The Fifth Test

for the next test to start. Win, lose or draw we can be very proud of the team this year, if we don't win we know that it's only because of one day of rain in the third test!

Simon Jones is out, never been too sure about Anderson so I reckon Collingwood is the best bet to replace him....

Roll on Thursday! http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[C C Csiders]

Would definitely prefer the Collingwood option as we only need a draw and his batting coming in at #7 or #8 will be a positive in this respect.

James Anderson hasn't been in great form for over 2 years now, and I feel he has been selected on the basis that he is centrally contracted.

Personally, as cover for Simon Jones I would have hoped that we might have gone for a more experienced option in Gough, Caddick or Cork as Anderson does tend to give a few away, and Jones is probably our most economical bowler. If Anderson plays I fear we may go for quite a lot in not many overs as Hoggard has proved expensive to date and in spells Harmison has gone for a few.

I thought we had been promised some rain for the weekend but a quick look here

Weather (http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/5day.shtml) says otherwise:(

[Matt the Shrimp]

It's a phenomenally tough call, this one. Whilst you can see the logic behing selecting Colly (just look at the run-scoring), I've a funny feeling that Anderson will get the nod.

Fundamentally, England have got on top of Australia this summer by playing aggressive cricket with a quartet of pace bowlers. Why change that now? Vaughan won't be playing for the draw - it's not in his nature. He'll want to win this one 3-1... and why not?

We have been on top of this series since day one of the Egbaston Test, and there's no reason to deviate from that path of aggressive cricket that has got us to the Oval Test with a 2-1 lead.

Besides, Banger loves the Oval track. If he gets set (and there's no reason to suspect why he wouldn't), then if he can knock a big score... and at that point, we'll be crying out for a fourth seam bowler.

I think Anderson will get the nod; and I don't think he'll disappoint.

Matt

[Hong Kong Blue]

Other than the bit about Banger getting lots of runs (he still hasn't a test ton v the Aussies), I agree with MtS. Its got to be Anderson.

1) I wouldn't want to have to bowl on the second best batting track in the country with only 3 front-line seamers. If England lose the toss they are in for a long day in the field.
2) All the matches have been over in less than 4 days' worth of play. I can't therefore see England batting it out for a draw without divine intervention.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 07 2005,13:28)]Other than the bit about Banger getting lots of runs (he still hasn't a test ton v the Aussies)
Banger's the top run scorer in the Ashes series on either side, so you can no longer accuse him of not knowing how to bat against the Aussies.

Besides, here's a stat I love (ah, you've got to love random stats generally)...

Banger's Test average at all grounds: 45.39
Banger'rs Test average at the Oval: 85.85

He loves batting there, has his top score in Test cricket there (219 against the South Africans, in a game we had to win to level the series), and it's a nice flattish track which is perfect for him.

Now it's just up to Banger... I'm sure he won't disappoint.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[blues_r_best]

Quote[/b] (C C Csiders @ Sep. 07 2005,12:24)]and Jones is probably our most economical bowler.
He is by a mile, just over 20 runs a wicket, then Harmison (about 26), Flintoff (28), Hoggard (30) and then Giles with 50 runs per wicket.

[C C Csiders]

The Aussies have announced that McGrath is fit and will play. NO real surprise, this. I would have expected them to play him even if he is only 75% fit, as they have to go for broke.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (blues_r_best @ Sep. 07 2005,13:51)]
Quote[/b] (C C Csiders @ Sep. 07 2005,12:24)]and Jones is probably our most economical bowler.
He is by a mile, just over 20 runs a wicket, then Harmison (about 26), Flintoff (28), Hoggard (30) and then Giles with 50 runs per wicket.
vs. Shane who has picked up 28 wickets this summer at 19.2 apiece...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

Still, the Oval is surely tailor-made for Harmy - hard & fast. Unfortunately, that'll also help McGrath... if he's fit.

I am now, officially, sick with nerves...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/suspect.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/ghostface.gif

[W4 Shrimper]

Can't wait - have taken tomorrow off so I can watch it at home, then I'll be at The Oval on Friday - bring it on!

If the weather is fine, reckon I'll pop down to Clapham Common to watch it on the big screen on Sunday too.

As for the game itself, I'm in the pro-Anderson camp. I think picking Collingwood would be a negative move. We've got this far by taking the Aussies on, let's continue in the same vein.

And, should the worse happen and the Baggy Greens beat us, I have the consolation of a tenner at 6/1 on the series draw. That's £10 I'd gladly kiss goodbye to though!

It would be Anderson for me, it gives the attack the same balance as the previous 4 games.

Besides which if we cannot score enough runs with the 7 batsmen we have then one more will not make a difference.

[C C Csiders]

Collingwood to play.

[Matt the Shrimp]

We've won the toss!!!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Matt the Shrimp]

Oh, and we've elected to bat...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[C C Csiders]

Nice clear morning - make hay while the sun shines. I would happily settle for a score along the lines of 280-4 at the close.

[W4 Shrimper]

Nice touch playing Jersulaem beforehand too. That's really got the hairs on my arms standing on end! <shudder>

Come on England!

[BrettieAngell]

We've made a good start after winning the toss, a big opening partnership would set us up very nicely thankyou!

