 or day 4 when it will really start to turn for the spinners.
I'll be back tomorrow to see if Australia have continued their domination or if England have got back into it.
Wednesday, 21 August 2013
5th Ashes Test Preview
Wednesday sees the start of the 5th and final Ashes test at The Oval. With the score 3-0 England with only this match to play, this match has become a dead rubber, but there is still plenty to play for as the 2 sides head into this game. One of those things to play for are spots in the team for the return series down under this winter. There are a couple of guys on either side that could stake a claim to start the First test in Brisbane in November.
England have been dealt an injury blow, with Tim Bresnan ruled out for the rest of the summer with a back injury, and with Graham Onions out with a broken finger, Chris Tremlett could have his opportunity to play. Steven Finn, Chris Woakes and left arm spinner Simon Kerrigan are also in the squad, but are outsiders to play ahead of Tremlett who has been in the last 2 Test match squads for the games at OT and Durham.
As for Australia, they have named their team in advance so there will be no guessing from them. The tourists are bringing in left arm fast bowlers James Faulkner (on debut) and Mitchell Starc (in his 3rd test of the series) for Usman Khawaja and Jackson Bird. That means that Faulkner bats at 7 and with Watson still with that niggle he picked up in Durham he will be unlikely to bowl here either, after playing as a batsman only in the 2 day match Vs England Lions last week.
So this is what else we can expect from the 2 teams at The Oval:
England's bowling has 1 question to answer, who replaces Tim Bresnan? While Chris Woakes is a like for like replacement, I don't think that he is good enough to play Test Cricket at this stage. Simon Kerrigan won't play, as England won't want to play 2 spinners in a 4 man attack. Steven Finn was left out after the 1st test and has done nothing since in County Cricket to suggest he should be recalled for this match. That leaves Chris Tremlett, who is definetly favourite to play this final test and has played well in County Cricket since his return from injury, while his figures wouldn't suggest it. Meanwhile, with no real talk of resting players, Anderson, Broad and Swann should retain their places. Broad played fantastically at Durham and got the reward for his hard work in the series. Swann again should have the perfect conditions to shine, a dry pitch is again expected and with 2 left handers to create rough outside right handers off stump as well as the left handers he should have a field day. Meanwhile, James Anderson will be looking to find form, having been a shadow of the man who bowled at Trent Bridge in the last 2 matches.
Key Man: As mentioned Jonathon Trott is in need of runs and will want to play his part in the last test of the series, he showed small signs of improvement at Durham, and I feel he will kick on here and score plenty of runs. With the Test being played at the scene of his first Test and Ashes hundred on debut, it bring back some great memories for him.
As for the bowlers, five front line bowlers will be able to share the workload at The Oval, with Mitchell Starc returning and James Faulkner making his debut, with Peter Siddle, Ryan Harris and spinner Nathan Lyon holding retaining their places. Bowling hasn't been Australia's problem in the series, and with these 5 at The Oval it shouldn't be once again. Lyon will have a key role to play in the 2nd innings in the field, on a dry pitch, he should have plenty of rough to play with. Ryan Harris bowled lots of overs at Durham, and may have been rested here, but with 5 front line bowlers he won't have to bowl as much as has had to in previous matches. Both Harris and Siddle have bowled well so far, Harris taking 20 wickets in just 3 matches so far and Siddle on 17 wickets, following a poor match at Durham. As for Mitchell Starc he will be looking to play really well as he eyes an extended run in the team, rather than playing every other Test, and not being able to get any rhythm or form over a series of matches. Finally, James Faulkner will be looking to make an impression on debut, and play well enough to get a spot in the first Test of the return series in November. It should be an interesting game for these bowlers, and Australia will hope that they can do the job.
Key Man: Shane Watson has to pull his finger out in this match, and put in with a big score to help his team. Watson has failed on several occasions during the tour, with only 1 half-century in the series. Without his bowling to distract him in this match, hopefully he can focus on what needs to be done with bat in hand, and answer all of the questions that his Australian critics have of him.
Well, I expect that this match will be another good contest on a dry pitch that will be quite flat to start with, with turn for the spinners later on. England will look to rub the Australian noses in it with a 4-0 victory in the series. Meanwhile, Australia will want to salvage a consolation win and take some positives going into the winter. Whatever happens it should be a good match, and one I look forward to watch unfold over the next 5 days.
England have been dealt an injury blow, with Tim Bresnan ruled out for the rest of the summer with a back injury, and with Graham Onions out with a broken finger, Chris Tremlett could have his opportunity to play. Steven Finn, Chris Woakes and left arm spinner Simon Kerrigan are also in the squad, but are outsiders to play ahead of Tremlett who has been in the last 2 Test match squads for the games at OT and Durham.
As for Australia, they have named their team in advance so there will be no guessing from them. The tourists are bringing in left arm fast bowlers James Faulkner (on debut) and Mitchell Starc (in his 3rd test of the series) for Usman Khawaja and Jackson Bird. That means that Faulkner bats at 7 and with Watson still with that niggle he picked up in Durham he will be unlikely to bowl here either, after playing as a batsman only in the 2 day match Vs England Lions last week.
So this is what else we can expect from the 2 teams at The Oval:
England
England are chasing a 4-0 series victory, and with an unchanged batting line-up once again, it gives the under firing likes of Alastair Cook, Jonathon Trott, Matt Prior and Jonny Bairstow an opportunity to find some form and score runs. Cook and Trott especially will be England's main concerns, but I and many others have the feeling that runs are just around the corner for those 2. I think that Cook could well score runs now, with less pressure on him with the series won. Trott has his technical issues to resolve, but he looked better in the last test and runs aren't far away for him. Meanwhile, England won't be too worried about Bairstow, as he's a decent young player who will come good with investment, or Prior who's wicket keeping makes up for his lack of runs. However, Joe Root could do with a decent score, because other than his 180 he hasn't made another half century. There are a few questions for him still to answer, and a decent half century at The Oval will answer those nicely.England's bowling has 1 question to answer, who replaces Tim Bresnan? While Chris Woakes is a like for like replacement, I don't think that he is good enough to play Test Cricket at this stage. Simon Kerrigan won't play, as England won't want to play 2 spinners in a 4 man attack. Steven Finn was left out after the 1st test and has done nothing since in County Cricket to suggest he should be recalled for this match. That leaves Chris Tremlett, who is definetly favourite to play this final test and has played well in County Cricket since his return from injury, while his figures wouldn't suggest it. Meanwhile, with no real talk of resting players, Anderson, Broad and Swann should retain their places. Broad played fantastically at Durham and got the reward for his hard work in the series. Swann again should have the perfect conditions to shine, a dry pitch is again expected and with 2 left handers to create rough outside right handers off stump as well as the left handers he should have a field day. Meanwhile, James Anderson will be looking to find form, having been a shadow of the man who bowled at Trent Bridge in the last 2 matches.
Key Man: As mentioned Jonathon Trott is in need of runs and will want to play his part in the last test of the series, he showed small signs of improvement at Durham, and I feel he will kick on here and score plenty of runs. With the Test being played at the scene of his first Test and Ashes hundred on debut, it bring back some great memories for him.
Australia
The tourists have no selection issues for me to debate, having already picked their team. Batting wise, the top order will now need to score more than ever with the batting line-up being slightly weaker. Rogers is playing well right now, and Warner has found some form in the Test matches that he ahs played. Shane Watson could do with some runs desperately before this tour is over, having not really made a big score in the 4 previous tests, the pressure on him is mounting further and further by the match. Steven Smith should be fine, he's had a couple of half-centuries but would like another one in this game, however his place for the winter side should be secure. Michael Clarke has probably been the best batsman and would like to end the tour on a high, but his big hundred at Old Trafford has insured, he pulled his weight in the batting line-up in the series.As for the bowlers, five front line bowlers will be able to share the workload at The Oval, with Mitchell Starc returning and James Faulkner making his debut, with Peter Siddle, Ryan Harris and spinner Nathan Lyon holding retaining their places. Bowling hasn't been Australia's problem in the series, and with these 5 at The Oval it shouldn't be once again. Lyon will have a key role to play in the 2nd innings in the field, on a dry pitch, he should have plenty of rough to play with. Ryan Harris bowled lots of overs at Durham, and may have been rested here, but with 5 front line bowlers he won't have to bowl as much as has had to in previous matches. Both Harris and Siddle have bowled well so far, Harris taking 20 wickets in just 3 matches so far and Siddle on 17 wickets, following a poor match at Durham. As for Mitchell Starc he will be looking to play really well as he eyes an extended run in the team, rather than playing every other Test, and not being able to get any rhythm or form over a series of matches. Finally, James Faulkner will be looking to make an impression on debut, and play well enough to get a spot in the first Test of the return series in November. It should be an interesting game for these bowlers, and Australia will hope that they can do the job.
Key Man: Shane Watson has to pull his finger out in this match, and put in with a big score to help his team. Watson has failed on several occasions during the tour, with only 1 half-century in the series. Without his bowling to distract him in this match, hopefully he can focus on what needs to be done with bat in hand, and answer all of the questions that his Australian critics have of him.
Well, I expect that this match will be another good contest on a dry pitch that will be quite flat to start with, with turn for the spinners later on. England will look to rub the Australian noses in it with a 4-0 victory in the series. Meanwhile, Australia will want to salvage a consolation win and take some positives going into the winter. Whatever happens it should be a good match, and one I look forward to watch unfold over the next 5 days.
Monday, 19 August 2013
England fight hard on slow scoring 3rd day
England fought hard making just 215 runs in 98.3 overs, as Australia could only take 4 wickets on a fairly slow and dull 3rd day at The Oval.
The day started fairly well for England with Root and Cook putting on their first 50 partnership of the series. They'd got to 68 together when, on 25, Cook had a flash outside off-stump, edging a Ryan Harris delivery to Brad Haddin. So yet another low score for Cook and he might not have another Test innings this summer of any length. Joe Root wasn't at his fluent best, but he dug in and played fairly nicely in making his half-century. He'd got to 68 when top edged a sweep to Watson at short fine leg to give Lyon his first wicket, leaving England on 118/2. Trott was next to go for 40, but he was trapped LBW by Mitchell Starc just before Tea.
