Yeah....an Ashes hero that was well and truly sh!t on by his countries governing body :nope:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/5357488.stm

So much so he emigrated to Godzown.:D

Looking like the Aussie batsmen are liking this tame pitch so far. 249 for the loss of only one after the poms were bowled out for 435. I'd say this one is headed for a draw unless one side makes a breakthrough in the next days play.

Fully agree, the pitch may yet turn though. I saw a few areas of assistance to the spinners (which is probably why each side chose two).

What the series so clearly needs is one or two performances from the small number of world class players available for selection.....otherwise I fear we are in for an uneventful period ahead.

That is unless the Welsh weather doesn't turn against us. Looks like rain is forecast. What a surprise on the British Isles.:D

Forecast is for rain....which would probably be welcomed by England.

With Australia declaring 239 runs ahead in the first innings I'd not be surpised they want it to pour for the next two days.

At 17 - 2 it looks like the only chance they've got now. :doh:

Rain closed play at 20-2. Hope it clears up enough for us to get a result. Amazing effort by North and Haddin. Last night was the first time an Australian Ashes side had 4 centurions in an innings since 1938!:salute:

Fair play....considering how poorly the pre ashes tour went I'm of the firm belief that England are struggling to come to terms with the reality of the importance of an Ashes series.

Quite simply.....they just aint good enough.

A draw....lucky lucky lucky lucky England :o

A disappointing end for Australia. I think they were unlucky but well played to the last two English batsmen for hanging on.

I hope the 2nd test has a more definite outcome.

I watched it live....nailbiting stuff. :o

I then watched the highlights in the evening.....still nailbiting stuff :DL

It's just a pity Ponting is bad mouthing England over alleged time wasting.

Whether that was the case or otherwise is a matter of individual opinion.

Would Australia have acted differently had the positions been reversed?

Probably not. TBH I think the captains will always have a crack about anything they think they can get the umpires or match referee's to take a look at next time around.

The time honoured tactic of psyching your opponent out.

You jest with me? :o

I haven't the patience for test match cricket, don't mind the 1 day games though.