[Matt the Shrimp]

Very nice touch... Rod Marsh on TMS bigging up Ali Cook and Ravi Bopara!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Essex, Essex, Essex!!!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Sounds like a ridiculously fast outfield - a very good toss to win. 11 boundaries already, Warne limbering up, 61/0.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

[The General]

Quelle suprise. Taken an hour to see Warne ...

[The General]

I can see a wicket coming and he's only had 4 balls ...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

[C C Csiders]

Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 08 2005,11:25)]Very nice touch... Rod Marsh on TMS bigging up Ali Cook and Ravi Bopara!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Expect both to be on the A tour this winter. Ali Cook is an outside bet, I think, to take to Pakistan for the experience, if nothing else.

This is a fantastic start.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Has Warne ever bowled within the first hour of a Test match before...?!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

Come on England, 9 off Shane's first over.

Matt

[BrettieAngell]

Goin along at 5 an over at the moment, seems almost desperation already to bring Warne on this early!

[blues_r_best]

Banger out

[The General]

Called it.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (BrettieAngell @ Sep. 08 2005,11:36)]Goin along at 5 an over at the moment, seems almost desperation already to bring Warne on this early!
Almost desperation, but not quite. Perhaps inspiration instead...?

Warne comes up with his 29th wicket of the summer... the swine!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/suspect.gif

[C C Csiders]

A great start nonetheless. Be good to take it through these last 35 minutes to lunch without further damage.

[BrettieAngell]

Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 08 2005,11:51)]
Quote[/b] (BrettieAngell @ Sep. 08 2005,11:36)]Goin along at 5 an over at the moment, seems almost desperation already to bring Warne on this early!
Almost desperation, but not quite. Perhaps inspiration instead...?

Warne comes up with his 29th wicket of the summer... the swine!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/suspect.gif
Well I guess not many teams can get away with bringing their spinner on after an hour of the first day on a fast, bouncy pitch!

A good strike from Strauss brings up the hundred. We need to get to lunch without losing any more wickets now...!

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (Whatever @ Sep. 08 2005,12:13)]A good strike from Strauss brings up the hundred. We need to get to lunch without losing any more wickets now...!
Aargh!!!

Feckin Warne again!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif

Vaughan out for 11... 102/2

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

Matt

Bugger, Vaughan has gone for 11 after a rash shot. Come on England, don't collapse on us now! http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[C C Csiders]

Something tells me this could be a 10 for. Warne is the only threat I feel. A first innings of at least 400 as a bare slightly below-par minimum is required here. Runs are going to be scored at a high tempo. Sensible batting from here to close please.

This is ridiculous. We're gonna be all out for 200 at this rate. Bell LBW to Warne.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Out for a duck... shocker.

Shaaaaane's morning.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[BrettieAngell]

Bloody Warne, at least this will be the last time we have to face him!

115-3 at lunch. We need to be a bit more careful in the afternoon session I think http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

[C C Csiders]

Quote[/b] (BrettieAngell @ Sep. 08 2005,12:27)]Bloody Warne, at least this will be the last time we have to face him!
2nd innings yet. I repeat I sense a 10 for, for Warney here.

Strauss needs to go onto 3 figures from here. One of Pietersen, Flintoff and Collingwood also needs to score 3 figures I feel to get to 400+ http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/down.gif

[BrettieAngell]

Quote[/b] (C C Csiders @ Sep. 08 2005,12:33)]
Quote[/b] (BrettieAngell @ Sep. 08 2005,12:27)]Bloody Warne, at least this will be the last time we have to face him!
2nd innings yet. I repeat I sense a 10 for, for Warney here.

Strauss needs to go onto 3 figures from here. One of Pietersen, Flintoff and Collingwood also needs to score 3 figures I feel to get to 400+ http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/down.gif
Well yeah still got the second innings unfortunately! I agree I think he'll get 10, none of the bowlers seem to be doing anything though so we just need to try and score of them!

[The Flying Scotsman]

Bloody Bell letdown again!! I said at the start of the series when everyone was debating between Thorpe & Pieterson that we should play both and drop Bell. I have seen nothing this series to make me change my mind!

[C C Csiders]

Quote[/b] (The Flying Scotsman @ Sep. 08 2005,12:45)]Bloody Bell letdown again!! I said at the start of the series when everyone was debating between Thorpe & Pieterson that we should play both and drop Bell. I have seen nothing this series to make me change my mind!
Bell averaging only 19 now for the series. In saying that Martyn, Hayden and Gilchrist are only averaging 21's and 22's. Who would have thought that?

Think he (Bell) needs a big 2nd innings score to get the dubious pleasure of a trip to Pakistan.

[BrettieAngell]

Peitersen bowled Warne for 14.

131-4

Need Struass to stick around and Freddie to smash Warne out of the attack!

This is looking a bit ominous. We need to get a half decent score - if the Australians get their batting in order then they're capable of setting a silly score, especially on this sort of wicket http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

[C C Csiders]

Quote[/b] (Whatever @ Sep. 08 2005,13:44)]This is looking a bit ominous. We need to get a half decent score - if the Australians get their batting in order then they're capable of setting a silly score, especially on this sort of wicket http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif
As well as thinking that Warne will get all 10 here, I also think that two of the out-of-form Hayden, Martyn and Gilchrist will get centuries here.