After Tea, Pietersen and Bell carried on slowly making a 31 run partnership in around 20 overs. Pietersen had just got to his half-century when he edged a Mitchell Starc delivery to Shane Watson in the slips for 50. Ian Bell and debutant Chris Woakes saw England to the close without any further event really. Bell finishing on 29 not out and Woakes on 15 not out, having hit his first ball in Test Cricket for 4. England closed then on 247/4, still 245 runs behind.
With rain around tomorrow possibly, it looks like this match is slowly heading for a draw with 2 days to go, so long as England get the 46 more they need to avoid the follow on. I just hope for a slightly more eventful day tomorrow. I'll be back tomorrow night to round up the fourth day's play.
The day started fairly well for England with Root and Cook putting on their first 50 partnership of the series. They'd got to 68 together when, on 25, Cook had a flash outside off-stump, edging a Ryan Harris delivery to Brad Haddin. So yet another low score for Cook and he might not have another Test innings this summer of any length. Joe Root wasn't at his fluent best, but he dug in and played fairly nicely in making his half-century. He'd got to 68 when top edged a sweep to Watson at short fine leg to give Lyon his first wicket, leaving England on 118/2. Trott was next to go for 40, but he was trapped LBW by Mitchell Starc just before Tea.
After Tea, Pietersen and Bell carried on slowly making a 31 run partnership in around 20 overs. Pietersen had just got to his half-century when he edged a Mitchell Starc delivery to Shane Watson in the slips for 50. Ian Bell and debutant Chris Woakes saw England to the close without any further event really. Bell finishing on 29 not out and Woakes on 15 not out, having hit his first ball in Test Cricket for 4. England closed then on 247/4, still 245 runs behind.
With rain around tomorrow possibly, it looks like this match is slowly heading for a draw with 2 days to go, so long as England get the 46 more they need to avoid the follow on. I just hope for a slightly more eventful day tomorrow. I'll be back tomorrow night to round up the fourth day's play.
Friday, 16 August 2013
English T20 Final's Day: Who'll walk off with the prize?
Tomorrow is final's day of the Friend's Life twenty 20 tournament which will be held Edgbaston. The four sides battling for the trophy are defending champions Hampshire, Surrey, Northants and Essex.
So what can we look forward to in Birmingham then:
Semi-finals:
Essex Vs Northants (11am BST)
Hampshire Vs Surrey (2.30pm BST)
Final (6.45pm BST)
So this is what we can expect from the final 4:
They reached the quarter-finals as one of the two best 3rd placed sides, after Middlesex lost their final match by 9 runs against Hampshire. They then thrashed Notts in the quarter's by 47 runs after a Shaun Tait hat-trick and a Ten Doeschate half-century. They could be some of the key men if Essex are to be crowned champions.
Key Man: Graham Napier could have a big say for Essex, a great exponent of both swing and reverse swing and a class act at the end of the innings with ball and bat in hand. While he hasn't shown to much of his big hitting in the tournament so far, he can turn a decent total into a massive one, and pick up a few wickets at a decent economy rate to turn things Essex's way again.
Predicted Finish: This is a very bold punt but I think they'll be the Winners
Azharullah has taken vital wickets for them, while Cameron White's big hitting will be vital for their chances. They are probably the underdogs, and to be honest I think they will just fall short on this occasion.
Key Man: Big hitting Cameron White will be vital to their chances tomorrow, he has made some big runs for them this year and Is very experienced in the One Day and T20 formats, if he fires there's no reason that they shouldn't win.
Predicted Finish: Semi-Finals on this occasion.
Hampshire got to final's day in convincing fashion, losing just as single match as they comfortably finished top of the South Group.
Key Man: Michael Carberry does a great job of setting the tone in the powerplay with his big hitting and if he does so tomorrow, he could well take the game away from Hampshire's opponents in the blink of an eye.
Predicted Finish: Finalists but just unable to regain the coveted crown, still the YB40 title is well within their grasp too as the One Day kings are dominating again.
Surrey made finals day finishing 2nd in the South Group with 3 wins from their final 3 group games. They then beat much fancied Somerset fairly comfortably in the quarter-finals.
Key Man: Jade Dernbach's death bowling will be vital for Surrey's chances, if it doesn't come off, then Surrey's batting line-up could have plenty of work to do.
Predicted Finish: Thrashed by Hampshire in the Semi-Final's.
Whoever wins tomorrow it will be sure to be a classic day, in what is my favourite day of the year. Really looking forward to this one, lot's of excitement to be had as well including the mascot race!
I'll be back some time on Sunday to give you my round-up of Final's day from Edgbaston. See you then.
So what can we look forward to in Birmingham then:
Semi-finals:
Essex Vs Northants (11am BST)
Hampshire Vs Surrey (2.30pm BST)
Final (6.45pm BST)
So this is what we can expect from the final 4:
ESSEX
Essex are probably the least likely to win this tournament, yet I fancy them to do it. They've had a fairly inconsistent season, but with a bit of confidence and hard work behind them they can achieve anything and have had a pretty decent season in all formats. While they have reached finals day before, they've never made it to the final so that would be unchartered territory.They reached the quarter-finals as one of the two best 3rd placed sides, after Middlesex lost their final match by 9 runs against Hampshire. They then thrashed Notts in the quarter's by 47 runs after a Shaun Tait hat-trick and a Ten Doeschate half-century. They could be some of the key men if Essex are to be crowned champions.
Key Man: Graham Napier could have a big say for Essex, a great exponent of both swing and reverse swing and a class act at the end of the innings with ball and bat in hand. While he hasn't shown to much of his big hitting in the tournament so far, he can turn a decent total into a massive one, and pick up a few wickets at a decent economy rate to turn things Essex's way again.
Predicted Finish: This is a very bold punt but I think they'll be the Winners
NORTHANTS
Northants may not be the richest or most attractive county side, but they still know how to get the job done. They topped the Midlands/Wales/West group quite comfortably, and have only lost 2 matches on the way to finals day. They've had a good season in the 4 day format and have the chance to pick up multiple pieces of silverware this season.Azharullah has taken vital wickets for them, while Cameron White's big hitting will be vital for their chances. They are probably the underdogs, and to be honest I think they will just fall short on this occasion.
Key Man: Big hitting Cameron White will be vital to their chances tomorrow, he has made some big runs for them this year and Is very experienced in the One Day and T20 formats, if he fires there's no reason that they shouldn't win.
Predicted Finish: Semi-Finals on this occasion.
HAMPSHIRE
The defending champions will be the huge favourites to regain their title and why shouldn't they be? They have a quality batting line-up that goes fairly deep as well. Carberry is a big hitter along with Jimmy Adams and Sean Ervine. A middle order match winner to in the form of Neil McKenzie. In the bowling stakes they have the quality death bowling of Chris Wood to match the classy spin of Danny Briggs, who will one day replace Graeme Swann in the ODI and T20I teams for England.Hampshire got to final's day in convincing fashion, losing just as single match as they comfortably finished top of the South Group.
Key Man: Michael Carberry does a great job of setting the tone in the powerplay with his big hitting and if he does so tomorrow, he could well take the game away from Hampshire's opponents in the blink of an eye.
Predicted Finish: Finalists but just unable to regain the coveted crown, still the YB40 title is well within their grasp too as the One Day kings are dominating again.
SURREY
Surrey are probably one of the weakest batting sides in the semi-finals, with their batting performances hinging on Jason Roy and keeper-batsman Steven Davies. Their bowling is much stronger with the likes of Azhar Mahmood, Jade Dernbach, Jon Lewis and the possibility of Chris Tremlett should the ECB let him play, I expect that they will though. However, captain and spinner Gareth Batty is suspended for 2 games following an altercation with Peter Trego in the quarter's.Surrey made finals day finishing 2nd in the South Group with 3 wins from their final 3 group games. They then beat much fancied Somerset fairly comfortably in the quarter-finals.
Key Man: Jade Dernbach's death bowling will be vital for Surrey's chances, if it doesn't come off, then Surrey's batting line-up could have plenty of work to do.
Predicted Finish: Thrashed by Hampshire in the Semi-Final's.
Whoever wins tomorrow it will be sure to be a classic day, in what is my favourite day of the year. Really looking forward to this one, lot's of excitement to be had as well including the mascot race!
I'll be back some time on Sunday to give you my round-up of Final's day from Edgbaston. See you then.
Monday, 12 August 2013
Broad heroics give England Test and series victory
Stuart Broad put in a magnificent spell on the 4th and eventually final evening in Durham as, England beat Australia by 74 runs to win the 4th test match and take a 3-0 lead in the Ashes series with just 1 to play at The Oval. Stuart Broad finished with 6-50 in the second innings and 11 wickets in the match, as England took 9 wickets in a lengthy final session of the day.
England started the day fairly poorly with Bell and Prior falling in consecutive balls, as Harris got one to bounce and the other to keep low as he got both players out bowled. Bell was out for 113, while Prior fell first ball for 0. Stuart Broad didn't hang around long either as he got a fantastic bouncer from Ryan Harris which Broad gloved up in the air for Steve Smith to take an easy catch. Swann and Bresnan steadied the ship as they put on 42 for the ninth wicket, before Bresnan gave Harris a simple caught and bowled, as he went for 45. The last man to fall was James Anderson for 0, as he got a little feather to Haddin from a Lyon ball that turned and bounced. Graeme Swann finished 30 not out as England set Australia 299 runs to win the test match.
Australia started well as the opening pair of Rogers and Warner were very positive in their approach, and the England seamer's bowled a bit too short at them, and they took their opportunities to score. The pair had put on 109 for the first wicket before Graeme Swann made the vital breakthrough. He got Rogers to edge one to Trott at slip, as Rogers had to go for 49 as England got the first wicket just before tea.
After tea, thinks turned around big style for England. Firstly, Swann took his second scalp, that of Khawaja LBW for 21. Then 21 runs later, Tim Bresnan got the next key wicket, that of Dave Warner for 71, as Bresnan got one to bounce and catch Warner's edge, Prior doing the rest. Then wickets fell at regular intervals as Stuart Broad another classic spell. First he got one to seam away from Michael Clarke, knocking back his off-stump, dismissing the captain for 21. Steve Smith was next, trying to hook but just gloving it onto his stump. This left Australia 175/5, still needing 124 to win with 5 wickets left. When Watson was removed LBW to Bresnan for 2, it looked like that would be it for Australia. Broad struck again to remove Haddin LBW for 4, to leave Australia 7 down with the last recognised batsman gone. Harris was the next to go for 11 LBW to the relentless Stuart Broad who had now taken 4 wickets in an amazing spell. Nathan Lyon was Broad's fifth victim of the innings, as Broad knocked out his leg-stump, reducing Australia to 211/9 needing the final pair to put on 88 for the victory. After taking the extra half an hour it was fitting that Stuart Broad took the final wicket, and he did the honours as Peter Siddle chipped one up for James Anderson to take a simple catch, sparking scenes of joy and celebration among the England players and backroom staff.
