The Ashes

[Michael Rolls]

The old story continues 128-5, the last pair of batsmen at the crease, only the tail to come

[Michael Rolls]

Correction - 128-6 - Butler gone for 3

[Michael Rolls]

Here we go again - all out for 185 in two and a half sessions

[Michael Rolls]

Having gained the impression that England almost always fold in the first innings of an away Test, I was surprised when I checked. Starting today and going back, the most recent ten away tests show first innings scores of
185, 236 (but chasing 473), 147, 205, 112, 134, 578,344, 421, 400.
So four scores of under 200 (and one only just over) - I expected more
Mike

[Michael Rolls]

Just watched, in sad disbelief, Root's dismissal as he wafted his bat at a ball a good two feet outside his off stump.   5-0 is looking more and likely with each session, never mind each match
Mike

[Michael Rolls]

All too familiar. Having done pretty well to bowl Australia out for 267 (still a lead of 82, though) England 31-4 at close of play, and this was only day two. Can't see the match going into the fourth day, never mind the fifth
Mike

[klondike]

31-4 sounds more like a rugby score than a cricket score 

[Michael Rolls]

True!
Mike

[klondike]

I'm pretty sure you can't get 4 in Rubgy though now I think about it.

[Michael Rolls]

I'm pretty sure you can't get 4 in Rubgy though now I think about it.

You are right - many years ago a dropped goal scored four points (and at the time a try was only three). 1, 2 and 4 cannot be scored, but just about any other number can be
Mike

[klondike]

Thinking about whether 31 is possible might take your mind off the cricket 

[Michael Rolls]

It is. Four converted tries and a drop goal or penalty. There are other combinations, but that is the neatest.
Mike

[Michael Rolls]

If ye have tears..........
shot out for 68 to lose by an innings and 14 before lunch on the third day
Debutant Boland took 6 for 7 in just four overs - a wicket every fourth delivery
Can't see even a glimmer of hope - only Root and Stokes reached double figures - 28 and 11 respectfully
Ashes already gone
Mike 

[klondike]

Is that bad? 

[Michael Rolls]

Oh yes - didn't you notice the world stop turning?
Mike