This is a flat track, batters paradise, with a fast outfield. Anything less than 400 is disastrous and that is a hell of a way off.

[Matt the Shrimp]

201/4 now... at least we've got the 200 up.

First innings par total on this deck would, you'd think, be a minimum of 450. That looks an extraordinarily long way off, despite how well Strauss & Freddy are playing.

Oddly enough, the decision to pick Collingwood looks thoroughly spot on, now...

Matt

[Hong Kong Blue]

Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 08 2005,15:00)]Oddly enough, the decision to pick Collingwood looks thoroughly spot on, now...

Matt
It won't do when we are a bowler light, bowling on a pitch which doesn't appear to be offering too much to the bowlers.

[BILLERICAY BLUE]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,15:13)]
Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 08 2005,15:00)]Oddly enough, the decision to pick Collingwood looks thoroughly spot on, now...

Matt
It won't do when we are a bowler light, bowling on a pitch which doesn't appear to be offering too much to the bowlers.
Yes, but their seamers are not a patch on ours. McGrath is now over the hill, Lee is quick but expensive, ditto Tait. I would fancy our 3 seamers over theirs any day

[C C Csiders]

213-4 at tea. That is a good session in the circumstances for England, close on 100 runs for just the one wicket. We must still be in bat at close today, and hopefully until at least lunch tomorrow, for both the runs scored and the time occupied at the crease. We cannot afford to lose more than 2 wickets in this final session which will be 35 overs. A score of 325-6 will be acceptable at stumps.

[Hong Kong Blue]

Quote[/b] (BILLERICAY BLUE @ Sep. 08 2005,15:16)]
Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,15:13)]
Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 08 2005,15:00)]Oddly enough, the decision to pick Collingwood looks thoroughly spot on, now...

Matt
It won't do when we are a bowler light, bowling on a pitch which doesn't appear to be offering too much to the bowlers.
Yes, but their seamers are not a patch on ours. McGrath is now over the hill, Lee is quick but expensive, ditto Tait. I would fancy our 3 seamers over theirs any day
Maybe so, but I'd fancy their spinner over ours, and given that a spinner can bowl all day from one end, that can be quite handy.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,15:26)]given that a spinner can bowl all day from one end
Or not, as it happens... even Shaaaaane can't deny the passage of time and the toll of injuries and operations on his body.

Matt - the decision to pick Collingwood will look right when we're batting, but wrong when we're bowling... probably!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/oops.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/ghostface.gif

That said, I had no idea what Anderson's country form is like. To paraphrase Michael Holding, who knows much more about that sort of thing than I ever will, Anderson's county form is mediocre at best...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/oops.gif

[Matt the Shrimp]

Superb effort from both Strauss - his second ton of the summer - and Freddy, already past his half-century, and smacked Shaaaaaane for three successive boundaries.

That's more like it. 242/4.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[BILLERICAY BLUE]

Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 08 2005,15:32)]
Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,15:26)]given that a spinner can bowl all day from one end
Or not, as it happens... even Shaaaaane can't deny the passage of time and the toll of injuries and operations on his body.

Matt - the decision to pick Collingwood will look right when we're batting, but wrong when we're bowling... probably!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/oops.gif *http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif *http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/ghostface.gif

That said, I had no idea what Anderson's country form is like. *To paraphrase Michael Holding, who knows much more about that sort of thing than I ever will, Anderson's county form is mediocre at best...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/oops.gif
I'm sure I had read somewhere that Anderson had picked up 20 wickets in his last four CC games, but I think the decision to leave him out was correct as soon as we won the toss.....

256-4 http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[C C Csiders]

269/4 now. Can we have a ban on anyone tempting fate, please?

[Hong Kong Blue]

Critical stage coming up. Australia have appeared to apply the brakes (possibly as the batsman are waiting for the new ball) to the scoring.

I sense a wicket coming up. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

[C C Csiders]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,16:31)]Critical stage coming up. Australia have appeared to apply the brakes (possibly as the batsman are waiting for the new ball) to the scoring.

I sense a wicket coming up. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif
What did I say about tempting fate. Flintoff gone for 72.

Just play for stumps I think.

[Hong Kong Blue]

You can't play for stumps - there are 18 overs left!

They should play their natural game.

I'll shut up now, as I've caused enough damage http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[C C Csiders]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,16:58)]You can't play for stumps - there are 18 overs left!

They should play their natural game.

I'll shut up now, as I've caused enough damage http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif
Bugger I misjudged by 10 and thought we had 8 left. Anyway ther are 15 left now and we are 289/5. Not a word!

[Hong Kong Blue]

Any revisions on the wisdom of playing Collingwood. He's out for 7. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[The Flying Scotsman]

I blame this on HKB's negative vibes. Go away nasty negative man!

[Hong Kong Blue]

My negativity worked for the previous test!

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,17:11)]Any revisions on the wisdom of playing Collingwood. He's out for 7. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif
Well, we agreed that they should have picked Anderson...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

By all accounts, Colly was out to a poor decision...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[BlueJ]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,17:11)]Any revisions on the wisdom of playing Collingwood. He's out for 7. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif
Lets hope his bowling skills are better than his batting then!

[C C Csiders]

Quote[/b] (Tilly's Prodical Son @ Sep. 08 2005,20:05)]
Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 08 2005,17:11)]Any revisions on the wisdom of playing Collingwood. He's out for 7. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif
Lets hope his bowling skills are better than his batting then!
Collingwood will probably save us 20-25 runs with his cover fielding, and that could be vital.

