Still Too Early To Tell
The opening test match between England and Australia has started evenly after both teams had surges of attack on the opposition. Australia was developing some rhythm after losing the toss and coming in to bowl against a determined English team.
Opening batsman Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss got the runs moving with a 21 run partnership before Cook was given out. There was not much movement until Kevin Pietersen and Paul Collingwood produced a very healthy 138 run partnership to help England to an end of day score of 336. Pieterson top scored with 69 runs and was able to negotiate the inexperienced bowling of Australia, even with an achilles injury. His undoing came as Nathan Hauritz delivered a tricky spin bowl way outside off stump that caught an edge after his rather undisciplined obvious attempt of a sweep shot.
Of the Australian bowlers, it was Ben Hilfenhaus and Peter Siddle who were causing the most damage to the English batters. Ravi Bopara was hit on the grill from Peter Siddle, whilst Ben Hilfenhaus continues to deliver an excellent line and length and has got the ball to swing throughout the day.
Although just the first day, there are not clear signals to what is to unfold with this test series. Ricky Ponting¡¯s bowling crew seem to be struggling with consistency and no balls are creeping above the comfort level. With no Shane Warne or Glen McGrath, Ponting will have to continue to play his cards carefully against the pride of the English. England on the other hand still seem to be batting under their potential and yet to register over 100. The batters start well but soon lose their momentum with a silly error or loss in concentration.
The weather forecast is positive for Cardiff so look for a few more great days of cricket between the two nations.
