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Wednesday start so dont get caught napping.
England win the toss and decide to bowl.
England win the toss and decide to bowl.
In reply to the sheep:
No excuses for Ravi in this one. Also a good opportunity to see Bell at number 3 for a full match.
No excuses for Ravi in this one. Also a good opportunity to see Bell at number 3 for a full match.
In reply to GrahamD:
Strong batting line up on paper for India today. Will have to see how they cope.
Strong batting line up on paper for India today. Will have to see how they cope.
In reply to the sheep:
Sehwag gone 8-1
Sehwag gone 8-1
In reply to the sheep:
Good start - England batting by tea ?
Good start - England batting by tea ?
In reply to the sheep: ...and off we go!
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Draco has them in all sorts of horrible, horrible trouble... so has Jimmy.
Draco has them in all sorts of horrible, horrible trouble... so has Jimmy.
In reply to Tim Chappell: It had better last until at least Tea on Saturday as I am going
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
Answers my "will it last till sunday?" question. I'll save my money.
> (In reply to Tim Chappell) It had better last until at least Tea on Saturday as I am going
Answers my "will it last till sunday?" question. I'll save my money.
In reply to fijibaby: I thought I'd put the mockers on then. Well done Bresnan.
In reply to fijibaby:
Gambhir gone, 58-2
Gambhir gone, 58-2
In reply to the sheep:
Tendulkar gone for 1
Tendulkar gone for 1
In reply to the sheep: Sachin gone
In reply to fijibaby: 3-65 after 23 overs!! Come on England!
In reply to stonemaster: Dravid gone
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
75-4, fantastic stuff
75-4, fantastic stuff
In reply to the sheep: Raina can't bat in these conditions and neither can Dhoni. India have got a proper tail too so all out for 170.
In reply to lowersharpnose: If it finishes early I might pop over to the Bullring and get myself a new telly
In reply to Matt250: Doesn't sound far wrong... hurrah!
In reply to stonemaster:
I wish TMS would shut up about whether this is the best England side of all time. Such questions
(a) are completely unanswerable: who knows how they'd have done against the 1980 W Indies pace attack, or on a bumpy pitch at Old Trafford in 1910?
(b) are not really very interesting. I don't care whether or not they're better than some bunch of people from long ago. I just want them to thrash Australia, with a comprehensiveness that scars the Ozzie psyche for decades to come, as soon as possible. (Compared with the Ashes, everything else is a warm-up as far as I'm concerned.)
(c) have more than a smidge of English triumphalism about them, and we all know where English triumphalism gets us-- bottom of the class in double-quick time.
I wish TMS would shut up about whether this is the best England side of all time. Such questions
(a) are completely unanswerable: who knows how they'd have done against the 1980 W Indies pace attack, or on a bumpy pitch at Old Trafford in 1910?
(b) are not really very interesting. I don't care whether or not they're better than some bunch of people from long ago. I just want them to thrash Australia, with a comprehensiveness that scars the Ozzie psyche for decades to come, as soon as possible. (Compared with the Ashes, everything else is a warm-up as far as I'm concerned.)
(c) have more than a smidge of English triumphalism about them, and we all know where English triumphalism gets us-- bottom of the class in double-quick time.
In reply to the sheep: Sorry, almost forgt, ta for the heads up, did think it was to start tomorrow...duh.
In reply to Tim Chappell: Can't agree more. Totally unnecessary. Yup, the Cons need thumping properly, especially when they are down....
In reply to stonemaster:
Raina gone
Raina gone
In reply to the sheep: Yay!!!
In reply to stonemaster:
Will India make 150? I'm not convinced they will, on this pitch against this attack.
Will India make 150? I'm not convinced they will, on this pitch against this attack.
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Bye bye Laxman!
Bye bye Laxman!
In reply to Tim Chappell:
100 for 6 ... good time for a punt on an india win as the odds usually get silly at times like these. Can't lose either way then
100 for 6 ... good time for a punt on an india win as the odds usually get silly at times like these. Can't lose either way then
In reply to the sheep:
dammit i didn't know it was a wednesday start and now it looks like i've missed almost half the match.
it's good to see we seem to have got the idea of keeping a team down now - just like the aussies used to do to us. let's hope we can keep the core of this team and the attitude until the next ashes
dammit i didn't know it was a wednesday start and now it looks like i've missed almost half the match.
it's good to see we seem to have got the idea of keeping a team down now - just like the aussies used to do to us. let's hope we can keep the core of this team and the attitude until the next ashes
In reply to the sheep:
The Indian team seem to just want to get out of Birmingham as quickly as possible!
Perhaps they've got a tip off about more rioting
The Indian team seem to just want to get out of Birmingham as quickly as possible!
Perhaps they've got a tip off about more rioting
In reply to the sheep:
7 down, but they are starting the swing the bat. Could be a re-run of the last test ?
7 down, but they are starting the swing the bat. Could be a re-run of the last test ?
In reply to Chris the Tall:
The tail does appear to be wagging.
The tail does appear to be wagging.
In reply to the sheep:
Dhoni isn't supposed to be the tail, though ! Sounds like an entertaining IPL style innings at the moment.
Dhoni isn't supposed to be the tail, though ! Sounds like an entertaining IPL style innings at the moment.
In reply to the sheep:
this from cricinfo:
"Just woke up here in California and saw the score: Sehwag 0, Sachin 1. This shows what I have believed all along, that Sachin is an infinitely better batsman than Sehwag in English conditions." Good stuff, Mac
this from cricinfo:
"Just woke up here in California and saw the score: Sehwag 0, Sachin 1. This shows what I have believed all along, that Sachin is an infinitely better batsman than Sehwag in English conditions." Good stuff, Mac
In reply to Alex@home:
Needed that one!
Needed that one!
In reply to the sheep: Dhoni out. 1 left.
In reply to Matt250:
Very much needed that one.
Very much needed that one.
In reply to the sheep:
Finally Dhoni goes - fine innings of 77, 224-9
Finally Dhoni goes - fine innings of 77, 224-9
In reply to Chris the Tall:
All gone for 224
All gone for 224
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Right. Now we need 450, min. Time for Strauss to come to the party methinks.
Right. Now we need 450, min. Time for Strauss to come to the party methinks.
In reply to the sheep:
All very similar to Trent Bridge, but you can't see India repeating England's performance
Lets hope Cook can rediscover his form - we could do with a solid base here, last thing we need is to see Ravi batting tonight !
All very similar to Trent Bridge, but you can't see India repeating England's performance
Lets hope Cook can rediscover his form - we could do with a solid base here, last thing we need is to see Ravi batting tonight !
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Erm - I said England would be batting by tea, and I was under an hour out.
You said it would be all over in two days....
Erm - I said England would be batting by tea, and I was under an hour out.
You said it would be all over in two days....
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Cooky and Strauss riding their luck ATM - Strauss needs a good score on this track - the weather will be a factor tomorrow when the ball will swing about a bit... If India get a few wickets in this session then things could be interesting...
Cooky and Strauss riding their luck ATM - Strauss needs a good score on this track - the weather will be a factor tomorrow when the ball will swing about a bit... If India get a few wickets in this session then things could be interesting...
In reply to Tim Chappell: Strauss gets his 50! ...at last...well done, that man
In reply to stonemaster:
Right then whats the weather like over that way. Looks grey and set in Leicester way
Right then whats the weather like over that way. Looks grey and set in Leicester way
In reply to the sheep: Stat delayed to 1130. Friday forecast not much better. At this rate, it may yet be a drawn Test (let's hope not)...
In reply to stonemaster: Blue skys in Worcester, TMS seemed reasonably confident there would be a days play.
In reply to stonemaster: At this rate we will definately get play on Saturday - which is good
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Boycott is somewhat scathing of the Indian Fielding.
Boycott is somewhat scathing of the Indian Fielding.
In reply to the sheep:
Let me guess - his mother could do better !
Let me guess - his mother could do better !
In reply to Chris the Tall:
How did you guess......
How did you guess......
In reply to the sheep: Cook gets his 50.
In reply to stonemaster:
Strauss has gone on 87.
Strauss has gone on 87.
In reply to the sheep: Strauss out to a no ball.
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
228-1, we are now ahead
228-1, we are now ahead
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
Much better from Strauss. I tend to think 50 is par for an opener-- if he gets plenty of half-centuries that's OK. Centuries are icing on cake, half-centuries are their job.
Much better from Strauss. I tend to think 50 is par for an opener-- if he gets plenty of half-centuries that's OK. Centuries are icing on cake, half-centuries are their job.
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
At this rate England will be looking to declare around tea tomorrow, so you might just get to see a session on Saturday
At this rate England will be looking to declare around tea tomorrow, so you might just get to see a session on Saturday
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Boycott has just said to Blowers "My father was a coal miner". Blowers was, understandably lost for words. His father was a land-owner in Norfolk, and went to Eton with Ian Fleming.