There is still hope that we can push on towards 400, a good start this morning will be vital - and Jones will need to score a half-century. The new ball has only just been taken, and I think this may be our best chance to cash in, against Lee in particular. Warne won't be bowling for the first hour, I doubt.

[canveyshrimper]

Honours about even I think. Really depends now if Jones and the tail can wag and push up to 400 which seems par on this pitch.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Bugger, bugger, bugger, bugger, bugger.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

Bad wicket to lose. *Jones was the only man capable of getting us to 400. *We'll do well to make 350 now.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

325/8.

[Hong Kong Blue]

At least we reached 350.

352/9. Harmison has faced 3 balls and has played the pull shot each time. I can't see this innings lasting too much longer.

[C C Csiders]

Hoggard gone for a dogged 2, but at least the 350 up now. A few hefty Harmison swipes to take us beyond 370 would be nice.

[C C Csiders]

370 up now. 373/9. Keep going, keep going. Every run is priceless.

[The Flying Scotsman]

373 all out. Harmy stranded on 20no. Well Strauss said after yesterdays play 370 had to be the aim and thats what we got. Come on Bowlers!!

[C C Csiders]

They face a nasty little half-hour before lunch now. Great if we could slip one of them out. Two stabs at the new ball as well pre- and post-lunch.

[The Flying Scotsman]

Oh well, we're an hour past lunch and haven't taken a wicket. Currently 69/0.

[C C Csiders]

Tea arrives with Australia 112-0. It looks like rain is on its way - shame that!http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

If it doesn't arrive we will need a hell of a final session with a bare minimum of 4 out I think, as they will probably get to 230-240 by close.

[Hong Kong Blue]

The Aussies have taken the bad light.....

[Hong Kong Blue]

Tragically the umpires have called stumps.

The 24 hour forecast suggests light showers first thing tomorrow, but sunny intervals later on.

I therefore expect Australia to be at least level with England's score by close of play tomorrow. That will leave 6 sessions in which for Australia to set a target and to bowl England out. I'd therefore expect England to have to face Warne on a helpful pitch for the best part of 4 sessions.

[the leopard]

185-1 langer 105

I think we've lost this one now. Australia are 277-2 after a rain-interrupted day. Their batting was always going to click eventually, so I was sort of expecting it. All we can do now is pray for rain.

Regardless, win or draw we've done ourselves proud in this series, if only we hadn't lost that day in the third test, then we'd have been 3-1 up going into this match....

[blues_r_best]

I reckon it'll be a draw, depending on how quickly the Aussies catch up to our total, we should be able to bat out for a day.

[Museshrimper]

The last 8 fell for 90 this morning all out 367, fantastic performance from Flintoff and Hoggard. Shame Strauss fell just before we went off for bad light 5 mins ago.

I was watching that in the clubhouse after football this morning, I couldn't believe how the Aussies collapsed...

A draw seems likely unless the Aussies can skittle us quickly - hopefully we'll bat sensibly this innings!

Bad light has stopped play... again

Shame!

Come on England!!

[Pubey]

f%&king game on!!! tomoz will be a great day of cricket, and ive got to spend it in Southend Hosp. great!http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[CANV]

looks a grim in town today.. cant help feeling ponting should have declared before lunch yesterday when he saw the way the ball was swinging.. give mcgrath and lee a chance to help warne out a bit.. plus if they had got us out say by lunch today then they had the option to bat in the dark if needs be...
im all for a late start today , the crowd getting cidered in the pub then play commencing after lunch

[C C Csiders]

98 overs available today. All that is needed, I think/hope is for us to bat for 70 of them. C'mon England.

[canveyshrimper]

Bloody weather - 53-1.

The sooner we get to 200+ in front the better. Then finally we can celebrate The Ashes coming home.

Damn. What the hell are England trying to do? Two out in two balls, a mere 67-3. Much more of this and we'll be in trouble.

[C C Csiders]

We ARE in trouble. I knew that as soon as one wicket went down, it might as well be 2 as Bell wasn't going to hang around too long, but 1st ball. This is disaster. We must NOT lose another wicket prior to lunch. Sensible batting is needed from Pietersen.:(

[The General]

Bell is f%&king useless. Get him out.

Sensible? From Pietersen? Seeing as he was almost caught a couple of minutes ago, I'm not holding out much hope at the moment. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[Matt the Shrimp]

*sob*

Ian Bell, you muppet.

Warney is going bananas, thought he'd got Banger LBW. I am cacking myself here...

Matt

[The Flying Scotsman]

I've said it all summer. Why the **** is Bell playing when we could have had Thorpe in! If he isn't dropped after this series then its a shambles. You've got Robert Key (admittedly i'm not his greatest fan) who made some runs against proper sides who gets dropped, whereas Bell only gets his chance because he scored some runs against Bangladesh!!!

[The Flying Scotsman]

**** it - Bring back Butcher!

[Hong Kong Blue]

FS, Bell made 70 on debut v Windies, but I agree Thorpe should have played.

