Cordon Verde

Bloody Test Cricket. You just can't rely on it. I get all excited about watching a few overs before bed, only to be greeted by Welsh rainfall and the prospect of a dull old draw. Next thing I know I am waking up to a miracle victory, or collapse, depending on your perspective.

Memo to me - always record the last session at Cardiff - anything could happen.

A Bravo Try

This great shot of Dwayne Bravo attempting the impossible is one of those truth is stranger than fiction type moments.

While I have 'shopped the image colour wise his elevation and arc are just as the camera guy snapped it.

Stick A Fork In It...

... it's done.

Chennai Champions has a definite ring to it and despite the fact they flattened Bangalore in the final, it is appropriate that the IPL should end with a lot of bubble and fizz. The photo now goes on the wall and they can start to say the word that isn't - 3peat.

Men In White (On Green)

Tharanga Paranavitana plays a quality shot, and what a joy to someone in darkest NZ to turn on the box and find men in white playing quality test cricket in  Welsh sunshine. The England versus the Sub Continent may well get me through the next few months.

Terry Jenner RIP

There are only a few special sportsman who can compete at the highest level and then go on to have an even greater impact as a mentor and coach.

Terry Jenner would have to rate as one of those special people.

Race To Raina ...

... and the IPL final.

Comprehensively Beaten

Cleaned out.
Castled.
Gone all ends up.
Missed a straight one.
Bowled neck and crop.
(leave your bit of descriptive genius in the comment box)

However you choose to describe it, Kraigg Braithwaite is very, very out - and I have little sympathy for anyone who spells Craig with a K and two G's.

Good Form

Ravi Rampaul showing a bit of classical  form with the straight drive.

There is nothing quite like a nice high elbow.

Young Lion

Jade Dernbach putting in the effort, all of which was rewarded with a fine 5 for 44 against the Sri Lankans.

He looks like another in a long line of big, strong, bang it into the deck bowlers.

Batsman:Tweaker

Tillakaratne Dilshan, perhaps inspired by Yuvraj Singh's recent success, gets in touch with his spinning muse - and takes it seriously judging by his concentrated stare.

If he has half the success of Yuvy, Sri Lanka will be very pleased.

If I Could Turn Back Time?

Well I can't, but Gilly seems to be able to at least stop it in it's tracks. His vintage smash and grab of 106 is worthy of a little retro interpretation.

Tough Job

Hell of a job being an IPL cheerleader. The heat, the crowds, the pressure, the bloody horrible music. However, the guy with the best job in the IPL is attached to the arm that gets to cool the girls down between sixes.

Caribbean Big Air

First Test win since 2009 is enough to put a spring in any cricketer's step.

Vettoris' Midriff

As a long suffering Black Cap supporter it is good to see that the daily grind of IPL madness seems to be keeping our best bowling asset in good shape.

No middle age spread here. Now if he could just remember how to turn the ball ...

No sooner had I posted this little missive when I learned that Dan The Man has injured himself and is flying home to NZ - see that's what it is like being a Black Cap supporter!

Medic!!!

Lendl Simmons is only one of the players who have required a bit of attention in this test match - a case of more hit and less giggle than we have been served up in the IPL.

That Is Tea Gentlemen

A wistful shot of Walter Hammond circa 1940, when afternoon tea meant a fag, a cuppa and very little analysis.

Have A Go, Ya Mug

Abdullah Akhunzada  gives it all he has for Kuwait while Saheed Akolade is just happy to take a wicket for Nigeria. For the record Kuwait won the match, and the World Cricket League Division 7 Final by 72 runs.

Missing The Straight One

The quick yorker, is there a more difficult delivery to keep out? When delivered with the unique Malinga technique it certainly doesn't get any easier. The result, a shattered castle and a batsman in a bit of a blur.

Bats A Flying

Who says there is no intensity and aggression in county cricket. Not James Taylor and Alex Hales, who are seen here being struck hard enough by the bowler to loose a bit of bat focus. The cricket aficionado will understand that these events did not occur at the same time despite the photographic evidence.

The Dark Sweeper

Things cricket have become soooo boring I have reverted back to guessing games for a little entertainment.  Who is this one knee dark matter batter? Shouldn't take someone too long.

Waugh II Waugh

Why this image? Well I like it because they are both smiling and relaxed - not a common sight especially for Steve.

In the post World Cup wasteland of IPL and county cricket this one is for the Aussie supporters to tide them over 'till they next get to chant away.

The Slash

Lendl Simmons is all a blur as he thrashes one past point.

A Bum Shot

In both senses of the phrase.

Sunny Sohal attempts a shot off the back cheek.

Pop Appeal

Sreesanth, probably the way he sees himself.

You got to admit, he is nothing if not colourful.