The great thing about TMS-- every part of the English nation is represented on the commentary team.
Apart from women, of course <cough>
Boycott has just said to Blowers "My father was a coal miner". Blowers was, understandably lost for words. His father was a land-owner in Norfolk, and went to Eton with Ian Fleming.
The great thing about TMS-- every part of the English nation is represented on the commentary team.
Apart from women, of course <cough>
In reply to Tim Chappell: Ton up for Cook
In reply to Graeme Alderson: And Bell gone 252-2
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
<runs with the ball because no one else takes it up...>
What ladies should be on the TMS commentary team?
My first nominations would be
--Frances Edmonds
--Rachel Heyhoe-Flint
and (if she likes cricket she'd be just the ticket) Sandi Toksvig
<runs with the ball because no one else takes it up...>
What ladies should be on the TMS commentary team?
My first nominations would be
--Frances Edmonds
--Rachel Heyhoe-Flint
and (if she likes cricket she'd be just the ticket) Sandi Toksvig
In reply to Tim Chappell:
<keeps puffing along>
Definitely not that annoying shouty glib Alison Mitchell woman they have on sometimes. If she asks one more sports player "How important was it to you that... ?" I shall... I shall... I know not what things I shall do, but they shall be the terror of the earth.
<keeps puffing along>
Definitely not that annoying shouty glib Alison Mitchell woman they have on sometimes. If she asks one more sports player "How important was it to you that... ?" I shall... I shall... I know not what things I shall do, but they shall be the terror of the earth.
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Any interviewer who asks a generic "How did it feel?" question is a lazy, embarrassing, twunt.
Any interviewer who asks a generic "How did it feel?" question is a lazy, embarrassing, twunt.
In reply to lowersharpnose:
Indeed. Alison Mitchell is a star exponent of the braindead style of question which is actually a none-too-brief lecture to the sportsperson on his/ her performance, only with a slack question-mark tacked on the end.
Indeed. Alison Mitchell is a star exponent of the braindead style of question which is actually a none-too-brief lecture to the sportsperson on his/ her performance, only with a slack question-mark tacked on the end.
In reply to Tim Chappell:
BBC's trackside athletics man, Phil Jones is terrible for it. Utterly vacuous and toe-curlingly limited repertoire.
337/2.
Strauss is slow to declare, 600+?
BBC's trackside athletics man, Phil Jones is terrible for it. Utterly vacuous and toe-curlingly limited repertoire.
337/2.
Strauss is slow to declare, 600+?
In reply to lowersharpnose: 600+
Is that the figure at which you think Straus will call it a day, or the figure England will reach because Straus won't declare?
Both equally possible.
Is that the figure at which you think Straus will call it a day, or the figure England will reach because Straus won't declare?
Both equally possible.
In reply to lowersharpnose: Amazing ain't it? An England team, playing India, and we're talking about England declaring at 600!
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Lily Allen. She was on during the Ashes and was pretty intersting, although Aggers was a bit cringemaking. But she'd be great next to Boycs - they'd just rip into each other! Particularly after he admitted being a Katy Perry fan !
KP starting to go through the gears, maybe hoping to get his ton tonight. Which would mean he'd join Strauss and Cook on 19 test centuries, just 3 behind the English record (Boycs again, amongst others). And 32 behind Sachin !
> (In reply to Graeme Alderson)
>
> <runs with the ball because no one else takes it up...>
>
> What ladies should be on the TMS commentary team?
>
> My first nominations would be
>
> --Frances Edmonds
> --Rachel Heyhoe-Flint
>
> and (if she likes cricket she'd be just the ticket) Sandi Toksvig
>
> <runs with the ball because no one else takes it up...>
>
> What ladies should be on the TMS commentary team?
>
> My first nominations would be
>
> --Frances Edmonds
> --Rachel Heyhoe-Flint
>
> and (if she likes cricket she'd be just the ticket) Sandi Toksvig
Lily Allen. She was on during the Ashes and was pretty intersting, although Aggers was a bit cringemaking. But she'd be great next to Boycs - they'd just rip into each other! Particularly after he admitted being a Katy Perry fan !
KP starting to go through the gears, maybe hoping to get his ton tonight. Which would mean he'd join Strauss and Cook on 19 test centuries, just 3 behind the English record (Boycs again, amongst others). And 32 behind Sachin !
In reply to lowersharpnose:
How many overs need to played on Saturday to avoid paying refunds ? I wonder if someone from the ECB will have a quiet word.
I still reckon it won't be down to runs, more a desire to have a short session to get a couple of wickets on Friday evening.
> (In reply to fijibaby)
>
> Declare at 600+.
>
> I don't see Strauss declaring at e.g. 520-4.
>
> Declare at 600+.
>
> I don't see Strauss declaring at e.g. 520-4.
How many overs need to played on Saturday to avoid paying refunds ? I wonder if someone from the ECB will have a quiet word.
I still reckon it won't be down to runs, more a desire to have a short session to get a couple of wickets on Friday evening.
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Ideally, India will have a few wickets left for Saturday. That way Graeme has to travel all the way down to watch a foregone conclusion for an hour or two.
Ideally, India will have a few wickets left for Saturday. That way Graeme has to travel all the way down to watch a foregone conclusion for an hour or two.
In reply to fijibaby:
The question we should probably be asking is "Is it worth playing this lot again?".
> (In reply to lowersharpnose) Amazing ain't it? An England team, playing India, and we're talking about England declaring at 600!
The question we should probably be asking is "Is it worth playing this lot again?".
In reply to the sheep:
India are shit. Yeah they're missing their best bowler, but the rest of their attack is so innocuous. Except the much celebrated top/middle order they have nothing worth speaking about because their fielding is atrocious too, village at times.
With a weak WI, Pakistan, Australia, a Murali-less Sri Lanka and the Indian batsmen the wrong side of 35, we could dominate world cricket for years. From every other country, I'm claiming there's only a few players I'd take in the England team, Steyn and batsman or two.
India are shit. Yeah they're missing their best bowler, but the rest of their attack is so innocuous. Except the much celebrated top/middle order they have nothing worth speaking about because their fielding is atrocious too, village at times.
With a weak WI, Pakistan, Australia, a Murali-less Sri Lanka and the Indian batsmen the wrong side of 35, we could dominate world cricket for years. From every other country, I'm claiming there's only a few players I'd take in the England team, Steyn and batsman or two.
In reply to jackcarr: I liked Frank Skinner's comment today that you could reverse our batting order and still fancy our chances!
It's a shame India are playing so badly. It's taken a bit of the fun out of it, certainly the batting. Still, as somebody else said, all other teams are warm up for the Aussies. To dominate them in this way would be flippin brilliant.
It's a shame India are playing so badly. It's taken a bit of the fun out of it, certainly the batting. Still, as somebody else said, all other teams are warm up for the Aussies. To dominate them in this way would be flippin brilliant.
In reply to jackcarr:
Quite correct; they've just dropped Morgan (again, I think?).
>
> India are shit. ... their fielding is atrocious too, village at times.
>
> India are shit. ... their fielding is atrocious too, village at times.
>
Quite correct; they've just dropped Morgan (again, I think?).
In reply to fijibaby:
Winning 3-1 away from home including 2 innings defeats and all sorts of records broken was pretty much domination. It WAS flippin' brilliant
> Still, as somebody else said, all other teams are warm up for the Aussies. To dominate them in this way would be flippin brilliant.
Winning 3-1 away from home including 2 innings defeats and all sorts of records broken was pretty much domination. It WAS flippin' brilliant
In reply to Graeme Alderson: Yeah, fondley remembered! What I mean by dominate the Aussies is to go totally over the top, the sort of beating administered by the Brad Pitt/Ed Norton character in Fight Club. A sort of "oh steady on" total defeat.
It will make up for the many years of England being so rubbish.
It will make up for the many years of England being so rubbish.
In reply to fijibaby: I like your way of thinking. A 5-0 drubbing in 2013 would be quite nice - must remember to buy tickets for the 2nd and 3rd days though instead of the 4th day that I normally do
In reply to the sheep: some really lovely shots & well -tempered batting..
I simply cannot believe the Indian team..what's going on? they just seem to be spectating . 'Only' three missed catches on the highlights..and all of a sudden, it's 400-up!! WTF?
I simply cannot believe the Indian team..what's going on? they just seem to be spectating . 'Only' three missed catches on the highlights..and all of a sudden, it's 400-up!! WTF?
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
It would do for starters but to really dominate we'd have to keep sticking it to 'em like that for 10 or 15 years home and away.