Every run England score is vital as its not only one less ball to survive but also one more run Australia have to get. If England are bowled out but have a lead of 150+, Australia will be under the type of pressure England are currently under.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Shaaaaaaane has just dropped KP off the bowling of Lee. First ball of the next over, KP carted Warne for six and broke his bat in the process!

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/oops.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

100/3, lead of 106.

[Hong Kong Blue]

Pietersen dropped by Warne.
England's lead now 100.

[Hong Kong Blue]

Doh! Not only do you beat me to posting, your computer is also updating quicker. Still 94/3 on my computer.

[Matt the Shrimp]

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

[Matt the Shrimp]

<span style='font-size:17pt;line-height:100%'>F*U*C*K&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;</span>

Banger has gone, lbw to Shaaaaane.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

109/4, lead of 115.

[Hong Kong Blue]

Cricinfo up and running again. Pietersen hit a second six that over.

Is taking on Warne a wise option? I&#39;m in two minds. I don&#39;t think you can block him out all day, but neither am I convinced that you should be trying to slog him out of the ground. Maybe be dropped made him think that he&#39;s not going to be out their long, so may as well score as many as he can whilst he&#39;s out there.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 12 2005,12:07)]Cricinfo up and running again. Pietersen hit a second six that over.

Is taking on Warne a wise option? I&#39;m in two minds. I don&#39;t think you can block him out all day, but neither am I convinced that you should be trying to slog him out of the ground. Maybe be dropped made him think that he&#39;s not going to be out their long, so may as well score as many as he can whilst he&#39;s out there.
It&#39;s a conundrum that has baffled better cricketing minds than mine. You cannot hit Shane out of the attack. All that you can say is that Shane may not get quite as much joy against the two right-handers (Freddy / KP) as he would against left-handers.

So long as we don&#39;t lose any more wickets before lunch, then we can take stock there.

I cannot concentrate today, this is mind-boggling...

Matt

[C C Csiders]

On the wicket of Trescothick I think there was a case of sending out Hoggard as a &quot;lunch-watchman&quot;, as any more big wickets here and we are in the &#036;hite. These two at the crease now, though, of course could take this totally out of the grasp of Australia if they stay together until an hour after lunch.

[The Flying Scotsman]

Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 12 2005,12:14)]I cannot concentrate today, this is mind-boggling...

Matt
Its amazing how many websites have ball by ball updates, and i&#39;m just flicking between the whole lot keeping myself involved&#33;&#33; Also taking a later and longer lunch than usual.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (C C Csiders @ Sep. 12 2005,12:17)]any more big wickets here and we are in the &#036;hite.
http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/oops.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/ghostface.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/suspect.gif

Ohhhh, f*ck.

[The Flying Scotsman]

b******s. Freddie gone. 126/5 just before lunch&#33;&#33;&#33; Thank god we;ve got Collingwood (maybe)

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (C C Csiders @ Sep. 12 2005,12:17)]I think there was a case of sending out Hoggard as a &quot;lunch-watchman&quot;
Oddly enough, that&#39;s what The Bearded Wonder has just suggested: Hoggard as &quot;lunch-watchman&quot;.

That&#39;s 37 wickets for Shane in this series - an Aussie record for a five-match series.

3 in the innings, 9 in the match...

Matt

[C C Csiders]

There is only 1 outcome here now I&#39;m afraid. Anything less than 200 and they will walk it whistling Waltzing feckin&#39; Matilda, and that is a long......long.....way off.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (The Flying Scotsman @ Sep. 12 2005,12:24)]Its amazing how many websites have ball by ball updates, and i&#39;m just flicking between the whole lot keeping myself involved&#33;&#33; Also taking a later and longer lunch than usual.
I&#39;m listening to TMS on the internet - it&#39;s great being in an office on my own...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[Hong Kong Blue]

Any recommendations for ball by ball up-dates?

Cricinfo has ground to a halt.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Times.co.uk?

[C C Csiders]

BBC website for once seems up-to-date, and the Guardian www.guardian.co.uk is always good.

Australia&#39;s painfully slow over rate has meant that only 26 overs have been bowled this morning, and therefore, there are still 72 to go. At this rate there will still be 45 or 46 to be bowled after tea. It is an absolute must that we are still batting at tea, by which time we should be 200 ahead. So much depends upon the two at the crease now, as I&#39;m not convinced that Geraint Jones will have the necessary mentality for the situation. Giles will need to weigh in with time at the crease/runs, and we can rely on Hoggy to hold them up for a while; and Harmison may get lucky with a few agricultural swipes.

All-in-all we cannot afford for them to bat any more than 30 overs. If we can somehow eek it out until then, a mad run-chase of 240 in 35 overs will be on, at around 7 an over. I think this may be our best-case scenario and such a run chase will be very achievable.

Alas, I can see us all out here for about 50-60 more leaving them needing 180ish to win. However, Australia are renowned for collapsing chasing small totals.

[canveyshrimper]

Hopefully their slow over rate will bite them in the bum, as the light may not be kind later on.

England must get over 200, remember the convicts are notoriously bad at chasing small totals. Remember also that Geraint Jones came in at 21/5 at Lords, so i think he has the right mental attributes for the job in hand.

Ideally England want to still be batting at Tea, if so then the draw will be on.

Come on England, just stop my bum from tweaking.

[Bucks_blue]

We&#39;ve got it on the radio and tv here.