What a fantastic test match that was. Ryan Harris and Chris Rogers starred for Australia and proved that they are a competitive side once again. Meanwhile, Ian Bell and Stuart Broad were top dogs for England as they showed that they have the edge on their bitter rivals.
The final test should be just as competitive an affair, though meaningless in the context of the series. I'll be back to preview that one in a weeks time.
Before that I will have a preview of my favourite day of the year. The English domestic T20 final's day involving Essex, Northants, Surrey and Hampshire at Edgbaston. See you then.
England started the day fairly poorly with Bell and Prior falling in consecutive balls, as Harris got one to bounce and the other to keep low as he got both players out bowled. Bell was out for 113, while Prior fell first ball for 0. Stuart Broad didn't hang around long either as he got a fantastic bouncer from Ryan Harris which Broad gloved up in the air for Steve Smith to take an easy catch. Swann and Bresnan steadied the ship as they put on 42 for the ninth wicket, before Bresnan gave Harris a simple caught and bowled, as he went for 45. The last man to fall was James Anderson for 0, as he got a little feather to Haddin from a Lyon ball that turned and bounced. Graeme Swann finished 30 not out as England set Australia 299 runs to win the test match.
Australia started well as the opening pair of Rogers and Warner were very positive in their approach, and the England seamer's bowled a bit too short at them, and they took their opportunities to score. The pair had put on 109 for the first wicket before Graeme Swann made the vital breakthrough. He got Rogers to edge one to Trott at slip, as Rogers had to go for 49 as England got the first wicket just before tea.
After tea, thinks turned around big style for England. Firstly, Swann took his second scalp, that of Khawaja LBW for 21. Then 21 runs later, Tim Bresnan got the next key wicket, that of Dave Warner for 71, as Bresnan got one to bounce and catch Warner's edge, Prior doing the rest. Then wickets fell at regular intervals as Stuart Broad another classic spell. First he got one to seam away from Michael Clarke, knocking back his off-stump, dismissing the captain for 21. Steve Smith was next, trying to hook but just gloving it onto his stump. This left Australia 175/5, still needing 124 to win with 5 wickets left. When Watson was removed LBW to Bresnan for 2, it looked like that would be it for Australia. Broad struck again to remove Haddin LBW for 4, to leave Australia 7 down with the last recognised batsman gone. Harris was the next to go for 11 LBW to the relentless Stuart Broad who had now taken 4 wickets in an amazing spell. Nathan Lyon was Broad's fifth victim of the innings, as Broad knocked out his leg-stump, reducing Australia to 211/9 needing the final pair to put on 88 for the victory. After taking the extra half an hour it was fitting that Stuart Broad took the final wicket, and he did the honours as Peter Siddle chipped one up for James Anderson to take a simple catch, sparking scenes of joy and celebration among the England players and backroom staff.
What a fantastic test match that was. Ryan Harris and Chris Rogers starred for Australia and proved that they are a competitive side once again. Meanwhile, Ian Bell and Stuart Broad were top dogs for England as they showed that they have the edge on their bitter rivals.
The final test should be just as competitive an affair, though meaningless in the context of the series. I'll be back to preview that one in a weeks time.
Before that I will have a preview of my favourite day of the year. The English domestic T20 final's day involving Essex, Northants, Surrey and Hampshire at Edgbaston. See you then.
Sunday, 11 August 2013
England fight back on thrid day
England fought back well on day 3 of the 4th Test match, taking the last 5 Australian wickets fairly cheaply as they could only manage a 1st innings lead of 32, before England built a lead of 202 with 5 2nd innings wickets still in hand. On a pitch that should deteriorate on days 4 and 5 that is a healthy lead, and has made England slight favourites to win this Test match now.
The day started with Graeme Swann taking the last two recognised batsmen, just before the second new ball. First he had Brad Haddin trapped LBW for 13, and then Chris Rogers got a little bit of a glove to a delivery that then ballooned up off of the pad, as Matt Prior took a diving catch in in what would have been a short leg position. James Anderson then got Peter Siddle to edge one, with the second new ball - Alastair Cook taking the catch at slip. At this stage Australia were only 7 ahead with 2 wickets left, but Ryan Harris made some valuable lower order runs to add another 25 runs to Australia's lead. Nathan Lyon was then given out LBW to James Anderson for 4, but Hawkeye showed the ball would have missed leg stump by some distance. The last man to go was Ryan Harris, again LBW, although Tony Hill didn't give it despite being clear, to give Stuart Broad another 5 wicket haul. Australia had a slender 32 run first innings advantage, far from their high hopes at the days start.
England got off to a poor start, as Joe Root got an unplayable delivery from Ryan Harris, that took out his off-stump as he went for 2 with England still 15 behind. The hosts had a lead of just 10 when the second wicket fell, Alastair Cook having a flash outside and getting the edge to Haddin. Only 7 more runs were added before Trott fell for 23, gloving a short ball to Haddin, who took a spectacular catch to dismiss England's No.3. Kevin Pietersen was playing much more controlled Cricket, along with Ian Bell as the pair were going rather nicely and put on a partnership of 106. Pietersen was the next to go, once again to Lyon, as he tried to turn a ball outside off-stump to mid wicket, but only getting a leading edge that went to Rogers at cover. Pietersen gone for 44 with England's lead at 123 runs, still a difficult position as Jonny Bairstow came in. He played quite fluently with Bell, who was again on top form and had taken on the spinner well and dealt with the short ball nicely too. He'd put on 66 with Bell, England's form player, before he got a thin edge off of Nathan Lyon that was again well taken by Brad Haddin, who is having a fine series with the gloves.
England then bought Tim Bresnan in as night watchman for Prior and he survived the rest of the day with Bell, who bought up what was another magnificent hundred. He finishes not out on 105 with Bresnan not out on 4, and England ahead by 202 with Prior, Broad, Swann and Anderson still to come. Anything more than 270 will be a tough chase for Australia, more than 300 would be very tough, especially if the sun doesn't shine for the Australian's, making it a seamer's paradise, just as their first innings was to start with.
Tomorrow could well be another decisive day in this series, and another exciting one for the spectators. I am thoroughly looking forward to the next 2 days of Test Cricket and i'm really looking forward to commenting on them afterwards. I fully expect England to head towards victory tomorrow, but anything can happen in a day of Ashes Cricket.
The day started with Graeme Swann taking the last two recognised batsmen, just before the second new ball. First he had Brad Haddin trapped LBW for 13, and then Chris Rogers got a little bit of a glove to a delivery that then ballooned up off of the pad, as Matt Prior took a diving catch in in what would have been a short leg position. James Anderson then got Peter Siddle to edge one, with the second new ball - Alastair Cook taking the catch at slip. At this stage Australia were only 7 ahead with 2 wickets left, but Ryan Harris made some valuable lower order runs to add another 25 runs to Australia's lead. Nathan Lyon was then given out LBW to James Anderson for 4, but Hawkeye showed the ball would have missed leg stump by some distance. The last man to go was Ryan Harris, again LBW, although Tony Hill didn't give it despite being clear, to give Stuart Broad another 5 wicket haul. Australia had a slender 32 run first innings advantage, far from their high hopes at the days start.
England got off to a poor start, as Joe Root got an unplayable delivery from Ryan Harris, that took out his off-stump as he went for 2 with England still 15 behind. The hosts had a lead of just 10 when the second wicket fell, Alastair Cook having a flash outside and getting the edge to Haddin. Only 7 more runs were added before Trott fell for 23, gloving a short ball to Haddin, who took a spectacular catch to dismiss England's No.3. Kevin Pietersen was playing much more controlled Cricket, along with Ian Bell as the pair were going rather nicely and put on a partnership of 106. Pietersen was the next to go, once again to Lyon, as he tried to turn a ball outside off-stump to mid wicket, but only getting a leading edge that went to Rogers at cover. Pietersen gone for 44 with England's lead at 123 runs, still a difficult position as Jonny Bairstow came in. He played quite fluently with Bell, who was again on top form and had taken on the spinner well and dealt with the short ball nicely too. He'd put on 66 with Bell, England's form player, before he got a thin edge off of Nathan Lyon that was again well taken by Brad Haddin, who is having a fine series with the gloves.
England then bought Tim Bresnan in as night watchman for Prior and he survived the rest of the day with Bell, who bought up what was another magnificent hundred. He finishes not out on 105 with Bresnan not out on 4, and England ahead by 202 with Prior, Broad, Swann and Anderson still to come. Anything more than 270 will be a tough chase for Australia, more than 300 would be very tough, especially if the sun doesn't shine for the Australian's, making it a seamer's paradise, just as their first innings was to start with.
Tomorrow could well be another decisive day in this series, and another exciting one for the spectators. I am thoroughly looking forward to the next 2 days of Test Cricket and i'm really looking forward to commenting on them afterwards. I fully expect England to head towards victory tomorrow, but anything can happen in a day of Ashes Cricket.
Saturday, 10 August 2013
Chris Rogers keeps Australia ahead on day 2
Chris Rogers maiden test match century kept Australia on top after the second day at Durham. Australia were in some trouble before him and Shane Watson came together and put on 129 for the fifth wicket. Australia closed on 222/5 just 16 runs behind England, with still 5 first innings wickets in hand. Stuart Broad kept England in the game early on, taking 4 wickets on the day, but James Anderson was well below his best, perhaps supporting evidence that he should have been rested ahead of a tough winter schedule. Conditions on day 2 would have been much more favourable for Graham Onions, supporting the case that he should have played in his home test instead.
