Yep, shaping up similar to the Sydney test where the Indians put in a spurt,saw that it didn't leave them in a dominant position and then started waiting for Aus to stuff up, which we didn't. this test will be different though as the pitch is an absolute road and I don't rule out a draw.
I for one am happy with Ponting's return to form, but I still worry that having him and Hussey in the same team is a luxury we can't afford (let alone Haddin as well). Problem is few of the younger players are performing well through either not performing or not being given opportunities. We kind of knew this would unfold given the BBL meant all shield cricket was put on hold. Still its remarkably how the complextion of the Aus team has changed from the team that played last summer.
I completely agree. It is clear his best is behind him and the truth is that for a few years now, he has struggled to retain his spot only to pull a rabbit out of the hat. Lets not forget the fact that despite the 150 n.o in Sydney the score was 3/350 when he came in! In england in 09 he was terrible. Even Punters record in England is no where near as good as his career average. Intersting that Haddins average in England is higher than his career average...........will it be enough to save him?
Another of my concerns is that the bowlers are relatively inexperienced in English conditions. Siddle averages 30.80 and Hilfy 26.46 in England but none of the other bowlers have played Test cricket in England. Would be good if Cricket Australia sent them off to county cricket instead of IPL to gain some experience.
Here's some stats I got of cric info
Batsman Career Average Av v England In England Last time in England Age at next series
Ponting 53.44 44.21 41.79 48.13 39
Hussey 50.82 59.27 31.36 34.5 38
Clarke 49.65 45.5 46.1 64 32
Haddin 35.82 45.57 46.33 46.33 36
Bowler Career Average Av v England In England Last time in England Age at next series
Siddle 29.03 32.35 30.8 30.8 29
Hilfy 28.91 35.13 26.46 27.45 30
Harris 22.6 25.54 n/a n/a 34