Cricinfo.com is quite good. Ball by Ball updates. But is struggling with traffic a bit recently though&#33;

I&#39;m struggling to get any work done here. I&#39;m still trying to catch up from Thursday&#33;

[canveyshrimper]

Work has gone out the window here, everyone is glued to the radio.

Pietersen is giving Warne &amp; Lee something to think about 77 not out.

[Matt the Shrimp]

This is an extraordinary innings from KP...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

[Hong Kong Blue]

Pietersen isn&#39;t half living dangerously. That catch they claimed hit the ground then his foot, but he&#39;s been dropped twice. All in all its the enthralling type of counter attack that Gilchrist (remember him?) use to specialise in.

[Hong Kong Blue]

COllingwood shows why we are missing Simon Jones.

Simon Jones averages 33 with the bat this series, compared to the now departed Collingwood&#39;s 8.5 .....

[The Flying Scotsman]

Well I&#39;ve just explained to my boss that I must go to the pub again. All the time I was down there KP was whacking the ball around and PC was just blocking away. The minute I leave the pub PC gets out&#33;&#33; I&#39;ve tried explaining it&#39;s for the good of the game that I go but alas, back to the ball by ball updates&#33;&#33;

[W4 Shrimper]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 12 2005,12:33)]Any recommendations for ball by ball up-dates?

Cricinfo has ground to a halt.
Watching it on Channel 4 here in the office seems to be doing the trick

[Hong Kong Blue]

Bugger. Jones out. Tait strikes first over.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 12 2005,14:44)]Bugger. Jones out. Tait strikes first over.
That was Jones? I thought it was KP&#33;

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/oops.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/suspect.gif

*phew*

[The Flying Scotsman]

KP has to keep the strike&#33;&#33; We will be bowled out today, we have to make sure we have enough to defend&#33;&#33; I&#39;m now tempted to walk out and go to the pub&#33;

[Hong Kong Blue]

W4, what are the odds on a tie?

[canveyshrimper]

To state the bleedin&#39; obvious as the total grows and the overs diminish so does the convicts chances of retaining the ashes.

[W4 Shrimper]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 12 2005,14:52)]W4, what are the odds on a tie?
No-one seems to offer the price on a the tie (I&#39;ve been involved in many a discussion where I said we should, but to no avail).

Anyway, latest odds from Ladbrokes:

England.......9/1
Australia......6/1
Draw..........1/7

[Matt the Shrimp]

That&#39;s a ton from KP - a huge innings.

England 223 ahead. This is beginning to slide our way... come on&#33;&#33;&#33;

Matt

[Hong Kong Blue]

So in the case of a tie do the bookies clean up?

Australia now have to chase in excess of 200 in less than 50 overs. A couple of early wickets for England to put the Aussies under pressure and we&#39;ll have a great chance of 3-1.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (W4 Shrimper @ Sep. 12 2005,15:03)]Anyway, latest odds from Ladbrokes:

England.......9/1
Australia......6/1
Draw..........1/7
Looks like my mate &amp; I may have swelled your coffers today...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/upside.gif *http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

(If others are wondering, a mate &amp; I each put £30 on Oz with Ladbrokes at 9/4 at lunch for the win... don&#39;t mind paying that out if it&#39;s had the effect of jinxing the Aussies)

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[C C Csiders]

Still 47 overs to go, I think. They will lose 2 for change in innings. 227 on, so lets just hope we can hang around for another 20 overs, and that should be that. This is monumental from Pietersen, and he will get excellent support from Giles. I don&#39;t think we should underplay the innings from Collingwood either, probably the best 10 ever in English Test cricket at a time of crisis.

[Hong Kong Blue]

I think we have enough runs. I&#39;m now looking for KP and the King to start to play some shots after tea in order to set up the declaration.

[Rusty Lee]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 12 2005,15:22)]I think we have enough runs. I&#39;m now looking for KP and the King to start to play some shots after tea in order to set up the declaration.
http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

[W4 Shrimper]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 12 2005,15:10)]So in the case of a tie do the bookies clean up?
Our rules are that we void all bets - we have to really as we don&#39;t quote the price for a tie and as the bookmaking saying goes &#39;If you can&#39;t win, you can&#39;t lose&#39;.

[canveyshrimper]

The lead is now 240. Hoggard &amp; Harmison will also give support, i don&#39;t think England will declare. They will bat as long as possible to bat the convicts out of contention.

[Hong Kong Blue]

Australia would now have to score at over a run a ball in order to win.

To be honest, I think if this was played to a finish England would win. England have been the better team pretty much the entire series and with the pressure was all on Oz, I&#39;d back Freddy to skittle out them for under 250.

[canveyshrimper]

Under 40 overs remaining. Agree that since Lords, England have dominated Australia in every department (apart from Warne), and fully deserve to regain the ashes.

I can&#39;t wait to hear all the whining and squealing and the blood letting there will be from the convicts camp.

[Hong Kong Blue]

Quote[/b] (canveyshrimper @ Sep. 12 2005,16:12)]Under 40 overs remaining. Agree that since Lords, England have dominated Australia in every department (apart from Warne), and fully deserve to regain the ashes.

I can&#39;t wait to hear all the whining and squealing and the blood letting there will be from the convicts camp.
Exactly, the entertainment hasn&#39;t been the cricket. The cricket has been as tortuous as it has been captivating. The real enjoyment is going to be seeing the Aussies implode at the end of the series.

