Captain Cook to the fore!

So England were Southampton bound for their second ODI of the series against India. The expectation was high due to the no-result at Durham on Saturday, but things decided to go wrong from the off. Firstly the highlight of every England ticket holder this summer was to see Sachin Tendulkar bat, unfortunately for him, his fans, and every other cricket spectator the ‘Little Master’ is now out of the remainder of the series with a toe injury. To On top of all this misery was further extended due to the on-going downpours that in the end prevented play commencing until 7 o’clock, five hours after the scheduled start of play!

So it was kick-off time and after much deliberation it was decided that the match would entail just 23 overs per side. Now I’ll hand over to the boys themselves – electing to field first England took one early wicket that of Patel before India’s star batsmen Rahane and Dravid built a steady and productive partnership. As Swann dismissed Dravid India were 109-2, and it wasn’t long until wickets began to fall. Kohli departed after only scoring nine leaving Rahane to obtain his second 50 of the tour, he too was then Swann’s third victim parrying the ball back to Swann’s safe hands. Another decent contribution from Raina of 40 from 30 balls put India in a comfortable position, but once his captain Dhoni sent one down to long on from Bresnan to give Bell an easy catch, it wasn’t long before he himself sent up a skier. Raina didn’t get full contact with Bresnan’s delivery and sent the ball soaring into the sky; in come Stokes staring into floodlights and dives forward after what seemed like a lifetime of waiting to pull off an incredible catch. I was absolutely stunned and I think it made up for young Stokes’ miss-field earlier in the game. But if I was stunned at this catch, let me tell you Bresnan’s third wicket would not have been without the magic of Ian Bell. So at speed Tiwary lofts the ball down the ground, but Bell at long-on races to his left reaches out just one arm and dives full length to take a superb catch… I was speechless thoroughly speechless. This doesn’t happen often but it was so unbelievable, it’s like I was seeing things. Bell really is a magnificent fielder anywhere you place him, and is one of England’s important assets! But just to finish off India’s innings, Ashwin was run-out by Kieswetter in the final delivery… leaving England a very sizeable target of 188 to win!

England really did get off to an amazing start, especially compared to the innings in Durham when two wickets fell early. From the start England managed to score at just over 10 runs per over, and realistically I don’t think I have ever seen England do this as of yet. It wasn’t until after glorious boundaries from both batsmen, yes even Cooky, and some rather more inventive shots from the captain himself, that the first wicket fell. Kieswetter had been playing a beautiful innings and had returned to the form we all knew he was capable of, but Vinay Kumar had him LBW for 46 and you could tell by the disappointment in Kiesy’s face that he was well and truly devastated that he couldn’t grab hold of that 50. I love watching him play due to his array of shots and it wasn’t until now that he was displaying them once again like he did in the T20 World Cup last year, it is brilliant to see a batsmen if full flow and hit the ball with such ease. But anyway onwards and upwards; at 67-1 Bell was England’s number three as Trott was out of the team presumable as the format was more T20 style.

The next wicket was not to fall until England were on 105 and this time it was Bell who was caught on 25 after playing a cameo style innings with 25 from 16 balls; with Bell gone Cook continued on his rampage to prove his worth in the shorter format of the game! Prepare yourself for what you are about to read as I can honestly not believe that as Ashwin the off-spinner was bowling, Cook took it upon himself to smash the ball over deep midwicket all the way for a massive 6!! For me Cook’s innings was complete, he went on to get 50 but he had everything… the scoops, the sweeps, the hard-hitting shots, an amazing 6, I could go on and on. Back to the game, once Cook registered his 50 and a few close run-outs on Bopara’s behalf, it was soon time for the latter to return to the pavilion. Bopara tried to match Cook’s boundary hitting but could not pick the ‘carram ball’ and sent it straight down to Kohli who didn’t miss his chance, but 24 off 20 was his score and a respectable one at that. With just over 5 overs left in the game it was hard for England not to seize the win, but once again leaving it to the final over it was Patel who hit the winning runs and led England to victory!

We actually beat the World Champions in a 50 over game, okay it was more of a T20 game and we know who the Champions are in that format of the game but all the same. So it’s on towards The Oval for the third ODI and England will go into that game 1-0 up and with bags of confidence, particularly Alastair Cook who’s undefeated score of 80 from 63 balls in an unfamiliar format to won him the MOTM award and too right. Maybe he is pushing for a place in the T20 side now? We will just have to wait and see…

Photo Credit: Getty Images

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England remain undefeated

So what has been happening recently in International cricket? Well firstly in brief, Stuart Broad had his first win as T20 captain. India registered 165 from just 19.4 overs as it was England’s death bowling, and Dernbach’s in particular that just bowled India away. Walking away with figures of 4-22 it later earned Jade the MOTM, and kept India’s score down a manageable level. It wasn’t without its glitches let me tell you, no being England we like to make it just that little bit harder. With Hales on his debut he really wanted to impress, and after earlier juggling – literally – a catch to dismiss India’s captain, it was his time to amaze. Or so the case may be as he was dismissed for a duck, LBW to Kumar, his face said it all. I really wanted to see him play as well, it always happens to me as I wanted to see debutant Jos Buttler play too, and once again he didn’t get a chance. Typical. So wickets tumbled at regular intervals, but Morgan and Bopara provided resistance, with Morgan on 49 he looked to set to carry on until the end of the innings. Patel however dashed my hopes leaving Bopara and Patel to continue, they just happened to leave 10 runs to the last over… ooh I’m telling you they don’t half make me nervous. But luckily Patel was the man to finish the day sublimely smashing three successive 4’s to conclude the game. So it was 5 out of 5 for England, a win for Stuart Broad as captain, and a great start to their limited overs campaign… bring on Saturday and the ODI’s.

