The Aussies started badly, but recovered through some good bowling from an underperforming Johnson, then we got ourselves back in the game through KP and Colly, they then snared a couple of cheap wickets and were on top, then Prior and a rejuvenated Freddie (wasn't it great to see him playing like that?) put England back on top, before the packhorse Siddle nipped in with a couple of late wickets to even it all up. Magnificent, pulsating and tiring stuff. Just cannot wait until day two.
On reflection of the day, although it seems even I'd say England will be marginally the happier - partly because they won the toss and are bowling last on a wicket that will crumble horribly. If Broad, Swann and tail can hang around for an hour or so they'll get 50 runs and 390 will be an imposing score. Saying that, australia will feel well in the game, and when they do bat they'll be pleased that 5 Englishmen made starts but didn't go on, so you can bat well if you apply yourself.
Match higlights?
Seeing Freddie back in good spirits - he hit a couple of fabulous shots, promising signs for him with the ball.
Prior's knock - for me that was knock of the day, he didn't put a foot wrong until the wicket which was a fine piece of bowling from Siddle
Hilfenhaus' performance - the pick of the bowlers for me, and many will know I'm an admirer. He could now play the whole series as he can swing the ball at pace, which is all you need in England (and Wales).
The Ashes party at the Vogel's - stunning toad in the hole and crumble.
Things we'd rather not mention:
KP - looks injured, and a typically him dismissal
Johnson's bowling - looks to be struggling with the Duke ball
Colly's shot after looking so good.
Onward to another tight one on day two. Enjoy.
Nic
Average bowling matched by very average shots. Really average bowling, in fact. Lee looked far and away their best bowler against The Lions and I think they'll struggle without him.
ReplyDeleteHilf looked ok but I don't fancy him like Chambers does, so not sure he was good enough to warrant a spot for the rest of the Tour.
Looking forward to seeing how Monty gets on tonight. My prediction:
1st ball: 59.2mph outside off stump. Batsman confidently plays the ball. Monty shrieks as if he's dipped his old man in a hot samosa.
2nd ball: 59.2mph half volley. Batsman mercurially drives the balls through extra cover for four. Monty shrieks as if he's dipped his old man in a hot samosa.
3rd ball: 59.2mph outside off stump. Batsman confidently plays the ball. Monty shrieks as if he's dipped his old man in a hot samosa.
4th ball: 59.2mph too straight. Batsman plays into the gap on the on side. Monty shrieks as if he's dipped his old man in a hot samosa.
5th ball: 59.2mph outside off stump. Batsman confidently plays the ball. Monty shrieks as if he's dipped his old man in a hot samosa.
6th ball: 59.2mph half tracker. Batsman dispatches for four. Monty shrieks as if he's dipped his old man in a hot samosa.
Really enjoyed your comments on day 1's play Chambers. Keep them coming.
ReplyDelete390 will be a good target to set today. Broad's just driven for four. Cracking start...
Crones