Even at Lords England appeared to be on top after the first innings, it was only an inspired spell of bowling by McGrath which allowed them to win that one.

[canveyshrimper]

Spot on, it will be interesting to see what their test side will be this winter.

Although Ponting will remain as a player he probably will lose the captaincy plus Martyn &amp; Katich will go. Hayden may have saved himself at The Oval. Gillespie &amp; Kasprowicz are on the way out.

It really depends on how long Warne &amp; McGrath want to carry on for.

Having said that what an amazing competitor &amp; cricketer Shane Warne is. I will never see his like again as long as i live.

[Matt the Shrimp]

Incidentally, if any SZ regulars are in the area, I&#39;ll be on my way to the Feathers Pub in St. James&#39;s Park in the next half an hour to celebrate England&#39;s Ashes Series win.

<span style='font-size:17pt;line-height:100%'>F*CKING COME ON&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;</span>

[C C Csiders]

Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 12 2005,16:22)]Incidentally, if any SZ regulars are in the area, I&#39;ll be on my way to the Feathers Pub in St. James&#39;s Park in the next half an hour to celebrate England&#39;s Ashes Series win.

<span style='font-size:17pt;line-height:100%'>F*CKING COME ON&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;</span>
Enjoy http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[The Flying Scotsman]

Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 12 2005,16:22)]Incidentally, if any SZ regulars are in the area, I&#39;ll be on my way to the Feathers Pub in St. James&#39;s Park in the next half an hour to celebrate England&#39;s Ashes Series win.

<span style='font-size:17pt;line-height:100%'>F*CKING COME ON&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;</span>
Surely a warning for foul and abusive language. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[Matt the Shrimp]

Quote[/b] (The Flying Scotsman @ Sep. 12 2005,16:37)]
Quote[/b] (Matt the Shrimp @ Sep. 12 2005,16:22)]Incidentally, if any SZ regulars are in the area, I&#39;ll be on my way to the Feathers Pub in St. James&#39;s Park in the next half an hour to celebrate England&#39;s Ashes Series win.

<span style='font-size:17pt;line-height:100%'>F*CKING COME ON&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;</span>
Surely a warning for foul and abusive language. *http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
I warn myself regularly against that...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif *http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

Right... have discussed my continuing presence or otherwise in the office this afternoon with my colleagues, so I&#39;m now off...

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Hong Kong Blue]

Giles needs another 12 runs (plus a not out) to average more than Martyn this series and another 29 to average more than Gilchrist&#33; But for Hayden&#39;s first innings knock that would also have taken him past Hayden.

England&#39;s lead now over 300.

[canveyshrimper]

The Ashes are back home at last.

Well done England, what a fantastic performance in light of the drubbing at Lords.

[Hong Kong Blue]

Pietersen out.

England should declare and see if we can take 10 Aussie wickets in 26 overs (or are they into the final 15?).

[Hong Kong Blue]

Great performance by KP.

We should give him British nationality on the back of it.

ps Shane: what&#39;s it like to drop the Ashes&#33;

[canveyshrimper]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 12 2005,17:09)]Great performance by KP.

We should give him British nationality on the back of it.

ps Shane: what&#39;s it like to drop the Ashes&#33;
Think he already has it.

They want to make sure that Duncan Fletcher gets a British passport quick smart.

KP &amp; the King of Spain added over 100 for the 8th wicket - 316 the lead now.

[blues_r_best]

335 all out with Warne getting the last two wickets.

[Smiffy]

11 more overs for england to bowl before the celebrations can begin.

Well done boys, great effort and fully deserved over the five tests.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[blues_r_best]

Aussie batters take the bad light and that&#39;ll probably be it.

[Smiffy]

That is indeed it.

Stumps have been called and England regain The Ashes...

Woooooooooooooo.

Easy, easy, easy, easy&#33;&#33;.

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[Beefy]

http://www.anbg.gov.au/images/flags/st-georges-cross.gif

What a fantastic day. I was rooted to the edge of my seat all day, and for the most part was so absorbed I couldn&#39;t even post here&#33;

Well done to all the lads, and what a knock by Pietersen. And there was me saying I didn&#39;t have much hope for his innings&#33;

I&#39;m so proud http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[Bob Cratchitt]

So my question is what do the English born Aussie Shrimpers think about this win.

Have they rediscovered that they are actually English or are they still pretending to be Australian? http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

[canveyshrimper]

Quote[/b] (Bob Cratchitt @ Sep. 12 2005,23:51)]So my question is what do the English born Aussie Shrimpers think about this win.

Have they rediscovered that they are actually English or are they still pretending to be Australian? http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif
I have a load of relatives dotted around Oz, and although they have been there for over 30 years none have given up their British Passports, and they are all overjoyed about The Ashes coming home.

They are almost as happy about Southend&#39;s start to the season.

[C C Csiders]

The Aussies are already on the plane home. I guess their media will tear into them, and indeed many of their leading players, particularly Martyn and Gilchrist, under-performed against their own very high standards. I hope though that their media gives us the credit we deserve. I cannot wait for the 2006/7 Ashes tour to commence, and may just have to find a way out there for a Test or two.