So the day finally came, and we were in for a treat as we were to see the World Champions on English turf. England won the toss and chose to field, I’m surprised it even went ahead as apparently Alastair Cook had to run to the middle as he forgot he was captain! Anyway on with the game, India registered runs at a pace and with two wickets going quickly it looked to be in England’s favour. But the second wicket (Dravid) only came via review, even then the commentators could not believe it was given out after a change in decision – but what can you say it’s just the way of the DRS. But once Kohli came to the crease with P. Patel things went into acceleration and took the score from 87 to 190, Patel had been scoring quickly and was soon approaching his century. 95 was his score, Anderson was the bowler who was to win this battle? It could only be one person surely? Next up was Sharma but he didn’t hang around too long after he suffered the negative side of a Stuart Broad bouncer and had to retire hurt with a dislocated finger – ouch! So India were now 191-3 (technically four down so to speak) still with Kohli and now the captain Dhoni at the crease. Off these two went as well smashing the ball into every available space, enabling Kohli to bring up his half century. Now at 206-3 India were looking dangerous but Patel soon removed Kohli to bring Raina in who also went on a boundary spree taking India to 266. To be honest I was getting a little worried, but death bowler Dernbach was able to remove Raina after having a difficult spell of bowling and this being his only wicket. The wickets of Dhoni and Ashwin fell in successive balls to Bresnan and India finished on 274 from their 50 overs.

This was a rather tough ask but I remained confident, so out come the openers. The perfect start was not achieved when in the second over the captain Cook had his stumps removed from the ground and departed for a mere four. Only four overs later fellow opener Kieswetter fell plumb to a Kumar LBW leaving England on 21-2, and a daunting run chase is what faced the two Bears at the crease Trott and Bell. Three balls were all that were bowled however when a rain shower caused the players to return to the safety of the pavilion, but as the rain shower turned into torrential rain play looked unlikely to resume. Unfortunately my thoughts were turned into reality as the umpires decided that enough was enough and play was abandoned. So the first ODI has left England undefeated against the Indians and please let it continue, so Tuesday watch out at The Rosebowl as I’m hoping to witness another England win.

Don’t forget it’s the semi-finals of the CB40 tomorrow meaning the final is drawing nearer, and once all is complete expect a write up from me. Also the Championship is getting rather exciting to say the least, with the Bears standing a chance of being crowned the Champs. I really don’t know what I’m going to do without County Cricket over the winter; I really must find myself another hobby… or just wait until next summer. So that’s it for now, hope you enjoyed and don’t forget to check back for all the latest in the cricketing world, it can only get better.

Photo Credit: bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket

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‘I love being number one’

Yes these are the words of England’s wicketkeeper Matt Prior after they had completed a 4-0 whitewash over the previous world number one’s India. Matty threw his hands in the air and shouted this at the camera in utter joy, as the England team led the celebrations by carrying out a lap of honour to show off their wares. By wares I mean of course the Npower and Pataudi trophies along with the most wanted World Number One Mace safely in England’s hands… the looks on their faces was incredible, and I mean incredible! So I’ll get onto the game itself.The end on Day 4 saw India bowled out for 300 their highest score of the series (unbelievable I know) with the help of one exceptional Indian batsmen Rahul Dravid, again registering another 146 to raise India’s hopes – even just a little. Once all out they were made to follow on by England needing 292 to draw par, but as Day 4 came to a close India were once again struggling on 129-3, with Sehwag, Dravid and Laxman already back in the pavilion. Things were looking somewhat dreamy for the England lads and boy was I looking forward to today!

So we returned to The Oval with night watchman Mishra on 8 and the ‘Little Master’ not out on 35. As I got ready for another exciting day’s play I was certainly not ready for what was in store. As the first session passed India are 216-3 at lunch, no it is not a typo India were still only three down; I was in despair what was happening to my England? Why weren’t they getting wickets? More importantly why was Tendulkar still in on 72? Was his resurgence in form happening now, don’t get me wrong I really wanted him to get a hundred in England, but I also didn’t want him to get it against England. Yes I know I can’t have my cake and eat it, but I was still hopeful! So there I was after lunch fearing the worst (sorry for the over dramatics) I honestly was wondering if England were going to be denied a series whitewash after all their hard work, ending in a draw. But then there was Graeme Swann, oh Swanny how we needed you this sunny afternoon at The Oval, and he certainly delivered!