> (In reply to fijibaby) A 5-0 drubbing in 2013
It would do for starters but to really dominate we'd have to keep sticking it to 'em like that for 10 or 15 years home and away.
In reply to Horse:
I saw something quite interesting on an Indian forum today :-
Cook = Sachin, knows how to build test innings, run machine for England
Strauss = Gambhir, limited ability but mentally very tough players
Trott = Sanga/Dravid, Mr. Consistent
KP = Sehwag, he kills for opposition, crowd entertainer
Bell = Amla/Laxman/Mahela. Pleasing to eyes, great technique
Prior = Gilchrist, can be very dangerous with bat, good WK
Bresnan = Kapil Dev, bowls heavy ball, bats decent, good timer of ball
Broad = Once-in-a-generation player, who can change a game at the drop of a hat with bat and ball and also field
Anderson = Zaheer Khan with much better fitness, makes best of home conditions
Swann = Vettori, handy player motivates team decent bat, doesnt leak runs when not taking wickets like our Darthbhajan
Tremlett = Tank, Great Khali, sorry unable to compare with cricketers of this era.
and they have Panesar, Finn, Bopara, Morgan in reserve who are miles better than our reserves.
All players are in mid 20s or early 30s, very young side. They can dominate for at least 5 years.
> (In reply to Graeme Alderson)
> [...]
>
> It would do for starters but to really dominate we'd have to keep sticking it to 'em like that for 10 or 15 years home and away.
> [...]
>
> It would do for starters but to really dominate we'd have to keep sticking it to 'em like that for 10 or 15 years home and away.
I saw something quite interesting on an Indian forum today :-
Cook = Sachin, knows how to build test innings, run machine for England
Strauss = Gambhir, limited ability but mentally very tough players
Trott = Sanga/Dravid, Mr. Consistent
KP = Sehwag, he kills for opposition, crowd entertainer
Bell = Amla/Laxman/Mahela. Pleasing to eyes, great technique
Prior = Gilchrist, can be very dangerous with bat, good WK
Bresnan = Kapil Dev, bowls heavy ball, bats decent, good timer of ball
Broad = Once-in-a-generation player, who can change a game at the drop of a hat with bat and ball and also field
Anderson = Zaheer Khan with much better fitness, makes best of home conditions
Swann = Vettori, handy player motivates team decent bat, doesnt leak runs when not taking wickets like our Darthbhajan
Tremlett = Tank, Great Khali, sorry unable to compare with cricketers of this era.
and they have Panesar, Finn, Bopara, Morgan in reserve who are miles better than our reserves.
All players are in mid 20s or early 30s, very young side. They can dominate for at least 5 years.
In reply to Kipper:
We've still got Bopara, Prior, Bresnan, Broad in the hutch.
And India are awful just now, they've gone completely to pieces.
So I reckon we've got a choice. We can get to 600 by tea-time morrow, declare, and finish a day early. Or we can can bat till close of play tomorrow, be all out for 730ish, and then take two or one and a half days to take them apart.
The only flaw I can see in this plan is that even if we do end up 730ao, India might still not last two days.
There's hybris for you. If that doesn't tempt the lightning bolts I don't know what will
We've still got Bopara, Prior, Bresnan, Broad in the hutch.
And India are awful just now, they've gone completely to pieces.
So I reckon we've got a choice. We can get to 600 by tea-time morrow, declare, and finish a day early. Or we can can bat till close of play tomorrow, be all out for 730ish, and then take two or one and a half days to take them apart.
The only flaw I can see in this plan is that even if we do end up 730ao, India might still not last two days.
There's hybris for you. If that doesn't tempt the lightning bolts I don't know what will
In reply to Tim Chappell:
The more I read on the Indian forums, the more interesting it gets (there is also talk of Cook going for Lara's record, and breaking the highest score - 950 something by Sri Lanka?).
A recent favourite - before this series started :-
i was just thinking ... i mean how can we lose a Test match with this kind of a batting lineup..
sorry it is the obvious, but has there EVER been a better batting lineup?
Sehwag. (Match-Winner)
Gambhir. (Top-Class)
Dravid. (The Wall)
Sachin. (God)
Laxman. (Very Very Special)
Rohit/Yuvi/Kohli/Raina (they could ALL make the test lineup for ANY other country)
Mahi. (cant say he's a great test batsman, but still he is Dhoni)
how can a bowling lineup take 20 wickets, when this kind of a batting lineup is out their?..
The more I read on the Indian forums, the more interesting it gets (there is also talk of Cook going for Lara's record, and breaking the highest score - 950 something by Sri Lanka?).
A recent favourite - before this series started :-
i was just thinking ... i mean how can we lose a Test match with this kind of a batting lineup..
sorry it is the obvious, but has there EVER been a better batting lineup?
Sehwag. (Match-Winner)
Gambhir. (Top-Class)
Dravid. (The Wall)
Sachin. (God)
Laxman. (Very Very Special)
Rohit/Yuvi/Kohli/Raina (they could ALL make the test lineup for ANY other country)
Mahi. (cant say he's a great test batsman, but still he is Dhoni)
how can a bowling lineup take 20 wickets, when this kind of a batting lineup is out their?..
Oh, post us a link! I'd like to know what Indian fans think. I have a feeling I know exactly how they feel. Boycott was pretty scathing at the end of the day.
In reply to fijibaby:
http://www.indiancricketfans.com/forum.php
> Oh, post us a link! I'd like to know what Indian fans think. I have a feeling I know exactly how they feel. Boycott was pretty scathing at the end of the day.
http://www.indiancricketfans.com/forum.php
In reply to the sheep: Just looking at the century tables. Cook on 19, Strauss on 18 and Pietersen on 18, and all three capable of going on for a few years - even Strauss for a bit yet. It looks like three members of the same team could be up there at the top or thereabouts soon enough. Quite a feat.
In reply to the sheep:
Are England really good, or India really bad? I am in mixed minds about this, India are still officially the best test side in the world and ODI world champions, they didn't achieve that by luck, but they look just awful.
Are England really good, or India really bad? I am in mixed minds about this, India are still officially the best test side in the world and ODI world champions, they didn't achieve that by luck, but they look just awful.
In reply to The New NickB:
I think England are better than what should be a good Indian (batting) side.
The 'Test Rankings' seem to move in strange and slow ways - India appear to have got to No. 1 without playing England and Australia very much.
>
> Are England really good, or India really bad? I am in mixed minds about this, India are still officially the best test side in the world ...
> Are England really good, or India really bad? I am in mixed minds about this, India are still officially the best test side in the world ...
I think England are better than what should be a good Indian (batting) side.
The 'Test Rankings' seem to move in strange and slow ways - India appear to have got to No. 1 without playing England and Australia very much.
In reply to the sheep: England are really good. The only way I can see the team improving is playing with 5 bowlers occasionally so the team has the flexibility to change between 4 and 5 bowlers depending on conditions.
I think the Indian batting lineup has been making the most of flat wickets in the subcontinent for a while. While Dravid/Sachin/Laxman are really good players with excellent techniques the wickets probably have allowed them to play on past there sell by date. I think Sehwag is overrated and a proper flat track player. Hes probably the best flat track player ever but he can't play pace, bounce, swing or seam movement. The series would have been closer with Zaheer in it though, hes definitely Indias most important and irreplaceable player at the moment.
I think the Indian batting lineup has been making the most of flat wickets in the subcontinent for a while. While Dravid/Sachin/Laxman are really good players with excellent techniques the wickets probably have allowed them to play on past there sell by date. I think Sehwag is overrated and a proper flat track player. Hes probably the best flat track player ever but he can't play pace, bounce, swing or seam movement. The series would have been closer with Zaheer in it though, hes definitely Indias most important and irreplaceable player at the moment.
In reply to Kipper:
I thought everyone played a home and away series against everyone over a four year period. It's just that we play 5 match series against the aussies and only 2 against bangladesh.
Want to know why India were No 1, look at the career stats of Sachin, Dravid, Laxman, Sehwag et al. This was a truely great side, but perhaps stopped the new blood coming through and is now well over the hill
> (In reply to The New NickB)
> [...]
>
> I think England are better than what should be a good Indian (batting) side.
>
> The 'Test Rankings' seem to move in strange and slow ways - India appear to have got to No. 1 without playing England and Australia very much.
> [...]
>
> I think England are better than what should be a good Indian (batting) side.
>
> The 'Test Rankings' seem to move in strange and slow ways - India appear to have got to No. 1 without playing England and Australia very much.
I thought everyone played a home and away series against everyone over a four year period. It's just that we play 5 match series against the aussies and only 2 against bangladesh.
Want to know why India were No 1, look at the career stats of Sachin, Dravid, Laxman, Sehwag et al. This was a truely great side, but perhaps stopped the new blood coming through and is now well over the hill
In reply to Chris the Tall:
I think you're right - but I gave up trying to work out how the rankings are calculated (particularly when I noticed that England top the T20 rankings ).
