Last evening, the Ashes were on the TV (muted) while playing the Dixit board game with some friends -- that is a really fun game BTW -- and I got to see some of Khawaja's batting. Overall I was pretty impressed. He started off like a ball of fire, but then slowed down as the English bowlers returned to basics. He was unfortunately to get out on what turned out to be the last ball of the day, but he had become becalmed somewhat.
Impressions -- seems quite aggressive, but generally sound except he is a touch loose outside offstump. Very compact looking batsman -- mostly good technique, except for pushing at the ball as it goes away from him, but he does so with soft hands. That augers well for him, and he will get better. One thought -- is this the opportunity to sending Ponting in at #4 or even #5?
Will someone, also explain, what the heck Smith is doing in the team? The kind can't really bat or bowl at the Test level; at least not yet. He doesn't seem to be the towering talent that one would persist with. I would prefer North. He may well be the one dropped when Ponting returns.
Beer should bowl sometime tomorrow. One of the best cricket names in recent times, so just for that I'd like him to stay for a while.
On another note, Collingwood is mighty lucky to get this game. Morgan should have played this final Test, at least with the Ashes decided. He will be on a very short leash, but the last time his career was on the rack he responded with a fabulous ton against the Proteas, and seemingly reeled off 4 tons on the trot. My money is on him to come through.
Bharat
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