From what I've heard and read since the second test from, with the greatest respect, ex pros who've forgotten more than we'll ever know about cricket and hacks that spend a lot more time watching cricket (and who aren't in the ECB's pocket, for the love of God...), is that we shouldn't underestimate a) Cook's form and how good he's looking in terms of footwork and head position, b) how good Anderson's last day performance was on a lifeless track prepared to nullify all types of bowling, c) how good Root and Ballance are and d) the
potential of this England side. Swann and Vaughan, in particular, are offering some fantastic insight into the game and the positive direction England are headed in.
Have a read of this; I like the first sentence in particular...
http://www.espncricinfo.com/west-indies-v-england-2015/content/story/866825.htmlI get that Gerry gets a kick out of winding Forumites up, I'd do the same if I had the free time. What I don't get is willing England players to fail. I've had players I've not been the greatest fans of in the past, preferring those left out over those selected, but never willed an England side and its component parts to fail. I'd be questioning my love for the game.
I can appreciate other countries players, to the point I would willingly admit to going to games to see special players play (Tendulkar, KP, Greenidge to name a few - sorry Gerry, never seen SA live, but would love to watch AB, Steyn and Amla in full flow...). Gerry; make the most of this, it's the only time I'm going to nibble - how many bowlers with over 390 test wickets are clubbies? The most wickets for your country, the longevity, the ability to swing a ball both ways and leading an test attack for eight years, during a time that multiple Ashes series are won and the team reached No.1 in the world (for however short a time) should command some form of respect.
As should Cook's 25 test hundreds.