Swanny came up to bowl at Mishra and when I say it turned, it turned alright, smack onto his off-stump as it sped past his bat in glorious style. My mood was lightened as Mishra was beginning to become a threat with numerous boundaries, but there was still that niggling fact that Sachin was still present on 91… nine away from his 100, I knew it then here it is, his 100^th hundred! What a fool I was, as Bresnan comes on for a bowl I just watched the action in anticipation that something, anything could happen. First ball, it thunders into Tendulkar’s pads, the whole field screams at the umpire so loud I think I even joined in! And there it was the finger was raised, the finger was raised! Tendulkar had gone on 91. LBW for 91! It was the Indians themselves that decided against DRS as well. The disbelief that crossed my face you wouldn’t believe, and yes I will admit it now I nearly cried, such a rush of emotion that I felt, I screamed ‘YESSS’ at the top of my voice as if I was there, trust me in my own mind I was there! The atmosphere looked incredible and Tim Bresnan became invisible under a mass of white. This moment is one that I will always remember, the shock, the amazement, the excitement… but back to business 5 more wickets were needed for victory.

Swann was to claim another three of these in what I would like to call pure ‘Swann style’ as well as two wickets for Broad his first in this innings. First up Swann to Raina, he managed to bag himself a pair as he again walked back with only a 0 to his name as he became another victim to that infamous LBW! The captain Dhoni was the next to go, he was looked upon as the last hope you might say, but three was all he managed. Broad forced Dhoni to play a shot, for it to only be parried to Swann at slip, forcing RP Singh to the crease with the already injured Gambhir. But Broad made sure he didn’t hang around for long, having him caught behind for a miserly 0. At 269-8 India were still 23 behind and this was the beginning of the end for India, I was becoming uncontrollable with excitement at this point but that wasn’t the half of it. So back to the wickets and Gambhir takes an unbelievable swipe at Swann, I mean when you are trying to resurrect the innings you do not come down the pitch to a spinner a play a shot that was bound to get you out, three was all he got! So there we had it England needed one more wicket to win in fantastic style, Sharma and Sreesanth were at the crease, I was in a daze. Two overs and three balls later it came. In the best way possible, as Swann made sure Sreesanth’s stumps were sent cartwheeling across the ground. All out for 283, they had been beaten by an innings and 8 runs, just 8 runs.

We’d done it, we’d actually done!! Officially now crowned Word Number One’s in Test Cricket, India had been whitewashed! I cannot tell you how proud I am to be an English supporter right now; the boys have been absolutely outstanding! As they returned to the field for the presentations I joined in the fans at the ground, clapping and cheering them on so reverently. Ian Bell was awarded Man of the Match for his amazing double hundred, although Swann did manage to a get a 6-fer in this game with lovely celebrations I may add. India’s Man of the Series was Dravid, who else? This man has been the pillar within the Indian team, without him they would have had no chance. Finally our Man of the Series went to Stuart Broad, leading wicket-taker in the series with 25 wickets, and a fantastic run with the bat across each four matches, he truly has been pivotal in the series win as has every other England player! As they received their trophies and medals, the champagne spurting everywhere, I can honestly say I did have a tear in my eye, very emotional scenes. I had followed the team the whole way through the summer and to see them complete such a feat made me ecstatic to say the least… even now I still remain overwhelmed, honestly! The post-match interviews were also a highlight of the game, Swann and Jimmy need I say more, Matty P and the rest of the lads, so comical and loving the moment. Jimmy told Swanny to milk it and of course they did, they fully deserve it. But not forgetting the backroom staff they have also been a key to England’s success and much credit to them… party on boys. As Strauss said ‘I’ll probably have a hangover in the morning’ I can’t imagine one member of that team not having one tomorrow but who can blame them, they’ve only beaten India 4-0 and all that!

I can’t go on forever about how wonderful England are as I think you may get rather bored, plus I am rather quite upset that this is the last test of the summer, so I only have one thing left to say… I love England and their Test Cricket, I really really do.

Photo Credit: Getty Images (espncricinfo.com)

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It’s all change!

Quite a lot to report on today, the County Championship, the much awaited news of the ODI squad and the England game of course! With so much cricket on I am surprised I haven’t gone into overdrive, there is so much to keep track of but I hope that is where I come in. I hope I can fit everything in today… but check in on Monday to get the full write-up on the England game!

I think that’s what I’ll start off with. So we returned to The Oval today with high expectations, yes even of Jimmy Anderson… but we can’t have everything now can we, as yes after hitting the ball to the boundary a couple of times this morning Jimmy did depart early on in the day. So Morgan replaced the night-watchman but he did not stick around for long leaving with just 1 next to his name; all the while Ian Bell was timing sweet cover drives to the boundary and nudging short singles to climb closer and closer to that magical number. With 199 on the board you could tell the nerves were present but as he flicked that ball to the fine leg boundary you knew celebrations were in order! He patted his chest and kissed the Three Lions on his helmet, he’d done it, his first double ton in Test Match Cricket and boy was it well it deserved… as a Warwickshire boy it made it even more special. The innings was dedicated to Neil Abberley his former mentor, and you could feel his pride, his whole innings was just full of class and attractive shots.

