Custom Bats Cricket Forum
General Cricket => Latest Matches => Topic started by: thegowerwaft on June 11, 2023, 02:00:40 PM
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Sooooooo. Several injuries, a few batters looking for form and Aus winning World Test title. Perfect set up for an Ashes summer 😬
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Would have us a favourites a month ago. Now missing our best spinner, couple of seamers and no Foakes to steady the ship.
I expect us to carry on being bold and the groundsmen to stick to the plan of fast scoring wickets.
Broad could have Warner on toast again but their middle order and pace attack looks good.
Even I reckon, hope for a win head says it could be tight with Smith Cummins Boland and Head all playing a big role. Starc too even if the Indians have him some tap.
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Anyone else going on Friday? 70 of us from my club making our way up from Bristol
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Australia look in good shape.
Bowland has a big part to play. Not just his wicket taking but mainly his economy.
Khwaja looks out of sorts (at present)
Buzzed for the summer of cricket!!
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The head to heads of the teams look interesting.
You would probably go
Duckett
Uzzie
Marnus
Smith
Brook vs Head a tie, so Root. (artistic licence)
Stokes (Green will be moore if a threat with the ball than bat in my view though)
Foakes. Oh, sorry Carey (Bairstow's keeping against Ireland looked average and who knows where his batting is at)
Cummins
Boland
Lyon
Anderson.
I just think the Aussies could have rather too much.
But.
Boland and Cummins hit a very consistent length and no one has ever gone after them.
Bazball does funny things to bowlers and captains so I think this is a difficult one to call.
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As a neutral observer this is one of the most anticipated series for a long time. Everyone wants to see if England can continue with Baz ball. Can't wait.
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Only going to Old Trafford and Oval this year - no luck with Edgbaston, Lords and Headingley too expensive. Also fear any possible train strikes making life difficult like last year
As for England's XI I guess it's down to the bowlers - Anderson obviously plays if he's fit, then feel like it's a crapshoot. Feel like this a game Wood would play as a point of difference bowler, then you've got Robinson or Broad - ridiculously tough call to make, but feel like Robinson only just edges it. Or they play both and leave Moeen out altogether? Ah.
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Anyone else going on Friday? 70 of us from my club making our way up from Bristol
Hope you're not on my train :D I'm there with a few mates, Raglan stand.
How Duckett goes could be key for England, as well as Brook's first proper home series. If they come off then England are in a great position, if they don't it all looks a bit dependent on Root again. Can't see YJB having the same impact from 7 as he did at 5 last year, but then who knows. He's certainly got after Cummins and Starc enough in ODIs to make you think it's possible.
Can't see Warner or Khawaja suddenly figuring out how to bat in England, and think Green will struggle with the bat (agree looks a threat with the ball!). Head 2.0 will inevitably get some runs at some point, but find it hard to see him having a big series even though he's clearly improved since last time. So it's mainly Marnus and Smith for Australia.
Reckon/hope three of Anderson, Robinson, Wood and Broad will play every test, and that's a serious seam attack. Worried Moeen won't last the series though, and who knows where we end up if that happens.
So it's close! Results in the early tests are huge I think, if either side get on top it'll be very difficult to claw it back.
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Anyone else going on Friday? 70 of us from my club making our way up from Bristol
Only the 6 of us but we'll be in the Hollies as usual! Should be a cracker
Been gifted a few tickets for the Oval by the PCA too, the ultimate perk!
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I'm over for sunny Norway to cool down a bit, will be at the first two days.
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How Duckett goes could be key for England, as well as Brook's first proper home series. If they come off then England are in a great position, if they don't it all looks a bit dependent on Root again. Can't see YJB having the same impact from 7 as he did at 5 last year, but then who knows. He's certainly got after Cummins and Starc enough in ODIs to make you think it's possible.
Agree on all three points here; Duckett needs to provide some stability in the first ten overs, because Crawley sure as hell won't, and Brook needs to remember that he broke through because he played himself in before the pyrotechnics. Bairstow...I know I've said a lot on the subject, I just feel sorry for him that he is being messed around again, and I don't follow the rationale at all. At seven, he has very little to come, so likely he will be just a bit too manic trying to chase runs.
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Your Bairstow point is absolutely the one I think stands out as telling. Making Bairstow earn his place back in the middle order would have been the best way to manage it - a motivated YJB is the best YJB.
My biggest worry is less the openers - they are going to be boom or bust whatever. It is Pope who seems the weak link. Especially if he tries that proto-Trott wander down the wicket at the fast bowlers....
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Your Bairstow point is absolutely the one I think stands out as telling. Making Bairstow earn his place back in the middle order would have been the best way to manage it - a motivated YJB is the best YJB.
Whether you'd done that, or given him five back and made someone step up to open (for me, it would have been the latter) I think either option makes a lot more sense than dropping Foakes does.
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Yes. I thought it was Brook vs Bairstow tbh. Ultimately I thought that Brook deserves the gig as incumbent.
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XI named, Broad getting the nod over Wood, Moeen playing...
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with stokes knee problem it looks a bowler short.
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Stokes bowled a sufficient spell in the nets today which seems to suggest he's up to the task.
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Robinson, Anderson and Broad. I would be surprised if its a pitch for Bazball. Clearly Eng is backing the ball to do things.
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with stokes knee problem it looks a bowler short.
much as YJB could bat 6 and Mo 7, not sure I fancy Broad at 8
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No we are a bowler or bowling all rounder short here. Cannot see Stokes bowling much despite what he does in the nets.
One thing I think will happen is the Aussies will try to hit Mo out of the attack if the pitch is true.
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No we are a bowler or bowling all rounder short here. Cannot see Stokes bowling much despite what he does in the nets.
One thing I think will happen is the Aussies will try to hit Mo out of the attack if the pitch is true.
Completely agree. The lack of a genuine quick bowler for England is concerning, but hard to drop any of Broad, Anderson or Robinson. Would like to have seen Wood included. Feel like they had to play Mo after bringing him back, but not sure that's the right decision, short of him offering a bit more with the bat.
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An attack crying out for a green seamer and winning the toss!
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People genuinely don't believe Stokes when he asked for flat and fast wickets right
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In an interview yesterday the Edgbaston Head Groundsman said that he hasn't heard from anyone in the England set-up during the 11 years he's been in the job.
He saw the quote from Stokes about fast pitches on Sky Sports News
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In an interview yesterday the Edgbaston Head Groundsman said that he hasn't heard from anyone in the England set-up during the 11 years he's been in the job.
He saw the quote from Stokes about fast pitches on Sky Sports News
Calling BS from the groundsman there. (not Ben Stokes)
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Calling BS from the groundsman there. (not Ben Stokes)
The fast bowler hasn't been selected
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Are the highlights on BBC2 like the Ireland test?
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Are the highlights on BBC2 like the Ireland test?
Yes says From 7pm
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Not good initial signs looking at the pitch. Its relatively warm for this time of the year, but this looks like a road which might take turn from Day 3.
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This is terrible captaincy from Cummins - far too negative, too easy for England
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Good job DRS exists otherwise the hapless Pope and Crawley would’ve survived from umpiring incompetence...
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Not sure Popes was incompetence, looked to pitch outside leg on first glance to me too. Good review. Crawley's however, was pretty obvious!
Set up nicely for the afternoon. Nothing's changed, still make Oz favorites in the game and series.
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Still fancy England to put on a big score, but this pitch doesn't look like a results wicket.
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well, Test cricket now has a way of getting Brook out! :)
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That Brook dismissal has really hurt us now, all of our batters have been looking really good and found ways to get out when set.
Apartment from Stokes who has played no cricket and needs time at the crease.
Eng in a serious spot of bother here.
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Hell of an unusual dismissal for Brook you don’t see that very often
Baz ball or no baz ball we need Root at his calm best. He is the only one it comes naturally too
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That shot from Rooty is still so, so good
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Interesting innings from Mo. Timed one into the crowd and then out stumped by 5m. No time wasted!
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Rooooooooooooooot
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My word, Ben
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Benjamin stokes, some stones on you!
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Bairstow justified his place
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I think we are batting to save the test on day 4.
Nowhere close to enough runs, and done at a pace that allows the Aussies all the time in the world to bat us into the dirt.
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We needed 500plus. We have left so many runs out there.
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I think we are batting to save the test on day 4.
Nowhere close to enough runs, and done at a pace that allows the Aussies all the time in the world to bat us into the dirt.
Still so negative. Lets go Bazball.
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Bit short on runs I think but there was a hint of turn for Lyon who bowled very well, he is so underrated by us England fans.
It’s gun barrel straight for the seamers but Root played one of his best innings IMO. His only weakness seems against high pace but that’s undone even the great players of the past maybe except Gooch.
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Bairstow justified his place
Key partnership between him and Root.. That's what he gives you over Foakes. Yes he's not as accomplished with the gloves, but Foakes wouldn't play that type of counter attacking innings either. Thought we may have tried to bat through an hr this morning, then had a go before lunch. If we'd have taken a wicket last night though, the declaration would have looked great move.
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I’m so confused.
Did the Aussies rope a dope and just let us slog ourselves out to an under par score?
OR
For the first time in my memory of Ashes cricket did the Aussies just take a backward step???
Really defensive, really early, dropping catches & then their openers looked spooked too!!!
No idea who’s on top till both sides have batted
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I think were waiting for the laquer off the ball then we know quickly were this game heading
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I’m so confused.
Did the Aussies rope a dope and just let us slog ourselves out to an under par score?
OR
For the first time in my memory of Ashes cricket did the Aussies just take a backward step???
Really defensive, really early, dropping catches & then their openers looked spooked too!!!
No idea who’s on top till both sides have batted
I think there is a world of nuance to the four sessions now complete. England's score was probably 50-100 under "par" if we were prepared to grind for five sessions, but as has previously been established, we don't have a line up that can necessarily grind runs out consistently, and there has already been sign that this will not be a road for five days. They will be happy that a statement was made, and Australia have definitely seemed spooked - not so much at the start of the day, I think that was a long held plan, but as the game went on. And Scott Boland might find himself hit out of the series pretty soon...
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Uzzie you little ripper. Checks another off the bucket list.
This dude should’ve played 100+ tests by now had we appreciated him more…
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Great innings from Uzzie it’s just a shame and yes I’m a Foakes fan that both him and YB cannot play in the same team because missed chances will cost us and Foakes takes these misses
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Bairstow being shown for what he is - a rubbish keeper
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Moeen unlucky. Thought he bowled really well with attacking fields while perhaps tiring as the day went on. What a ball to get Green - but then I suppose his drift and turn have never been in doubt.
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Key partnership between him and Root.. That's what he gives you over Foakes. Yes he's not as accomplished with the gloves, but Foakes wouldn't play that type of counter attacking innings either. Thought we may have tried to bat through an hr this morning, then had a go before lunch. If we'd have taken a wicket last night though, the declaration would have looked great move.
Those two wickets we could have taken last night...
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Fantastic to see how much this meant for Usman K.
https://youtu.be/gM6avebd5PI
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Bairstow being shown for what he is - a rubbish keeper
Cancelled out his runs with his two misses but we know his keeping isn’t a patch on Foakes but his attacking batting style is what they want let’s hope they don’t prove to costly
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Those two wickets we could have taken last night...
Yep, we could. We could have also been 300 all out. Foakes could also not have taken those chances too. I've never said Bairstow is as good a keeper, that's not a debate. Just feel he adds more with the bat and maybe sometimes that's the trade off. Not sure those chances will ultimately cost us, or if not scoring enough runs in ideal conditions on a flat track on day 1 will. If we lose, no doubt everyone on here will point to those chances missed and it would be understandable, but ultimately there are always other factors too.
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I just meant the next day would have done.
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Foakes would have taken that!
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Oh no not another one!
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Give the gloves to Pope for gods sake!!!
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If Stokes was fearless he'd drop Bairstow
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Foakes would have taken that!
I’m a firm believer he would have taken all 3 of them. But this is what we have and what we are likely to have all series,
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Iv noticed on the highlights and looking at the catch from Marnus and the drip from Carey that for some reason YJB has a thing for catching one handed. Now iv obviously never kept at this level but spent most of the playing days as a keeper and they are 2 handed grabs both in my opinion. 1 sticks and 1 spills, just wonder why the 1 handed technique
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Some gifted wickets here
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Australia have absolutely thrown that.
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Australia have absolutely thrown that.
Yes but it sounds like a least captaincy wise something unconventional worked
Stokes seems to have a natural braveness to try at least
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If Stokes was fearless he'd drop Bairstow
Ah
Honestly find this crazy! He s England best player last summer pretty much, came in yesterday at a very tricky time and changed the moment um completely. I get he's made mistakes with the gloves, but he has been out for a while.
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Ah
Honestly find this crazy! He s England best player last summer pretty much, came in yesterday at a very tricky time and changed the moment um completely. I get he's made mistakes with the gloves, but he has been out for a while.
As Key has said some people will always find problems with solutions instead of running with it.
Truth is Foakes soon will not even be 2nd choice keeper with players coming through this blueprint is not going away.
We are seeing another change in cricket.
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Iv noticed on the highlights and looking at the catch from Marnus and the drip from Carey that for some reason YJB has a thing for catching one handed. Now iv obviously never kept at this level but spent most of the playing days as a keeper and they are 2 handed grabs both in my opinion. 1 sticks and 1 spills, just wonder why the 1 handed technique
He not a great mover and looks a little lead footed to me.
Bats well and is a game changer though
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The Moeen Ali situation is probably more outrageous.
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His finger looks in bad order.
https://twitter.com/henrymoeranBBC/status/1670438318721363972?t=nNnE-UNhotWVHC82xCEUCg&s=19
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His finger looks in bad order.
https://twitter.com/henrymoeranBBC/status/1670438318721363972?t=nNnE-UNhotWVHC82xCEUCg&s=19
Well, as long as his bank balance is okay.
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His finger looks in bad order.
https://twitter.com/henrymoeranBBC/status/1670438318721363972?t=nNnE-UNhotWVHC82xCEUCg&s=19
Reckon we may need to find another spinner come the third test? Got over a week between this one and Lords then they are a bit closer together
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Yeah I don’t think he is going to be able to bowl properly with that.
He got hit for a few runs but did make chances as he usually does.
Two cymbals didn’t help behind the sticks
They may look at Ahmed. If there’s a captain who can manage a younger player Stokes looks to have far more to give than Root or Cook ever did. After Swann retired I mean
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His finger looks in bad order.
https://twitter.com/henrymoeranBBC/status/1670438318721363972?t=nNnE-UNhotWVHC82xCEUCg&s=19
How has he even done that? Just by bowling a lot of overs? He might not have the practice of bowling long spells but never seen a spinner's finger get injured that way before.