Interestingly, England have 4 bowlers in the top 10 and Bell and Trott are at 4 and 5 in the batting rankings.
> (In reply to Kipper)
> [...]
>
> I thought everyone played a home and away series against everyone over a four year period.
> [...]
>
> I thought everyone played a home and away series against everyone over a four year period.
I think you're right - but I gave up trying to work out how the rankings are calculated (particularly when I noticed that England top the T20 rankings ).
Interestingly, England have 4 bowlers in the top 10 and Bell and Trott are at 4 and 5 in the batting rankings.
In reply to Kipper:
I know how tennis rankings work and got a fairly good idea of Duckworth Lewis, but the cricket rankings are a mystery to me. However they do appear to be fairly accurate, which is more than can be said for the FIFA rankings
> (In reply to Chris the Tall)
> [...]
>
> I think you're right - but I gave up trying to work out how the rankings are calculated (particularly when I noticed that England top the T20 rankings ).
>
England are the world champions !> [...]
>
> I think you're right - but I gave up trying to work out how the rankings are calculated (particularly when I noticed that England top the T20 rankings ).
>
I know how tennis rankings work and got a fairly good idea of Duckworth Lewis, but the cricket rankings are a mystery to me. However they do appear to be fairly accurate, which is more than can be said for the FIFA rankings
In reply to Matt250:
Englands batting looks really good but I still think the bowling lacks variation or real shock value on flat wickets, and lacks any decent back up spin option. I mean someone who can fire in the 95mph yorker a la Shoib a few years back or get really aggressive like Stein did to us in the last test against SA.
Englands batting looks really good but I still think the bowling lacks variation or real shock value on flat wickets, and lacks any decent back up spin option. I mean someone who can fire in the 95mph yorker a la Shoib a few years back or get really aggressive like Stein did to us in the last test against SA.
In reply to GrahamD:
Are we refering to the same bowling attack that has bowled out India for under 300 in 5 successive innings, and has dismissed both Australia and SSri Lanka for under 100 in the last 8 months
And lets not forget that this India side which is suddenly looking like Bangladesh whitewashed Australia at home last autumn, before drawing a series away in South Africa. There is a reason why they were number 1.
If I had to pick a fault with this England side, it would be the lack of alternative bowling options. The bowlers have clearly been practicing their batting - 3 of the 4 can be considered allrounders, but maybe the top 6 should reciprocate by improving their bowling. All we ever see is the odd, brief, unthreatening spells by KP and Trott. If one bowler gets injured during the game we'd be in trouble, 2 and we'd be completely stuffed.
Are we refering to the same bowling attack that has bowled out India for under 300 in 5 successive innings, and has dismissed both Australia and SSri Lanka for under 100 in the last 8 months
And lets not forget that this India side which is suddenly looking like Bangladesh whitewashed Australia at home last autumn, before drawing a series away in South Africa. There is a reason why they were number 1.
If I had to pick a fault with this England side, it would be the lack of alternative bowling options. The bowlers have clearly been practicing their batting - 3 of the 4 can be considered allrounders, but maybe the top 6 should reciprocate by improving their bowling. All we ever see is the odd, brief, unthreatening spells by KP and Trott. If one bowler gets injured during the game we'd be in trouble, 2 and we'd be completely stuffed.
In reply to Chris the Tall:
According to the BBC website play can continue today till 1827 with an option to 1857 depending on overs. There reference is to time not the England score.
According to the BBC website play can continue today till 1827 with an option to 1857 depending on overs. There reference is to time not the England score.
In reply to Horse:
Cook gets his 200
Seem to going a bit slow this morning, but maybe they'll open up a bit now.
Cook gets his 200
Seem to going a bit slow this morning, but maybe they'll open up a bit now.
In reply to Chris the Tall: Cook up to 200. Not sure of the stats, but wondering how many England batsmen have made 200 in an innings over the last few series. I can recall a few now, and thats not happened much in my memory - kind of makes up for all that late eighties - early nineties rubbish.
In reply to Bellie:
5 in the last year (Cook 2, KP 2, Trott) and a futher 17 centuries
Not only that, but 503 is only England's 6th highest score in that time - how often did they make 500+ is the 80s or 90s ?
7 and 8 respectively - oh the fun you can have with Cricinfo's statsguru !
> (In reply to Chris the Tall) Not sure of the stats, but wondering how many England batsmen have made 200 in an innings over the last few series.
5 in the last year (Cook 2, KP 2, Trott) and a futher 17 centuries
Not only that, but 503 is only England's 6th highest score in that time - how often did they make 500+ is the 80s or 90s ?
7 and 8 respectively - oh the fun you can have with Cricinfo's statsguru !
In reply to Chris the Tall:
What should we declare on? (Lead now 300)
Does Cook want to go for a monster score?
How long to bowl India out?
More importantly will Aldo get any cricket tomorrow? ;0)
What should we declare on? (Lead now 300)
Does Cook want to go for a monster score?
How long to bowl India out?
More importantly will Aldo get any cricket tomorrow? ;0)
In reply to Chris the Tall: Cool stats! I remember when it was form to get out the very minute you made a hundred, and 'daddy' hundreds as Gooch calls them were a rare thing. There was a time when 280 was a par score for England.
In reply to the sheep: Cook about to surpass the entire Indian team total.
In reply to Simon:
Declare - not yet, I stick with my prediction of around 5pm, regardless of the score.
Definetly let Morgan get his ton and Cook beat his top score - 235.
At some point the real India will turn up - but probably not in this match !
Aldo ? ALDO ? How dare you besmirch the name of the great man by linking him to that geordie !
Declare - not yet, I stick with my prediction of around 5pm, regardless of the score.
Definetly let Morgan get his ton and Cook beat his top score - 235.
At some point the real India will turn up - but probably not in this match !
Aldo ? ALDO ? How dare you besmirch the name of the great man by linking him to that geordie !
In reply to Bellie:
Really? I seem to recall hearing about some Aussie called Bradman that was partial to the odd double century.
I think Cook should go for Len Hutton's highest score by an Englishman of 364 or, why not, Lara's 400.
> (In reply to Chris the Tall) Cool stats! I remember when it was form to get out the very minute you made a hundred, and 'daddy' hundreds as Gooch calls them were a rare thing.
Really? I seem to recall hearing about some Aussie called Bradman that was partial to the odd double century.
I think Cook should go for Len Hutton's highest score by an Englishman of 364 or, why not, Lara's 400.
In reply to alanw: Sorry I should have said England of a certain era. The occasional big hundred, but quite often they were a bit knackered after getting to a century. In my early days of watching England at any rate.
In reply to Bellie: ... or they used to run out of partners.
In reply to Bellie:
Indeed!
Rubbish about the bad light.
> (In reply to Bellie) ... or they used to run out of partners.
Indeed!
Rubbish about the bad light.
Quite like the caption to the photo at the top of the Guardian's OBO coverage of today's play: http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2011/aug/12/england-india-third-test-live
In reply to Bellie:
Yep, the day of England players getting out as soon as they get a ton are well behind us !
Yep, the day of England players getting out as soon as they get a ton are well behind us !
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Bopara gone (lbw)! So much for his resurgence.
Cook for 300 then declare?
Bopara gone (lbw)! So much for his resurgence.
Cook for 300 then declare?
In reply to Tony the Blade:
Oh no, a mid-order collapse, at this rate we might struggle to reach 700!
Oh no, a mid-order collapse, at this rate we might struggle to reach 700!
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Catastrophic! Typical bloody England, just when you think they're playing well, they cave in!
> (In reply to Tony the Blade)
> Oh no, a mid-order collapse, at this rate we might struggle to reach 700!
> Oh no, a mid-order collapse, at this rate we might struggle to reach 700!
Catastrophic! Typical bloody England, just when you think they're playing well, they cave in!
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Call me the eternal optimist, if you must, but I've a hunch that we might edge this test.
Call me the eternal optimist, if you must, but I've a hunch that we might edge this test.
In reply to Chris the Tall: Oops! ; )
In reply to Clauso:
How can you be so confident - the lead is still under 400
How can you be so confident - the lead is still under 400
In reply to Clauso:
Getthef*ckoutofhere! I ain't hearing no fat burd singing jus' yet!
> (In reply to Chris the Tall)
>
> Call me the eternal optimist, if you must, but I've a hunch that we might edge this test.
>
> Call me the eternal optimist, if you must, but I've a hunch that we might edge this test.
Getthef*ckoutofhere! I ain't hearing no fat burd singing jus' yet!
In reply to Tony the Blade:
Yes, there's a reasonable chance that extras could outscore the whole of the Indian team in the first innings.
