Why the questions about the declaration - even from pros and pundits - I said at the start of the day we needed 300 ish leaving 50 overs - 6 an over on the 5th day is a tough ask - but 50 overs after Cardiff is a long time to survive under pressure.
Strauss has done even better - 343 needed 58 is overs - longer to bowl at them
I have heard the arguments that we should give them something to go at - but history is littered with great comebacks - i know that this is not the West Indies of 30 years ago - but we all know - sport can throw all sorts up - the bottom line is that Strauss has made a perfect declaration - if we get 9 wickets and still draw - well we did what we could and hats off to the Sri Lankans
Lets not forget - we were 22-3 and they were 350 odd - 2.
This is my first article on here - lets hope more members join us soon
Obvious - why the dispute?
posted on 7/6/11
Considering SL have often surpassed 300 in ODI games Strauss had little choice but to make an immposible target. Add to that the poor bowling from our three pacemen and the fact that the story that Dilshan couldn't bat might be untrue, he did the right thing.
One thing is certain, going with 3 tall bowlers was a flop. Not only did they bowl continually too short, they offered no variety.
posted on 7/6/11
Very true hopefor - the bowling on days 2 and 3 was total dross - the point about SLs ODI totals is correct - a target of 6 per over was a must!
Michael Holding (as much as I love the bloke) always says the same about declarations by the way!
posted on 7/6/11
was that pitch a flat pitch? Scores of 486, 479, 335/7 and 127/3 suggest so.
posted on 8/6/11
Micheal Holding was on about the time the west indies declared early when 3 - 0 up un a 5 match series, surely he can see the difference in the 2 situations!
By the way Holding is a legend. I feel he shouldnt have to share a commentary box with the likes of Nick Knight and Ian Ward. Although it appears Knight is skys slip catching expert.
posted on 8/6/11
Yes Holding is a legend
Knight is only Skys Slips expert when Sir Beef isnt around - I dont think Beefy was too impressed with Nick Knights opinion and said he would do it different on a piece I saw the other day!
posted on 8/6/11
I saw botham just dismissed his opinions maybe reserve slipping expert then - maybe he could become the official sky team kit man cleaning shoes and ironing suits for the other commentators
posted on 8/6/11
House experts on Mullets??
posted on 8/6/11
I miss Bob Willis, great dry wit and spot on analysis.
posted on 8/6/11
I agree with the declaration but not Cook's batting in ths first session. I know he would have been told to play anchor but we only lost one wicket and he only scored 26 runs.
posted on 8/6/11
i find it very difficult and probably unfiar to criticise cook in any way at the moment. however, his batting in the last few overs was of quite a bit of concern to me considering he is the new 50 over skipper. he couldnt get it off the square once he tried to force the run rate. to be honest, im pretty sure he was relieved when he given out as he clearly was becoming totally exposed as a player in conditions similar to limited overs cricket.
test matches though. he's the man.