debut: 2/16/24
635 runs
In reply to WIfan26
Those days are sadly long since gone. If you are not a member of the money grabbing cricket elite club, i.e. India, Australia or England, scraps are all that is generally left. I was actually pleasantly surprised to see that this series featured three tests, not the usual two matches. The problem is, with the ridiculous amount of white ball whack-about being played around the globe, it leaves little or no time for warm-ups, preparation etc.
I know some of the commies will say that the best players adapt, to an extent, I agree...but it just is not the same anymore. At Lords, the tourists were thoroughly underprepared and it showed. With Langer & Sammy keeping Shamar on the bench, West Indies also went into the series without not only their leading wicket taker due to injury but also, an unfit strike bowler who has raised expectations and brought excitement back to the cricket for many of us.
Anyway, back to the match...fingers crossed the guys can maintain the early pressure from last night. The first hour today will be crucial and could hold a big say in how the match pans out.