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Wonder what mad declaration Stokes will come up with today
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How has he even done that? Just by bowling a lot of overs? He might not have the practice of bowling long spells but never seen a spinner's finger get injured that way before.
At a guess, he's not bowling much playing T20 and hasn't built up a callus on his spinning finger. Going from that into bowling heaps of overs in a Test match, he's just ripped his finger to bits.
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How has he even done that? Just by bowling a lot of overs? He might not have the practice of bowling long spells but never seen a spinner's finger get injured that way before.
This is a pretty common off spinners injury. Ask Tim May or Graeme Swann...
Wonder what mad declaration Stokes will come up with today
We need a 325 plus lead. Possibly 350 plus.
So Stokes will set them 300. Despite being a bowler probably down
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I love Joe Root
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So, how do England get Foakes and Bairstow into the same side...answers on a postcard to Fat Bobbie Key care of the ECB...
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You don't if you're 90 percent of CBF members, you just drop Bairstow! 😆 Would be great to get them both in, but not sure it's possible.
Could have done without that from Root. Was enjoying his knock this morning!
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Lucky boy is Stokes. Looking very scratchy, could have done with more time at the crease before the series you have to think.
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Such a bad time to lose a wicket that. Especially as Brook was looking so good.
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These runs from 9/10/11 are really, really, vital. Still can only hope they can get to 300
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Ah
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Aussies should knock this off pretty easily here, first innings declaration looks even more daft now.
We have given this up a bit in my view.
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Bairstow not even moving there....
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Our keeping in this game has been shocking
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Zak Crawley looked amazing in 1st inning but threw away his wicket in the second. Lot of potential for greatness there.
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Bairstow not even moving there....
To me, he doesn’t look match fit. Very lazy!
I can see these two chasing the tubs down themselves if Warner gets going.
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Foakes must be livid at home
How was that anyone but Bairstows catch!
Kept us in the game first dig
But cost us dear with the gloves
Poor
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Deserved his slot as a batsman where he's been so successful under this coaching/captaincy. Keeping wise, it's shown the flaw in selecting an inferior keeper who is still recovering from an extremely serious injury.
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STUART
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Slightly off topic but them Masuri helmet material that Crawley and Stokes are wearing not seen them before - sorry if this has been mentioned anybody know which helmet they are
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Deserved his slot as a batsman where he's been so successful under this coaching/captaincy. Keeping wise, it's shown the flaw in selecting an inferior keeper who is still recovering from an extremely serious injury.
Quite - it should never have been an either/or between Bairstow and Foakes. Jonny is one of our five best batsmen and Foakes is our best keeper. However you make that work - whichever of the top three for this game you leave out (because really it has to be one of them) and whoever opens - you have to go with the best you have.
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Slightly off topic but them Masuri helmet material that Crawley and Stokes are wearing not seen them before - sorry if this has been mentioned anybody know which helmet they are
Sports direct specials?
https://www.sportsdirect.com/masuri-prem-helmet-855049#colcode=85504918 (https://www.sportsdirect.com/masuri-prem-helmet-855049#colcode=85504918)
Obviously they aren't, and I am also a bit of a fan.
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I really like the material but it was my thought too Philip
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Quite - it should never have been an either/or between Bairstow and Foakes. Jonny is one of our five best batsmen and Foakes is our best keeper. However you make that work - whichever of the top three for this game you leave out (because really it has to be one of them) and whoever opens - you have to go with the best you have.
Exactly the point some of us are making. Bairstow had an unbelievable 12 months as a batsman so had to come back in.
No one says it’s easy but pick you best 10 players and then the best keeper batsman, not batsman keeper.
Someone has to move up that’s how it is. Anyone saying Crawley is a better test cricketer than Foakes needs a talking to :)
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Exactly the point some of us are making. Bairstow had an unbelievable 12 months as a batsman so had to come back in.
No one says it’s easy but pick you best 10 players and then the best keeper batsman, not batsman keeper.
Someone has to move up that’s how it is. Anyone saying Crawley is a better test cricketer than Foakes needs a talking to :)
Are you opening with Foakes then?
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Are you opening with Foakes then?
Pick the best 11 including a keeper batsman is the point myself and @Manormanic and others are making.
Crawley has not done enough he is dropped making 1 spot.
One of the top 2 other batsmen moves up to open. Not ideal I grant you…but needed. Brook stays where he is as he does not have the experience.
Even Stokes could move up.
No one I’ve read on here thinks Bairstow should not play that would be madness.
Got to ask if JB continues to keep like this match how much will he be in credit by the end of the series.
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I'll let Stokes and McCullum select the team considering they've won 11 from 13 and broken allsorts of longstanding records along the way.
England to win tomorrow afternoon by 40-50 runs after a delayed start.
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I'll let Stokes and McCullum select the team considering they've won 11 from 13 and broken allsorts of longstanding records along the way.
England to win tomorrow afternoon by 40-50 runs after a delayed start.
I'll let the pundits predict the score as they've got far more experience commentating on cricket matches than I do ;)
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Pick the best 11 including a keeper batsman is the point myself and @Manormanic and others are making.
Crawley has not done enough he is dropped making 1 spot.
One of the top 2 other batsmen moves up to open. Not ideal I grant you…but needed. Brook stays where he is as he does not have the experience.
Even Stokes could move up.
No one I’ve read on here thinks Bairstow should not play that would be madness.
Got to ask if JB continues to keep like this match how much will he be in credit by the end of the series.
To be honest, given how his performance deteriorated from the first morning (not Foakes, but decent) through the evening (me, if I still played), you'd have to wonder if he will even make it through the series fit. And this is another point - with the bat he is hugely important in all three formats, so why are we damaging his long term prospects making him keep?
Genuinely, it doesn't matter who you drop - I'd assume one of the openers, since Pope is vice captain - nor does it hugely matter who is your make shift opener, whether Pope moves up and Stokes or Root bat three, or whether Foakes (or even Ali) do it to make up the numbers. The point is, Foakes is the man most likely to change a game in the field (I'll allow him the first Carey drop, and the second barely cost a run, but Foakes would have gobbled the stumping and that cost 36 on paper and more in reality) and Jonny is in your top three with the bat.
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I'll let the pundits predict the score as they've got far more experience commentating on cricket matches than I do ;)
No way.
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I'll let the pundits predict the score as they've got far more experience commentating on cricket matches than I do ;)
And so you should.
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Good day to bowl!!!!
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Big day today...if Eng win then all is forgotten, otherwise the first day declaration decision is going to come back and bite in a big way. Not that the Eng management would care. Not seen a more chilled dressing room ever.
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Will be a good day if the cloud cover remains, if it clears then it's definitely even more advantage Aus. If it hoops though we're well in the game. Looking at the forecast, we've maybe got an hr or two where it could be really helpful conditions. So gotta make the most of it!
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Watching back some of these missed Bairstow chances, forget about the first innings declaration - not picking the best keeper is looking very foolish.
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Is it just me, or does he look overweight?
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Is it just me, or does he look overweight?
He's always carried a bit of timber, but I guess months off unable to do any conditioning work probably doesn't help.
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I'm not the only one bricking it right
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trying not to be pessimistic but i can only see an aussie win here. pitch is slow and flat. too much for us to do
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More of those please Stu
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I know he’s never been quick, could be just me or is Robinson lacking his usual nip
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Does look a little tired coming into his delivery stride.
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All pressure gone with Moeen on
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HAHA
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First few balls were absolute garbage but that wicket ball was a ripper.
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Feel like the game has slipped away from us now with all these singles
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Slightly off topic but them Masuri helmet material that Crawley and Stokes are wearing not seen them before - sorry if this has been mentioned anybody know which helmet they are
Looks like C line helmets with T line double bar grills
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OH CAPTAIN MY CAPTAIN
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He's always carried a bit of timber, but I guess months off unable to do any conditioning work probably doesn't help.
According to a friend who works at Yorkshire, its not a lack of condition so much as too much conditioning. He's bulked up in a way that rarely benefits a cricketer...
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Ben, take the new ball.
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Take. The. New. Ball!
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Cummings leading his side to victory here, England being a bit unsure as to how to proceed and leaking important runs
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Game over I reckon. No idea why he kept Root on
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Lyon is ready to head-butt the ball.
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He is not supposed to use his bat. What's going on?!
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We should not have lost this game
Knew it would be close but it's been a poor last 45 minutes
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Great final day, I was convinced England were going to win after Root took that catch to be honest. Well played Cummins and Lyon at the end.
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Thought Birmingham was a ‘fortress’ lol
We won a game where Smith and Marnus scored 35 combined. Lovely.
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Thought Birmingham was a ‘fortress’ lol
We won a game where Smith and Marnus scored 35 combined. Lovely.
I'll be gracious in defeat. Well played Australia. That declaration looks poor now.
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I'll be gracious in defeat. Well played Australia. That declaration looks poor now.
Declaration was fine, if you'd taken all your chances you would've won.
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The declaration gave us a chance
They were 8 down
24 no balls in the game was criminal
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I'll be gracious in defeat. Well played Australia. That declaration looks poor now.
I was being tongue in cheek…
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Shame Moeen got hurt tbh.
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Great Innings by Cummings top class fair play best side won onto the next
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Do t think the declaration cost us but missed chances did.
Kuwajah was brilliant and deserved to be on the winning side. Fantastic temperament and skill
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This Test match was as good as it gets. Absolute nail biter! Benji didn't do anything wrong with the declaration, he setup the match beautifully.
There is nothing like Test cricket.
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Suppose it depends on how you look at it. Most will blame the chances because they don't want to lay any blame at Stokes door, so more likely to blame Bairstow. I love how attacking Stokes is but he gambled with the declaration when he had Root in on 120 not out. It didn't pay off. Saying they were 8 down and we wouldn't have had time to bowl them out without the declaration doesn't really wash, as we lost two full sessions to rain and I'm sure that wasn't on Stokes mind when he declared.
Not saying the missed chances didn't cost us, they were a big factor but they weren't the only factors. We could have scored another 40 or 50 1st innings, gave away cheap wickets and should have posted over 300 in the second dig. Also failed to mop up the tail at the end, which we should be able to do really.
All that said, great entertainment and Australia batted very well at the death there.
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Great test match. I think we can post some bigger totals and put them- the Aussies under even more pressure. We managed to take 18 wickets when I thought some of our bowlers like Robbo and Anderson looked short on fitness and somewhat unthreatening. Feels a bit like an opportunity missed to me but fair play to the Aussies, they fought really hard and showed some big balls at the end.
A bit of a break now for us to regroup and recover those tired bodies. Will be interesting to see if we make any changes.
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Shame Moeen got hurt tbh.
Yes, there is shame.
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Lots of variables in there - declarations, chances, new ball decisions etc.
We never really know.
The two that stand out for me are Bairstow missing Green. That probably made a 50 run difference. And Root bowling one over too many, which cost 14 and gave the Aussies momentum.
The problem with Bazball is, we have said we will make all the running. We'll attack endlessly and give chances as we do it. Australia will be hard nosed and keep taking...
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Probably why someone hadn't already come up with the idea?
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Big stand out for me was Bairstow dropping Uzzie in the second innings early.
His keeping was not his best in this game. Priced in or not it was the difference.
But the cricketing gods will reward England for making all the running over time.
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Didn't mind the declaration at the time, sticking them in under lights was a gamble but one with a high payoff if it worked. Would point the finger at 6 of the top 8 getting starts but not making 50 in the second innnings well ahead of the declaration.
Bairstow and Moeen selections were sadly predictable in results, although with Bairstow you'd hope his keeping will be better for the game time. We need to get Wood in the side, and more importantly make a few less mistakes.
What a game though!
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Agree, @Buzz. Will be fascinating to see if the bring in change (even if forced through fitness levels) or doggedly stick with this squad.
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I guess the obvious change will be to bring in Wood and probably take Robinson out of the firing line. I really, really hope we don't get another flat one at Lords
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Agree, @Buzz. Will be fascinating to see if the bring in change (even if forced through fitness levels) or doggedly stick with this squad.
They will stick with the current group.
I suspect we may see Woakes for Mo and wood for Robinson in the next game.
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Foakes for Bairstow? Too much to hope for.
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Foakes for Bairstow? Too much to hope for.
Not happening.
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Not happening.
🤣 we can but dream.
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Stokes was limping if Mo is out Woakes probably should play. Lords has been flat in the past and that won’t help us.
I like Lords myself but the sedate crowd again does not give us the extra lift we sometimes need
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Woakes for Robinson isn't a terrible shout. Think Lords is probably the one place you can maybe get away with not playing a frontline spinner, and Root was fine, but I'm now slightly dreading what kind of pitch is served up at Lords
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If Lords is true to past few years - Eng will need to take every single chance in the field.
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If you want to play on subcontinental featherbeds, you need your best wicketkeeper. Aside from the brilliant catch to get Marnus in the Australian first dig, Bairstow was woeful.
Carey, dropped a chance as well, but after that he was flawless. He totally out kept Bairstow.
Secondly on flat pitches need extra pace, Anderson was a passenger. Bin him for Wood. Robinson was good. Showed good heart and different skills as well.
Crawley woeful not a Test player, bin him get Foakes in. Either Brook or Bairstow open.
That’s a much better side on these type of pitches.
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Don't mind Brook opening, no question he has all the shots Crawley does and better defensive technique.
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The type of pitch chosen for Edgbaston showed that Eng are afraid of the Aussies. And they def got the selection wrong for the pitch. Wood should have been chosen. The only way England's bowling is better is if they have pitches that aid swing bowlers. So will be interesting to see what Lords serves up.
As a neutral, I am supporting Eng and hope they can turn it around.
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stokes and key are way too loyal to crawley and bairstow. Bairstow in particular should not be guaranteed a place after so long out, hes not even the best keeper on his best day so why pick him when he's rusty. its a big call but we win the first test if they pick foakes instead.
Crawley doesnt appear to be under any pressure for his place, neither by selectors, captain , or county champ players. the depth of quality is just not there. at the moment i wouldnt drop him because of the lack of alternatives but they should be looking at it.
Dawson showed the selectors what they should be looking at yesterday as well, not sure Rehan will give them the same control if he plays. but i cant see them dropping Mo Ali so im sure he'd rather actually get a game than carry drinks for 5 days.
Hopefully someones had a word with Ollie Robinson, might need to wind his neck in a bit. all its done is make him look a fool
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Sounds like they're seriously considering an all seam attack at Lords
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And just as I say that they have https://www.ecb.co.uk/news/3558327/england-men-name-xi-for-second-lv-insurance-mens-ashes-test (https://www.ecb.co.uk/news/3558327/england-men-name-xi-for-second-lv-insurance-mens-ashes-test)
For what it's worth, I'd have probably played Woakes
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by all reports Mo Ali was fit to play so just been dropped, bet hes glad they begged him out of retirement now. The ECB player management really needs to be looked at,
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I mean, if you back since 2010 only 3 spinners have taken 5fers there - Swan twice, Yasir Shah and Moeen in 2017. Even Lyon in the two he's played there has only taken 6 at 41.
