ASHES 2009

Hello,

The Australian cricket team have the stuff that justifies their status as true champions of the game. Just when the obituaries are ready to be published they rise pheonix like and grab world attention with another ruthless display of excellent cricket.

England may well say that they missed the services of Andrew Flintoff and it may actually be true in the final analysis as he did show some heart when playing in the previous tests.

The magic with Australia is that even if they are missing players/ players are out of form you have someone who will raise their hand and get counted.

They said Michael Johnson is struggling and see what he has done.

They said that the test spot of Peter Siddle was doubtful and just look at the way he silenced the critics.

They said that they need an opening pair and Shane Watson puts up his hand.

Besides, what a series Marcus North is having.

He deservedly won the man of the match, but if I had adjudicated I would have given it to Peter Siddle who broke the heart and spirit of the Englishmen on the first day and made it easier for the Australian Batsmen.

So now the series is level at 1-1 and Australia who won by an innings and 80 runs. As they say the momentum is now with Australia as they move into the final test at Oval.

Let us hope for the return of Andrew Flintoff who has already declared his retirement from test cricket. England will hope that his return into the side will make it a more even contest.

Best wishes,

Manoj