Has anyone ever worked out what extras career average is? Not too many hudreds I'd guess but not too many ducks either.
> (In reply to Martin W)
>
> Extras is having a great game, currently on 61*
>
> Extras is having a great game, currently on 61*
Yes, there's a reasonable chance that extras could outscore the whole of the Indian team in the first innings.
Has anyone ever worked out what extras career average is? Not too many hudreds I'd guess but not too many ducks either.
From the TMS site...
"Alastair Cook will be told he'll have time after tea to break Graham Gooch's 333 and then they'll look to declare, but then they might be tempted to let him beat Len Hutton's 364. He could go on and on."
In reply to alanw:
Yep, it's easy
How often has extra been "out" ? Never, therefor average is infinite !
HS of 76 (Pak vs Ind 2009)
This is joint 13th on the list
> Has anyone ever worked out what extras career average is?
Yep, it's easy
How often has extra been "out" ? Never, therefor average is infinite !
> Not too many hudreds I'd guess but not too many ducks either.
HS of 76 (Pak vs Ind 2009)
This is joint 13th on the list
In reply to the sheep:
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/283966.html
England moving steadily up this list.
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/283966.html
England moving steadily up this list.
In reply to the sheep:
Just levelled our 644 score against Aus over the winter and still climbing.
Keep going I say - keep going!!
Just levelled our 644 score against Aus over the winter and still climbing.
Keep going I say - keep going!!
In reply to Tony the Blade:
I can see him getting to 300, but the pace is a bit slow to go further if we want to put India in tonight, and I certainly think we want 15-20 overs at them tonight
I can see him getting to 300, but the pace is a bit slow to go further if we want to put India in tonight, and I certainly think we want 15-20 overs at them tonight
In reply to Chris the Tall:
> (In reply to alanw)
> [...]
>
> Yep, it's easy
>
> How often has extra been "out" ? Never, therefor average is infinite !
>
That made me laugh - should have realised. I think a more reasonable answer would be got by assuming they're always out. > [...]
>
> Yep, it's easy
>
> How often has extra been "out" ? Never, therefor average is infinite !
>
In reply to Chris the Tall:
We need them to take the new ball though - then we'll whack 'em all over the park!
We need them to take the new ball though - then we'll whack 'em all over the park!
Cook for 341 as a minimum. Just to make it really humiliating for India as that would be the highest score of a batsmen against them (Sanath Jayasuriya got 340 in 1997)
In reply to Chris the Tall:
In all seriousness, I'm happy to see them bat through until the first hour of tomorrow. The weather isn't going to be sunny and bright this weekend and the best part of two days should be enough to turn them over. Let the boys bat and bat and bat - let a truly great modern batsman get waaaay past 300 and send out a message to the cricketing world (if ever it was needed) that this England team isn't just good but is hungry and capable of toying with the number one team in the world and then swatting them like a fly.
In all seriousness, I'm happy to see them bat through until the first hour of tomorrow. The weather isn't going to be sunny and bright this weekend and the best part of two days should be enough to turn them over. Let the boys bat and bat and bat - let a truly great modern batsman get waaaay past 300 and send out a message to the cricketing world (if ever it was needed) that this England team isn't just good but is hungry and capable of toying with the number one team in the world and then swatting them like a fly.
In reply to the sheep:
This is England's 6th highest innings score of all time, by the way. 3 of the best were in the 1930s, one was 1985 and one was 1990.
This is England's 6th highest innings score of all time, by the way. 3 of the best were in the 1930s, one was 1985 and one was 1990.
In reply to the sheep:
England's highest ever score against India now, by my reckoning. 656-6
4th highest innings for England in all tests.
England's highest ever score against India now, by my reckoning. 656-6
4th highest innings for England in all tests.
In reply to Rampikino: 666-6. Symetrical, eh? Hope they have a bowl tonight.
In reply to Chris the Tall:
I'm not denying their effectiveness under swinging conditions. Just worried what will happen in Pakistan, or Sri Lanka when it isn't swinging.
I would like to see an express bowler option somewhere. I agree with alternative options. Probably ought to throw Bell the ball now and again.
> (In reply to GrahamD)
> Are we refering to the same bowling attack that has bowled out India for under 300 in 5 successive innings, >
> Are we refering to the same bowling attack that has bowled out India for under 300 in 5 successive innings, >
I'm not denying their effectiveness under swinging conditions. Just worried what will happen in Pakistan, or Sri Lanka when it isn't swinging.
I would like to see an express bowler option somewhere. I agree with alternative options. Probably ought to throw Bell the ball now and again.
In reply to GrahamD:
1720
"WE WANT OUR MONEY BACK!" roar the punters packed into the Eric Hollies Stand. Leading the chorus? A drunk cardinal, Pamela Anderson, a woman dressed as a carrot, three Oompa-Loompas and a human whoopee cushion.
1720
"WE WANT OUR MONEY BACK!" roar the punters packed into the Eric Hollies Stand. Leading the chorus? A drunk cardinal, Pamela Anderson, a woman dressed as a carrot, three Oompa-Loompas and a human whoopee cushion.
In reply to Christheclimber:
You always feel for a batsman when they are in their X90's and get out, that next ton is so close
ALC
You always feel for a batsman when they are in their X90's and get out, that next ton is so close
ALC
In reply to Chris the Tall: If the umpies let 'em out...
In reply to andy: gone for a duck could be all over tonight
In reply to LiamDobson:
What an incredible game. I haven't done a whole lot of work today, and you know what, I'm not even feeling guilty about it
What an incredible game. I haven't done a whole lot of work today, and you know what, I'm not even feeling guilty about it
In reply to LiamDobson:
Jeez! I was looking at the Beeb site, then here and Sehwag goes for a king duck!! When was the last time that happened to an opening batsman?
ALC
Jeez! I was looking at the Beeb site, then here and Sehwag goes for a king duck!! When was the last time that happened to an opening batsman?
ALC
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
If England had batted a bit worse, they could well have got a few more Indian wickets today.
As it stands you get the chance of watching an England get nine wickets for atest victory tomorrow.
Have a good time.
If England had batted a bit worse, they could well have got a few more Indian wickets today.
As it stands you get the chance of watching an England get nine wickets for atest victory tomorrow.
Have a good time.
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
What will you be wearing? Got your Pamela Anderson outfit back from the dry-cleaners?
What will you be wearing? Got your Pamela Anderson outfit back from the dry-cleaners?
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Graeme's love of cricket runs in the family.
Graeme's father in his youth (on the left), outside a his schools' regular derby fixture.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/chezdc/5075925297/
Graeme's love of cricket runs in the family.
Graeme's father in his youth (on the left), outside a his schools' regular derby fixture.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/chezdc/5075925297/
In reply to lowersharpnose: Me dad used to cycle to the Test matches when he was a lad, not bad considering he lives in Sunderland and the nearest test ground was Leeds!!!
He will be at Edgebaston tomorrow but isn't going by bike.
He will be at Edgebaston tomorrow but isn't going by bike.
In reply to a lakeland climber: One of the previous 12 was a Bangladeshi opener, the others were all bowlers.
In reply to Chris the Tall:
...hmm I never did quite say that Christopher!
but then Liverpool are Playing the Sunderland this weekend!
Gra will see the wickets and the goals tumble I guess! ;0)
> (In reply to Simon)
>
> Aldo ? ALDO ? How dare you besmirch the name of the great man by linking him to that geordie !
> Aldo ? ALDO ? How dare you besmirch the name of the great man by linking him to that geordie !
...hmm I never did quite say that Christopher!
but then Liverpool are Playing the Sunderland this weekend!
Gra will see the wickets and the goals tumble I guess! ;0)
In reply to Simon: Chris is a woolyback not a scouser so Aldo for him means the height of Tranmere's success, which is not getting relegated for 3 whole seasons on the trot.
And of course beating us in the FA Cup by having 12 players on the pitch. Aldridge wasn't the most numerate manager I guess.
That'll teach you to call me a Geordie you psuedo-Scouse
And of course beating us in the FA Cup by having 12 players on the pitch. Aldridge wasn't the most numerate manager I guess.
That'll teach you to call me a Geordie you psuedo-Scouse
In reply to Graeme Alderson: Dravid gets (the) runs. Two down already this morning.
In reply to Fat Bumbly2:
Going well for England - 87 for 5 and it's not time for lunch yet.
Maybe Tendulkar can get some runs to make it more interesting.
Going well for England - 87 for 5 and it's not time for lunch yet.
Maybe Tendulkar can get some runs to make it more interesting.
In reply to Horse:
You're not wrong there.
Now I'm feeling a totally un-Ashes-like emotion. I'm feeling sorry for the opposition...
