Thoughts on the 4th test
Most of all this was a victory for the fans who surely would not have anticipated that 2,0f the four tests would have ended in 2 days. There was a debate about 5 day tests but now you would be pleased to see a third day.
The only valid criticism is that the team went in undercooked and should have had more time to adapt and to acclimatise. Those who criticise Ben Stokes and his methods do not supply any solutions I worry that if appointed Harry Brook would be broken by it.. As skipper you not only have to mastermind tactics and performance on the pitch but the nations’ hopes off it . Add to that social media the ever present camera and ex professional wiseacres who of course committed no excesses on tour and it’s a job that few can do.
Although much was made before the series of the quartet of Aussie bowlers – Pat Cummins, Hazelwood, Starc ,Lyon- none of these were integral for every Test and it was in the batting line up that England were deficient Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett and Harry Brook did not have memorable performances and although Joe Root achieved his first century Down Under he never looked the second best batter in the world. Although the first two pitches at Perth and Brisbane were hard and bouncy it did turn at Adelaide and we lacked a/spinner to exploit this
Has the whole dynamic of test cricket changed with 2 two day tests? Certainly the Australian Board of Xontril would not be happy about refunds instead of sell outs and what about the cost to fans? With Jacob Bethell not having a first class century one hopes he can have more red ball experience with Warwickshire rarher than the franchises but if there is yet another pointless reviews no doubt it will be the county structure that is singled out.
The radio and tc coverage was lamentable. At TMS diversity rules , It’s laudable rhat the Warne Foundation has set up medical testing for all but are Alex Hartley’s results of any interest to anyone other than herself ? Jonathan Agnew is approaching retirement and increasingly grouchy regarding the commentary box conditions or Ben Stokes tactice and it’s only ‘Salz’ that provides the light touch that was once the hallmark of TMS. On tv TNT are obsessed with ex players- as analysts. Graeme Swann thinks of himself as a comedian but when in doubt talks about himself I try to shut out the adverts and commentary and just follow the live action