The day started with Australia taking the final England wicket, without the hosts adding another run to the score, Jackson Bird knocking James Anderson's stumps over in the second over of the day. Conditions at the start of the second day were much more seam friendly, with the ball moving around much more off of the pitch. England started well getting the wicket of David Warner, Stuart Broad getting one to come back in at Warner's stumps with the left hander unsure whether to play or leave, as his off-stump was knocked over. Usman Khawaja was the next to go for 0, getting a bottom edge that just carried through to Prior. Broad's magical spell continued as he took his 3rd wicket, that of the skipper Michael Clarke. Clarke had a big drive at a Broad delivery outside the off-stump, but only getting an edge that went to Alastair Cook at first slip.
Just after lunch Steven Smith, got a thin edge off of Tim Bresnan, that went to Prior, giving England their fourth wicket, leaving the tourists 76/4. Shane Watson and Chris Rogers rebuilt for Australia, seeing off a very tricky period of play before they put on a very handy partnership of 129 for Australia. Shane Watson had got his first half-century of the series, getting to 68 before he Prior made a fantastic catch down the leg-side, to give Stuart Broad his fourth wicket and England the vital breakthrough. Chris Rogers then got to his century after some very nervous moments on 96 against Graeme Swann, before he swept the off-spinner for 4, much to the relief of himself and all of the Australians in the crowd and on the Australian dressing room balcony. He was on 101* and Brad Haddin on 12* as bad light brought the day to a premature close, with Australia now only 16 runs behind England's 1st innings total.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, the first hour will once again be crucial, with new ball only 5.2 overs away. England will want to get Rogers and Haddin early and then clean up the tail, before they cause any major damage. Meanwhile, Australia will want to pass England's total early and build a lead of around 100 runs, which would be a very substantial one on this pitch I feel, if they could get there.
It should be another gripping day of Ashes Cricket, and one that will be key in deciding the winner of this test match. I look forward to reporting on it tomorrow.
The day started with Australia taking the final England wicket, without the hosts adding another run to the score, Jackson Bird knocking James Anderson's stumps over in the second over of the day. Conditions at the start of the second day were much more seam friendly, with the ball moving around much more off of the pitch. England started well getting the wicket of David Warner, Stuart Broad getting one to come back in at Warner's stumps with the left hander unsure whether to play or leave, as his off-stump was knocked over. Usman Khawaja was the next to go for 0, getting a bottom edge that just carried through to Prior. Broad's magical spell continued as he took his 3rd wicket, that of the skipper Michael Clarke. Clarke had a big drive at a Broad delivery outside the off-stump, but only getting an edge that went to Alastair Cook at first slip.
Just after lunch Steven Smith, got a thin edge off of Tim Bresnan, that went to Prior, giving England their fourth wicket, leaving the tourists 76/4. Shane Watson and Chris Rogers rebuilt for Australia, seeing off a very tricky period of play before they put on a very handy partnership of 129 for Australia. Shane Watson had got his first half-century of the series, getting to 68 before he Prior made a fantastic catch down the leg-side, to give Stuart Broad his fourth wicket and England the vital breakthrough. Chris Rogers then got to his century after some very nervous moments on 96 against Graeme Swann, before he swept the off-spinner for 4, much to the relief of himself and all of the Australians in the crowd and on the Australian dressing room balcony. He was on 101* and Brad Haddin on 12* as bad light brought the day to a premature close, with Australia now only 16 runs behind England's 1st innings total.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, the first hour will once again be crucial, with new ball only 5.2 overs away. England will want to get Rogers and Haddin early and then clean up the tail, before they cause any major damage. Meanwhile, Australia will want to pass England's total early and build a lead of around 100 runs, which would be a very substantial one on this pitch I feel, if they could get there.
It should be another gripping day of Ashes Cricket, and one that will be key in deciding the winner of this test match. I look forward to reporting on it tomorrow.
Friday, 9 August 2013
Australia have best of opening day in Durham
Australia dominated the first day up at the ICG in Durham after England closed on 238/9, having won the toss and choosing to bat first and what was a decent pitch with something for the bowlers. It was still a pitch you would expect England to bat well on, on the opening day of a Test match though, as many England batsmen gave their wickets away.
England started ok, but very slowly showing no signs of positivity through openers Root and Cook. Root was the first to fall with 34 on the board for England, as he edged Watson to Brad Haddin, not given by Tony Hill but swiftly reviewed by the Australian's. The Yorkshire opener was forced to depart for 16 off of 52. Jonathon Trott and Alastair Cook steadied the ship, but again very slowly to start with, before Trott became a lot more fluent after lunch. He soon went to the spin of Nathan Lyon though for 49 off of 60, edging one onto the pad, with Khawaja taking a nice catch at short leg. In came Pietersen, who showed positive intent from ball one against Nathan Lyon and seemed, a bit too positive to a point of recklessness. He soon found his downfall for 26 from 35 get a thin edge from Lyon for a Haddin to take a simple catch. Alastair Cook went shortly after, having just gotten to his half-century as the England collapse began. The skipper left a Jackson Bird delivery (who was in for Mitchell Starc) that came back in and trapped him LBW for 51 off of 164. Ian Bell was next to go, 4 balls after tea for just 6, miss-cueing Lyon to Ryan Harris at mid-off. Matt Prior and Jonny Bairstow then put on a very watchful 35 for the sixth wicket before Peter Siddle trapped Prior LBW. The decision was initially given not out, looking like it may be going down leg-side before another correct Australian review showed otherwise. Prior was once again out to Peter Siddle, for the ninth time in his career, this time for 17 off of 58.
Jonny Bairstow went soon after, out LBW trying to sweep Lyon, despite a Bairstow review that showed it was just clipping the bails. Bairstow had to go though for 14 from 77 with England in big trouble at 193/7. Stuart Broad didn't hang around either, chipping Ryan Harris to David Warner for just 3 off 12. Graeme Swann was positive as usual, and took on the short ball, which turned out to be his downfall. Swann couldn't get enough on a lofted pull shot that went straight down Lyon's throat at Deep square leg, to give Harris his second wicket of the day, Swann departing for 13 from 18. James Anderson (16*) and Tim Bresnan (12*) saw England to the close, but with 1 wicket remaining Australia should clean them up quickly on Saturday morning, before looking to push on. Australia should look for a 100 run lead, on what isn't a bad surface, but may be a tough one to score on. England's poor shot choice has landed them in trouble today, gifting Nathan Lyon 4 wickets on a wicket that offered little for him. England need to bowl as well as Australia did today, and will be hoping Australia make similar mistakes to them. Australia need 1 batsman to get a big score to give them control.
Should be a fascinating day of Cricket as England will look to come back hard at Australia. I'll be back tomorrow to round-up the second day.
England started ok, but very slowly showing no signs of positivity through openers Root and Cook. Root was the first to fall with 34 on the board for England, as he edged Watson to Brad Haddin, not given by Tony Hill but swiftly reviewed by the Australian's. The Yorkshire opener was forced to depart for 16 off of 52. Jonathon Trott and Alastair Cook steadied the ship, but again very slowly to start with, before Trott became a lot more fluent after lunch. He soon went to the spin of Nathan Lyon though for 49 off of 60, edging one onto the pad, with Khawaja taking a nice catch at short leg. In came Pietersen, who showed positive intent from ball one against Nathan Lyon and seemed, a bit too positive to a point of recklessness. He soon found his downfall for 26 from 35 get a thin edge from Lyon for a Haddin to take a simple catch. Alastair Cook went shortly after, having just gotten to his half-century as the England collapse began. The skipper left a Jackson Bird delivery (who was in for Mitchell Starc) that came back in and trapped him LBW for 51 off of 164. Ian Bell was next to go, 4 balls after tea for just 6, miss-cueing Lyon to Ryan Harris at mid-off. Matt Prior and Jonny Bairstow then put on a very watchful 35 for the sixth wicket before Peter Siddle trapped Prior LBW. The decision was initially given not out, looking like it may be going down leg-side before another correct Australian review showed otherwise. Prior was once again out to Peter Siddle, for the ninth time in his career, this time for 17 off of 58.
Jonny Bairstow went soon after, out LBW trying to sweep Lyon, despite a Bairstow review that showed it was just clipping the bails. Bairstow had to go though for 14 from 77 with England in big trouble at 193/7. Stuart Broad didn't hang around either, chipping Ryan Harris to David Warner for just 3 off 12. Graeme Swann was positive as usual, and took on the short ball, which turned out to be his downfall. Swann couldn't get enough on a lofted pull shot that went straight down Lyon's throat at Deep square leg, to give Harris his second wicket of the day, Swann departing for 13 from 18. James Anderson (16*) and Tim Bresnan (12*) saw England to the close, but with 1 wicket remaining Australia should clean them up quickly on Saturday morning, before looking to push on. Australia should look for a 100 run lead, on what isn't a bad surface, but may be a tough one to score on. England's poor shot choice has landed them in trouble today, gifting Nathan Lyon 4 wickets on a wicket that offered little for him. England need to bowl as well as Australia did today, and will be hoping Australia make similar mistakes to them. Australia need 1 batsman to get a big score to give them control.
Should be a fascinating day of Cricket as England will look to come back hard at Australia. I'll be back tomorrow to round-up the second day.
Thursday, 8 August 2013
4th Ashes Test Preview
The 4th Ashes test at Durham starts on Friday, and is sure to be a good match. The final 2 tests of the series have been made slightly less meaningful with the destination of the Ashes secure, but matches between England and Australia always have great meaning and are very hard fought. England will want to seal a series victory (with either a win or a draw here), meanwhile the Australian's will want some revenge and to try keep hopes of a series draw alive here with victory.
Both teams have the odd selection question, but nothing as drastic as in the last match. Right it's time to explore what we can expect, both selection wise and from the players that start the match, from both teams.
As for the bowlers, there are a couple of small questions: Will Graham Onions play? And if so, who will he replace? Well I think Onions will play and will replace either James Anderson if they think he needs a rest or Tim Bresnan, as a straight replacement for 3rd seamer in the attack. I have a feeling that Bresnan will be the man to miss out, as England won't want to rest players before this series is won. Graeme Swann could well have an important role as a dry pitch is again expected at the ICG at Durham, should well turn in the latter stages. I think Stuart Broad could well have a big match here, has been missing a bit with the ball in this series, bowled well in Manchester for little reward.
Key Man: Captain Alastair Cook is due a big hundred, and with the pressure of him with the Ashes retained he could well loosen up and score heavily in this match.