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Is Wood unfit?! Plus 4 seamers with no Woakes, holy tail end :(
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If Moeen wasn’t actually fully fit(yes they say he was but it could be smoke and mirrors). Then 4 seam bowlers was probably the only option.
That said it’s been roasting hot in London recently so doesn’t say much about the other English spinners if Root is deemed more suitable.
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Should have dropped Anderson and picked Wood and Tongue. If the Edgbaston pitch was any indication, Jimmy isnt going to be very effective this Ashes.
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I wonder if Wood is fit, I have seen rumours of an elbow injury... But nothing confirmed.
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I wonder if Wood is fit, I have seen rumours of an elbow injury... But nothing confirmed.
on cricinfo they quoted someone in the England camp saying he was one week away from full match fitness so being saved for the third test.
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Don’t like all seam attacks generally with dry weather I think Lyon will have an influence on the game.
Lords does not seem to be a good ground for us I guess the atmosphere is unique and not necessarily in a good way.
I don’t feel confident we can get a win here myself
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doubts both Moeen and Wood’s fitness can stand up. Sorry lads, but with that side I’m not feeling too confident! :(
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We clearly need coverage for Stokes bowling wonder why Woakes was not considered. Good record at home and no mug with the bat to boost the tail
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Not surprised in the slightest that England have gone without a spinner. But very surprised at the 4 seamers selected.
Tongue must have seriously impressed in the nets to get the nod ahead of Woakes and Wood.
We clearly need coverage for Stokes bowling wonder why Woakes was not considered. Good record at home and no mug with the bat to boost the tail
Have to think thats his Test career done now if hes not being picked firstly at his home ground and now at Lords where his record is superb.
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Lords test this AM.
Packed house.
I have to say I think the Aussies are playing the pre match stuff better just ignoring the rubbish from the Eng camp.
Starc likely to play in place of Boland.
I can't see Marnus and Smith having another quiet week.
Going to be a good toss to loose today I think as it will be a bowl first morning, whereas it is usually better to bat first...
Absolutely vital for England to have a strong first session. Our record at Lords against the Aussies is really dreadful.
But from some poor decisions Eng would have won that first game. I think we will see some pragmatism start creeping into the Bazball approach.
Honestly, my money is on Aus going 2-0 up.
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I agree 100% @Buzz
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Lords test this AM.
Packed house.
I have to say I think the Aussies are playing the pre match stuff better just ignoring the rubbish from the Eng camp.
Starc likely to play in place of Boland.
I can't see Marnus and Smith having another quiet week.
Going to be a good toss to loose today I think as it will be a bowl first morning, whereas it is usually better to bat first...
Absolutely vital for England to have a strong first session. Our record at Lords against the Aussies is really dreadful.
But from some poor decisions Eng would have won that first game. I think we will see some pragmatism start creeping into the Bazball approach.
Honestly, my money is on Aus going 2-0 up.
Annoyingly spot on
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Nice day for a bowl
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Bowling first will suit England's all seam attack and the Bazball approach.
Also will suit Aussies.
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Bairstow's selection immediately justified ahahahahahahaha
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Bairstow's selection immediately justified ahahahahahahaha
Regardless of what you think of his selection as keeper that's hilarious.
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Lots of look he finally caught something gags going round.
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Our catching really is appalling
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Our catching really is appalling
Root chance was tough, Pope drop was very poor.
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robinson looks really short on pace, doesnt look like hes the fittest guy in the world.
roots chance was really tough but i would always want the keeper going across to that, YJB's feet were all over the place. not saying foakes would take it but i reckon he'd have got there
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What an absolute nut
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robinson looks really short on pace, doesnt look like hes the fittest guy in the world.
roots chance was really tough but i would always want the keeper going across to that, YJB's feet were all over the place. not saying foakes would take it but i reckon he'd have got there
So Bairstows even getting blamed for other people dropping em now?! But harsh innit? 😆
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So Bairstows even getting blamed for other people dropping em now?! But harsh innit? 😆
Not convinced even Foakes would have taken it but it is a bit worrying that Bairstow looked like he was completely off balance when the chance came. His keeping just doesn't look like it's there at all.
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If you look at where the keeper and first slip stand that was a mighty hard chance so low down to Root.
Same thing happened in the last match. Bairstow the batsman is an automatic pick as a keeper he is a well build unit hampered further by footwork.
Both chances last game and this the keeper has to go for it to the left. If it spills out at least you got there.
JB is not there only one thou, Pope should of taken his that really was not difficult
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So Bairstows even getting blamed for other people dropping em now?! But harsh innit? 😆
not blaming him for the drop, im saying he should have gone for it but got himself all over the place with his feet and ended up going the other way
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I really think it's harsh to say he should be going for it when it's actually carried! Yes it was tough, but it carried to 1st. Wasn't wide of 1st either tbh.
No doubt Foakes is a better keeper, but he ain't God! 😂 Everyone acts like he's never dropped anything. Just feel Bairstow does get some unwarranted stick at times,. Although a lot of it for his keeping in the last year was warranted, people on here calling for him to be dropped completely even tho he averaged 50 in the first test and over 60 last summer is a bit baffling to me. :o
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Averaged so well last summer while not keeping though 😅 has to take a toll on the body and have consequences for your batting.
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i wouldnt drop him, but after so long out injured and no real game time i would have brought him straight back in either.
in an ideal world, i would have him as a batter only and foakes keeping. would mean brook or crawley missing out though
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"But your shoes are made of oil" etc.
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What an absolute jaffa
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Fair play to Tongue, very impressive
Prepared to risk boundaries in order to take a wicket.
Anderson and Robinson looking military so far but Broad has bowled well again
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i wouldnt drop him, but after so long out injured and no real game time i would have brought him straight back in either.
in an ideal world, i would have him as a batter only and foakes keeping. would mean brook or crawley missing out though
I don't disagree, apart from I think his batting in the 1st test justified his selection as a batter. In an ideal world you would have Foakes in, but I don't think that's Bairstows fault. Surely Stokes and the selectors make that call. Can't say I agree with Brook being anywhere near the conversation of who would miss out tho, Crawley not so much!
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Fair play to Tongue, very impressive
Prepared to risk boundaries in order to take a wicket.
Anderson and Robinson looking military so far but Broad has bowled well again
.
Thought Anderson looked absolutely unplayable early doors, ball was doing all sorts. Robinson down on pace again which is a bit concerning, thought he'd worked it out during the winter tours.
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I don't disagree, apart from I think his batting in the 1st test justified his selection as a batter. In an ideal world you would have Foakes in, but I don't think that's Bairstows fault. Surely Stokes and the selectors make that call. Can't say I agree with Brook being anywhere near the conversation of who would miss out tho, Crawley not so much!
brooks only in the discussion as we would need to lose a middle order batter and i cant see root or stokes being dropped anytime soon
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This is some seriously dire stuff
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.
Thought Anderson looked absolutely unplayable early doors, ball was doing all sorts. Robinson down on pace again which is a bit concerning, thought he'd worked it out during the winter tours.
Have to admit I didn't watch the very start.
The bit I was watching both bats were walking down the pitch at him which is not good to see
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Have to admit I didn't watch the very start.
The bit I was watching both bats were walking down the pitch at him which is not good to see
The ball to Khawaja that Root dropped was phenomenal, definitely less effective as the game has gone on though.
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Our bowling Is looking very ordinary at the moment.
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Load of rubbish
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Lords test this AM.
Packed house.
I have to say I think the Aussies are playing the pre match stuff better just ignoring the rubbish from the Eng camp.
Starc likely to play in place of Boland.
I can't see Marnus and Smith having another quiet week.
Going to be a good toss to loose today I think as it will be a bowl first morning, whereas it is usually better to bat first...
Absolutely vital for England to have a strong first session. Our record at Lords against the Aussies is really dreadful.
But from some poor decisions Eng would have won that first game. I think we will see some pragmatism start creeping into the Bazball approach.
Honestly, my money is on Aus going 2-0 up.
Still this.
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That is dreadful from Green
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What is going on... Root two. Dreadful shot by Head.
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Root is turning it thou and it’s day one. It looks like a typical Lords pitch for the seamers, nothing in it.
Lyon is going to be a handful I think
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Lyon in the fourth innings could be a destructive factor at one end for extended periods.
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Poms bowled like shi…
This was a perfect day to bowl on and Australia essentially crushed some truly woeful bowling.
Anderson pitiful again. Robinson down on pace. Tongue was lively at times.
450+ is a winning score
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Poms bowled like shi…
This was a perfect day to bowl on and Australia essentially crushed some truly woeful bowling.
Anderson pitiful again. Robinson down on pace. Tongue was lively at times.
450+ is a winning score
You being tongue in cheek again? 😂
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He's not wrong that the bowling was dross 😅
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I was at Lords today and for the first hour England’s bowling was excellent just not backed up in the slips. After that pretty poor. As has been said all the Aussie batters walking at Robinson, Anderson for the first time in a while looked like Father Time has caught up with its him, Broad ok, Tounge on debut was the pick and bowled some good pace and Root was good but his wickets where from very poor shots. Need to knock 5 over quickly tomorrow but certainly Australia’s day
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Is this, at last, the end of Anderson?
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Is this, at last, the end of Anderson?
He is 41 this weekend. It could well be.
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I actually thought the bowlers were a little unlucky early doors in the first hour. They beat the bat a few times in the morning and could have had a few wickets. Pretty dire later on though, that's for sure.
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Looking outside my window and I see nothing but juicy bowling conditions. Then again, England will probably squander them with a reasonably new ball
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Lot of negativity around isn’t there
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I'd say it's justified after what was a pretty weak performance on Day 1. Only way out now is a magic first hour
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They had a bad day yesterday, it happens and they haven't had that many recently. Let's not forget we're playing the best team in the world right now. khawaja, Marnus, Smith and Head have been outstanding recently.
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I'd say it's justified after what was a pretty weak performance on Day 1. Only way out now is a magic first hour
No question day 1 was poor, but there's always room for a comeback in a 5 day test! Ball is still new, conditions hopefully conducive to a bit of lateral movement, fingers crossed.
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petty, but anyone else find it slightly irritating that the england team keep changing between this season and last seasons kit? could be a castore issue, they havent got the best reputation for quality
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Needed that badly
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Non stop negativity wouldn’t cut it in a Bazball dressing room
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Needed that badly
all out 400 here and its evens i reckon.
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Nice catch from Bairstow tbf
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good grab that one, much better balance from bairstow.
not sure Starc is a better bat than Cummins though.
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good grab that one, much better balance from bairstow.
not sure Starc is a better bat than Cummins though.
Maybe trying to keep the right-left combo going?
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good grab that one, much better balance from bairstow.
not sure Starc is a better bat than Cummins though.
Starc is more of a biffer. He’s never gonna last very long. Better he goes out swinging as Cummins is more capable of holding up an end.
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32nd Test hundred for the Grandmaster. Equals Stephen Waugh’s tally. Just Punter left scratch off now.
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Much better from Eng today.
This is frequently the case that we are rubbish on day 1 and then have a good session.
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Robinson with another forgettable three wickets including the world's third ranked test batsman 😂
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Robinson with another forgettable three wickets including the world's third ranked test batsman 😂
3 wickets but alot of medium pace dross in between. I actually think he bowled better in the away Ashes when you'd think these home pitches would suit him more.
Interesting what Ponting said, if true ...... Robinsons average speeds have got slower each Test series since he debuted. Surely something is going wrong behind the scenes if that is the case.
Of course it may have just been Ponting putting the knife in, no statistical evidence flashed up on screen to support it.
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Robinson with another forgettable three wickets including the world's third ranked test batsman 😂
Not bad for 78mph nude nuts.
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Interesting one.... as Pope didn't take the field again this morning due to his shoulder injury, if it continues to hamper him after this test and he was ruled out for a game or two, do you think England would recall Foakes to keep wicket and bat 7 and reshuffle the batting order with Bairstow becoming a specialist bat again, or would it just be a straight swap of specialist bat in squad (Lawrence) to come in at 3?
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Think Pope is fine to bat as it was external - didn't want to risk any aggravation I guess
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That innings was Crawley personified
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That innings was Crawley personified
Thought he was looking much better than I've seen him for a while. Playing the ball later, fewer loose shots.
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That is a massive blow for Australia if Lyon is done
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Why on Earth are we engaging with the short stuff - two stupid dismissals
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And a third. Braindead batting
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BAZBALL!! 🤦♂️
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Er, what's going on - that clearly hit the grass?
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McGrath spot on, you need to combine the positive intent with intelligence. Let the Aussies run themselves into the ground bowling short stuff then pile into a tired attack who've lost their holding spinner.
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This is absolutely dumb from England. Utterly brain dead.
Also Smith definitely grounded that ball.
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There’s lots of time in the game. With Lyon off we need to grind them down, eventually they will get knackered banging it in and pitch it up.
KP went ballistic at us yesterday I’m tuning in to see what he makes of it.
We just have to stop and think about winning the game, that’s all
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Also Smith definitely grounded that ball.
Once a cheat, always a cheat. He'll probably fly his father over to watch him blub on the telly if we call him on it.
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Have to say overall that's been a very good day for England, and a good recovery from Stokes and Brook after an hour of madness
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I thought Smith grounded that catch myself but we have ended up ok. Agree some brainless shots.
Root is our best bat I would just like to see him at least try to pace his innings, he is probably the best tempo player I have seen in an England shirt. The new style is full on there’s no one even close on test match hundreds and they win games
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Once a cheat, always a cheat. He'll probably fly his father over to watch him blub on the telly if we call him on it.
Bit rich.
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Stokes gone 2nd ball, fantastic start to the day!! Lyon not expected to take further part in the match.
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Another shocking dismissal
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Another shocking dismissal
Yeah I can't really argue with that. There has to be balance you'd think. It's such an obvious tactic and just feel we've been goaded into it. We've given them exactly what they wanted.
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Embarassing again
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How to lose a game in a session...
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Stokes and Tongue I can excuse. Duckett, in fairness, probably deserves a bit of sympathy too because the ball was right in his arc and it is his shot. Bairstow was trying to do the right thing but failed in execution.
The other six need to take a long look in the mirror. Crawley run straight past one that he'd predetermined he was coming for, Pope played the worst shot I think I've ever seen a test batsman play, Root needed to use his brain, Brook played the second worst shot I've seen a test batsman play and Robinson and Broad decided indiscriminate slogging was somehow the way out of trouble.
