Go Hard

James Pattinson, with a little help from Photoshop's puppet warp, demonstrates the pressures the quick bowler puts on his body.

The worrying thing is I haven't touched his face!

The Next Contenders

The Saffer boys look relaxed and ready to start a push for the top. Bring on those Aussies!

As In ....

... Aston Villa 2 - Manchester United/City 35.

Baying At The Sun

Dominic Cork - one of the great exponents of primal scream appealing.

Guess Who?

All right folks - who is he?

Is The Drawing On The Wall?

Or is Ricky just looking for new ways to contribute?

Now That's A Trophy

Now oversize maces and golden orbs are all very well, but I like my trophies with a bit of age and tradition to them. This folks, may not be a cricket trophy, but where I come from, bringing this baby home is about the equivalent of winning the world cup - in any sport. I don't know how long Taranaki will hold the Ranfurly Shield but it will be centre stage for the entire time.

Meanwhile, To The South...

Malinga captures his third one day hat-trick.

An event worth taking your hat off for.

To the Victor The Spoils

The smile of victory.
The orb of credibility.
The sceptre of dominance.
The beer of satisfaction.

And well deserved.

Tainted Love?

Will this tour have an effect on the Little Master's legacy or is it just another example of his teflon abilities? Don't get me wrong, I think he is a batting god, but even the immortal must get tired sometimes.

"This Bat, You See This Bat...

... this bat got me a double century.

... this bat cemented my place at number 3.

... this bat is the scourge of the Indian attack.

... I love this bat."

The Search Continues

Sachin seen asking every one he meets if they can bowl and would they be available for the next year or so.

Don't Jump Dunc

It is only a matter of time before someone pushes you.

You're Outta Here

You gotta love Malinga energy - it might reside in his hair or that magic red jewel on the back of his boot.

A Pictures Worth A 1000 Words

This image reminds me of those old style English tests where they give you a picture and you have to make up a story around what has happened.

Tamim seems very zen about it all or perhaps he is just pondering what the Integrity Committee might say about his running between the wickets. Which would make sense if he was playing for Pakistan rather than Bangladesh - sometimes I can be a complete dick.

Nice Night...

... for a game of cricket.

Pas de Deux

Their teams might be heading in different directions but Prior and Tendulkar are all poise and grace in this image.

On Top Of The World

There can be very little arguement as to who is number one.

Make Your Own Fun Fellas

When there is only one side playing quality test cricket on the field your average spectator can be forgiven for creating a bit of a distraction. No stones, no riot shields, just a lot of beer and a winning feeling.

Failing to Make Contact

Kumar seems to sum up the Indian effort. They are trying hard enough but they just can't get it right. No rhythm, no partnerships, just frustration.

Unsung Heroes Of Cricket

The groundsman - fiery, intense, hardworking, passionate, grumpy and tough.

I dare any bored teenage punk in Birmingham to try and set fire to (and loot) this mans patch.

Penny For Them

Couple of old heads in this image - any ideas what thoughts might be circulating within them?

Sri Lanka Rides Again

Tillers expresses his joy at being back in the saddle. Of course, scoring a hundred in 55 balls is also going to make him jump for joy.

Welcome Back

Hamilton Masakadza shows his true colours and you can sense his excitement about his team being back in the big time. Let's hope they can be competitive.

Blowing Off the Rust

Mushfiqur Rahim looks less than impressed with the return from the outfield.

You would have to say the Zimbabwe batsman looked a bit sharper than the Bangladesh fielders on their first day back in the big time.

The Vigour of Youth

There are a lot of young guns pushing the boundaries at the moment.

Here Stuart Meaker exhibits all the vitality and flexibility of those on the rise.

Form Is Temporary...

... and of course, class is permanent. So who is this classic shot maker?

Like Chalk And Cheese

It is hard to imagine two sides who's body language could be more different than England and India.

England are maturing like a fine cheese, India are crumbling like high quality chalk.

There can be few who could argue over who the better team is given that England is now able to win both home and away.

Confusing Signs

As we all know now - he was, but then he wasn't.

More ironic is the rise of the new hero - not sure if it was Ian Bell or MS Dhoni?