As for the bowlers I think that Ryan Harris could well get a rest with the winter in mind, they won't want to see him getting injured playing back-to-back tests. Jackson Bird would be the man to come in for him. Nathan Lyon will have another go in this match, and a key one it could be for him if he is to hold his spot in the team, the Aussie selectors are not afraid to chop and change with the spinners. Mitchell Starc has done nothing wrong either and this could well be the ground for a bowler like him to shine. As for Peter Siddle, he has had a great series and is the 2nd leading wicket taker and the top for Australia in the wickets chart.
Key Man: David Warner could make a big score at the top of the innings in no time at all, and soon give Australia control as the England seamer's wouldn't know where to bowl to him. A few extravagant shots would also put him on top of his war with the home crowd in Durham also, as the banter between them and Warner is sure to continue.
Whatever happens in this match, it is sure to be an intriguing one (if the weather stays away), and one that I expect England to dominate after their lucky escape at Old Trafford, and one that will hurt Australia. I'll be back for updates after the close on each day of the match, so keep an eye out for those. Thanks for reading!
Both teams have the odd selection question, but nothing as drastic as in the last match. Right it's time to explore what we can expect, both selection wise and from the players that start the match, from both teams.
England
England will be unchanged in the batting department for the fourth test, and there are no need for changes. Ian Bell has been England's top run scorer and a run machine so far in the series while Joe Root and now Kevin Pietersen have also made centuries in the series. Jonny Bairstow has made some decent contributions, and hasn't done badly for a young man in his first Ashes series. Alastair Cook made a half-century at Old Trafford but has still been below par and performed below expectation in this series so far. He along with Jonathon Trott could do with some runs, and I think they'll get them now that the pressure is off a little bit. If Jonathon Trott can sort out his technical issues, then he will be back to his best and it could be a run fest for him.As for the bowlers, there are a couple of small questions: Will Graham Onions play? And if so, who will he replace? Well I think Onions will play and will replace either James Anderson if they think he needs a rest or Tim Bresnan, as a straight replacement for 3rd seamer in the attack. I have a feeling that Bresnan will be the man to miss out, as England won't want to rest players before this series is won. Graeme Swann could well have an important role as a dry pitch is again expected at the ICG at Durham, should well turn in the latter stages. I think Stuart Broad could well have a big match here, has been missing a bit with the ball in this series, bowled well in Manchester for little reward.
Key Man: Captain Alastair Cook is due a big hundred, and with the pressure of him with the Ashes retained he could well loosen up and score heavily in this match.
Australia
Australia don't have as many questions to answer with bat or ball after Old Trafford, the main questions being: What will the batting order be? and: Will Ryan Harris be rested? For me it should be the same order as in the 2nd innings in Manchester, with Warner opening with Rogers, Watson batting at 5 and Steve Smith at 6. The only man who has been particularly short of runs in there has been Shane Watson, and i'm not sure he'll be any better suited batting in the middle order. Usman Khawaja could also do with a score after some bad luck in the 3rd Test, but he is struggling with spin at the moment and needs to counteract that if he is to get a score. Dave Warner has definetly got a big score in him and he could well send the opening bowlers off of their lines by smashing them everywhere, the crowd should spur him on as well.As for the bowlers I think that Ryan Harris could well get a rest with the winter in mind, they won't want to see him getting injured playing back-to-back tests. Jackson Bird would be the man to come in for him. Nathan Lyon will have another go in this match, and a key one it could be for him if he is to hold his spot in the team, the Aussie selectors are not afraid to chop and change with the spinners. Mitchell Starc has done nothing wrong either and this could well be the ground for a bowler like him to shine. As for Peter Siddle, he has had a great series and is the 2nd leading wicket taker and the top for Australia in the wickets chart.
Key Man: David Warner could make a big score at the top of the innings in no time at all, and soon give Australia control as the England seamer's wouldn't know where to bowl to him. A few extravagant shots would also put him on top of his war with the home crowd in Durham also, as the banter between them and Warner is sure to continue.
Whatever happens in this match, it is sure to be an intriguing one (if the weather stays away), and one that I expect England to dominate after their lucky escape at Old Trafford, and one that will hurt Australia. I'll be back for updates after the close on each day of the match, so keep an eye out for those. Thanks for reading!
Monday, 5 August 2013
Australia's hopes ruined by Manchester rain
Well we all knew it was coming, and the Australians reluctantly had to accept a draw as only 20.3 overs were possible on the final day at Old Trafford. The draw obviously meant that, with England 2-0 up with just 2 tests to play, that England have retained The Ashes and will take the urn to Australia in November. Australia tried incredibly hard throughout the Test Match, and if a full days play would have been possible on day 5 they probably would have won. On many occasions the Great British weather has hurt England, so it was about time it worked in favour of the hosts.
Play was delayed by 30 minutes at the start of play, while the ground was made fit for play. Australia declared overnight as expected setting England 332 to win in a possible 98 overs. However, it was immediately apparent that England were batting for a draw. As soon as Australia got out their they made it worth the wait, taking 3 English wickets in the 20 overs before lunch. The first to go was Alastair Cook, still without a big score in the series really, LBW to Ryan Harris before a run had been put on the board. 15 more were added before Harris struck again, this time getting Jonathon Trott, also short of form, caught down the leg-side by Haddin for 11. Now that The Ashes are secure, hopefully Trott and Cook will be able to relax and show some better form ahead of the winter. Pietersen soon went as well, for 8 getting a faint edge to keeper Haddin. Pietersen was bemused and reviewed the decision, and while nothing showed up on the unreliable hotspot, there was a big enough noise for the third umpire to stick with the original decision, much to KP's disgust. Joe Root and Ian Bell saw England out to lunch at 37/3 with still a possible 78 overs to be bowled.
Rain delayed the restart after the lunch break, and once England got back out, only 3 more balls were possible before the next burst of rain came. After 2 hours more of prolonged heavy rain, enough was enough and the umpires abandoned play for the day at 4.40pm, much to the delight of the England players and fans as it meant that Australia's Ashes hopes were over - as England retained the urn.
On the whole though Australia dominated the Test with bat and ball, and deserved to win the game, and they would have done comfortably without the Old Trafford weather. Clarke batted exceptionally on the first 2 days, before Peter Siddle and Ryan Harris then took over with ball in hand. England were saved in part by Pietersen and Bell in the 1st innings, without whom they may have been forced to follow on. Australia have plenty of positives that they can take out of the match, and into the final 2 tests with the aim of getting a 2-2 series draw, taking some momentum back home for the start of the next series in November.
The Durham test starting on Friday should be just as close and will hopefully offer some good entertainment and an intriguing contest. I will be back on Thursday to preview the match, and the potential options for both sides for the 4th Test. Graham Onions is back in England's squad and hoping to play in his home Ashes test. I hope you enjoyed reading my daily summaries from the 3rd Test and I'm already looking forward to doing the same for the 4th Test.
See you then.
Play was delayed by 30 minutes at the start of play, while the ground was made fit for play. Australia declared overnight as expected setting England 332 to win in a possible 98 overs. However, it was immediately apparent that England were batting for a draw. As soon as Australia got out their they made it worth the wait, taking 3 English wickets in the 20 overs before lunch. The first to go was Alastair Cook, still without a big score in the series really, LBW to Ryan Harris before a run had been put on the board. 15 more were added before Harris struck again, this time getting Jonathon Trott, also short of form, caught down the leg-side by Haddin for 11. Now that The Ashes are secure, hopefully Trott and Cook will be able to relax and show some better form ahead of the winter. Pietersen soon went as well, for 8 getting a faint edge to keeper Haddin. Pietersen was bemused and reviewed the decision, and while nothing showed up on the unreliable hotspot, there was a big enough noise for the third umpire to stick with the original decision, much to KP's disgust. Joe Root and Ian Bell saw England out to lunch at 37/3 with still a possible 78 overs to be bowled.
Rain delayed the restart after the lunch break, and once England got back out, only 3 more balls were possible before the next burst of rain came. After 2 hours more of prolonged heavy rain, enough was enough and the umpires abandoned play for the day at 4.40pm, much to the delight of the England players and fans as it meant that Australia's Ashes hopes were over - as England retained the urn.
On the whole though Australia dominated the Test with bat and ball, and deserved to win the game, and they would have done comfortably without the Old Trafford weather. Clarke batted exceptionally on the first 2 days, before Peter Siddle and Ryan Harris then took over with ball in hand. England were saved in part by Pietersen and Bell in the 1st innings, without whom they may have been forced to follow on. Australia have plenty of positives that they can take out of the match, and into the final 2 tests with the aim of getting a 2-2 series draw, taking some momentum back home for the start of the next series in November.
The Durham test starting on Friday should be just as close and will hopefully offer some good entertainment and an intriguing contest. I will be back on Thursday to preview the match, and the potential options for both sides for the 4th Test. Graham Onions is back in England's squad and hoping to play in his home Ashes test. I hope you enjoyed reading my daily summaries from the 3rd Test and I'm already looking forward to doing the same for the 4th Test.
See you then.
Sunday, 4 August 2013
Manchester weather halts Australian progress
An evening session that was cut short by bad light and then rain, dented Australia's hopes of winning the 3rd Ashes test at Old Trafford. The tourists were going well with a lead of 331 runs, and a declaration looming large in the mind of captain Clarke probably giving 20 - 25 overs to bowl at England tonight ahead of 90 more on the final day to take the 10 England wickets. Now however, an Australian declaration is certain to come first thing tomorrow, giving them 98 overs to take the hosts 10 2nd innings wickets, and setting England 332 to win in that time if they wish to take up the challenge set by Michael Clarke and go for an unassailable 3-0 series lead. Unfortunately, the forecast is for heavy rain overnight and more heavy showers throughout tomorrow, meaning that the draw is the likely result, which would mean England retain the urn with 2 tests to play.
Day 4 started with England avoiding the follow-on, with Broad and Prior swiftly getting the 34 England needed to avoid it, whilst upping England's run rate. The pair had added 44 to England's overnight total when Broad nicked a Nathan Lyon delivery to Brad Haddin and walked (to cheers from the crowd) for 32, giving the off-spinner his first wicket of the innings. This bought Graeme Swann to the crease, who didn't hand around long, hitting a nice 6 down the ground off of fellow spinner Lyon, before getting an inside edge off Peter Siddle which was nicely taken by Brad Haddin, to send Swann packing for 11. Last man in was James Anderson, who was protected from facing too much of Siddle and Lyon, as Prior hogged the strike and turned down plenty of singles. In the end he skied a Siddle delivery that he tried to turn off his hip with Warner taking the catch, as Prior was out for 30, with Anderson not out on 3 and England all out for 368.