The thing is, Stokes clearly identified last night what needed to be done. Lyon was already out of the game, the batsmen just needed to let the bowlers exhaust themselves and the series was open to them. Why did he not actually tell his team what they needed to do?
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I don’t know whether as fans we suck it up when it goes wrong because the aggressive approach is good to watch
Or complain when we see some brainless cricket which it has been.
Said it before but Bairstow scored his runs at 5 and it’s no good with the tail we have. He has proved in the last year or so he can destroy attacks
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Love the aggressive approach but tempered with sense. First Test, Root scored his ton by pushing the field back and then hitting gaps.
Why couldn't they have done that this test? Aussies went with the short ball game, let them do it, take the many many singles on offer and run them into the ground trying to bounce you out. Then when they're knackered you can whack them to all parts.
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how to grab defeat from the jaws of victory!
somehow we have gifted these ashes (barring a huge comeback) by over aggression and inability to adapt. that collapse was embarrassing to watch, a complete lack of brains from all of the batters against the most obvious tactics.
its already been said here, but with lyon off the pitch this should have been a big first innings lead against a part time spinner and 4 seamers tiring themselves out with bumpers.
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Said it before but Bairstow scored his runs at 5 and it’s no good with the tail we have. He has proved in the last year or so he can destroy attacks
To be fair he did have some good times at seven. Though its different when you have Woakes and Ali (when he fancied himself a bat) at eight and nine!
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its already been said here, but with lyon off the pitch this should have been a big first innings lead against a part time spinner and 4 seamers tiring themselves out with bumpers.
Even if the result had not been a huge lead (I think 450 was probably the ceiling for the pitch/conditions/long tail) surely the attacking option would have been to put another 12 overs each into the three main quicks legs. Attacking doesn't have to mean trying to hit improbably sixes a la Pope and Brook!
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To be fair he did have some good times at seven. Though its different when you have Woakes and Ali (when he fancied himself a bat) at eight and nine!
He did but we no longer have those useful batsmen in the team. The tail will not hang around if the top order are intent or clattering everything in sight
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This is going to be Jimmy's last series. I think he may be done.
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There not much in the wickets these last two games it’s been so dry.
Headingley if overcast might be his best chance. I think we should of played a spinner thou in this game. If not Rehan someone like Dawson who can hold a bat too. Our tail is too long
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The Lords deck is doing a bit more now as it seems to have sped up a bit - however we have had two pretty turgid wickets so far, which surely doesn't help our bowling nor our batting. Not sure why it's been like that, had great weather for preparing wickets.
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I missed most of days 2/3(after Smith’s century) but just caught the highlights. I’ve never seen anything more ridiculous than England’s attempted home run derby impression…
After Lyon‘a calf when bye bye, it was pretty much the time to grind the pace battery into dust.
Hazlewood and Starc, regardless of the speed gun, look short of their best. But for whatever reason England’s batsmen, whom aren’t exactly good against the bumper barrage, decided to help Australia out.
We’ll take it.
As I said on day 1, a target of 450 will be enough for Australia - so at present we are in a good position.
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"I said that, but now I'm saying this." ;)
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Duckett showed some class when he said he never liked to see an opponent to get an injury.
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Dare I say that Brook played the shot of a man who had prepared for this series by sitting on benches in the IPL?
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Dare I say that Brook played the shot of a man who had prepared for this series by sitting on benches in the IPL?
I'd call it more the shot of a man who believes he is not allowed to play a defensive shot.
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Bairstow glove work is disappointing.
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If you think Bairstow should be keeping in this team you're a moron
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So when do the stubborn English selection panel admit Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope aren’t test standard? 30 odd Tests apiece, no improvement at all.
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The opposite for Pope his game has hugely improved in the last 12 months and his FC record is a good indicator he can score runs consistently.
Crawley neither has a FC record to back it up or the ability to adapt his game against quality bowling.
A flashy 60 odd once in a while is not going to win any tests for us at all.
The Aussies are a quality side with a balance of defence and attack…
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The opposite for Pope his game has hugely improved in the last 12 months and his FC record is a good indicator he can score runs consistently.
Crawley neither has a FC record to back it up or the ability to adapt his game against quality bowling.
A flashy 60 odd once in a while is not going to win any tests for us at all.
The Aussies are a quality side with a balance of defence and attack…
Pope average 20 against Australia and India - your next series is against India. Those are also the two best sides in the world.
Meaningless runs against Ireland’s lollipop bowlers proves very little…
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Pope average 20 against Australia and India - your next series is against India. Those are also the two best sides in the world.
Meaningless runs against Ireland’s lollipop bowlers proves very little…
Your right runs against Ireland are not worth much. His overall test record is on the up. He’s is by far the most talented young batsman in the Country, there is no one better outside the test team.
Crawley I think a lot of us on here have given up…he could be in for life
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41-3, feels very familiar...
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Same old stuff
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Patrick Cummins is good
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God when it’s going well we call them the best in the world and when it’s nit going so well we are all experts. Personally love watching this England side and this series so far has been superb.
This side is the best side for the way the management and captain want them to play end of.
Looks like we will be 2-0 down in the series but I would still back England to finish the series 2-2 if some weather about over the next few weeks or 3-2 just as much as Australia could win 5-0 either way it’s been a great watch, played in a great way so for me I’m happy the result is second to the experience for me
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God when it’s going well we call them the best in the world and when it’s nit going so well we are all experts. Personally love watching this England side and this series so far has been superb.
This side is the best side for the way the management and captain want them to play end of.
Looks like we will be 2-0 down in the series but I would still back England to finish the series 2-2 if some weather about over the next few weeks or 3-2 just as much as Australia could win 5-0 either way it’s been a great watch, played in a great way so for me I’m happy the result is second to the experience for me
Well said mate I agree with your sentiments. Back the players we have. There are zero top 3 batsmen hammering the door down in county cricket, these are the best players we have.
The main difference between Crawley and Pope in my view is there are more surrey supporters on this forum than Kent. Both look sublime at times and also get out in village fashion regularly. I wont be placing too much faith in Popes 200 vrs Irelands attack or county record at the Oval. This is another level. Looked like a child today facing Starc but doesnt get the same criticism.
Big plus is Duckett, who after 2 similar dismissals at Birmingham, has looked assured and batted with good tempo at Lords. 2nd bite at the cherry at Test level for him, like Khawaja, and looks like he is making the most of it.
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these players may or may not be the best we have but its clear they have some toughening up to do. they look and play 'young' for their experience. they can look great because they have skills but they have let good positions go in both tests due to lack of steel
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Your right runs against Ireland are not worth much. His overall test record is on the up. He’s is by far the most talented young batsman in the Country, there is no one better outside the test team.
Crawley I think a lot of us on here have given up…he could be in for life
I'd argue that. Sam Hain has consistantly shown over the last 2 seasons that he's the best batsman not playing for England on the county circuit. Just don't understand why he's not even in the squad.
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Not to be too gloomy but... Finished by lunch?
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DRS overturns another howler. How can an icc ‘elite’ umpire miss Stokes’ inside edge there? The ball literally went at right angles smh
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Whilst we're on the subject of village dismissals .....
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Stokes is just an absolute warrior
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The Bairstow one will divide opinion. If you're an Aussie (or a CBF member who doesn't rate Bairstow😆), you'll see no issue. For me, it's naive from Bairstow but poor from Carey. It's almost like a mankad if someone isn't trying to actually steal a run, it's in the rules but against the spirit somehow. Bairstow was batting in his ground, then marks it again before moving and wasn't trying to steal a run or gain any advantage. So it just feels cheap to me.
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The Bairstow one will divide opinion. If you're an Aussie (or a CBF member who doesn't rate Bairstow😆), you'll see no issue. For me, it's naive from Bairstow but poor from Carey. It's almost like a mankad if someone isn't trying to actually steal a run, it's in the rules but against the spirit somehow. Bairstow was batting in his ground, then marks it again before moving and wasn't trying to steal a run or gain any advantage. So it just feels cheap to me.
Im neither australian or a bairstow hater. But on this occasion I feel the dismissal is just about fair.
Accepted that he is not attempting a run but Carey lets go of it immediately, there wasn't a huge pause. The ball was nowhere near 'dead'.
Actually brilliant keeping (Carey has been brilliant all series so far) and I feel if he was stood up to the stumps and this happened it wouldn't even be a conversation.
A shame because Bairstow was playing sensibly for lunch until that point and it could have made for some great viewing this afternoon if he was still there.
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Stuart Broad x spirit of cricket. :(
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I’m neither a hater or an Aussie too. It’s dead if the keeper hangs onto the ball but it’s still live unless umps calls over at the end.
It’s out according to the rules and a bit of dopey batting.
Seems to of tired us up so we go down swinging which is better than meekly surrendering
There’s always Broad to put petrol on the fire too. Even the members have woken up
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Fair enough. I just feel it's a bit poor personally. I'm not saying it's not within the rules, or that Bairstow wasnt dopey, just that to me it didn't sit right. If he was attempting to gain an advantage, then fair enough, but he wasn't. He out under the laws of the game tho, so it's immaterial I suppose
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Fair enough. I just feel it's a bit poor personally. I'm not saying it's not within the rules, or that Bairstow want dopey, just that to me ot didn't sit right. If he was attempting to gain an advantage, then fair enough, but he wasn't so just didn't sit right. He out under the laws of the game tho, so it's immaterial I suppose
In a friendly/village level cricket I would agree.
This is the Ashes and this is Australia. They'd steal your car if they thought the umpires weren't looking.
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Bairstow touched back which would be enough in any cricket we play but not enough under the rules.
Its fired up Stokes so at least the crowd are getting entertained. Broad showing some guts too which is good to see. Think he likes being the bad guy to against Australia.
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Bairstow touched back which would be enough in any cricket we play but not enough under the rules.
Pretty much - you can see the bowlers end umpire unclips Green's cap and walks away from his post, so clearly he also thought the ball was dead. Its just about right under the laws of the game, but even in a Test Match it'd feel grubby to me not to withdraw the appeal because its reprehensible under the spirit.
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Probably a hangover from the Starc catch where the Aussies felt it was a good catch.
Seemed obviously not out to me but there are plenty thinking it’s a clean catch
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The mistakes of 2019 somewhat vanquished. 2-0 and heading to Leeds to retain the Ashes - Smith wasn’t there in 2019, he will be this time around.
First time in 22 years we have won 3 consecutive Tests in England.
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We have handed them a 2-0 lead
Poor bowling back end (and 21 no balls) at edgbaston
Handing them a 91 run lead first innings lead at lord's then lost by 43
I genuinely believe a little more "sensible" (less Bazball) cricket and we have a 2-0 lead rather than deficit
Really hope we win this 3-2 now
Got hard at them, claim everything, spirit of the game clearly means nothing to pat and co.
Bairstow was dopey, and by the book it's out, but there's a way of playing, they've let that down
Even the umpired assumed the ball dead.
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If you middle a ball to slip and neglect to walk off, you forfeit the right to ever even mention the 'spirit of cricket', IMHO.
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Pretty much - you can see the bowlers end umpire unclips Green's cap and walks away from his post, so clearly he also thought the ball was dead. Its just about right under the laws of the game, but even in a Test Match it'd feel grubby to me not to withdraw the appeal because its reprehensible under the spirit.
At the moment of impact he was unclipping the cap but hadn’t moved. I guess that’s a sign that he considered the ball dead, but when asked if he did so (when he shouldn’t have done) it’s pretty obvious that anyone would say no rather than admit to a mistake.
(https://i.ibb.co/1nfZxwP/735ada56-2e54-44b2-b182-04c8e9bee0df.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FWb6tjy)
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The mistakes of 2019 somewhat vanquished. 2-0 and heading to Leeds to retain the Ashes - Smith wasn’t there in 2019, he will be this time around.
First time in 22 years we have won 3 consecutive Tests in England.
How come he missed 2019?
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If you middle a ball to slip and neglect to walk off, you forfeit the right to ever even mention the 'spirit of cricket', IMHO.
That's where everyone is mistaken
Broad edged it, it hit haddin then went to slip
He certainly didn't middle it to first slip
There's been plenty of batsman who have stood there, it's why there are umpires, let them make the decision
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How come he missed 2019?
Archer hit him in the face at Lords. Smith wasn’t allowed to play in Leeds
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Not allowed to play Because of concussion and protocols following knocks to the head for the player’s welfare
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That's where everyone is mistaken
Broad edged it, it hit haddin then went to slip
He certainly didn't middle it to first slip
There's been plenty of batsman who have stood there, it's why there are umpires, let them make the decision
They made a decision today. Either there is a 'spirit of cricket' or there isn't. Can't have it both ways.
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I'll be glad when Broad has retired. Except he'll no doubt be on TV loads talking about how great he was.
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Yeah Broad can't really preach, but I think this is slightly different. Nobody walks nowadays, yet I don't think everyone would do this. Just as not every team would mankad. Still not a great look imo.
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I'll be glad when Broad has retired. Except he'll no doubt be on TV loads talking about how great he was.
He hasn't been bad tbf. I'd have taken his career
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Yeah Broad can't really preach, but I think this is slightly different. Nobody walks nowadays, yet I don't think everyone would do this. Just as not every team would mankad. Still not a great look imo.
Just because a lot of people do something doesn't make it right.
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He hasn't been bad tbf. I'd have taken his career
Good cricketer. (No Swearing Please) person.
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Good cricketer. (No Swearing Please) person.
Have you actually met the guy?
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Just because a lot of people do something doesn't make it right.
I never said it did, but it is generally accepted. Not sure this is.
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Have you actually met the guy?
No. Thank goodness.
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I never said it did, but it is generally accepted. Not sure this is.
Watch this space.
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Watch this space.
Can't wait. This and mankadding is exactly what the game needs.
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Can't wait. This and mankadding is exactly what the game needs.
Yes, and more batsmen standing their ground when they know they've hit it. ;)
Cue even more bad-tempered games of recreational cricket.
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* That I won't be playing in.
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Yes, and more batsmen standing their ground when they know they've hit it. ;)
Cue even more bad-tempered games of recreational cricket.
Big difference as I say. Nobody walks now, so you'd be reliant on everyone agreeing to walk. Isn't gonna happen. I don't think this will become the norm, nor mankadding either and has been an unwritten rule to some extent. However, when people see things like that on TV, they feel it's more acceptable to do on a Saturday. Not exactly gonna help the game is it.
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Big difference as I say. Nobody walks now, so you'd be reliant on everyone agreeing to walk. Isn't gonna happen. I don't think this will become the norm, nor mankadding either and has been an unwritten rule to some extent. However, when people see things like that on TV, they feel it's more acceptable to do on a Saturday. Not exactly gonna help the game is it.
No. Not good for the game. I don't like it.