I blame Andrew Strauss. With two days to go, he shouldn't have declared till lunchtime today. And he should have given his players strict instructions to be nice to Sachin till his ton was up
> (In reply to Christheclimber)
>
> His biggest problem might be running out
>
> His biggest problem might be running out
You're not wrong there.
Now I'm feeling a totally un-Ashes-like emotion. I'm feeling sorry for the opposition...
I blame Andrew Strauss. With two days to go, he shouldn't have declared till lunchtime today. And he should have given his players strict instructions to be nice to Sachin till his ton was up
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Play fair but don't feel sorry for them - this is the new ruthless England!
Play fair but don't feel sorry for them - this is the new ruthless England!
In reply to Tim Chappell:
Hardly Strauss's fault here - Tendulkar was moving forward as Swann bowled and was out of his crease when the ball ricocheted off Swann's fingers on to the wicket. Most batsmen do this and get away with it even though they should stay in their crease until the ball is delivered or struck.
Very unlucky all the same.
ALC
Hardly Strauss's fault here - Tendulkar was moving forward as Swann bowled and was out of his crease when the ball ricocheted off Swann's fingers on to the wicket. Most batsmen do this and get away with it even though they should stay in their crease until the ball is delivered or struck.
Very unlucky all the same.
ALC
In reply to Horse:
An Indian work colleague thinks they'll be lucky to last two sessions! Once Dhoni goes then the tail doesn't have much wag.
ALC
An Indian work colleague thinks they'll be lucky to last two sessions! Once Dhoni goes then the tail doesn't have much wag.
ALC
In reply to the sheep: I'm feeling sorry for them too. It really has been a woeful Indian performance.
I want to see what England are really like. What are our bowlers like on a baked Aussie wicket?
I want to see what England are really like. What are our bowlers like on a baked Aussie wicket?
In reply to the sheep:
I'm not feeling sorry for them at all. The Indians put so much into the IPL that they have lost some sight of what Test Match Cricket is all about and England have come racing up on their outside to take a firm lead. India won't even be 2nd in the world rankings very shortly - more like 3rd or 4th.
Crush them. Whitewash them. Sympathy won't make you ruthless.
I'm not feeling sorry for them at all. The Indians put so much into the IPL that they have lost some sight of what Test Match Cricket is all about and England have come racing up on their outside to take a firm lead. India won't even be 2nd in the world rankings very shortly - more like 3rd or 4th.
Crush them. Whitewash them. Sympathy won't make you ruthless.
In reply to Rampikino:
Betfair are offering in-play odds of 999/1 for India to take this test... Who's in with me?
Betfair are offering in-play odds of 999/1 for India to take this test... Who's in with me?
In reply to Clauso:
14:30 India 205-7
Eight men dressed as WWII pilots, arms outstretched, run along the bottom of a stand. A burglar in stripey jumper and mask, chased by 15 policeman waving inflatable truncheons. 12 penguins, waddling at pace in the other direction. Lord Boycott sounds like a man experiencing a nightmarish trip. "Imagine the kids!" he bellows. "A grown man leaves 'is 'ouse in the morning, dressed oop in a blond wig and a skirt. What do they think?"
14:30 India 205-7
Eight men dressed as WWII pilots, arms outstretched, run along the bottom of a stand. A burglar in stripey jumper and mask, chased by 15 policeman waving inflatable truncheons. 12 penguins, waddling at pace in the other direction. Lord Boycott sounds like a man experiencing a nightmarish trip. "Imagine the kids!" he bellows. "A grown man leaves 'is 'ouse in the morning, dressed oop in a blond wig and a skirt. What do they think?"
In reply to Clauso:
Shame on England not wrapping this up in time for Jude & Bri's party and Bournemouth vs Sheffield Wednesday - fine them their match fee I say!
;0)
Shame on England not wrapping this up in time for Jude & Bri's party and Bournemouth vs Sheffield Wednesday - fine them their match fee I say!
;0)
In reply to Simon:
Taa daaa! Hallelujah shouts blowers - it had to be him to say the imortal words "England world number one!"
only 7 minutes late!
;0)
Taa daaa! Hallelujah shouts blowers - it had to be him to say the imortal words "England world number one!"
only 7 minutes late!
;0)
In reply to Clauso:
That was very funny, he sounded genuinely horrified.
> (In reply to Clauso)
>
> Lord Boycott sounds like a man experiencing a nightmarish trip. "Imagine the kids!" he bellows. "A grown man leaves 'is 'ouse in the morning, dressed oop in a blond wig and a skirt. What do they think?"
>
> Lord Boycott sounds like a man experiencing a nightmarish trip. "Imagine the kids!" he bellows. "A grown man leaves 'is 'ouse in the morning, dressed oop in a blond wig and a skirt. What do they think?"
That was very funny, he sounded genuinely horrified.
In reply to Horse:
Right, so that's that taken care of... Now for The Hype to turn over the Taffs.
... Turned out nice again?
Right, so that's that taken care of... Now for The Hype to turn over the Taffs.
... Turned out nice again?
In reply to Clauso:
Henson already departed with a limp wrist, hopefully it won't effect his performance in The Bachelor on C5.
Henson already departed with a limp wrist, hopefully it won't effect his performance in The Bachelor on C5.
In reply to Horse: England number one. Tiddly om pom pom.
In reply to fijibaby:
I seem to remember they did bloody well
It's a pity we have to wait a year till we play the saffers, the only side who have managed as much as a series draw against the current England team. Mind you, that was quite early on in the flowers-Strauss era, and England have just got better and better. It not just the consistency of winning, but consistently winning by a huge margin that has amazed me
> I want to see what England are really like. What are our bowlers like on a baked Aussie wicket?
I seem to remember they did bloody well
It's a pity we have to wait a year till we play the saffers, the only side who have managed as much as a series draw against the current England team. Mind you, that was quite early on in the flowers-Strauss era, and England have just got better and better. It not just the consistency of winning, but consistently winning by a huge margin that has amazed me
In reply to Chris the Tall: Everyone's a bit quiet today. I wonder why
In reply to Graeme Alderson:
I was out all day yesterday - spent more on my mountain bike than India did at the crease - in both innings - so missed it all. Pity cos I could have really done with a day listening to tms
I was out all day yesterday - spent more on my mountain bike than India did at the crease - in both innings - so missed it all. Pity cos I could have really done with a day listening to tms
In reply to Chris the Tall:
England may be number one now, but this poor effort by India is bad for world cricket - and especially test cricket. The game needs the support of the Indian public.
England may be number one now, but this poor effort by India is bad for world cricket - and especially test cricket. The game needs the support of the Indian public.
In reply to GrahamD: Anyone following the test today?
Are India, freed from the pressure of winning just, going to enjoy it, and slog our bowlers all around the park? Or are they going to be so depressed and tired they collapse for a record breaking low?
Are India, freed from the pressure of winning just, going to enjoy it, and slog our bowlers all around the park? Or are they going to be so depressed and tired they collapse for a record breaking low?
In reply to fijibaby:
Neither of those, I think, but more of the latter than the former.
I think there's a danger England will take their foot off the gas, even if they don't mean to. I think they should have rested Anderson and anyone else who looked the slightest bit tired, and brought in some hungry reserves.
This might be a draw, though if I had to bet I'd bet on an England win.
Neither of those, I think, but more of the latter than the former.
I think there's a danger England will take their foot off the gas, even if they don't mean to. I think they should have rested Anderson and anyone else who looked the slightest bit tired, and brought in some hungry reserves.
This might be a draw, though if I had to bet I'd bet on an England win.
In reply to fijibaby:
I do hope we see bit of a fight back from the Indians, they are on paper a very good side and its a shame they just haven't turned up.
I do hope we see bit of a fight back from the Indians, they are on paper a very good side and its a shame they just haven't turned up.
In reply to the sheep: Ive got tickets for the last day so hoping for rain all day today to help it get to 5th day :p
In reply to chrisbaggy: England in to bat. Hopefully India will perk up a bit. There have been too many hands in pockets in the Indian field recently. Obviously never had my sports teacher!
In reply to fijibaby:
First delivery wide down leg, is this the starter for the buffet?
First delivery wide down leg, is this the starter for the buffet?
In reply to the sheep:
The first session could well set the scene for the whole test - if India are up for it they will come out firing, if not they could have a very long 5 days.
The first session could well set the scene for the whole test - if India are up for it they will come out firing, if not they could have a very long 5 days.
In reply to fijibaby:
You should have started a new thread !
> (In reply to GrahamD) Anyone following the test today?
You should have started a new thread !
In reply to Chris the Tall: Recycling
In reply to chrisbaggy:
Do they just give you your money back?
> (In reply to the sheep) Ive got tickets for the last day so hoping for rain all day today to help it get to 5th day :p
Do they just give you your money back?