This gave Australia a 159 run first innings lead and a good platform to work with, as David Warner opened with Chris Rogers and Shane Watson moved down to no.4. Warner got off to a bright start, while Rogers went early for 12 trying to run Stuart Broad down to third man, instead only finding the edge which was well taken by Prior. Warner and Usman Khawaja put on a 50 partnership after lunch as Australia upped to run rate so they could try and get England back in during the evening session. David Warner was the next man to go for 41, pulling Tim Bresnan into the safe hands of Joe Root in the deep (which was truly the picture of irony). Wickets fell fairly regularly after this as Australia tried to get on with things. Khawaja was the next out for 24, getting too far across his stumps to Graeme Swann who duly bowled him around his legs. Shane Watson fell shortly afterwards for 18, upper cutting Bresnan down to third man, but straight into Kevin Pietersen's hands. Steven Smith was soon ran out by his captain, who refused a second and leaving Smith stranded as James Anderson removed the bails at the bowlers end, as Smith went for a run a ball 19, including 2 big sixes. Brad Haddin had got to 8 when he chipped an Anderson delivery up in the air for Stuart Broad to take an easy catch, as England got into the bowlers - although Clarke still remained comfortable at the crease. Mitchell Starc had made 11 when he chipped Anderson straight to Swann who took a comfortable catch.
Unfortunately only 3 more balls were bowled before the players were taken off the field for bad light, much to the anger of Michael Clarke. The rain came soon after and the players did not return as play was abandoned at around 5.40pm local time.
Hopefully the rain will stay away tomorrow, although that looks unlikely, as this would set up an intriguing day of Cricket with all 3 results possible. England could go for the victory if all 98 overs are to be bowled, although this would be unlikely. It is more than likely that England would just shut up shop, on what is still a good pitch. If that is the case then Australia will struggle to take the 10 wickets that they need to keep the series alive. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon will be key for the Aussies on a decent spinners wicket, while England will want Jonathon Trott to play a long innings and have a calming influence on the day, to see England to a draw. If the hosts are to push for victory, then Kevin Pietersen and Ian Bell would be the key men if this scenario came true.
Whatever does happen it should be an excellent day of Cricket (weather permitting) and one I look forward to summarising tomorrow, along with the rest of the 3rd Ashes Test. See you then.
Day 4 started with England avoiding the follow-on, with Broad and Prior swiftly getting the 34 England needed to avoid it, whilst upping England's run rate. The pair had added 44 to England's overnight total when Broad nicked a Nathan Lyon delivery to Brad Haddin and walked (to cheers from the crowd) for 32, giving the off-spinner his first wicket of the innings. This bought Graeme Swann to the crease, who didn't hand around long, hitting a nice 6 down the ground off of fellow spinner Lyon, before getting an inside edge off Peter Siddle which was nicely taken by Brad Haddin, to send Swann packing for 11. Last man in was James Anderson, who was protected from facing too much of Siddle and Lyon, as Prior hogged the strike and turned down plenty of singles. In the end he skied a Siddle delivery that he tried to turn off his hip with Warner taking the catch, as Prior was out for 30, with Anderson not out on 3 and England all out for 368.
This gave Australia a 159 run first innings lead and a good platform to work with, as David Warner opened with Chris Rogers and Shane Watson moved down to no.4. Warner got off to a bright start, while Rogers went early for 12 trying to run Stuart Broad down to third man, instead only finding the edge which was well taken by Prior. Warner and Usman Khawaja put on a 50 partnership after lunch as Australia upped to run rate so they could try and get England back in during the evening session. David Warner was the next man to go for 41, pulling Tim Bresnan into the safe hands of Joe Root in the deep (which was truly the picture of irony). Wickets fell fairly regularly after this as Australia tried to get on with things. Khawaja was the next out for 24, getting too far across his stumps to Graeme Swann who duly bowled him around his legs. Shane Watson fell shortly afterwards for 18, upper cutting Bresnan down to third man, but straight into Kevin Pietersen's hands. Steven Smith was soon ran out by his captain, who refused a second and leaving Smith stranded as James Anderson removed the bails at the bowlers end, as Smith went for a run a ball 19, including 2 big sixes. Brad Haddin had got to 8 when he chipped an Anderson delivery up in the air for Stuart Broad to take an easy catch, as England got into the bowlers - although Clarke still remained comfortable at the crease. Mitchell Starc had made 11 when he chipped Anderson straight to Swann who took a comfortable catch.
Unfortunately only 3 more balls were bowled before the players were taken off the field for bad light, much to the anger of Michael Clarke. The rain came soon after and the players did not return as play was abandoned at around 5.40pm local time.
Hopefully the rain will stay away tomorrow, although that looks unlikely, as this would set up an intriguing day of Cricket with all 3 results possible. England could go for the victory if all 98 overs are to be bowled, although this would be unlikely. It is more than likely that England would just shut up shop, on what is still a good pitch. If that is the case then Australia will struggle to take the 10 wickets that they need to keep the series alive. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon will be key for the Aussies on a decent spinners wicket, while England will want Jonathon Trott to play a long innings and have a calming influence on the day, to see England to a draw. If the hosts are to push for victory, then Kevin Pietersen and Ian Bell would be the key men if this scenario came true.
Whatever does happen it should be an excellent day of Cricket (weather permitting) and one I look forward to summarising tomorrow, along with the rest of the 3rd Ashes Test. See you then.
Saturday, 3 August 2013
Pietersen stars, but Australia still on top.
Kevin Pietersen starred on Day 3 of the 3rd Test at Old Trafford, scoring a much more controlled Pietersen century as England continued to toil otherwise on Saturday in Manchester. The century was Pietersen's first at Old Trafford in a test match, and couldn't have come at a more important time for his team. At the close of play England found themselves at 294/7 in a precarious position, still 233 runs behind - 34 more needed to avoid the follow-on. The men at the crease when England resume tomorrow will be Matt Prior on 6 not out and Stuart Broad on 9 not out, with Graeme Swan and James Anderson the only men left to come in for the hosts.
The day started pretty poorly for England, as they had only added 12 runs to their overnight score when Jonathon Trott departed for 5. Trott struggled throughout the morning with his technique and his bat coming down straight, as he continued to step well across to the off-side. This turned out to be his downfall today as he was very indecisive whether to leave or play, instead doing neither and edging a Ryan Harris delivery to Michael Clarke. Kevin Pietersen then joined Alastair Cook at the crease, as the pair put on 46 and Cook passed what was a very battling half century. This was before Cook was caught by keeper Haddin down the leg-side off of Mitchell Starc, as the captain once again had issues with his head falling forward when playing clips to the leg-side, resulting in his dismissal for 62.
The in form Ian Bell then joined Pietersen at the crease just before lunch. The pair batted very well together, with Bell continuing in his good form, while Pietersen started to find some form of his own. Their partnership lasted the entire of the afternoon session, and was only broken early in the evening session as Harris bowled Bell, with a delivery that just moved enough to get through his defences, as Bell was forced to depart for a very well made 60 off of 112 deliveries. His partnership with KP had put England back on track slightly and looking like avoiding the follow-on. That wicket brought Jonny Bairstow into the middle, with England still 302 behind. Bairstow put on 52 with Pietersen and had got to 22, before he lost patience, having a drive at a Mitchell Starc delivery outside off-stump and was caught by Shane Watson.
That meant that Matt Prior was in to join Pietersen who had stayed strong while others fell around him. Unfortunately his innings was ended when Starc got one to come back at KP's pads. Pietersen reviewed and although there was a faint mark on hotspot, and Snicko (not part of the review system) showed a noise, the decision was still given out as the ball just pitched in line. The end of what was a superb innings from Pietersen and one of his least attacking centuries for England. Even though he took on Lyon, hitting 2 sixes, Pietersen made his 113 off of 206 balls. Stuart Broad then joined Prior at the crease and both just blocked out the remaining overs until the close with Prior on 6 from 40 balls and Broad 9 from 31.
Tomorrow will be the key day of this test match. If England avoid the follow-on and the forecast showers mean that much time is lost on the fourth day, then the draw will be the favourite result heading into day 5. However, if Australia can bowl England out quickly and enforce the follow-on, they still have a great chance of winning the match - weather permitting of course.
Whatever happens, it should be a very intriguing days Cricket and one that I look forward to reporting on tomorrow. See you then.
The day started pretty poorly for England, as they had only added 12 runs to their overnight score when Jonathon Trott departed for 5. Trott struggled throughout the morning with his technique and his bat coming down straight, as he continued to step well across to the off-side. This turned out to be his downfall today as he was very indecisive whether to leave or play, instead doing neither and edging a Ryan Harris delivery to Michael Clarke. Kevin Pietersen then joined Alastair Cook at the crease, as the pair put on 46 and Cook passed what was a very battling half century. This was before Cook was caught by keeper Haddin down the leg-side off of Mitchell Starc, as the captain once again had issues with his head falling forward when playing clips to the leg-side, resulting in his dismissal for 62.
The in form Ian Bell then joined Pietersen at the crease just before lunch. The pair batted very well together, with Bell continuing in his good form, while Pietersen started to find some form of his own. Their partnership lasted the entire of the afternoon session, and was only broken early in the evening session as Harris bowled Bell, with a delivery that just moved enough to get through his defences, as Bell was forced to depart for a very well made 60 off of 112 deliveries. His partnership with KP had put England back on track slightly and looking like avoiding the follow-on. That wicket brought Jonny Bairstow into the middle, with England still 302 behind. Bairstow put on 52 with Pietersen and had got to 22, before he lost patience, having a drive at a Mitchell Starc delivery outside off-stump and was caught by Shane Watson.
That meant that Matt Prior was in to join Pietersen who had stayed strong while others fell around him. Unfortunately his innings was ended when Starc got one to come back at KP's pads. Pietersen reviewed and although there was a faint mark on hotspot, and Snicko (not part of the review system) showed a noise, the decision was still given out as the ball just pitched in line. The end of what was a superb innings from Pietersen and one of his least attacking centuries for England. Even though he took on Lyon, hitting 2 sixes, Pietersen made his 113 off of 206 balls. Stuart Broad then joined Prior at the crease and both just blocked out the remaining overs until the close with Prior on 6 from 40 balls and Broad 9 from 31.