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Big difference as I say. Nobody walks now, so you'd be reliant on everyone agreeing to walk. Isn't gonna happen. I don't think this will become the norm, nor mankadding either and has been an unwritten rule to some extent. However, when people see things like that on TV, they feel it's more acceptable to do on a Saturday. Not exactly gonna help the game is it.
Just the non-sneaks could walk?
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You can't say there's a big difference just because a lot of people do one thing but not the other.
But I think we're going to have to agree to disagree on this.
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Can't wait. This and mankadding is exactly what the game needs.
Once again, all this controversy could be avoided if the batters would stay in their ground when the ball is live. As long as they think it's not important, you will see plenty more of this - if they decide to stay in their ground none of it ever happens again. The 8 year olds I coach get taught the importance of staying in their ground, so I have little sympathy for anyone who gets out in such ways. Certainly none for an adult playing test match cricket.
How many keepers across England would have had shots at the stumps similar to that over the weekend? I've been stumped by a keeper standing back before, and never blamed anyone but myself.
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It seems like it's just easier to accuse the Aussies of being cheats and poor sports than to admit that they are a better team, playing better cricket.
The comparison in the media and comments sections of the stumping to mankading and underarm bowling is total rubbish. Bairstow made a schoolboy error, one that he can add to a list of errors that have cost England dearly this series. Foakes must be watching on intently.
Also glad to hear that those cretins disgracing the long room will have their memberships torn up, really poor timing considering the player who was targeted and the issues England cricket has identified with certain systemic inequalities. I'm sure it's just a few rotten apples in the basket, but I thought the form was poor in general from the crowd.
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I would sympathize with England if Carey had been standing there waiting for JB to walk out before attempting the throw. But, What made Jonny look even more stupid, was the fact that Carey fired his throw towards the stumps as soon as he collected the ball, and BEFORE Jonny even left his crease. Atherton is right - JB was just being ridiculously dozy
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Cheat not cheat who cares the long room were cowards hiding behind a barrier my theory at sports events don’t shout and ball what you wouldn’t if you was face to face with no barrier.
Not in the spirit and largely because of the closeness of the game brought the situation more intense rightly or wrongly
Least it added a bit of spark the crowd and out player have all been a big lovey lovey time for the ashes to really start now
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Agree with the point on the members, this shouldn't be happening. Has Khawaja reported reported racial abuse? If he has, they should faces criminal charges.
In terms of it being nothing like mankadding, I actually think it does compare. It's obviously in the rules but for me Bairstow was clearly not looking to gain any advantage at any point, or batting out of his crease even. Similar to a cheap mankadding if someone barely leaves their crease after the bowler has paused massively. It's not cheating, just a bit poor all round for me but it will always divide opinion. If the shoe was on the other foot, I'd guess it would be different. Much like the Starc catch, where England fans will say not out and Aussies will say out, as most have in the comments I've seen on socials.
Either way, we really only have ourselves to blame for being 2 down. We've been in good positions and not taken advantage for various reasons, mainly due to some poor cricket and decision making.
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It’s rather ironic that so soon after the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket was announced we see antics like this in the long room at the Home of Cricket… Not a good look at all.
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It's poor from Bairstow. Carey threw the ball as soon as he had it, didn't wait around for Bairstow to leave his ground. In my opinion it's not much different to a stumping. If the keeper was stood up, you don't just wander out of your crease because you decide the ball must be dead as soon as the keeper has it in his hands. Legitimate dismissal with very little to do with the spirit of the game for me. Would I call him back or take back my appeal as captain? Absolutely not, and wouldn't expect Cummins to do it either.
As much as I would like another reason to accuse the Aussies of cheating or not playing in the spirit of the game, this just isn't one of those occasions. They have been better than England, it's as simple as that. You can't be 2-0 up after 10 days of cricket and be the worse team playing worse cricket.
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It’s rather ironic that so soon after the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket was announced we see antics like this in the long room at the Home of Cricket… Not a good look at all.
What would be your response or how would you feel if you saw club members suggesting the MCC should feel shameful for releasing a statement
Suggesting long room members behaviour was not acceptable and condemned etc ..
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The press always go nuts but most of us who have played and been run out/stumped in this way :) it’s not cheating. The keeper let go of it very quick, had he held onto it that might be different. And we presume the umpire did not call over at that time.
It’s a shame this has spoilt another great match, most of the frustration is we made enough chances to win both games.
Stokes nearly done it on his own what a great player he is. Interestingly he is more selective about his hitting-something the rest will have to learn
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It’s rather ironic that so soon after the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket was announced we see antics like this in the long room at the Home of Cricket… Not a good look at all.
Not as ironic as Jonathan Agnew interviewing Rishi Sunak on Test Match Special.
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Surely you just stay in your crease until the umpire calls over. Stokes does this all the time when he does his thing with the bat. It's pretty schoolboy stuff and I don't see any controversy about it
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Also glad to hear that those cretins disgracing the long room will have their memberships torn up, really poor timing considering the player who was targeted and the issues England cricket has identified with certain systemic inequalities. I'm sure it's just a few rotten apples in the basket, but I thought the form was poor in general from the crowd.
Really? I think Aussies sooking about how a Lords crowd treat their players is the absolute height of hypocrisy given how Australian crowds routinely treat - and are encouraged to treat - visiting players of all nationalities. I also think the amount of noise from a usually sedantary Lords crowd is the biggest evidence there is of how morally offensive this act was, no matter whether it was within the Laws or not.
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"Certain systemic inequalities." 😂
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MCC membership is the very embodiment of cricket's inclusivity problem.
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MCC membership is the very embodiment of cricket's inclusivity problem.
Not true - I know five members, and only four of them were judges. Admittedly, the other is a Peer and has never worked a day in his life! :)
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Another is admin on a cricket forum... Although I have it on good authority he wasn't at Lords yesterday!
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Not true - I know five members, and only four of them were judges. Admittedly, the other is a Peer and has never worked a day in his life! :)
I don’t think Barry Bogtrotter from Burnley is a member
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Does Jonny not remember what he does when he is keeping?
https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/cricket/12913817/bairstow-tries-same-stumping-trick-on-labuschagne (https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/cricket/12913817/bairstow-tries-same-stumping-trick-on-labuschagne)
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Bairstow is never hitting the stumps from there. The only direction in any danger was the square leg umpire
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I think that was because Marnus had been batting out of his crease, so a different situation really. The only side which you can categorically say are right in the end are Australia, as by the laws of the game he's out. Still didn't mean it's right to me tho and Cummins isn't convincing that it's sitting 100% right with him either. As for the coaches comments, they're just plain daft! 😆
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDkb4fdFErM&t=59s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDkb4fdFErM&t=59s)
Disappointed to see this. What do people think they achieve by booing players and getting in their faces? Very poor form. It is wrong no matter who does it. What's happened to manners ?
Carey collected and threw the ball immediately, he probably spotted JB leaving the crease in prior overs. Smart thinking, fair play.
So far this Ashes has been played in good spirit. I have enjoyed both matches! I'd hate to see the atmosphere ruined between the sides over JB's stumping/runout. Stokes is a natural leader, it'd be great if he can find a way to lower the temperature on the ENG side.
AUS so far have played better cricket, can't fault them for that.
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Sunak. :o
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Sunak. :o
:D :D :D
I had to google it. Doesn't he have better things to worry about like inflation etc.
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:D :D :D
I had to google it. Doesn't he have better things to worry about like inflation etc.
He cares deeply about fairness!
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Ten years time: dead ball countdown technology.
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More evidence of the hypocrisy on display. Looking more and more like whinging.
https://twitter.com/izzywestbury/status/1675535846852665345?s=46&t=mDkKrTA-YzuFEuwK4ZR3OA
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Really? I think Aussies sooking about how a Lords crowd treat their players is the absolute height of hypocrisy given how Australian crowds routinely treat - and are encouraged to treat - visiting players of all nationalities. I also think the amount of noise from a usually sedantary Lords crowd is the biggest evidence there is of how morally offensive this act was, no matter whether it was within the Laws or not.
Encouraged to treat? What a load of rubbish. I think you'd find it's a very different experience now that it was 10, even 5 years ago. Maybe lords was just a victim of it's own standards, but the booing of even the Australian press, and people on media duties is just as gutless as it gets.
Morally offensive..blimey, the air must be getting thin up there on that high horse. Bairstow was daft, and much like his work with the gloves this series, amateurish.
Either way. It's 2 nil, and unless England find some players to help Root and Stokes it's only going to get worse. Looking forward to the next test. Hopefully YJB has been to under 10's training and learned some of the basics so he doesn't let the team down again.
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The Mail seems to think Lawrence, Moeen and Wood will play at Leeds. Pope, Anderson and one of Robinson/Tongue to miss out.
Rather laughably Anderson would be considered ‘rested’ lol.
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I mean he's had two pretty poor returns by his standards but I'm not sure he'd at dropped stage just yet.
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Shut up, Broad. Really!
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I attended on Sunday and still am bemused by what went on,more entertained by Stokes and Broad than the boo`ing but astonished by the faux outrage by all Australians at the reaction,really what did they expect?
...the lack of moral compass is astonishing,given Sandpapergate ,despite their assertion that it was a cathartic experience and now they are all wholesome individuals,and i suspect now Cummins was caught up in the moment and potentially regrets not re-calling Bairstow.
BTW,have been lucky to attend a couple of Ashes tours down under and even when we were being thumped,and really thumped,the piss taking and unmerciless baiting of the Poms from ALL walks of life puts Sunday in perspective.
Had the same happened in reverse down under,a full diplomatic incident would ensue,have no doubt !
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I don't think any Aussie captain would've recalled Bairstow - it was his fault, he was dozy and legally he was out.
England want to get over this and focus on the next 3 tests - and how they combine Bazball with common sense to win games. Bat sensibly when needed and turn the afterburners on when needed.
As for picks, Wood for Anderson works - as much as I'm a Robbo fan, I'd rest him for this one and keep Tongue.
Or....LEFTFIELD ALERT... I don't think Mo is going to win us a test, keep an end tight or bat sensibly, so he's out. Lawrence and Root as spinners, or pick the leggie - we've got 3 games to win boys!
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(https://uploads.dailydot.com/83a/86/blacksmoke2.gif?auto=compress&fm=gif)
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Disappointing news for Pope. Not the most memorable of games for him dropping a sitter at the start of the game, initiating England's first order collapse then suffering another shoulder problem
Will be interesting to know what further damage was caused by having to field in the second innings given he was only only out there because of a mistake by the umpires
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/jun/30/england-confused-by-erroneous-warning-from-officials-over-ollie-pope-injury (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/jun/30/england-confused-by-erroneous-warning-from-officials-over-ollie-pope-injury)
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Yes he has had shoulder problems before and a lengthy period out. The only sensible decision is get a proper keeper in and JB plays as a batsman. Calling up Lawrence with no big scores makes no sense.
I think Ali will play and Wood with Anderson and maybe Tongue missing out. Any overheads and Robinson will move it around
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I thought Tongue was good, much better than Robinson.
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I thought Tongue was good, much better than Robinson.
I see the aussies all like bashing Robbo, but yet his record against them is pretty unreal.
21 wickets at 25, with more than half of the in Oz, a place that's usualy a graveyard for english dobblers.
Do you all just think he's been really lucky?
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or pick the leggie - we've got 3 games to win boys!
The leggie's no longer in the squad.
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Tongue bowled really well he has a bit of extra pace and even on these turgid pitches made things happen.
We saw how well Cummins and Starc bowled to hurry up our batters we need to do the same.
Robinson is quality he gets good players out.
We can get a result at Headingley it’s just a shame we didn’t take our chances in the first two games. The Aussies were always going to be a big test
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Yes he has had shoulder problems before and a lengthy period out. The only sensible decision is get a proper keeper in and JB plays as a batsman. Calling up Lawrence with no big scores makes no sense.
I think Ali will play and Wood with Anderson and maybe Tongue missing out. Any overheads and Robinson will move it around
Didn't Lawrence get a ton fifty a week ago for Essex?
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Didn't Lawrence get a ton fifty a week ago for Essex?
He is a good player no doubt I guess it depends of whether the view is we need a proper keeper. For me we do and make the best of the batting order.
It’s a tough ask to come in now and play in place of Pope. I like Lawrence but 3 looks too high. I think Ali will come in which gives us potentially more with the bat.
Our tail looks too long to me at Lords.
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News saying Brook is batting 3.
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Don't mind it, and with Woakes, Wood and Moeen also shores up what was a pretty long tail
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He is a good player no doubt I guess it depends of whether the view is we need a proper keeper. For me we do and make the best of the batting order.
It’s a tough ask to come in now and play in place of Pope. I like Lawrence but 3 looks too high. I think Ali will come in which gives us potentially more with the bat.
Our tail looks too long to me at Lords.
There isn't another keeper in the squad.
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Ali for Pope, Woakes for one of the seamers.
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https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2023/07/04/england-ashes-harry-brook-no-3-moeen-woakes-wood-recall/#:~:text=Harry%20Brook%20to%20bat%20at%20No%203%20as%20England%20recall,Chris%20Woakes%20and%20Mark%20Wood&text=England%20are%20planning%20to%20respond,No%203%20for%20Harry%20Brook. (https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2023/07/04/england-ashes-harry-brook-no-3-moeen-woakes-wood-recall/#:~:text=Harry%20Brook%20to%20bat%20at%20No%203%20as%20England%20recall,Chris%20Woakes%20and%20Mark%20Wood&text=England%20are%20planning%20to%20respond,No%203%20for%20Harry%20Brook.)
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I'm excited to see Murphy get a game, I'd bring Boland back in for Hazelwood too. We look too strong for England, a series loss will be a good way for Broad to finish up.
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Why are England persisting with Anderson? He has hardly looked threatening so far. Time for England to look beyond?
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Aren't they 'resting' him for the 3rd test? I thought Wood was coming in for Tongue, Woakes for Anderson, Ali for Pope?
He hasn't been at his best obviously, but he hasn't been terrible. He has beat the bat a fair bit too, but he's admitted himself he's not been at his best. The pitches really haven't suited him either. Anderson is still a class act in the right conditions.
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XI announced - Woakes, Wood, Moeen in for Pope, Anderson, Tongue
Don't mind it to be honest - certainly shores up the tail and we've a point of difference now with Wood. Guess the concern is how Brook will bat a few spots up...
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The selections for this series get worse by the game. Glad to see Wood back but why are they suddenly a batsman light :(
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I mean, if your top 6 aren't doing the job then 7 isn't going to make much of a difference. Think it's absolutely fine.
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I don’t think the selectors had any choice but to bolster the tail with Woakes and Ali. Wood gives us a bit extra pace and Broad and Robinson look good to me.
Unconvinced about Brook 3 it is a big ask but let’s see
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I'm excited to see Murphy get a game, I'd bring Boland back in for Hazelwood too. We look too strong for England, a series loss will be a good way for Broad to finish up.