Anyway before I get carried away all good things must come to an end, 235 LBW to Raina and unfortunately that was the end of Bell’s fantastic run-scoring. With runs continuing to pile up on the board the rain once again intervened without invitation to do so, and with a WHOLE session lost (sense the annoyance) there became a declaration and a rather fresh England team to begin the damage. India were chasing 591 and believe me the damage has now well and truly begun. Last ball of the first over, GONE, Sehwag starts hitting Jimmy Anderson to the boundary but not for much longer as he gets himself in a tricky situation and finally falls LBW for 8… accompanied with a couple of cheers form my living room!! A good start I may say but I wasn’t expecting just three overs later to see Broad celebrating having Laxman caught behind on 2, I mean I trust Broad to get the early wickets but the form he is in a the moment… enough said.

As the ‘Little Master’ and ‘The Wall’ are at the crease it is very hard not to be mesmerised by sheer talent which these two have in bags (not literally)! But as their partnership developed we needed a genius to split them apart, and who else could we turn to apart from Graeme Swann, who has Sachin mistiming a sweep to send the ball sky high to be caught by Jimmy for 23… not the best of series really. I’ll just pass over the next wicket as Raina was dismissed for a 39 ball 0, Swann having him stumped with magical work by Matty P. With four wickets down in comes India’s night watchman Ishant Sharma; whilst Dravid passed 50 once again, Sharma is being surrounded with five catchers round the bat… I wouldn’t have liked to been him. I don’t think he rather liked it either as he soon chipped one to short-leg with a brilliant catch from Cook for 1, leaving India finally on 103-5 at the close of play and making England look doubly impressive! What a day of test cricket, Belly’s 200, five wickets down… I just can’t wait for tomorrow as I predict more fireworks!!

With all the excitement of test cricket everyone seems to be forgetting about the County Championship, so I have all the goss – if you can call it that – okay the lowdown on today’s play! There was quite a lot of change in the standings too…

In Division 1 my hopes of Warwickshire getting anywhere this season were dashed when after a total 10 wickets in the match Chris Woakes top-scored in the Bears second innings with 23. As yes you guessed it, they collapsed for a shocking 98 after Hampshire had racked up an impressive 416 with a great 145 from young James Vince, so losing by 209 runs. Five Warwickshire batsmen ended on 0 and to be honest their title hopes are gradually slipping away. This is the opposite for Lancashire as they have now gone top of the table beating Worcestershire by 98 runs, as both Keedy and Smith took 4 wickets apiece, with Smith having a spell of 4-7!! Lancashire are now 13 points clear at the top and look like certain contenders for the title. The other two games petered out to be draws. Firstly Sussex v Yorkshire was a close finish with Yorkshire almost clinching a win. They needed 344 runs to win but this was not going to put them down with a limited overs style approach the Yorkshire men fell just 31 runs short, now that is what I would call unlucky! Where as in the Notts game it was inevitable there was going to be a draw as rain was the main complication in Taunton, where Somerset finished on 177 all out leaving Nottinghamshire to reach 402-9!

Onto Division 2, here Northants remain top of the table by beating Derby by 165 runs, with a rather impressive 100 from Middlebrook and 4 wickets by Lucas to ensure promotion into Division 1. Onto the Middlesex v Kent game whereby Kent won by 69 runs and a much needed win by the Spitfires. Despite a five-for from Finn and a morale boosting century form Dalrymple, Middlesex could not defeat Kent as they clinched victory over the team currently second in the table! There was a draw present also in Division 2 with Essex and Gloucestershire, neither side could gain a significant advantage or take hold of the game in hand… regardless of some good performances. Finally Leicestershire were beaten by Glamorgan today by 108 runs. With a win for the Foxes possible, their batsmen could not withstand the pressure of the Glamorgan bowlers who whipped through their batting line up, dismissing them for 191.

So with all the cricketing action now wrapped up I want to leave you with a little bit of exciting news. With an ODI coming up on the 25^th August next week against Ireland, England selectors have decided to rest some key players before the India series. So this means making way for change… and what change it is. Morgan is to captain the squad so it will be great for him to exhibit his potential. As well as this there are four new debutants all 21 or under who go by the names of James Taylor, Scott Borthwick, Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes. All recent players for the Lions I am sure I tipped some of these players didn’t I?! Also Graham Onions has made it into the squad… after being out so long with injury it is great to see him back within the England set-up! Oh and here is the squad in full:

Eoin Morgan – Captain, Middlesex, Jonathan Bairstow – Yorkshire, Ravi Bopara – Essex, Scott Borthwick – Durham, Jade Dernbach – Surrey, Steven Finn – Middlesex, Craig Kieswetter – Somerset, Graham Onions – Durham, Samit Patel – Nottinghamshire, Ben Stokes – Durham, James Taylor – Leicestershire, Jonathan Trott – Warwickshire, Chris Woakes – Warwickshire

Very exciting stuff but that is all I have for you today, oh and just for the record don’t tell Swanny I called him a genius…

Photo Credit: news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket

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England’s batsmen are cashing in.

What was Day 2 of the Test like today? Well I can say for once there was no rain, meaning we did actually see some cricketing action and more than 26 overs as well!

So what did actually happen? A bit of a disappointing start with Alastair Cook going in just the fifth ball of the day for 34, with Strauss shortly following just over 10 overs later, leaving England on 97-2 and in need of a partnership. Ian Bell and Kevin Pietersen were now the two men on our screens who we as fans were willing to make us proud, and they certainly did more than was necessary… in fact they had by the end of today put us in an incredibly dominating position.

