Basically the only way I saw Oz nicking it after they’d been bowled out 250-odd behind was the way it (nearly) turned out. There were arguments both ways, but I’d have given serious consideration to batting again while the opposition were seriously demoralised, then setting them about 500 to win with five sessions to bat out. That said, enforcing the follow-on has very seldom been a losing proposition, historically speaking. Might have looked a bit easier had Simon Jones not picked up that injury.
Simon Jones has failed his fitness test. No word on which of James Anderson or Paul Collingwood will replace him yet though. Who would Dopers prefer to see? On the one hand, Anderson maintains the balance of the past 4 tests and appears to have returned to form, at least for Lancashire, but Collingwood gives what could be important depth to the batting line-up; after all, Australia have to take all 20 wickets to retain the Ashes.
Anderson gives too many easy runs away, while Collingwood is a better bowler than, say, Bell. (Possible a better batsman too.) Also, Collingwood brings a touch of brilliance to the fielding and lifts the team that way.
Fletcher and Graveney talk of not playing for a draw, etc., but why not? If the weather’s going to be iffy, anyway, and bowlers unlikely to have to bowl long spells in the heat, then why not go with 3 “quicks”, 1 pie-thrower and the King of Spain?
I think both England and Australia have hamstrung themselves a bit by labelling some players as one-day specialists. To my mind, Symonds should have been drafted into the Test squad after his (post-piss up) one-day performances. A similar case might be made for Mike Hussey.
Symonds was given a very brief run in tests. He was picked to play in Sri Lanka last year after some great one day performances. After averaging 15 or so in his first couple of tests he was dropped for (IIRC) Katich and he hasn’t been given a chance since. It’s a pity.
I’d imagine England are pleased he’s not in the team. Not only does he bat well, his bowling is more than useful, and he’s a very good fielder. He’s also the sort of player who lifts his team-mates.
Collingwood is picked ahead of Anderson, meanwhile England win the toss and choose to bat. The pitch is smooth and even, perfect for batting and play will commence in 5 minutes.
In other news, I now go into meetings for the next two hours and won’t catch any of what could prove to be the most crucial session of play
I, for one, refuse absolutely to count one tiny chickenette until it’s all over. And as some wag had it the other day, “it ain’t over till the fat laddie spins”.
All out for under 350: The aussies are a good chance
All out for 350-380: Will be close if Hayden and Martyn remember how to bat again.
All out for 380+: Goodbye ashes.
352 for 9 - I suppose it would be against the spirit of the series to feel comfortable at any stage. Given that Collingwood was brought in because he could bat, and got 7, the pressure’s going to be on the 4 main bowlers this afternoon.