You stay classy straylia! 😆 Not quite sure he's finished, he's bowled pretty decent this series I think. Let's hope he doesn't produce another Trent Bridge spell after this comment eh? I'm not sure you're 'too strong' either. But for some dodgy decision making by England, a great lower partnership and a couple of dodgy sessions, the scoreline could easily have be reversed. I think the Aussies have edged it, but not by much and Englands downfall has largely been of their own making.
I'm not sure Tongue deserved to be dropped, but Woakes does bring more with the bat. Although him and Ali are not guaranteed to get you many. A tough one to call really. I'd have maybe picked Lawrence, as we've shown a collapse is always possible/likely.
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that straight drive by Tongue is enough to merit him a place as a tailender that can bat...not to mention his spells were definitely refreshing
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Its a shame seeing Tongue get dropped after performing decently. I guess they kept Robinson for his chat!
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You stay classy straylia! 😆 Not quite sure he's finished, he's bowled pretty decent this series I think. Let's hope he doesn't produce another Trent Bridge spell after this comment eh? I'm not sure you're 'too strong' either. But for some dodgy decision making by England, a great lower partnership and a couple of dodgy sessions, the scoreline could easily have be reversed. I think the Aussies have edged it, but not by much and Englands downfall has largely been of their own making.
I'm not sure Tongue deserved to be dropped, but Woakes does bring more with the bat. Although him and Ali are not guaranteed to get you many. A tough one to call really. I'd have maybe picked Lawrence, as we've shown a collapse is always possible/likely.
Agree...on paper its 2-0 but neither of those wins came easy for the Aussies. A Cummins cameo saved them in the first test. Lyon will be a big loss too. Murphy was good on Indian pitches which offered him a lot. I suspect he will wilt under bazball pressure.
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XI announced - Woakes, Wood, Moeen in for Pope, Anderson, Tongue
Don't mind it to be honest - certainly shores up the tail and we've a point of difference now with Wood. Guess the concern is how Brook will bat a few spots up...
Strengthen the tail by making it longer? Not sure I agree with that theory.
To me picking the extra seamer says two things - 1. Wood is going to be used in very short spells to bowl at full tilt and probably wont bowl more than 16 overs in a day (4x4?) 2. Stokes wont be bowling unless it gets very desperate.
I also dont agree that Australia have looked too strong. Englands naivety/attitude/ethos/whatever you want to call it has seen them throw away winning positions in both matches. Australia have shown a greater will to win and played real hard cricket but I think the gap in ability is minimal. Especially now with Lyon gone.
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Agreed, by being overly positive, we've let good positions for us become good positions for Australia. However I would rather have the Oz pace attack! Tongue desperately unlucky to miss out - Robinson not been on top form for me, picking up tail end wickets mainly. I also don't think Jimmy bowled that bad, just didn't get any wickets. He'll bowl worse and get loads.
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Lords test this AM.
Packed house.
I have to say I think the Aussies are playing the pre match stuff better just ignoring the rubbish from the Eng camp.
Starc likely to play in place of Boland.
I can't see Marnus and Smith having another quiet week.
Going to be a good toss to loose today I think as it will be a bowl first morning, whereas it is usually better to bat first...
Absolutely vital for England to have a strong first session. Our record at Lords against the Aussies is really dreadful.
But from some poor decisions Eng would have won that first game. I think we will see some pragmatism start creeping into the Bazball approach.
Honestly, my money is on Aus going 2-0 up.
Feels like my Lords review was pretty solid.
For headingly tomorrow...
I think Eng are looking better in terms of the balance of the team. Great to see Wood playing.
I think England will win this one. More varied bowling, I also think the Aussie attack is going to be tired.
Boland will play probably for Josh Hazelwood I suspect.
England really need to keep the Aussies fielding for more than 2 and a half sessions though.
The big problem with batting as fast as they do is the oppo bowlers aren't that tired in the second dig where as our bowlers get no rest...
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Will be interesting to see how Cummins goes with his fourth test on the trot in about a month and such a quick turnaround - must surely also be catching up with him
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Sounds like Green is out and Marsh in. Pretty big blow there.
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Australia put in by Stokes. Back to Mitch Marsh…underwhelming…
Perfect day for Smudge to mark his 100th Test with a century
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Good toss to win.
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Amazing how much better it looks with Wood in the side
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Amazing how much better it looks with Wood in the side
speaks less, delivers more and that too at pace... love the lad
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Good toss to win.
Reckon, looks fairly flat.
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There's definitely a lot more to work with as a seamer, it's carrying for once
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There's definitely a lot more to work with as a seamer, it's carrying for once
Khawaja's leg stump certainly carried through nicely! :)
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Wood is rapid and makes such a difference
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Chris Woakes eh?
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Another Bairstow dolly
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Bairstow is a pitiful wicket keeper
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YESSSSSSSSSS
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Smith can tell his bats blindfolded, but can't feel an edge! 🤔
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Root dropping Marsh already costing us
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You have to admire England's efforts over a number of different series to manufacture situations to make Mitch Marsh, a man woefully out of his depth at this level, appear a world class test all rounder
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We really haven't learnt a thing
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Robinson gone crock…
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Marvellous and devastating century for Mitch Marsh.
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The Bairstow experiment behind the stumps now needs to end in my opinion, I have no issue with him being in the team but as a batter only I don’t care if you bat Foakes at 11 but he has to be in the team.
Marsh has made the most of his life and in baseball style has made a really entertaining ton and be interesting to see if Green comes back in for the next test as Marsh has a real habit of runs against England.
Need a strong evening session now
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You have to admire England's efforts over a number of different series to manufacture situations to make Mitch Marsh, a man woefully out of his depth at this level, appear a world class test all rounder
Seriously sour grapes.
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Root is having an absolute shocker
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Hahahahahahahaha
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Mark Wood good
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Careys soiled himself there
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Bowling attack looks so much better balanced, with the exception of Mo.
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Root catches that Marsh chance I reckon this Test match is over on day 1
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Much easier to clean up the tail when they’re all sh** scared of Mark Wood!
Poor old Cummins was jumping away from a half volley
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Seriously sour grapes.
Fair point, he was being Geoff Marsh's son away from not having a test career at all
Could well help England for the rest of the series if Australia find it difficult to drop him now after burglaring a century
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Fair point, he was being Geoff Marsh's son away from not having a test career at all
Could well help England for the rest of the series if Australia find it difficult to drop him now after burglaring a century
One bad take after another. Bairstow like.
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Marsh is a decent cricketer, but they made him look very good today...
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We do look much better with Woakes and Wood in. So pleased for MW, battled thru all sorts of injury’s . I think only Harmison for a period bowler that quick and it wasn’t long. Mid nineties is scary stuff
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Brook at 3 always looked 2 places too high
Back to traditions... Root in at 20 odd for 2
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Same old
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How do we constantly make Mitchell Marsh look like prime Botham
He's garbage
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Another fantastic dreamy classy innings from Zak which will win us zero test matches.
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How do we constantly make Mitchell Marsh look like prime Botham
He's garbage
Cry a bit more…Mitch will enjoy it
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Another fantastic dreamy classy innings from Zak which will win us zero test matches.
well at least he entertained so in Mccullum's mind its 3-0 Eng
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Another fantastic dreamy classy innings from Zak which will win us zero test matches.
Was listening to TMS and apparently Crawley is an 'impact opener.' Never heard the term before.
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When wickets are falling all around this guy, and he steps up and hits clean/middle-of-the-bat shots to score a century, it is easily worth more than a century. Well done, Mitch Marsh!
I come back to check the scores and ENG are 3 down. In Test cricket, must reserve judgement till both sides bat on the wicket.
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Cry a bit more…Mitch will enjoy it
There's a reason he hasn't played a test in for years, or only five first class games since 2019
And it's not because he's a world class all rounder
Take off your green tinted glasses... He's rubbish
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There's a reason he hasn't played a test in for years, or only five first class games since 2019
And it's not because he's a world class all rounder
Take off your green tinted glasses... He's rubbish
That being said, his hitting today was very enjoyable
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There's a reason he hasn't played a test in for years, or only five first class games since 2019
And it's not because he's a world class all rounder
Take off your green tinted glasses... He's rubbish
[keep it civil please - moderator]
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I like Mitch Marsh I liked his brother more quality test hundred which could swing the game Australia way.
Mitch Marsh ain’t rubbish at all credit we’re it due apparently a top bloke and very good tourist too!
Just clubbed us for a 100 wish I was there today not day 4
Every dog has his day
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Funny what a few extra mph can do.
Big day tomorrow
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Watched a Mitch Marsh hundred at Perth a few years ago that was very enjoyable. Smashed it. Much better to watch than Smith poking and prodding at the other end. The knock today was quality aswell.
That said he was dropped on 12 which added at least 106 to Australias score. Australia had 3 chances this afternoon and caught 3. England only have themself to blame
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Pfffft - England to get blown away for 140 today and spend the rest of the match chasing the game.
Spoiler alert: I'm usually wrong, bit of reverse Pysch for you there :D
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Bairstow and Stokes or nothing then
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Bairstow and Stokes or nothing then
Woakes is pretty capable. Don't have much faith in Moeen doing anything significant. Wood, Broad and Robinson might bash a few.
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We really, really, really need to carve out a lead - anything around parity is just asking for defeat
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I think we'll be lucky to get parity at this rate, unless someone does a superstar bit!
The Aussie are good, but we don't half make it hard for ourselves at times, Bazball or no!
I'd love a Ginger Smackathon here!
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This is stupid cricket
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This is stupid cricket
Has there been anything that stupid? Bairstows doesn't look too great on the face of it, but he'd been watchful and the ball was there to hit. Roots was a decent ball. Hardly brainless is it?
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Bairstow's was so wide though, he's better than throwing the hands at that.
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That was so wide with no need to do it especially after Root going. Half hour in the day and we're already right in the mud and asking Stokes to carry the innings again
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Sam Hain should be in this side
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It's a really poor shot, there to hit but he's just had a wave at it, no control at all. I was fine with it pre series but Bairstow for Foakes looks a worse every day at this point :(
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Sam Hain should be in this side
Quite fancy him at 3, just a struggle to see how you balance it. Maybe when a few of the older guys move on.
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Don't worry - Moeen will dig in and grind one out
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The Bairstow recall for Foakes is hard to watch. I was happy with it pre series. After last summer no arguments. However, against such a polished outfit as AUS its clear that catches, stumpings etc really matter. I'm not sure what they do but ...........
The England selection looks a bit cosy/lazy.
Harry Brook has never really batted at 3 for anyone (Pope not really a 3 either mind) and you send him out to face Starc and Cummins 2 down in a series
Bairstow cant keep or at best is out of condition
Moeen - we'll see
I may well have done the same bar Brook at 3 but thats not the point. Sometimes the bosses need to manage with hard decisions rather than just cajole and coax. We could be winning this series 2-0 but mgmt calls have not gone well so far this series. What do they call this 'a learning opportunity'
fingers crossed.
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They spoke about not putting square pegs in round holes but they've batted a 4 and a 5 at 3, and had their successful 5 take up the gloves again and drop two down the order then bounce back up to 5.
Moeen has been poor as a spinner, Root would have been no worse. Foakes could then have batted 7 with the gloves leaving Bairstow to focus on batting which is IMO a big part of why he was so successful last summer.
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Can't believe Moeen's done that. Just daft
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Bairstow and Ali both hang your heads
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That was a dreadful batting session
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They spoke about not putting square pegs in round holes but they've batted a 4 and a 5 at 3, and had their successful 5 take up the gloves again and drop two down the order then bounce back up to 5.
Moeen has been poor as a spinner, Root would have been no worse. Foakes could then have batted 7 with the gloves leaving Bairstow to focus on batting which is IMO a big part of why he was so successful last summer.
Basically this
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They spoke about not putting square pegs in round holes but they've batted a 4 and a 5 at 3, and had their successful 5 take up the gloves again and drop two down the order then bounce back up to 5.
Moeen has been poor as a spinner, Root would have been no worse. Foakes could then have batted 7 with the gloves leaving Bairstow to focus on batting which is IMO a big part of why he was so successful last summer.
Because it was Leeds, I had a few friends in the ground yesterday and it was noticeable that our group chat centered on one thing - Bairstow is NOT fit to keep. I don't mean that as a slight, simply a statement that this stage post serious leg break, and lets face it, being tall and chunky for a keeper, he just isn't at the level needed.
You're right, he should have been picked as a batsman, but never with the gloves.
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Well Wood isn't messing about
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You have Stokes at the other end, you hit a cpl of sixes, now just buckle down, support your captain and try to get as close to Aussie score.
But no, keep swinging your bat mindlessly, laugh when you get out ...all under the pretence of entertainment and bazball... nope this is brainless and stupid
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Australia's turn to have a meltdown
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What on Earth is going on?
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I don’t know, but they’re wearing Sports Direct lids
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I'll be gutted when they drop Warner.
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Not as much as Broad will
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I'm not sure how funny Warner is going to think it is when he finds out his test career is over.
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Surely safe for this series - he's probably still doing better than Harris would be likely to!
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Get Michael Nesser in there for all I care, Marnus Basically opens
The batting anyway.
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I'm not sure how funny Warner is going to think it is when he finds out his test career is over.
Doesnt he have Australian cricket over a barrel with regard to his ghost-drafted autobiography and threats from his wife to expose others in the team (bowlers/backroom staff) for the sandpaper cheating affair?
The book deal is signed but wont be released until hes stopped playing.
No wonder he thinks he can name his own departure date
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How many does bairstow have to drop to have the gloves stripped from him ?
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Sigh
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Marnus is stupid
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Surely safe for this series - he's probably still doing better than Harris would be likely to!
They won’t drop Warner, we’ve got some gimmes at home this coming summer…
And if they drop Warner it will expose Marnus - who’s averaging 30 since his last test century…(21 innings ago)
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Sigh
You ever considered motivational speaking mate? 😆
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Smith with a gift!
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How many does bairstow have to drop to have the gloves stripped from him ?
Not sure iv ever seen a keeper in a test drop more than he has actually caught, great batter average keeper at best, fine in white ball for max 50overs but he can’t stay as the test keeper just to much of a liability long term
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Can Sam Hain keep wicket
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Funny video! :D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EulOKkMHkJ4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EulOKkMHkJ4)
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Game on. So... Eng need to get the last two and then pray for rain to avoid batting tonight. Come out in sun tomorrow to knock off the runs.
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These are valuable runs from the tail thou.
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Very chaseable if we can just see the day out without collapsing
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It’s going to need a clear calm head to get us over the line I think. There’s a lot on Root I think.
I do not suppose it’s time yet for Zak to play a match winning innings. If your gonna average 20 something at least help us win a game.