After losing two early wickets Belly and KP did not look back, with beautiful cover drives, sweep shots and… the return of the switch-hit (yeah I know) we saw some great boundaries and run-scoring all afternoon! The pair were unstoppable and the Indian bowlers, apart from making early breakthroughs, were still toiling away in the summer sun all day making them appear tiresome and somewhat lacklustre in the field. It is again what I would say just another replay of the three previous tests, I know the Indian attack contains many quality players but it must be to do with English conditions as to why there are not performing. We’ll just have to wait and see until the winter when our players have to brace themselves for tricky conditions on the subcontinent… I have high hopes for England now as they have well and truly proved to be a class side that can beat even the toughest of opposition.

Anyway amidst the run-scoring some very important milestones were made, firstly Kevin Pietersen who passed the 150 mark for the third time in the space of a year. His fluent style bode him well as his 150 came from just 208 balls with 23 4’s… unfortunately for KP however his ‘run’ soon came to an end when he tried one shot too many and was out for 175, one impressive knock. It was not only Pietersen who impressed though, as Ian Bell who seems to be in fine form remains not out on 181, and I really hope that tomorrow is the day he can register his first double ton. His highest score to date is 199 and he agonisingly could get no further so fingers crossed for Bell, and maybe he could make what is now known by the England squad as a ‘granddad hundred’, well a great big hundred basically :D

So with KP’s dismissal bringing night-watchman Jimmy Anderson to the crease it left England at the close of play on 457-3, a very commanding total and one which hopefully grow and grow! When do you think they’ll declare if they are not all out in quick succession? I have a feeling they may go BIG, we’ll just have to wait and see what cricket tomorrow brings!

Roll on tomorrow!! (Will update on the county scene tomorrow as most matches come to a close)

Photo Credit: Getty Images (news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket)

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Magical Performances

Just a quick (I say quick) catch up with the County Championship this week and there have been some very notable performances. Five-wicket hauls and centuries galore, a lot of credit must be given to all the county players currently in their bid for promotion or fighting the relegation battle. Performances such as centuries for Croft of Lancashire, Yardy and Brown (Sussex), and Essex’s Wheater and ten Doeschate; also five-wicket hauls for Sidebottom, Footitt and Vaas have all been exceptional. However today I have picked just two of my favourite moments of the Championship…

Firstly Warwickshire’s Chris Woakes, as today he collected figures of 7-20 off just 14.4 overs. This is absolutely phenomenal and career-best figures for Woakesy, who guided the Bears to a rather dominating start on what could be a very important match. Warwickshire sit fourth in the LVCC Division 1 table just 17 points behind leaders Durham, and with this performance to skittle Hampshire for a mere 141 title hopes are becoming more likely (fingers crossed). Only three of Woakes’ wickets had double figures, the other four between them only managed 22 runs… it really was an impressive feat by the England hopeful and his sights must now be firmly set on the top spot. This is one very proud Bears fan right now and I will be following the game closely whilst watching the England game also, I will be an expert at multi-tasking at the end of it.

Lastly, and very importantly, Joe Root. At the Scarborough Festival in Yorkshire’s game against Sussex today, Jacques Rudolph was an early victim falling in the third over bringing Root to the crease. Here he set about on a magical innings to end the day on 111*, compiled of twenty 4’s, and I’m very proud to say this was Root’s maiden first class century! One milestone passed and hopefully loads more to come, as like I have said before Joe Root will surely make it into the England side as he is an amazing talent, and I mean amazing… I don’t just say these things you know. With some useful partnerships, Root managed to take Yorkshire to 251-4 at the close of play and is looking more and more like a classy player and has definitely been the stand-out performer throughout the whole match so-far.  Lots of luck to him tomorrow I hope he scores some big runs.

One last thing just to keep you updated with England’s news… it was a total wash out really, only one full session up to lunch was played. This means that a white-wash for the England lads will be even harder to obtain but I will keep the faith, the day ended on England 75-0 with just 26.0 overs in the day. Andrew Strauss despite having a chunk taken out of his helmet survived and ended with 38*, whilst Alastair Cook hopes to add to his enormous tally of runs this season with 34*. The Indian bowling attack is not showing any signs of improving with an injury to Kumar, probably their best bowler, whilst England’s attack in every department is growing from strength to strength.

Long may it continue and all the best for tomorrow lads, let the weather be with you!

Photo Credit: ecb.co.uk

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Test World Number 1 – Who else could it be?!

We’re number 1. We’re number 1. We’re number 1! Oh and if you haven’t worked it out yet… England are now Test Number 1 in the world!Like I said in yesterday’s post next time I write a blog England would probably be world number one in tests… and I was right. What a special moment for the lads, all of their hard work has finally paid off as today proved – so let’s get down to business.

Nine wickets were needed on Day 4 of this test to achieve such a feat and so this is exactly what they did, and in true England style. Second over of the day hello Jimmy Anderson, I was poised for another long day but this swing master does not hang around for long, Gambhir down eight more left! ‘The Wall’ was next in England’s sights and he began to crumble, Jimmy was the man once again to have Dravid caught behind… only to be discovered it was Dravid’s shoelace that caught his bat (I think you could that slightly bad luck)! Three down and all thanks to Anderson who was setting his sights on five… Laxman was the fourth man to fall but before the five-for came Swann who had had little luck this series nabbed one out by removing Raina for a mere 10 – and at 87-5 things were looking like a dead end but they were to get much, much worse.

