It’s over !
Posted by karram on August 27, 2005
We are witnessing cricket history being made in England right now. The current champions are being rolled over, and a new champion is all set to take the top spot in test cricket.
Australians have been but a pale shadow of their former selves all tour. Right from the first game, the “20-20″ which was laughed off, the batting has struggled. Gone are the days of dominance from the top order, and the best wicket-keeper batsman in the world. Instead, the runs have come from the tail, not a good sign for any team.
Bowling has struggled (apart from Warne, of course). Add to it the extra-thick layer of butter on the hands of the fielders, and problems have been plenty. No wonder, they are right now staring at a defeat in this test, and still seeing nothing to suggest a win in the next one and a possible 2-2 result. Indeed, if the aussies manage to save this test and the series this would be an injustice to england, who simply have been superb in the field.
Aussie fans (self included) would point to the decisions that have gone against them, esp. the lbw decisions off inside edges. Why the heck can’t icc let the third umpire see if there is an inside edge, and if it’s there, recall the batsman ? “Glorious uncertainities of the game”. Bull. I call it plain incompetence of the umpires (esp bucknor, who just cannot see or hear nicks) , and the ICC sitting on its backside doing nothing.
Still, England deserve to win this series, just for their intensity, passion and spirit. They did not lose heart after lords, and have come back strongly. Good luck pommies ! I am sure we will start beating you again pretty soon. But right now, enjoy the success.
And for the aussies, thanks a lot for all those sweet memories. The world cup win, win in India, some “attack is the best form of defense” knocks from Gilchrist, guts from Waugh, grace from Junior, magic from Warne and McGrath. Thanks guys. Its been wonderful watching you and supporting you.
August 27, 2005 at 11:40 am
I don’t think England can go on playing like this for a long time. Esp., outside England.
This must be the best time for Cricket, because a lot of teams can now really fight for the topmost place. Watchout for this worldcup.
August 27, 2005 at 11:43 am
I dont care.
i’ll gladly take “aussie domination ” instead of “good cricket” anytime :).
August 29, 2005 at 4:16 pm
My opinion is slightly different..I feel that itz the English who have improved their level while the OZ, who always have been there(@ the top) remained dormant..Few other teams would have stood up to the pressure yesterday put on by Brett & Shane.. The way Trescothick, KP ad Flitoff played clearly shows their mindset and the confidence…
England is on a roll now..
Good for Cricket fans!!!! I am njoying every bit of it…
-naveen
August 30, 2005 at 8:32 am
Like Waugh said, the Oz displayed “no hunger” for a win. Too much negativity, and an inability to do the basics right has put them under a lot of pressure. BTW, Oz have struggled against good teams when McGrath or Warne are missing (mind goes back to the series against India).