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So. What we thinking, folks? England storm home or Aus 3 up?
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England get over the line 4/5 down
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Sounds like Moeen is going in at #3 - don't hate it considering the current circumstances
On another note the womens series is playing out wonderfully as well - went to the game on Wednesday night with my other half who absolutely loved it; says a lot about how good Australia are when England dominated the game won by just 3 runs
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Ali in. Good intent. Quick 20 - 30 could be very helpful.
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Aussies are favorites now. Urgh.
We have dropped over 20 catches in three games and it has cost us massively.
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Didn’t realise the Sinnerman was also an umpire
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Aussies are favorites now. Urgh.
We have dropped over 20 catches in three games and it has cost us massively.
Down to double digits with Brook well set and Stokes also there? Not quite so sure about that
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Eng just edging it at lunch. Cracking afternoon lined up.
Ali and Bairstow go for next test. Bring in Foakes 🙏
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Two tickles down the legside, very poor!
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Even Starc looked surprised 🤣
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Maybe that's game over then - not sure Brook can bat with the tail
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🤬 Bairstow
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YJB has been so poor this series.
He had an amazing year last year, but he clearly needed more time off from his injury or something. I don't see anything he contributed this series that Foakes wouldn't have been better at.
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Bairstow has looked slow between the wickets as well, not convinced he is back to full fitness at all.
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Bairstow has poor footwork and the wrong build completely, the chances missed have cost us no doubt.
But coming back from a broken leg after months out when your best year was without the gloves is a hell of an ask to do.
So it was odds against from the beginning.
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On another note Woakes is so bloody good - like that Pakistan chase at Old Trafford in 2020, every now and then just manages the situation really well
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Woakes is every bit as much a genuine all-rounder as Stokes IMO. Just a shame he's never really seemed to crack it overseas.
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Woakes is every bit as much a genuine all-rounder as Stokes IMO. Just a shame he's never really seemed to crack it overseas.
Far worse bat but a far better bowler
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Far worse bat but a far better bowler
Yep. Stokes very much a batting all-rounder, Woakes a bowling all-rounder.
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Maybe that's game over then - not sure Brook can bat with the tail
He seemed to do a pretty decent job all things considered!
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He seemed to do a pretty decent job all things considered!
He did, and with a calm head at the other end in Woakes managed it very, very well.. Just needs to put the daft shot away!
My Old Trafford tickets are live, thank God
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Feels like my Lords review was pretty solid.
For headingly tomorrow...
I think Eng are looking better in terms of the balance of the team. Great to see Wood playing.
I think England will win this one. More varied bowling, I also think the Aussie attack is going to be tired.
Boland will play probably for Josh Hazelwood I suspect.
England really need to keep the Aussies fielding for more than 2 and a half sessions though.
The big problem with batting as fast as they do is the oppo bowlers aren't that tired in the second dig where as our bowlers get no rest...
Humm... Old Trafford next, role on Anderson's last test...
Eng got a lot right in the game.
What would be good is instead of playing golf every day, perhaps if they spent the time doing catching practice it will make thing better for us.
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He seemed to do a pretty decent job all things considered!
One bad shot at the end but a very very good knock from a young batsman. Him and Woakes did superb.
Woakes I still believe should be in every team at home anyway
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Imagine you'll see Robinson out for Anderson. They really have a problem with Bairstow - he's in there to do what he's done last summer and he's failing that as well as his shoddy keeping; if Stokes had an ounce of common sense he'd drop him for Foakes
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Lot of 5 nil predictions incorrect. These teams are really close, both making mistakes, both producing bits of brilliance. Hopefully goes down to the last test, but you'd still fancy Australia having the advantage of a lead.
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Great result from England and don’t hear to many negatives about the way England play when they win lol.
Got to few for Scott Boland can’t think of many players that have batted in two innings & bowled in 2 innings with no runs and no wickets lol
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Good day went to day just got home , helps living within 1 mile of Headingley
Take away Brooks did well so did Woakes once he settled .
Boland struggles in the field
Gray Nicolls stand oh dear another bat down !!!
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Good day went to day just got home , helps living within 1 mile of Headingley
Take away Brooks did well so did Woakes once he settled .
Boland struggles in the field
Gray Nicolls stand oh dear another bat down !!!
Off theme - what did you get?
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Imagine you'll see Robinson out for Anderson. They really have a problem with Bairstow - he's in there to do what he's done last summer and he's failing that as well as his shoddy keeping; if Stokes had an ounce of common sense he'd drop him for Foakes
Still see this as both rather than either/or.
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Still see this as both rather than either/or.
Nah, it's time now. Especially as Foakes seemingly comes with a guarantee of at least one ton per test, 16 dismissals and zero errors 😉 What has Bairstow ever done for this England team anyway?!
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I just don't see how the selector and Stokes/McCullum can look at his performances so far and say he's been anything but poor. I get wanting to back him but this experiment of him at #7 and keeping has been a mess. Woakes was obviously class enough to take most of that home with Brook, but Foakes proved last summer he was the guy at the other end seeing those chases off and dropping anchor. Keep picking Bairstow and this series is probably lost.
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Off theme - what did you get?
Last 3 days
Xxx hand made from Aust
And today a pro performance Uk made
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Also the fact those bucket hats still aren't back in stock is rubbish from Castore - surely they knew they'd sell like hotcakes
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Also the fact those bucket hats still aren't back in stock is rubbish from Castore - surely they knew they'd sell like hotcakes
Am I the only person who thinks they look grim?
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Am I the only person who thinks they look grim?
No you are not
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#Fashion
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Am I the only person who thinks they look grim?
Not sure looking good is wholly the point 😅
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They sold them outside on the little pirate stalls for 5 quid not my cup of tea
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Also the fact those bucket hats still aren't back in stock is rubbish from Castore - surely they knew they'd sell like hotcakes
They were back in stock Friday on the ECB site, they weren’t on there long. You need to check daily.
Managed to get one and they are going for silly prices on eBay.
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Same squad then for Old Trafford. Ah.
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All for backing your players but this is bordering on masochism...
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The only possible explanation is to stick with the winning team; otherwise sticking with Bairstow makes zero sense.
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It would be an odd response to winning a game to change the squad unless injuries were an issue which one would assume the knocks that Robinson and Stokes were carrying mustn't be
Australia seem to have a lot more difficult selection decisions to make before Old Trafford. When you consider how close all 3 games have been and just how poor England's catching across the cordon has been (Crawley aside), Australia certainly have bigger decisions over their batting and bowling for the final two tests
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It would be an odd response to winning a game to change the squad unless injuries were an issue which one would assume the knocks that Robinson and Stokes were carrying mustn't be
Australia seem to have a lot more difficult selection decisions to make before Old Trafford. When you consider how close all 3 games have been and just how poor England's catching across the cordon has been (Crawley aside), Australia certainly have bigger decisions over their batting and bowling for the final two tests
Not sure about this - Australia have one obvious change (Hazlewood back for Boland) but otherwise are heavily likely to stick with the same side? Can't see them dropping Marsh, and likely not Warner either. England may have won this test and look a lot better for having Wood and Woakes in, but you still don't feel like they've got a clue what their best team is or how to balance the batting order.
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number 3 spot for us is a huge issue now, there isnt an obvious candidate so im surprised they havent brought in another batter for the choice.
glad its not my choice, but if it were i would be going stokes now as hes technically only a batter and the brooks/ali experiment didnt work
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Wouldn’t disagree with that but it’s Mo at three and extra sessions planned before the match to practice.
It’s too high for him but he has offered and it shows commitment to the team.
He will not play after this series so nothing to lose but we know Brook needs to stay where he is.
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100% Mo's commitment is admirable, but we need a solid 3 not a pinch hitter with a very good eye. the Aussies are way too good for us to be putting round pegs in square holes
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100% Mo's commitment is admirable, but we need a solid 3 not a pinch hitter with a very good eye. the Aussies are way too good for us to be putting round pegs in square holes
Mo spent most of his first class career batting at 3. Clearly whoever fills that role will be a stop gap solution but I would take a punt and say that Mo will have had more first class innings batting 3 than anyone in the squad
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Not sure about this - Australia have one obvious change (Hazlewood back for Boland) but otherwise are heavily likely to stick with the same side? Can't see them dropping Marsh, and likely not Warner either. England may have won this test and look a lot better for having Wood and Woakes in, but you still don't feel like they've got a clue what their best team is or how to balance the batting order.
That is the one obvious change but they have one spot for two all rounders, an opening bat on a long run of poor form and a spinner the captain doesn't trust. I would suggest Australia right now have far more decisions to make as to the side that will take the field at Old Trafford
More generally, Old Trafford is the best test match wicket in the county and the fact that it usually offers something for everyone makes team selection even more difficult as the pitch rarely gives you a definitive answer as to how you should set your side up
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100% Mo's commitment is admirable, but we need a solid 3 not a pinch hitter with a very good eye. the Aussies are way too good for us to be putting round pegs in square holes
I don’t think we can get a solid number 3 for the remaining games that’s the issue.
Lawrence is in the squad but he would be in cold and not sure he bats 3 for Essex. I suppose Stokes or Bairstow could do it but no confidence in the latter to survive a newish ball.
Whoever comes in is a stop gap so they appear to be making the best of it.
Not sure there is a better option for 2 games.
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How on Earth does glovework like this not get in you into the England team - https://twitter.com/surreycricket/status/1679107055561453569?s=20
It really isn't funny anymore
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Never mind that he's in good nick with the bat and has shown exactly the kind of grit with the bat that has been needed in every game of the series so far.
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I expect Foakes will be called for India so he misses the biggest series against the Aussies. Flipper the seal continues and I understand loyalty but where is it for Ben.
It’s a good job Rehan has not played yet because keeping standing back is straightforward for a pro bit standing up when it turns is a different game altogether.
Before anyone posts Bairstow haters on again he should be in the team as a batsman. He’s got some credit in the bank for sure
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They were back in stock Friday on the ECB site, they weren’t on there long. You need to check daily.
Managed to get one and they are going for silly prices on eBay.
Bucket hat delivered and they are literally using Beechfield blank £4 bucket hats, embroidering the England logo and sticking a Castore swing card on them. You can even see where they have ripped the Beechfield tag out the inside.
Decent mark up for £25 a pop.
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Another excellent win for the women
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Thought they'd chucked it when Ecclestone threw her wicket away, what a knock from Cross.
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Bucket hat delivered and they are literally using Beechfield blank £4 bucket hats, embroidering the England logo and sticking a Castore swing card on them. You can even see where they have ripped the Beechfield tag out the inside.
Decent mark up for £25 a pop.
Cheaper than that bought in volume for sure. They're not bad caps tho tbf. Is imagine they've been caught out but demand and are backfilling with anything they can get quickly
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England XI for OT - One change with Anderson in for Robinson
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Mo confirmed batting 3. Not ideal but short term think that was the only option. Brook needs to settle in to a role at 5.
I just hope we take our chances this match.
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Woakes would be a better option at 3 than Mo in my view.
But the reality is it makes sense for these last two games with Stokes not really able to bowl.
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I'm not sure about that. Bairstow should have been at 3, putting Moeen there is brave at best. At least YJB is a proper recognized batsman.
Obviously I want Foakes in if Bairstow is at 3 but he is busy being messed around by the England management as always.
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Woakes would be a better option at 3 than Mo in my view.
But the reality is it makes sense for these last two games with Stokes not really able to bowl.
Woakes would seem far too vulnerable against the short ball up at 3 for me. He looks far from comfortable sometimes against the quick, short stuff. Shows the value of a true allrounder. If Stokes could bowl some serious overs it would balance the side much better.
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Mo will have the same problem with the short stuff that’s why he’s not a top order player at this level so England are a bit goosed either way.
Bairstow at 3 plus keeping looks a tall order, he just does not have a tight enough game.
But you are right Stokes bowling is sooo key to getting an extra player in.
As soon as he knew bowling was going to be tough Foakes was ruled out of the series and he said himself they are picking a side based on him not bowling.
Despite all the above it could be 2-1 to us not to them if we had taken the chances we created. But they are up and we desperately need a win at OT.
I am backing Anderson to play a blinder on what will be his last Ashes at home.
:)
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Why is it people always say so and so can't play the short ball.
There is no evidence that Woakes can't play the short ball.
People said the same about Foakes. Also nonsense.
Bairstow can't keep and bat three. A full fit and in form and not keeping Bairstow isn't really a number 3.
So someone has to put their hand up.
Root... Needs protection a bit as Cummins has his number at the moment.
Brook... Maybe one day, but not yet.
Stokes... Seems reluctant, but could do it, I think.
Mo... Has been handed the job.
Woakes... Probably too high for him, but I think he will score more runs at 3 than Mo.
Wood... Yes. The real Bazball choice.
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I've said it before - dayhawk!
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Why is it people always say so and so can't play the short ball.
There is no evidence that Woakes can't play the short ball.
People said the same about Foakes. Also nonsense.
Bairstow can't keep and bat three. A full fit and in form and not keeping Bairstow isn't really a number 3.
So someone has to put their hand up.
Root... Needs protection a bit as Cummins has his number at the moment.
Brook... Maybe one day, but not yet.
Stokes... Seems reluctant, but could do it, I think.
Mo... Has been handed the job.
Woakes... Probably too high for him, but I think he will score more runs at 3 than Mo.
Wood... Yes. The real Bazball choice.
Stokes can hardly walk so can’t bat three. Also vulnerable against the short ball
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Mo for 3.
There is no suitable choice but I dont think batting 3 will mess with his head. If he fails it wont impact is bowling or his test future, as he has none. I admire that he is happy to take one for the team. Best 'sacrifice' someone if it means Root and Brook are not worrying about stuff and play up to standard. Now and for the next 5 years.
Sounds crazy re a Test No.3 but its where we are.
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Why is it people always say so and so can't play the short ball.
There is no evidence that Woakes can't play the short ball.
People said the same about Foakes. Also nonsense.
Bairstow can't keep and bat three. A full fit and in form and not keeping Bairstow isn't really a number 3.
So someone has to put their hand up.
Root... Needs protection a bit as Cummins has his number at the moment.
Brook... Maybe one day, but not yet.
Stokes... Seems reluctant, but could do it, I think.
Mo... Has been handed the job.
Woakes... Probably too high for him, but I think he will score more runs at 3 than Mo.
Wood... Yes. The real Bazball choice.
He hardly looked comfortable in the last test against them short stuff, especially first innings. Even second innings, he looks very jumpy and unconvincing. I get what you're saying, but I just don't see him scoring any runs at three personally. Not that I think Mo is the answer either, but think he's better equipped than Woakes tbh.
If only Leach was fit! Solid number 3
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Mo for 3.