As I sat watching the action unfold there was the ‘Little Master’ showing us what he’s made of for just the second time in the series. With 40 runs on the board I did slightly think is this the 100^th hundred? But more fool me as Swanny was sure to settle my doubts, good old Swanny! Tendulkar was backing up as Dhoni hit one straight down the wicket , Swann ‘launches’ himself at the ball just getting one little fingertip on the ball seconds before it ploughed into the stumps… handing over to the 3^rd Umpire – out! The onslaught came once again, but like déjà vu it was again a little on the late side but Dhoni and Mishra started to attack. Like Swann usually does he removed the danger man with Broad taking a superb catch… but another danger man came to the crease – Kumar. An immediate bowling change was needed as Swann was being hit all over the park, I sat shouting this at the TV, finally in comes Broad who was able to dismiss Kumar before too much damage was done – phew.

Two more wickets were now needed and the excitement was getting to everyone believe me! Dhoni managed to surpass 50 in consecutive innings but this was still not enough as he saw firstly Broad have Sharma plumb LBW – ahem India decided against DRS I may add – and then Sreesanth fail to avoid Bresnan’s attack… cue the mayhem! The England side ran in from all directions and were amassed in one huge huddle; their faces were full of euphoria. They had achieved an amazing accomplishment, and it is the understatement of the year to say I am proud, 10x that if it is even possible! The beers were being devoured, there was a smile on Andy Flower’s face and the team fully deserve the celebrations I am sure they are bound to have… the closeness of the team has played a big part in the success as was seen in the post-match interviews (needless I say it was Swanny and Jimmy these two are legendary). But finally that number one spot can only be in one place right now and our England boys have set their sights on retaining it so loads of luck and congratulations to them!

Number One in the World – it couldn’t sound any better could it?

Photo Credit: AFP (espncricinfo.com)

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Is it even a contest?

We are half way through the Edgbaston Test and we have seen extremely good cricket from the England boys, as well as downright poor moments from the opposition – India have been thoroughly outplayed… there is nothing left to say. They have looked completely uninterested and it begs the question is this even a contest between the two sides? But before I get to the nitty-gritty I was lucky enough to go to Edgbaston to experience Day 1 of some exhilarating test cricket of which I will give you an insight.

Day 1 – It all started off with a bang! When Stuart Broad who loves to appeal, immediately successfully reviewed a caught-behind chance removing Sehwag! The atmosphere was electric and I can honestly say could have out cheered the rest of the supporters… but I didn’t want to embarrass myself really! So settling back down England’s game plan was working like clockwork – wickets were going down early, Tendulkar only achieving a measly 1 out to Broad once again. Saying that when Sachin did come to the crease he got what he deserved… a standing ovation by the crowd, I must say I got a tad emotional – it would be the first and probably last time I would see the ‘Little Master’ bat, I feel very privileged! At 111-7 England were living the dream but unfortunately Dhoni and Kumar started to add runs at a pace, with MS reaching 77. But we weren’t down for too long as India were all out for 224… yes 224 I know a small total considering the calibre of the team but I am getting used to it actually! Broad and Bresnan shared 4 wickets apiece and it really was pure class bowling. Anyway after being lucky enough to see England bowl fantastically, I was also really pleased to see Strauss battle it out to 50, much needed runs for the captain. The day was left on England 84-0.

Moving on from my excitement England currently stand in good stead. After Day 2 England were 456-3 with run-machine Alastair Cook on a mammoth 182 with Morgs on 44, Strauss had earlier registered 87 and looked to go on and get 100 but failed prematurely. India’s bowling looked to be going from bad to worse… but Kumar stood ahead of the rest and was the lynchpin of the attack, so what would Day 3 portray? Not much changed to be honest with you, Cook powered on and showed why he will be one of the greats in years to come, how he can bat for so long and score such runs is beyond me… 294 out caught just before England declared. The man now truly is a legend, and I nearly cried when I saw his wicket go down like many fans out there, but at 710-7 declared I am such a proud England supporter right now! Breaking records has become a bit of a pastime for Cooky as today has shown; he has long may it continue! Eoin Morgan also helped take England to a dominating position with a much deserved century under his belt, but his wicket was soon to fall – bring to the crease Ravi Bopara in for the injured Trott. I will tell you now 7 is not what we were looking for on Ravi’s return, why oh why did we not bring in someone like James Taylor who made 106 for the England Lions today? It truly is beyond me… before I get too irate let’s change the subject!