Tomorrow will be the key day of this test match. If England avoid the follow-on and the forecast showers mean that much time is lost on the fourth day, then the draw will be the favourite result heading into day 5. However, if Australia can bowl England out quickly and enforce the follow-on, they still have a great chance of winning the match - weather permitting of course.
Whatever happens, it should be a very intriguing days Cricket and one that I look forward to reporting on tomorrow. See you then.
Friday, 2 August 2013
Australia continue to dominate on Day 2 of 3rd Test
Australia are well on top of the 3rd Ashes test at Old Trafford, having put a big first innings total on the board, before declaring in the evening session and take 2 England wickets before the close of play, as they go for a what would be a series saving victory.
Australia started well on the second day, surviving the first hour and adding 40 to their overnight score, before Steve Smith went after Graeme Swann in his first over of the day. An attempted big hit, picked out Jonny Bairstow who took a decent catch, to give England their first breakthrough of the morning. He will definetly feel that he gave away the chance of a century, getting himself out on 89. David Warner was the next to arrive at the crease to a chorus of boo's from the crowd. He didn't stick around long either, as he nicked a Swann delivery that popped off of Matt Prior's leg to give Jonathon Trott a simple catch at slip. Warner then reviewed the decision as he was unsure, having smashed into his pad at the same time that the ball clearly made contact with the bat. Needless to say that Warner went back to the dressing room to increased boo's from the Manchester crowd.
Brad Haddin was the next man in, and he upped the run rate, with Michael Clarke still going strong at the other end. The pair put on a nice 62 before Michael Clarke tried to cut one that was too close to him, chopping a Stuart Broad delivery on to the stumps. This gave Stuart Broad his 200th Test wicket something he waited a long while for since his 199th dismissal. Meanwhile, Clarke's innings of 187 is one of his best and most important innings for Australia - right when his team needed their captain to step up the most. A fantastic knock from him. Graeme Swann was soon back into the act, picking up his fifth wicket, as Peter Siddle was bowled trying a swipe across the line. A very patient and hard earned five-wicket haul for Graeme Swann and one that takes him to 18 wickets for the series, showing us how important he is to England and one of the world's best spinners.
Brad Haddin then put on an unbeaten 97 run partnership for the eighth wicket with Mitchell Starc, who finished on 66 not out from 71 balls and Haddin on 65 not out from 99 balls. Michael Clarke then decided to declare 4 overs after the tea break with his side on 527-7.
England had a hard task ahead of them as Alastair Cook and Joe Root opened their first innings on what is still a good pitch though. The opening pair put on their best partnership of the series, but Joe Root had opted for a heavily defensive approach and, for me, got bogged down. He'd made it to 8 from 57 when he nicked a good Peter Siddle delivery to keeper Haddin, to give Australia their first wicket with England on 47-1. This bought a night watchmen in Tim Bresnan to the crease with around 30 minutes of play left in the day. Bresnan was doing a decent job before he was wrongly given out caught behind off of Peter Siddle, with ball hitting his trousers rather than the bat. Yet Bresnan didn't review the decision as he was unsure and assumed it had hit the bat. This also showed the lack of confidence players now have in the DRS due to the incompetence of the umpires. Alastair Cook (36*) and Jonathon Trott (2*) saw out the rest of the day for the hosts, as England finished on 52-2, a deficit of 475 with 8 wickets in hand.
The Australians look good with Nathan Lyon getting just as much turn as Graeme Swann did and troubling captain Cook more than once. Peter Siddle has once again proved that he is Australia's game changer and go to bowler and he could well bowl a lot of overs tomorrow along with Lyon. These 2 will be the key bowlers if Australia are to bowl England out on Day 3.
A very good day for Australia and another one tomorrow could well set-up a 3rd test victory for the touring Aussies. I'll be back tomorrow to round-up things, and see if Australia have managed to increase their advantage.
Australia started well on the second day, surviving the first hour and adding 40 to their overnight score, before Steve Smith went after Graeme Swann in his first over of the day. An attempted big hit, picked out Jonny Bairstow who took a decent catch, to give England their first breakthrough of the morning. He will definetly feel that he gave away the chance of a century, getting himself out on 89. David Warner was the next to arrive at the crease to a chorus of boo's from the crowd. He didn't stick around long either, as he nicked a Swann delivery that popped off of Matt Prior's leg to give Jonathon Trott a simple catch at slip. Warner then reviewed the decision as he was unsure, having smashed into his pad at the same time that the ball clearly made contact with the bat. Needless to say that Warner went back to the dressing room to increased boo's from the Manchester crowd.
Brad Haddin was the next man in, and he upped the run rate, with Michael Clarke still going strong at the other end. The pair put on a nice 62 before Michael Clarke tried to cut one that was too close to him, chopping a Stuart Broad delivery on to the stumps. This gave Stuart Broad his 200th Test wicket something he waited a long while for since his 199th dismissal. Meanwhile, Clarke's innings of 187 is one of his best and most important innings for Australia - right when his team needed their captain to step up the most. A fantastic knock from him. Graeme Swann was soon back into the act, picking up his fifth wicket, as Peter Siddle was bowled trying a swipe across the line. A very patient and hard earned five-wicket haul for Graeme Swann and one that takes him to 18 wickets for the series, showing us how important he is to England and one of the world's best spinners.
Brad Haddin then put on an unbeaten 97 run partnership for the eighth wicket with Mitchell Starc, who finished on 66 not out from 71 balls and Haddin on 65 not out from 99 balls. Michael Clarke then decided to declare 4 overs after the tea break with his side on 527-7.
England had a hard task ahead of them as Alastair Cook and Joe Root opened their first innings on what is still a good pitch though. The opening pair put on their best partnership of the series, but Joe Root had opted for a heavily defensive approach and, for me, got bogged down. He'd made it to 8 from 57 when he nicked a good Peter Siddle delivery to keeper Haddin, to give Australia their first wicket with England on 47-1. This bought a night watchmen in Tim Bresnan to the crease with around 30 minutes of play left in the day. Bresnan was doing a decent job before he was wrongly given out caught behind off of Peter Siddle, with ball hitting his trousers rather than the bat. Yet Bresnan didn't review the decision as he was unsure and assumed it had hit the bat. This also showed the lack of confidence players now have in the DRS due to the incompetence of the umpires. Alastair Cook (36*) and Jonathon Trott (2*) saw out the rest of the day for the hosts, as England finished on 52-2, a deficit of 475 with 8 wickets in hand.
The Australians look good with Nathan Lyon getting just as much turn as Graeme Swann did and troubling captain Cook more than once. Peter Siddle has once again proved that he is Australia's game changer and go to bowler and he could well bowl a lot of overs tomorrow along with Lyon. These 2 will be the key bowlers if Australia are to bowl England out on Day 3.
A very good day for Australia and another one tomorrow could well set-up a 3rd test victory for the touring Aussies. I'll be back tomorrow to round-up things, and see if Australia have managed to increase their advantage.
Thursday, 1 August 2013
Australia dominate opening day in Manchester
Australia are well on top after Day 1 of the 3rd Test match at Old Trafford, on what was a flat pitch offering little for the seamer's on the opening day. The Australian closed day 1 on 303-3 after winning the toss and choosing to bat in good batting conditions on the opening day. Australia announced 3 changes to the team with David Warner, spinner Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc replacing Phil Hughes, young Ashton Agar and injured James Pattinson, meanwhile England were unchanged. Michael Clarke put in a very strong performance on the opening day, finishing not out on 125 with Steven Smith on 70 not out in a partnership worth 174 for the fourth wicket. Both players played the off spin of Graeme Swann very well, and this is all down to their good use of feet, something the rest of the Australian batsmen could learn from. England's fast bowlers plugged away on what was a hot and difficult day in the field. Tim Bresnan was the pick of England's quick's with figures of 1-51 in 20 overs, while the Graeme Swann's spin picked up 2 wickets for 82 runs in 25 overs on a pitch that will definetly offer more for the spinners than the fast bowlers. Stuart Broad bowled very well without any reward for his efforts, while James Anderson looked below par after the opening hour had passed and the ball stopped swinging.
The umpiring decisions once again overshadowed a good day of Cricket however. Usman Khawaja was given out caught behind off of the bowling of Graeme Swann on 1, putting at 82-2. Khawaja reviewed the decision, and it seemed he was right to do so as their was no mark on the bat from hotspot and no real noise to show Khawaja had hit. Yet the Third Umpire concluded that there was not enough evidence to overturn the decision, while most fans could see that there was enough proof. Cricket Australia have since asked the ICC for an explanation behind this decision and have every right to feel aggrieved.
Chris Rogers also played very well at the start of the day, looking very fluent in his innings of 84 off of 114 balls. Rogers hit 14 fours in his innings and took over from Shane Watson as the quick scorer of the opening pair. Rogers looked very good and probably deserved a century before he was out LBW to Graeme Swann. In contrast Rogers opening partner Shane Watson was a lot more cautious in his approach to his innings and whilst offering a lot less LBW chances, he did get beaten more on his outside edge as a result. He had got to 19 off of 49 balls before Tim Bresnan finally found his outside edge with captain Alastair Cook taking the catch at first slip.
This has all set-up an interesting Test match that should see a run fest in both teams first innings and probably lower scores later on as the spinners will dominate. Hope you have enjoyed my opening day round-up, and i'll be back tomorrow to review Day 2 of this vital clash.
The umpiring decisions once again overshadowed a good day of Cricket however. Usman Khawaja was given out caught behind off of the bowling of Graeme Swann on 1, putting at 82-2. Khawaja reviewed the decision, and it seemed he was right to do so as their was no mark on the bat from hotspot and no real noise to show Khawaja had hit. Yet the Third Umpire concluded that there was not enough evidence to overturn the decision, while most fans could see that there was enough proof. Cricket Australia have since asked the ICC for an explanation behind this decision and have every right to feel aggrieved.
Chris Rogers also played very well at the start of the day, looking very fluent in his innings of 84 off of 114 balls. Rogers hit 14 fours in his innings and took over from Shane Watson as the quick scorer of the opening pair. Rogers looked very good and probably deserved a century before he was out LBW to Graeme Swann. In contrast Rogers opening partner Shane Watson was a lot more cautious in his approach to his innings and whilst offering a lot less LBW chances, he did get beaten more on his outside edge as a result. He had got to 19 off of 49 balls before Tim Bresnan finally found his outside edge with captain Alastair Cook taking the catch at first slip.