There is no suitable choice but I dont think batting 3 will mess with his head. If he fails it wont impact is bowling or his test future, as he has none. I admire that he is happy to take one for the team. Best 'sacrifice' someone if it means Root and Brook are not worrying about stuff and play up to standard. Now and for the next 5 years.
Sounds crazy re a Test No.3 but its where we are.
This is of course the correct answer.
But if Mo can get one score of 40+ and take deliveries out of Cummings and Starc then he will have done his job.
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Stokes can hardly walk so can’t bat three. Also vulnerable against the short ball
Stokes scares the hell out of the Aussies and to put him at 3 would limit that as if they get him early with a newer ball then the fear factor middle order player goes. Certain players are just best left alone, Stokes at 6 brook at 5 and Root at 4. Pope is now a massive miss as currently the only real test quality No3 we have. Now there is some more real talent in the CC but it’s trying to fit them in. I personally would have liked to have seen an all round batting replacement for Pope such as the likes of Abel who has batted 3 and scored loads for Somerset, possibly also Rew but he is another keeper middle order batter but is averaging 70+ this season but given what we have Mo is the best from that list
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Sam Hain would bat 3 more me and I feel he could be as good as Pope given a chance….
Not sure if he fit but what a player Rew looked good too but Pope is like any player more he away better he becomes.
In fact in all forms I would look to have Hain in my side outstanding batter.
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I have a lot of time for guys like Mo who are prepared to do what is needed for the team even if it isn't the best for them. I think he could have had a far better test career than he has had if he had played it under Stokes and McCullum
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If you need a stopgap no3 it isn't the worst thing for the guy you throw up the order to be someone who bats there in first class cricket. For all the disadvantages Moeen is probably thinking he's finally in his preferred spot. Given Stokes' fitness the only other realistic option would have been for him to bat 3. For all the county batting strength at the minute there aren't a lot of top 3 players putting up a big case for a callup!
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Trying to do a 4th test prediction is tough, because both teams have had time off to lick wounds and recover.
Plus the weather forecast isn't great.
The Aussies have to work out where Can Green fits in (I suspect Todd Murfy will make way and Head will be the spinner). Marsh won't be dropped and nor will Warner.
The Eng team is as expected. Mo the sacrificial lamb at 3.
Jimmy back for a likely last test at Old Trafford. Eng have a balanced team (yes Foakes would add more but it isn't happening).
My instinct will be for either a Draw or and Aussie win, but due to Eng going too hard to win the match as they did in the first game.
What I really want though is some Jimmy magic under overcast skys and to see some grump Aussies moaning about English weather, again...
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Why is it people always say so and so can't play the short ball.
There is no evidence that Woakes can't play the short ball.
People said the same about Foakes. Also nonsense.
Bairstow can't keep and bat three. A full fit and in form and not keeping Bairstow isn't really a number 3.
So someone has to put their hand up.
Root... Needs protection a bit as Cummins has his number at the moment.
Brook... Maybe one day, but not yet.
Stokes... Seems reluctant, but could do it, I think.
Mo... Has been handed the job.
Woakes... Probably too high for him, but I think he will score more runs at 3 than Mo.
Wood... Yes. The real Bazball choice.
Woakes has been weak against the short ball his whole Test career and was bullied by the Indians a few years ago. This Aus attack is just as good.
Where does he bat for Warwickshire? And theres a reason for that
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Can't say I remember Woakes looking particularly accomplished against the short ball, weak is maybe overselling it a touch but it's certainly not a strength of his game. He's an excellent bat but much more value down the order.
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Where does he bat for Warwickshire? And theres a reason for that
Not that he plays for Warwickshire much these days (or that I think he's a good shout to bat 3), but bear in mind this is a guy who has 10 first class tons at an average of 33 (context: Stokes averages 35 and Crawley 30) and made his test debut batting in the middle order - Chris Woakes is quite good at batting. As for bullied by the Indians a few years ago - do you mean the series where he made a ton against them? :)
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Not that he plays for Warwickshire much these days (or that I think he's a good shout to bat 3), but bear in mind this is a guy who has 10 first class tons at an average of 33 (context: Stokes averages 35 and Crawley 30) and made his test debut batting in the middle order - Chris Woakes is quite good at batting. As for bullied by the Indians a few years ago - do you mean the series where he made a ton against them? :)
I think that was the previous series (2017?) when Indias pace attack was still a work in progress.
My abiding memory of the series in question was Woakes backing away to the square leg umpire ala Tufnell when anything short came down. That is definitely not the technique of a top order bat.
Chris Woakes is a very good Test match 8 and excellent bowler in England. Test match 3 - not close.
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As I said... Probably too high for him, but I think he would score more runs there than Mo.
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Australia not playing a spinner. Quite surprising considering they haven't done that since 2012 - even with conditions it's still a spin friendly ground
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That said they might as well hand their match fees back to the ICC in advance, the over rate of that team will be so slow.
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That said they might as well hand their match fees back to the ICC in advance, the over rate of that team will be so slow.
It's OK, Uzzie will go back and negotiate a refund like last time.
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I think that was the previous series (2017?) when Indias pace attack was still a work in progress.
My abiding memory of the series in question was Woakes backing away to the square leg umpire ala Tufnell when anything short came down. That is definitely not the technique of a top order bat.
Chris Woakes is a very good Test match 8 and excellent bowler in England. Test match 3 - not close.
Played one test in the following series in 2021, got a fifty. Recollections may vary ;) Don't disagree that he's not a candidate for 3, but in a world without Stokes he'd have a long career at 7.
Australian team balance tomorrow very interesting I think, always a big risk going without a spinner. It'll look a shocking call if a pacer goes down injured.
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Good toss to win - just need to take advantage
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Khawaja burning a review for a plumb one, sheesh
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That is a gift from Marnus
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Blinding catch from Bairstow.
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Blinding catch from Bairstow.
Jammy catch from a keeper on his heels and put of position...
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Jammy catch from a keeper on his heels and put of position...
Thought this earlier, looked especially good because of how poor a position he got into. Spectacular recovery but a better keeper doesn't get that wrong footed.
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However if he hadn’t been wrong footed/in the wrong place it may have been a much harder chance being unable to go with a fully outstretched arm.
I’m a big Foakes fan but says a lot how pleased the rest were for him.
That said his keeping was otherwise pretty shoddy again, hopefully a bit of confidence helps.
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Poor Bairstow. Even when he does something decent it's still sh!te in the eyes of the forum! 😂 Didn't see much today actually, but saw him drop a few which were wobbling about early doors. Not uncommon in English conditions. Did he miss any chances?
Decent enough day for England and the game, if they can finish it off relatively quickly in the morning. If the weather holds it could be another interesting test.
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Poor Bairstow. Even when he does something decent it's still sh!te in the eyes of the forum!
Haha yes, nothing he does will satisfy our keyboard warriors!
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Haha yes, nothing he does will satisfy our keyboard warriors!
*biased one eyed Surrey supporters
😂
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Well done Mo this morning. already scored more than most thought he would and seen off the new ball pairing. I see England going hard today to hurry the game along with the w/e forecast......
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Decent innings from Moeen to be honest
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Decent innings from Moeen to be honest
Decent knock from both Crawley and Mo this morning, let’s see if we can really put the pressure on them and bat once and big as we know it will be scored quickly
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Crawley you legend
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Always said Crawley should be the opening batter... 🤪🤯😬😂
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*biased one eyed Surrey supporters
😂
I'm actually waiting for the day all Ben Foakes' disciples turn up at The Oval.
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Always said Crawley should be the opening batter... 🤪🤯😬😂
Beat me to it. Although I'd have probably used " ".
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The day two of the England lads that got the least love from the general public did well the most
Credit to stokes and mcCallum
Moeen gets big wickets and at 3 he can play free
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How lucky do you wanna be josh Hazlewood!
That rolled
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Really felt like there was a huge shift of momentum today. The Aussies looked completely and utterly rattled in the field.
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Hats off to baz mccullum- this is exactly why he wanted crawley. Will fail a lot, but every now and then will do what he did today.
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He did bat amazingly well and it does shift momentum when it comes off.
OT always spins you presume they don’t think their spinner is up to standard despite the rain being forecast.
I think Mo could have an influence in their second innings
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I am continually shocked at the flip flopping of comments from you English fans :D
Do you want Crawley opening or not? Do you like Stokes and McCullum's way or not? Make up your mind ;)
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I am continually shocked at the flip flopping of comments from you English fans :D
Do you want Crawley opening or not? Do you like Stokes and McCullum's way or not? Make up your mind ;)
LOL. Very true. Seems like bazball has more buy in outside of England than in England.
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Exactly. I want India to follow suit as well. They have the talent. Just needs backing. And I don't think bringing back Rahane was the right thing to do. Against a weak team like WI they could have definitely tried the emerging players.
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I'm a big fan of the Stokes/McCullum approach, but that doesn't mean they can't improve. I think it was always going to be hard against a very potent Aussie attack, but we could easily be up in this series without fielding errors.
Tests selling out all 5 days in advance tells you all you need to know. We also have ex players,out of the game for years turning up at club nets wanting to play - cricket is definitely on the rise in england.
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I bet Foakes would've got a ton 😉
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I dont believe it should be either/or - I'd play both, just with Foakes as keeper.
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I would if I could get both in. Not sure how though?
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turning up at club nets wanting to play - cricket is definitely on the rise in england.
Ashes always brings the part-timers out. 😉
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Ashes retained. Beautiful.
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Sloppiness and recklessness cost England
Irritating to have them keep the urn like this
Big shame for the series the weather has spoiled the party
2-2 going into the oval would have been special
Oh well, well just have to make it 2-2 after the oval!
Tongue back in for Jimmy for me, Jim just doesn't lol threatening and tongue a better option than Robinson at the moment
And I'm guessing Australia will go in with 11 batsmen and hope to bat for 5 days to draw again
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Yes what might of been for us, I think the catches behind the wicket and chances not gone for cost us in the end.
How Woakes does not play at home all the time when fit is beyond me. Wood is never going to play all five matches but he was superb, as was Broad.
Annoyingly I think we would win at the Oval had the weather not cost us in this game, we played the better cricket in Manchester.
But it’s the first two games, you just have to take your chances at that level, and yes, a bit of recklessness with the bat.
However the team in 12 months has changed and improved massively under Stokes and Baz.it’s almost unrecognisable
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Congratulations to the Aussies, but funny how even though I think it was said on here that they were far the better side, they were completely outplayed in this test and most of the last. It's been a great series, but mistakes we made in the first two tests, the weather and some good cricket by the Aussies in the big moments of the first two tests have been the difference ultimately. 2 - 2 going into the Oval would have been a fairer reflection of the series, and a winner takes all test would have been what this series deserved.
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I was at day 1 & 2 at Old Trafford. 19 overs not bowled across the two days but finished bang on 6:30pm when the sun was out.
The slow over rate punishments obviously don’t work so why not stay out until the 90 overs are bowled? I can’t think of any other sport where this would occur.
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Australia made fewer mistakes than England. The AUS team was not far superior to the ENG team. AUS were saved by the rain otherwise it'd have been a 2-2 series. Momentum is with ENG now and they can easily draw the series. AUS batting has gone from clinical to sloppy in the 4 matches.
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I think the goat innings when absolutely crocked was inspirational
Also Marnus 100 at old Trafford saw them home
England so many positives and learning points and entertaining series just the wrong side of the margins this time.
They are resilient are the pesky Aussie and rightly at the minute the best side on the planet but we are close
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Right last test if the series.
Am on holiday so no full prediction other than 2 things...
1. Likely to be Anderson's last test. Let's celebrate his career.
2. Eng are better than Aus (in my view) and let's hope the cricketing gods smile on us after the weather gods let Aus off the hook in the last match.
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Pat finally wins a toss, sticks the Poms in. Murphy in for Green.
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Harry Brook really is something else
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With Anderson and Broad in tandem, we simply don't seem to take enough wickets upfront.
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With Anderson and Broad in tandem, we simply don't seem to take enough wickets upfront.
I don't think Anderson has bowled that badly this series, the pitches haven't helped him but he's obviously at the twilight of an unbelievable career. Broad is the leading wicket taker in the series isn't he?
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One thing iv noticed this series is that Crawley is a superb slip fielder
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That is an incredible catch from Root that should have been Bairstow's every day of the week
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Keepers every day of the week he is stuck in cement
Brilliant from Root
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They've probably discussed it to be fair 'if you think Joe can get anywhere near it please keep your useless hands out of the way' :D
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Unbelievable 🤦♂️
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Yeah that hurts. But the ball has to be under control, they have had one bow we have. Same for both teams
It’s got to be not out umps correct
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Not a fan of these ball-chucking celebrations for exactly this reason. Seen one given not out in a club game (rightly) because the catch and throw were in the same motion.
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Not a fan of these ball-chucking celebrations for exactly this reason. Seen one given not out in a club game (rightly) because the catch and throw were in the same motion.
I'm not convinced Stokes was throwing the ball up
Both his arms rotated backwards, like he's trying not to fall over
He just hit his thigh
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like Gibbs, did he just drop the chance for going 2-2?
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Credit where it's due...... Jonny!!!!!
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Woakes must be up for man of the series and he hasn’t played all the games. Outstanding bowling
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Squeaky bum time now.
When will Eng tske the second new ball.
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Wow, what a tight series!
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Just. One. More.
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Best team in the world? Nah
Lucky to take the urn home
Outplayed for large parts of the series
Took the few key moments in the first 2
Lucky Aussies, lucky!
Tongue in cheek? Slightly, do I think they deserve the urn? Absolutely not!
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Amazing end to a great series
Broad really could carry on he is bowling as well as ever
Sky must of made him a great offer
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What a finish, must have been electric being in the stands. A terrific end to Broads career, what a game and a very good series overall.
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Sensational!
Aus fail to win an Ashes series in England yet again- the long wait continues
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Fitting finish to a great career. Could it be more Broad than finishing with a 6 with the bat and nicking off a left hander round the wicket with the ball?
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One thing iv noticed this series is that Crawley is a superb slip fielder
I think it's the first time he's noticed it too, he was shelling them left right and centre previously!
Wonder how many of this side will still be around come the end of next summer, there's a big 33+ contingent. Or is playing on later into the 30s going to become more and more common?
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I think it's the first time he's noticed it too, he was shelling them left right and centre previously!
Wonder how many of this side will still be around come the end of next summer, there's a big 33+ contingent. Or is playing on later into the 30s going to become more and more common?
Woakes likely to continue to play at home if he can given the hasn't actually played that much etst cricket, same goes for Wood on the proviso his body holds up, Stokes probably until the next ashes if his body lets him, Anderson I guess plans to sign off next summer.
YJB the oldest of the batsmen, none of the older guys really struggling for form yet, and I guess unlikely to do so vs SL and WI.