After declaring our bowlers certainly stepped up to the mark. The amazing Jimmy Anderson struck with only his third ball to dismiss Sehwag for a king pair; I nearly burst with excitement as I just could notbelieve my eyes. The number 1 spot now calls and I cannot wait to see my beloved England reach this magnificent feat -roll on tomorrow, as long as it contains no electrical faults (long story but Dhoni played some cheeky tactics to stop play whilst there was a power-cut at Edgbaston, tut-tut… at least his plan didn’t work out). I will leave you with this thought, hopefully next time I post a blog we will be the Number 1 Test Team in the world…

Photo Credit: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images

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Test-Champions Reign

Trent Bridge lived up to the high expectations of Lord’s that’s for sure… in fact it held many a surprise and had several treats in-store.It all started off on what I can only really call a wrong note, batsmen after batsmen failed to suppress the Indian bowlers as each fell over one-by-one like skittles… low score after low score. Supporters had their head in their hands, of which I was one, in despair as England looked like this test would end in a crumbling defeat. Not all hope was lost though in the form of the two home boys, Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann. First things first… as Broad comes to the crease on 117-7 the future looked abysmal, (and no I am not over-exaggerating!) but the bowling all-rounder soon took centre stage as Ian Bell departed and Swann took to the crease. The pair highlighted what the other batsmen had been missing out on putting on an incredible stand of 73 runs… as England’s innings drew to a close it was Broad who was the last man out, and amazingly it was he the number 9 batsmen who top-scored with 64. As important as this was this shouldn’t have been the case, and England looked in poor form. After finishing on 221 all out, it was now England’s turn to hedge their bets and try to keep India’s run scoring to a minimum, as every fan knew this would be a tough task… or was it?! The sun appeared to be shining on our bowlers over the next two days, and for Jimmy Anderson in particular it shone on his very first delivery to have Mukund caught in the slips leaving him on a golden pair in his next innings.

What was to come the following day was not to be believed, well not by me anyway. ‘The Wall’ and VVS Laxman put up a fight on the beginning of Day 2 with a partnership of 93, at long last Bresnan in for the injured Tremlett eliminated the threat opening the way for the star of the moment Broad. As Broad worked his way through the somewhat weakened batting line-up spectacular scenes were to be witnessed. After he had Tendulkar out early for the second time in the series, he was able to claim the now prized wicket of Yuvraj Singh who was becoming an increasing danger after hitting 10 fours to reach 62, which in turn brought captain MS Dhoni to the fore. Ball three of Broad’s over saw Dhoni caught at slip. Following ball Harbhajan Singh plumb LBW. The atmosphere in the ground escalated as they realised a hat-trick may be on the cards, Stuart Broad’s calm exterior was fool proof. Hat-trick ball, Broad’s feet pounded the dry earth, the ball was released full and straight… and it crashed into the stumps sending them cartwheeling across the ground. He’d done it, he’d actually done it! Stuart Broad had claimed a hat-trick; the tension of the spectators was evident as they filled the ground with screams and cheers, whilst I myself remained speechless (for a mere few seconds) and punched the air with sheer delight and disbelief. The overwhelming nature of this moment was one which was sure to last, but Broad was one whom must remained centred as he still had a job to perform. His heroics continued as India ended on 288 all out (Dravid top-scored with 117), due to a magnificent spell of bowling from the big-man of 5 wickets for 0 and ending on career-best figures of 6-46. Being one of many ‘number one’ fans of Stuart this was one day which will definitely live long in the memory.

As the test continued supporters and spectators alike were all a part of the controversial scenes that took place on Day 3. With middle-order batsmen now realising their full potential, it was Ian Bell’s turn in the limelight. Coming on early in England’s second innings at number 3 due to a shoulder injury to Jonathan Trott, Belly treated us to a wonderful display of batting as hit his way to 137 at tea… cue the dramatics. On the last ball before tea, Morgan had supposedly hit a four to end the session, I say supposedly as the fielder Kumar was unsure whether or not he was touching the boundary has he stopped the ball. So off walk Morgan and Bell assuming it’s tea, but unbeknown behind them the ball had returned to the middle, and was aptly used to whip off the bails as Bell had left his crease. Here the confusion mounts as the umpires must ask whether the Indians are appealing for a run-out, as they confirm they have it was rightfully so that Bell was dismissed because of the laws of the game. Boos filled the ground and tensions were clearly rising over tea, and continued as the Indians and the umpires remerged to the field; however the atmosphere changes when Bell is seen to be also coming back onto the field. We later learnt that after a discussion at tea the Indians had retracted their appeal as they felt it was against the spirit of the game, this is one decision which must be given full appraisal to as it was a tough one to make. Even after I have deliberated over the whole debacle though I still find the matter somewhat confusing… or that could just be me! Anyway all of this aside the day ended on England on 441-6 with a healthy lead of 374.

Day 4 began with high expectations and we were not left disappointed. England continued the attack to the Indian bowlers, again our lower order showed its worth with a quick 44 off 32 from Broad (including five 4’s and two 6’s). But the man who impressed in this innings was Tim Bresnan, his stroke making took him to 90 runs but he unfortunately fell short of his maiden ton and on Yorkshire day as well :) Finishing all out for 544, Ian Bell top scored with a superb but possibly tainted 159, giving England a great lead of 477 – surely this was enough? Bresnan this time the bowler of the moment in situ with Broad and Anderson tore, literally, through the Indian batting line-up… with a few threatening performances that were soon removed. One small hidden surprise that helped with the Indian collapse was that of sub-fielder Scott Elstone of Nottinghamshire who took two amazing catches which later threw him to stardom within the media – one day for him, and one name for us to remember!! Slowly but surely each wicket subsided and the world number one team were left all out on 158 to give England a comprehensive win of 319 runs… and more importantly a 2-0 lead in the series! As Broad fittingly took the final wicket he was nowhere to be seen as he became submerged by his teammates, and later took home the Man of the Match Award, but the looks on the faces of the England team said it all, their beaming smiles spread across the ground as well as to those supporters at home – I need say no more than I was absolutely and thoroughly ecstatic.