This has all set-up an interesting Test match that should see a run fest in both teams first innings and probably lower scores later on as the spinners will dominate. Hope you have enjoyed my opening day round-up, and i'll be back tomorrow to review Day 2 of this vital clash.
Wednesday, 31 July 2013
3rd Ashes Test Match Preview
Thursday sees the start of the 3rd Ashes test match at Old Trafford in Manchester. With Australia already 2-0 down in the series, they need to bounce back in this match - especially with the bat. Meanwhile England look fairly good, although they could do with Alastair Cook and Jonathon Trott making some runs, and questions over Kevin Pietersen's fitness being answered sooner rather than later. If Pietersen is fit he too could do with a big score. Meanwhile if he is ruled out - James Taylor would like to make an impression, after his 121* in his guest appearance for Sussex against Australia last week.
As for the bowling, Australia have big questions to answer there as well, after James Pattinson went home having suffering a stress fracture of the back. The replacement will be either Mitchell Starc or Jackson Bird after their performances in Australia's 3 day game at Hove. On the spinners front, Australia also have questions to answer, after some average bowling from Ashton Agar has seen him take only 2 wickets in 2 tests, and Nathan Lyon is certainly thrown his hat in the ring for a recall on what should be another dry pitch, where spin will play a big part later in the match.
So it's time to look at the 2 sides chances and their selection issues ahead of the 3rd Ashes Test:
On the bowing front, both James Anderson and Graeme Swann have performed very well in the series. They have both taken 13 wickets, Anderson taking 10 at Trent Bridge and Swann 9 at Lord's. Bresnan took 4 in his only test at Lord's and Broad has only taken 4 across both matches, although this could be more of a pitch for him. With a dry pitch expected once again at Old Trafford, it should offer pace and bounce to start with, while spin should take centre stage later in the match. Therefore the squad changes from England, to bring in Chris Tremlett and Monty Panesar for Graham Onions and Steven Finn, have created 3 possible scenarios for the spot of the 4th bowler in this match. Tim Bresnan is the most likely to play, having put in a good performance at Lord's. Chris Tremlett could play if the coach Andy Flower feels that he could offer some pace and bounce and put the Australian batsmen in trouble that way. The most unlikely of these options is to play the second spinner Monty Panesar, as this upset the balance of the side and would only work if England played 5 bowlers, which would then weaken the batting side of things.
England's Key Player: Graeme Swann - Spin has historically played a massive part at Old Trafford, with Panesar playing well in previous years, Jim Laker taking 19 wickets there all those years ago and Swann himself took a 5 wicket haul in the last Old Trafford test against Bangladesh in June 2010. He's the joint leading wicket taker with 13 wickets, and has had some fun against a weak Australian batting line-up filled with plenty of Left-handers. I predict that he will have plenty more fun here again, especially in Australia's 2nd Innings once the pitch has worn.
As for the tourist's bowlers, issues have arisen there as well. James Pattinson has had to go home with a serious back injury, which should mean a recall for Mitchell Starc who took 5 wickets in the 1st Test before being replaced by Ryan Harris. Jackson Bird is also in the frame after taking 2 wickets in the practice match at Hove last week. In the spin department I expect to see Nathan Lyon replace Ashton Agar, after Agar has had a poor showing in the series so far, whilst also carrying an injury. Peter Siddle and Ryan Harris have been impressive thus far, with 11 wickets for Siddle in the series and 7 wickets in the 1 test that Harris has played. They will be the key men if Australia are to take 20 wickets.
Australia's Key Player: Michael Clarke the skipper and one of the best player's of spin, will need to lead by example and show the rest of Australia's top order how to play Swann. Some big runs, and inspired captaincy would certainly answer his critics back home. I think that he will play at big innings at some point to give him more confidence when in the field.
Finally, the weather forecast looks poor for Day's 3 and 5 at the moment so, both sides will want to build a big 1st innings lead, just as England did at Lord's. I expect the seamer's to play the big part in the 1st innings, while the 2nd innings will see the spinners bowl plenty of overs and probably take plenty of wickets as the pitch wears.
I hope you've enjoyed having a read of my thoughts ahead of this key match in the series and what should be an intriguing match. I'll be back tomorrow for a round-up of the first day's play.
As for the bowling, Australia have big questions to answer there as well, after James Pattinson went home having suffering a stress fracture of the back. The replacement will be either Mitchell Starc or Jackson Bird after their performances in Australia's 3 day game at Hove. On the spinners front, Australia also have questions to answer, after some average bowling from Ashton Agar has seen him take only 2 wickets in 2 tests, and Nathan Lyon is certainly thrown his hat in the ring for a recall on what should be another dry pitch, where spin will play a big part later in the match.
So it's time to look at the 2 sides chances and their selection issues ahead of the 3rd Ashes Test:
England
The hosts look in a very strong position with a 2-0 lead in the series with just 3 to play, meaning anything other than defeat will see England retain the Urn and a victory ensuring England win the series. As I mentioned earlier Captain Cook could do with a big score after not showing his best form so far, and Jonathon Trott is in the same boat with 2 ducks in 4 innings. Issues of Pietersen's fitness should be resolved and he is expected to play, however he has made only 85 runs in 4 innings so far - with a top score of 64 amongst those. So he could really do with a good match as well. If James Taylor continues to make runs in County Cricket he will soon be pushing for a recall, as i'm less than impressed with Jonny Bairstow. There's no doubting that the Yorkshire lad has talent, but he has a major technical issue - which is that he is continually being dismissed bowled, playing across the line. It will be interesting to see if he still suffers from this issue in the rest of the series.On the bowing front, both James Anderson and Graeme Swann have performed very well in the series. They have both taken 13 wickets, Anderson taking 10 at Trent Bridge and Swann 9 at Lord's. Bresnan took 4 in his only test at Lord's and Broad has only taken 4 across both matches, although this could be more of a pitch for him. With a dry pitch expected once again at Old Trafford, it should offer pace and bounce to start with, while spin should take centre stage later in the match. Therefore the squad changes from England, to bring in Chris Tremlett and Monty Panesar for Graham Onions and Steven Finn, have created 3 possible scenarios for the spot of the 4th bowler in this match. Tim Bresnan is the most likely to play, having put in a good performance at Lord's. Chris Tremlett could play if the coach Andy Flower feels that he could offer some pace and bounce and put the Australian batsmen in trouble that way. The most unlikely of these options is to play the second spinner Monty Panesar, as this upset the balance of the side and would only work if England played 5 bowlers, which would then weaken the batting side of things.
England's Key Player: Graeme Swann - Spin has historically played a massive part at Old Trafford, with Panesar playing well in previous years, Jim Laker taking 19 wickets there all those years ago and Swann himself took a 5 wicket haul in the last Old Trafford test against Bangladesh in June 2010. He's the joint leading wicket taker with 13 wickets, and has had some fun against a weak Australian batting line-up filled with plenty of Left-handers. I predict that he will have plenty more fun here again, especially in Australia's 2nd Innings once the pitch has worn.
Australia
Australia need to fight back hard, after a terrible showing in the 2nd Test match in particular. The batsmen are the main cause for concern, with none of the top order yet making a big contribution. Shane Watson is a fantastic batsman, but needs to sort out his issues around the front pad. The main issue being that he is constantly getting out LBW to balls coming back into his pads from England's pace bowlers. The issue has been an issue for so long that he has been out LBW a higher percentage of times than any other batsman in Test history. Chris Rodgers has also failed to impress and could well make way for David Warner, who made a big century for Australia A in South Africa last week. Usman Khawaja is likely to continue at No.3 after making a good 50 at Lord's and another in the 3 day game against Sussex. Steven Smith probably saved his place with a century against Sussex after some poor scores in the first 2 matches. I also expect Phil Hughes to keep his spot in the side despite 3 low scores since 81* in the 1st innings at Nottingham.As for the tourist's bowlers, issues have arisen there as well. James Pattinson has had to go home with a serious back injury, which should mean a recall for Mitchell Starc who took 5 wickets in the 1st Test before being replaced by Ryan Harris. Jackson Bird is also in the frame after taking 2 wickets in the practice match at Hove last week. In the spin department I expect to see Nathan Lyon replace Ashton Agar, after Agar has had a poor showing in the series so far, whilst also carrying an injury. Peter Siddle and Ryan Harris have been impressive thus far, with 11 wickets for Siddle in the series and 7 wickets in the 1 test that Harris has played. They will be the key men if Australia are to take 20 wickets.
Australia's Key Player: Michael Clarke the skipper and one of the best player's of spin, will need to lead by example and show the rest of Australia's top order how to play Swann. Some big runs, and inspired captaincy would certainly answer his critics back home. I think that he will play at big innings at some point to give him more confidence when in the field.
Finally, the weather forecast looks poor for Day's 3 and 5 at the moment so, both sides will want to build a big 1st innings lead, just as England did at Lord's. I expect the seamer's to play the big part in the 1st innings, while the 2nd innings will see the spinners bowl plenty of overs and probably take plenty of wickets as the pitch wears.
I hope you've enjoyed having a read of my thoughts ahead of this key match in the series and what should be an intriguing match. I'll be back tomorrow for a round-up of the first day's play.
Welcome to Bowling Action
Welcome to Bowling Action, the brand new cricket blog where i aim to discuss all things cricket. This ranges from keeping you up to date with the big cricket news, latest results and the big series. I will also be having my opinions on the great performances, exciting matches and the hot topics in the cricket world.
I hope you enjoy reading what i have to say, and feel free to comment on any of my posts with your own thoughts and opinions on the latest, big news. Please recommend the blog to your friends and comment on what more you’d like to see on the blog, maybe some player profiles, cricket history or perhaps some prediction contests to get readers involved.
Most of all, I hope you enjoy hearing my opinions.
Thanks for reading,
Michael
I hope you enjoy reading what i have to say, and feel free to comment on any of my posts with your own thoughts and opinions on the latest, big news. Please recommend the blog to your friends and comment on what more you’d like to see on the blog, maybe some player profiles, cricket history or perhaps some prediction contests to get readers involved.
Most of all, I hope you enjoy hearing my opinions.
Thanks for reading,
Michael
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