In reply to Al Evans:
They give you a full refund if you manage to see less than 10 overs or a 50% refund if you see between 10 overs and 25 overs IIRC.
They give you a full refund if you manage to see less than 10 overs or a 50% refund if you see between 10 overs and 25 overs IIRC.
In reply to mcdougal:
Cook gone in the first over.
Cook gone in the first over.
In reply to the sheep: And now Strauss after taking all morning getting 2!
In reply to the sheep:
Interesting test for England - they have always had someone to come along and get them a nice chunky innings, and backed up by reasonable scores from the rest of the team they have (apart from 1 innings) generally been able to cumulatively notch up a good innings score.
Slow run rate, but they can make up overs today and through the rest of the test, so not too much time lost. England should still have 400+ on their minds.
Interesting test for England - they have always had someone to come along and get them a nice chunky innings, and backed up by reasonable scores from the rest of the team they have (apart from 1 innings) generally been able to cumulatively notch up a good innings score.
Slow run rate, but they can make up overs today and through the rest of the test, so not too much time lost. England should still have 400+ on their minds.
In reply to Rampikino:
Exactly the sort of test both England and India need. Good consistant bowling and the need to stick to basics with the bat. Its good to see England not just lashing out.
Exactly the sort of test both England and India need. Good consistant bowling and the need to stick to basics with the bat. Its good to see England not just lashing out.
In reply to GrahamD:
Agreed, but if India aren't careful in this session then it could become the start of the lashing.
> (In reply to Rampikino)
>
> Exactly the sort of test both England and India need. Good consistant bowling and the need to stick to basics with the bat. Its good to see England not just lashing out.
>
> Exactly the sort of test both England and India need. Good consistant bowling and the need to stick to basics with the bat. Its good to see England not just lashing out.
Agreed, but if India aren't careful in this session then it could become the start of the lashing.
In reply to Rampikino:
Just tuned in again and KP gets 50.
Just tuned in again and KP gets 50.
In reply to the sheep:
Important session this as England need to build a total for the Indians to chase on a batting wicket. Pieterson as usual playing boldly but with a dash of rash!
Spinners will come into this match and if the Indians have to bat last - be interesting to see Swanny get a five for...
Important session this as England need to build a total for the Indians to chase on a batting wicket. Pieterson as usual playing boldly but with a dash of rash!
Spinners will come into this match and if the Indians have to bat last - be interesting to see Swanny get a five for...
In reply to the sheep:
Bell and Pietersen are starting to take this away from India, aren't they? India won the first session today, but unless they get two or three wickets before tea we'll have to chalk this up as a return to normality.
Bell and Pietersen are starting to take this away from India, aren't they? India won the first session today, but unless they get two or three wickets before tea we'll have to chalk this up as a return to normality.
In reply to GrahamD:
Partnership of 122 and a major acceleration after lunch. I think India could be looking at a deficit of 350+ by the close of play if they don't grind out some wickets.
Partnership of 122 and a major acceleration after lunch. I think India could be looking at a deficit of 350+ by the close of play if they don't grind out some wickets.
In reply to GrahamD:
I think they do these days, but a few years ago Bell seemed to struggle when Pietersen was at the crease - I got the impression it was because Bell thought he had to keep the other end solid so that there was no chance of two wickets going down quickly (his own and Pietersen's) but that this mucked about with his own natural balance between attack and defence. Bell now seems to be in a completely different mind-set from his early career, and the contrast between their styles plays havoc with bowlers.
I think they do these days, but a few years ago Bell seemed to struggle when Pietersen was at the crease - I got the impression it was because Bell thought he had to keep the other end solid so that there was no chance of two wickets going down quickly (his own and Pietersen's) but that this mucked about with his own natural balance between attack and defence. Bell now seems to be in a completely different mind-set from his early career, and the contrast between their styles plays havoc with bowlers.
In reply to the sheep:
Century for Bell and KP well set too.
Closing in on 300 with only 2 wickets down. What started as a good day for India could become a nightmare. My prediction of 350+ at the end of the day is starting to look a bit light. Could easily surpass 400.
Century for Bell and KP well set too.
Closing in on 300 with only 2 wickets down. What started as a good day for India could become a nightmare. My prediction of 350+ at the end of the day is starting to look a bit light. Could easily surpass 400.
In reply to Rampikino: Century for KP. Hurrah....
In reply to the sheep:
Only KP would come out after lunch on 98 and wallop the first ball for 4 then get dropped next ball. Typically him.
310-2 now looking very ominous for India. This morning I was hoping for 400+ as a first innings total, now that would look disappointing. 500+ should be the aim and not have to bat twice.
Only KP would come out after lunch on 98 and wallop the first ball for 4 then get dropped next ball. Typically him.
310-2 now looking very ominous for India. This morning I was hoping for 400+ as a first innings total, now that would look disappointing. 500+ should be the aim and not have to bat twice.
In reply to Rampikino: Agree. (crosses fingers)
In reply to GrahamD:
In the last year, according to the Guardian, Bell and Pietersen have batted together just five times. In those five occasions the lowest partnership was 70, the remaining four have all exceeded a century.
> (In reply to psd)
>
> Bell and Pietersen bat well together, I think.
>
> Bell and Pietersen bat well together, I think.
In the last year, according to the Guardian, Bell and Pietersen have batted together just five times. In those five occasions the lowest partnership was 70, the remaining four have all exceeded a century.
In reply to the sheep:
I like Bell at number 3. Where does Trott come back into the team? Is 5 too high for Trott? I really think Trott would be a great opener. He gets into his own stride so well, whatever age the ball is. Maybe move Strauss to 5? Outrageous....
I like Bell at number 3. Where does Trott come back into the team? Is 5 too high for Trott? I really think Trott would be a great opener. He gets into his own stride so well, whatever age the ball is. Maybe move Strauss to 5? Outrageous....
In reply to JimmyKay:
300 partnership now - probably not worth noting that this partnership have now accumulated more runs together in this match than the entire Indian team in any one of their last six innings...
300 partnership now - probably not worth noting that this partnership have now accumulated more runs together in this match than the entire Indian team in any one of their last six innings...
In reply to psd: Agree with the nature the Bell KP partnership. They seem to be a good pair. KP seems to be trying out new shots now.
And 2 sixes off Bell! "must be seeing the ball like a football"
And 2 sixes off Bell! "must be seeing the ball like a football"
In reply to fijibaby: Caught and bowled. My fault.
In reply to fijibaby:
Oh FFS - Anderson out as nightw*tchman to see out the last 15 minutes and steady the ship...
Oh FFS - Anderson out as nightw*tchman to see out the last 15 minutes and steady the ship...
In reply to fijibaby: Yes it IS!!!!.... Well, actually clever bowling and a bit of too much gung ho from KPm according to cricinfo. The Indians are not quite dead and buried yet.
In reply to psd: Oh well, the Cons would have done something very similar. No need to expose Morgan at this time. Modern game and all that.
In reply to stonemaster:
I presumed they'd just promoted him above Bopara...
> (In reply to psd) Oh well, the Cons would have done something very similar. No need to expose Morgan at this time. Modern game and all that.
I presumed they'd just promoted him above Bopara...
In reply to stonemaster: Whew, can breathe now. Anderson and Bell still in. 457/3 at stumps. Roll on tomorrow...
In reply to psd: Hmm, good point.
In reply to the sheep:
Anyone getting bored of all this record breaking ?
No, me neither ! Another stunning day for England as they go for the whitewash against a side who must be completely demoralised.
Anyone getting bored of all this record breaking ?
No, me neither ! Another stunning day for England as they go for the whitewash against a side who must be completely demoralised.
In reply to Chris the Tall: Not at all, sir, not at all...
In reply to Chris the Tall: I'm actually quite sad for the Indians, they must be completely demoralised, they come here as the best team in the world and go home looking like a poor version of Bangladesh.
In reply to Al Evans:
To add to the general air of gaiety, the Australians have published their report into their cricket team and noted that 'basic cricket skills are lacking in key areas':
BATTING for long periods, batting against the moving ball, our approach to playing spin and general batting technique in some instances.
BOWLING; building pressure, bowling to an agreed plan, spin bowling and the captaincy of it and swing bowling, including generating reverse swing.
FIELDING; overall fielding, especially catching, and general athleticism has markedly declined. This has extra significance as in the panel's view fielding standards reflect the attitude and professionalism of the team.
OVERALL approach; building batting and bowling partnerships and general game sense, match awareness and cricket expertise, including solving problems during a match
Having read this list, it's perhaps time to be charitable to our Australian friends - can anyone suggest anything that their test team *can* do?o
To add to the general air of gaiety, the Australians have published their report into their cricket team and noted that 'basic cricket skills are lacking in key areas':
BATTING for long periods, batting against the moving ball, our approach to playing spin and general batting technique in some instances.
