The only way to deal with an English summer is to embrace the concept of change. It also helps if you develop an interest in cloud formations and as an after thought it does help those swing bowlers!
Mitchell Johnson has decided to push his cause as an all rounder by showing that he can do everything at the same time.
Niall O'Brien displays a finely tuned sense of balance rarely seen or even needed on a cricket pitch. The shot can be described as the no foot glide and seems unlikely to make the coaching manuals in the near future.
There is no doubting that Shane Watson has the form (note that high left elbow) but will he have the substance when it is really needed?
O' to be young, talented and looking to make your place in the world. It is enoughto make you run up and down.
Who decided to give the players a rest? I want more action now. The long dark nights are so much bleaker without the prospect of a session or two of test dramatics. I only hope they return to the crease full of bounce and grimace.
But effective.
Chaminda Vaas is a class act. There is every chance that the dramas of an Ashes series will deflect the limelight from his farewell performances but there will be few in Sri Lanka who will underestimate just what a rock he has been for his team year. I hope he does something spectacular, but if not, he will still be remembered as a real pro.
Nothing about this test has followed the script, or made much sense, but it is compulsory viewing. A cricket journo's wet dream (yes, I am sure they have them) with so many stories there are going to be some angles left uncovered. Let us all hope it is not a weather forecast that ends the show.
Move over Hobbs and Sutcliffe there are new kids on the pitch. Lords is all about history so it was great to see Strauss and Cook break an 80 something year old record for the opening stand. It may prove to be the most memorable aspect of the entire test.
I know Freddy says he is going to retire from Test cricket but even his own face seems to suggest it is not a completely done deal.
But what is it that Fearless Freddy is stretching? Why is it that these things are now done in mid pitch where any photographer worth his SLR can take a compromising shot? Pre game pitch theatre, it could be the next big thing.
Or are they kittens no more?
Nice to see a bit of bump and jump as Tino Best gives the Bangla Boys a little work over.
... just for one day.
Now I am all for test match crowds making their own fun, especially when the home team is getting a dicking, but who is this guy supposed to be? Some say the Green Lantern, I favour the Leek Avenger but do you have any ideas?
Where have I been for the last few days? Well, in a desperate attempt to escape the bleakness of winter I have been lying on a beach in Fiji and I have the image to prove it. I am still on that magical island but now in a hotel that has phones, and internet, and most importantly TV. I shall see the start of the Ashes and I am excited!
I am just jealous of any one who is in a place warm enough to get a sweat up.
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