Hope you enjoyed this lengthy blog post, there is just so much I want to say. Hopefully coming up will be the reports on the T20 quarter-finals – who do you think will be progressing? As well as a match report of Day 1 of the Edgbaston Test as I will be there in person!

Photo Credit: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

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Reaching New Heights…

Words cannot describe the final day of the Lord’s Test on Monday. Queues like I have never seen before seemed never ending and the possibility of an amazing days play was definitely in store!

First things first… from where I left it on Thursday many new developments were made. One major and very much welcomed surprise was the form of Kevin Pietersen, with a rather impressive 200 runs off 326 balls which later won him the Man of the Match Award. Another novelty that graced our screens as well as the field was that of the ‘keeper Dhoni, who usually dons the gloves, decided it was his turn to try his hand with bowling the ball instead of catching it! This spectacle continued throughout England’s innings with a continuous switch between Dhoni and Dravid, posing the question as to who actually was India’s wicketkeeper. Once the double hundred was obtained by KP soon saw the first of England’s declarations of the match towards the end of Day 2, giving India 474 runs as their desired total to surpass to even create an even match.

As Day 3 came to a close England were to see the return of one of their prized bowlers, who really needed to get back in form to prove his true ability. I am of course talking about Stuart Broad… well at the start of Day 3 England were facing what I would call a tough challenge against one of the most ‘feared’ batting line ups in world cricket. With a promising start for India Mukund reached a respectable 49 and it looked as though the tone of this innings was set – or so we thought. Broad had lost touch with his form in previous tests and was continuously told ‘bowl a fuller length’ and finally he took this in his stride! The first two wickets fell to Broad in rather quick succession, both beautifully bowled may I add. As wickets began to fell only the aptly  named ‘Wall’ (Dravid) stood firm with the only player to score 50+ with an innings saving 103! Tendulkar failed the first time to reach his 100^th hundred at the Home of Cricket as he scored only 34, Swann and Tremlett were both in the action, with Jimmy Anderson finishing off the innings nicely to bag himself 2-87 leaving India on 286 all out. But it was Broad who stole the show with fantastic figures of 4-37 with an economy of only 1.68 off 22 overs!! Back in form – I think so!

Stuart’s form wasn’t to stop there either. So Day 4 began with India back onto the field needing a miracle, and this came in the shape of Ishant Sharma. To be honest I thought England were to lose this test in astonishing circumstances… just like the England of old. They we were suffering  on 5-62 yes you read write, welcome to the crease Matt Prior and Eoin Morgan, taking England’s total to a somewhat respectable 6-107 after Morgs was out to Sharma – who I must say took four wickets for 59 with one marvellous spell! Anyway Broad walks to the crease to start a match winnings performance with Matt Prior, let the cheers begin. A magnificent century that won him another place on the prestigious Honours Board, Matty P raised his bat in pride, whilst Broad hit 9 fours on his way to 74, after this amazing partnership (162) the crowds saw England’s successive declaration a bold move by Strauss but one which proved spot-on.

India had been set a total of 457 to win the match, but England were on top form so as not to let this happen. As Day 5 began expectantly, ticket prices were drawing in the crowds… or should I say masses! Lord’s looked immense and filled to the rafters as supporters from far and wide flocked to see what was to be one of the best days of Test Match cricket. Those who say Test Match cricket is dead… think again, you may what to see if you can catch the highlights of this amazing game. Broad once again took the first wicket of the game… bowled once more :) A break-through was needed thought as Laxman and Dravid looked set, on comes Anderson removing both to stand England in good stead, wickets then slowly and steadily began to fall… Tendulkar failed to meet his ambition of a century of Lord’s one which he may now never be able to achieve no longer! This may have been down to the viral infection he was suffering from which meant he could not come to the crease until number 5 due to his absence off the field late in day 4. Every bowler came to the party – quite literally, as they were able to perform what I’d like to call some kind of magic :) with Jimmy claiming another 5 wickets who also won a place on the Honours Board, and Broad another 3 to add to his first innings of 4 wickets. This saw the culmination of India’s innings being bowled out for the second time in the match, with the batting line-up not really living up to accreditations as such! A comprehensive win for England by 196 runs slowly sees them creeping up on India for that precious number one spot in the ICC Test Rankings. We can do it surely?!

Not only are England reaching new heights, but recent performances saw Jimmy Anderson climbing to number 2 in the World Bowling Rankings, pushing Swanny down to 3^rd… whilst in the World Batting Rankings K.P made a much welcome return to the top 20, one slight shock though was that of Jonathan Trott reaching number 2 pushing the ‘Little Master’ Tendulkar into third position! Well done to Trotty though on this great achievement! It’s great to see England once again becoming the great team that we all know they can be… come on boys Trent Bridge awaits!

Tune in people for some more gripping action… but it is bye for now

Photo Credit: Tom Shaw/Getty Images

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