BOWLING; building pressure, bowling to an agreed plan, spin bowling and the captaincy of it and swing bowling, including generating reverse swing.
FIELDING; overall fielding, especially catching, and general athleticism has markedly declined. This has extra significance as in the panel's view fielding standards reflect the attitude and professionalism of the team.
OVERALL approach; building batting and bowling partnerships and general game sense, match awareness and cricket expertise, including solving problems during a match
Having read this list, it's perhaps time to be charitable to our Australian friends - can anyone suggest anything that their test team *can* do?o
In reply to stonemaster:
I thought the cons didn't believe in using a nightw*tchman ? Mind you it's yet another example of England's attention to detail that even the poorest batsman has his niche role.
I doubt if he'll hang about for long this morning - get the bit hitters in and try and reach 650 by tea and declare on that
> (In reply to psd) Oh well, the Cons would have done something very similar. No need to expose Morgan at this time. Modern game and all that.
I thought the cons didn't believe in using a nightw*tchman ? Mind you it's yet another example of England's attention to detail that even the poorest batsman has his niche role.
I doubt if he'll hang about for long this morning - get the bit hitters in and try and reach 650 by tea and declare on that
In reply to the sheep:
Shreesanth tries to look menacing, but with that haircut he just looks like a stroppy teenager.
Shreesanth tries to look menacing, but with that haircut he just looks like a stroppy teenager.
In reply to the sheep: After so many days watching England break records and look so solid; what went so wrong at the world cup? I notice England are playing Ireland in a one day match soon. Surely there can be only one result?
In reply to fijibaby: 591/6 at lunch
Declare now or have another hour? Probably the latter, but I'm sure we'll see India batting before tea
Declare now or have another hour? Probably the latter, but I'm sure we'll see India batting before tea
In reply to Chris the Tall: Am I alone in finding Michael Vaughan's commentary / views smug, self-satisfied, presumptious and disproportionately and naively positive in terms of England's performance, on a team and individual level, current and future?
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Looking good for England some great bowling after tea however I can't help feeling sorry for India..................
Looking good for England some great bowling after tea however I can't help feeling sorry for India..................
In reply to Christheclimber:
some great cricketers being made to look like they should be in a village side. not getting much luck with injuries either. but hey, that's the nature of sport and it's great to see an English side being so dominant at any sport. Despite the amount of time lost to the rain England could still wrap this up with a day to spare
> (In reply to Chris the Tall)
>
> Looking good for England some great bowling after tea however I can't help feeling sorry for India..................
>
> Looking good for England some great bowling after tea however I can't help feeling sorry for India..................
some great cricketers being made to look like they should be in a village side. not getting much luck with injuries either. but hey, that's the nature of sport and it's great to see an English side being so dominant at any sport. Despite the amount of time lost to the rain England could still wrap this up with a day to spare
In reply to Chris the Tall:
The Guardian suggests that Sehwag has managed to score at a rate of a run a ball so far this series. Unfortunately he's only faced 8 balls and been dismissed 3 times...
The Guardian suggests that Sehwag has managed to score at a rate of a run a ball so far this series. Unfortunately he's only faced 8 balls and been dismissed 3 times...
In reply to psd: First wicket of the morning falls to Anderson, Dhoni out 137/6
In reply to Al Evans:
218 for 6 at lunch. A bit of a recovery. I was thinking they might be following on by 2pm.
I suppose they still might be.
218 for 6 at lunch. A bit of a recovery. I was thinking they might be following on by 2pm.
I suppose they still might be.
In reply to Tim Chappell: 200 less than England. Doubt they'll get it now - Singh gone.
In reply to andy: Blimey - they made 300 for the first time.
But no more...
All out for 300. Well played Dravid - awesome stuff.
But no more...
All out for 300. Well played Dravid - awesome stuff.
In reply to andy: Follow on being enforced
In reply to Alan Taylor: 220 behind, 8 wickets left. Another innings victory?
In reply to andy: 7 to get down today, for certain they won't lose, but it could always rain
In reply to Al Evans:
Morning Al - apparently virtually no risk of rain.
Could be the day that Tendulkar finally makes his mark. Reckon England may have to bat again, briefly, and it will be all over around tea
Morning Al - apparently virtually no risk of rain.
Could be the day that Tendulkar finally makes his mark. Reckon England may have to bat again, briefly, and it will be all over around tea
In reply to Chris the Tall: Agreed, I reckon England to win by 9 wickets.
PS Tranmere were jammy
PS Tranmere were jammy
In reply to lowersharpnose: 50 up for Sachin
In reply to lowersharpnose:
Tendulkar makes his 50, India looking quite solid for the first time in the series. Not only is he looking at his 100th internation ton, he could be the first man to 15000 test runs. No Englishman has even got to 9000
Tendulkar makes his 50, India looking quite solid for the first time in the series. Not only is he looking at his 100th internation ton, he could be the first man to 15000 test runs. No Englishman has even got to 9000
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Lets hope england can do something with the new ball, no luck in the morning session, and even the nightw*tchman is still there
Lets hope england can do something with the new ball, no luck in the morning session, and even the nightw*tchman is still there
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Finally a breakthrough - Misra out for 84. 262/4 - may have done enough to save the game
Finally a breakthrough - Misra out for 84. 262/4 - may have done enough to save the game
In reply to Chris the Tall:
Tendulkar out !!!
Tendulkar out !!!
In reply to Simon:
Tendulkar gone for 91
Tendulkar gone for 91
In reply to Simon:
Sorry, my fault. Went next door to see him get his 100 on TV. Out next ball
> (In reply to Simon)
>
>
> well he was lucky...
>
> Out for 91!
>
>
> well he was lucky...
>
> Out for 91!
Sorry, my fault. Went next door to see him get his 100 on TV. Out next ball
In reply to the sheep:
India may well have saved the game here, sadly for England, but there's still a slight glimmer of hope. Why did the real India decide to turn up on a pan-flat Oval pitch?
India may well have saved the game here, sadly for England, but there's still a slight glimmer of hope. Why did the real India decide to turn up on a pan-flat Oval pitch?
In reply to the sheep:
Raina out now - Swann suddenly doing the business
Raina out now - Swann suddenly doing the business
In reply to Chris the Tall:
42 balls for a pair - is that the worst batting performance of all time?
42 balls for a pair - is that the worst batting performance of all time?
In reply to the sheep:
Dhoni gone, into the tail now 269/7
Dhoni gone, into the tail now 269/7
In reply to Chris the Tall: 269 for 8 now - still 22 behind
In reply to Chris the Tall:
And now Singh, Broad takes 2 in a over. Will they make England bat again ?
And now Singh, Broad takes 2 in a over. Will they make England bat again ?
In reply to GrahamD:
I thought India were going to pull off a draw but it should be all over before tea.
I thought India were going to pull off a draw but it should be all over before tea.
In reply to Christheclimber: 274 for 9?
In reply to Graeme Alderson: Reviewing the possible catch - not out
In reply to Christheclimber: 5fer for swann, 275-9 now
In reply to Chris the Tall:
My prediction at 10:48 is looking pretty good !
> Could be the day that Tendulkar finally makes his mark. Reckon England may have to bat again, briefly, and it will be all over around tea
My prediction at 10:48 is looking pretty good !
In reply to Chris the Tall: Apart from us having to bat again
In reply to the sheep: i bet india are very relieved its not a 5 test series!
now, how about the one-days? Similar result??
now, how about the one-days? Similar result??
In reply to kieran b:
Doubtful. No idea why, but England are still well short in ODIs. They couldn't carry over the ashes form to the ODI series in Australia
The fact that India are so depleted should help matters, but they are probably still marginal favourites.
> (In reply to the sheep) i bet india are very relieved its not a 5 test series!
>
> now, how about the one-days? Similar result??
>
> now, how about the one-days? Similar result??
Doubtful. No idea why, but England are still well short in ODIs. They couldn't carry over the ashes form to the ODI series in Australia
The fact that India are so depleted should help matters, but they are probably still marginal favourites.
In reply to Chris the Tall:
I doubt it as well. England don't seem to get their starting pace right with the bat.
I doubt it as well. England don't seem to get their starting pace right with the bat.
In reply to psd:
For my next trick, I shall pronounce that Ravi Bopara will never make an international quality all-rounder...
*crosses fingers*
> (In reply to the sheep)
>
> India may well have saved the game here, sadly for England, but there's still a slight glimmer of hope. Why did the real India decide to turn up on a pan-flat Oval pitch?
>
> India may well have saved the game here, sadly for England, but there's still a slight glimmer of hope. Why did the real India decide to turn up on a pan-flat Oval pitch?
For my next trick, I shall pronounce that Ravi Bopara will never make an international quality all-rounder...
*crosses fingers*
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