Anyway, I&#39;ll end my contribution to this thread by saying:

&quot;Ned Kelly, Don Bradman, Natalie Imbruglia, Bouncer, Rolf Harris, the Aborigine bloke in the film Walkabout, Harry Kewell, Greg Norman, Jason Donovan, Skippy, Steve Irwin, George Lazenby, Kitty Sullivan, Emu. Emu can you hear me? Your guys took one helluva beating&quot;

[canveyshrimper]

Quote[/b] (C C Csiders @ Sep. 13 2005,15:35)]The Aussies are already on the plane home. I guess their media will tear into them, and indeed many of their leading players, particularly Martyn and Gilchrist, under-performed against their own very high standards. I hope though that their media gives us the credit we deserve. I cannot wait for the 2006/7 Ashes tour to commence, and may just have to find a way out there for a Test or two.

Anyway, I&#39;ll end my contribution to this thread by saying:

&quot;Ned Kelly, Don Bradman, Natalie Imbruglia, Bouncer, Rolf Harris, the Aborigine bloke in the film Walkabout, Harry Kewell, Greg Norman, Jason Donovan, Skippy, Steve Irwin, George Lazenby, Kitty Sullivan, Emu. Emu can you hear me? Your guys took one helluva beating&quot;
Planning a trip for Dec 2006/Jan 2007. Although it will mean that some Blues games will be missed.

Subject to the itinerary hoping to take in Melbourne Test on Boxing Day and Adelaide Test on Australia Day (mid Jan I think).

Probably with an Aussie team with less familiar names.

[BoyWonder2]

What a superb series and what a performance from every single England player. Every single one of them contributed to the win. I&#39;ve been glued to the TV throughout and its times like this that make me glad I&#39;m unemployeed.

When out last night to celebrate the win and I was extremely hungover this morning. Only disappointment was being done for speeding coming back from the reserve match this afternoon.

Anybody go to the parade today? Looked fantastic on the BBC and wish I&#39;d gone to that.

[BlueJ]

I wish I&#39;d gone to the parade today too&#33; Amazing series and some amazing individual performances&#33; Lets home the Ashes stays with England for many years to come&#33;

[* ORM *]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 12 2005,14:33)]COllingwood shows why we are missing Simon Jones.

Simon Jones averages 33 with the bat this series, compared to the now departed Collingwood&#39;s 8.5 .....
Yea, that 70 minutes at the crease was awful. Why couldn&#39;t he have got out quickly like his predecessors ? http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

[Hong Kong Blue]

Quote[/b] (Tilly&#39;s Prodical Son @ Sep. 13 2005,18:43)]I wish I&#39;d gone to the parade today too&#33; Amazing series and some amazing individual performances&#33; Lets home the Ashes stays with England for many years to come&#33;
I went to TRafalagar Sq at lunch time, couldn&#39;t see too much as it was packed, although it was good with everyone singing Jerusalem and the National Anthem (although I was the only one singing long to reign over YOU and pointing towards the Australian consulate).

Canveyshrimper - you&#39;ll really enjoy the tests out in Oz. You should be able to get to Sydney as well (should be Jan 2-6).

[Bob Cratchitt]

Canveyshrimper, exactly if i moved to another country no matter how long I would still be english, but I have been surprised by some of the posters on here who now live in Oz declare their allegiance to Oz National sport teams.

Anyway I thought I would share with you all a picture of a colleague of mine who was at the Oval and seems to have been picked up by the media. He detests the Australians for basing a culture on BBQ.

http://eur.news1.yimg.com/eur.yimg.com/ng/sp/afpji/20050912/050912190315.89xeeg7j0b.jpg

I&#39;m a bit surprised by this allegiance change as well. My Oz relatives still consider themselves English.

At this point I would alos like to say goodbye to a test legend: through the years I&#39;ve watched Shane Warne send balls spinning through our stumps, he&#39;s the greatest bowler I&#39;ve ever seen play. He&#39;s a character and seems quite a nice chap too, despite the misery he&#39;s caused us over the past decade or so I always enjoy watching him bowl.

Goodbye and good luck Shane, the ashes tests won&#39;t be the same without you. http://www.shrimperzone.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

[canveyshrimper]

Quote[/b] (Hong Kong Blue @ Sep. 13 2005,21:53)]
Quote[/b] (Tilly&#39;s Prodical Son @ Sep. 13 2005,18:43)]I wish I&#39;d gone to the parade today too&#33; Amazing series and some amazing individual performances&#33; Lets home the Ashes stays with England for many years to come&#33;
I went to TRafalagar Sq at lunch time, couldn&#39;t see too much as it was packed, although it was good with everyone singing Jerusalem and the National Anthem (although I was the only one singing long to reign over YOU and pointing towards the Australian consulate).

Canveyshrimper - you&#39;ll really enjoy the tests out in Oz. You should be able to get to Sydney as well (should be Jan 2-6).
Thanks Hong Kong Blue. I actually managed to take in Sydney and Adelaide when I was down under in 1995.

Unfortunately I have a family wedding to attend in Melbourne which coincides with the proposed Sydney test dates, unless i can persuade them to put it back a week (the wedding not the test).

The allegiance thing for my family in Oz is beginning to wane, since my cousins have all now got growing families, the kids growing up are Aussies through &amp; through. However they are all Blues supporters.