Panesar revives England's fortunes
Monty Panesar provided the inspiration his many followers knew he could with a five-wicket haul on his Ashes debut in Perth.
Losing Alastair Cook and Ian Bell cheaply slightly took the gloss off the day for England in their quest to battle back from 2-0 down in the series but they are in a useful position 193 behind at 51-2 after the first day at the Waca.
PLAYER OF THE DAY
Panesar, the people's choice, finished the day with the best figures by an English spinner at the Waca.
He will bowl better and get fewer wickets, but he brought a wonderfully fresh spirit and enthusiasm to the team.
When Justin Langer lost his off stump before lunch, Ashley Giles would have looked on and wondered how many gun-barrel straight deliveries he has bowled over the years at left handers.
But there are bowlers who have a knack of making things happen - and Monty is certainly one.
Credit must also go to Steve Harmison who bowled better than for a very long time.
Buoyed by the early wicket of Ricky Ponting, this was much more like the man who was once at the top of the world rankings.
Shame he did not get more overs into his body before the first Test of the series.
KEY MOMENT
When Andrew Symonds launched a furious attack on Panesar and hit him for 17 in one over, there was clearly the feeling that Andrew Flintoff should take his spinner out of the attack.
But Flintoff, who had an excellent day in the field, held his nerve and, in Panesar's next over, Symonds flailed at a short, wide ball was caught at the second attempt by Geraint Jones.
Adam Gilchrist followed immediately, thanks to a brilliant chasing and diving catch by Ian Bell at short-leg, and a bold decision by the captain paid off.
TALKING POINT
What's a good score? Certainly, 244 was well below par, but this doesn't look like a pitch on which a team would usually rattle up 550.
The bounce is a little uneven, and while this is not a typical Waca strip of old, the occasional ball - like the one Bell received - really flew through.
Panesar found some early spin which suggests the slow bowlers could really come into their own later in the game.
PROSPECTS FOR DAY TWO
England have created a real opportunity for themselves.
The final hour of the first day was played under intense pressure and in front of a baying crowd as Australia's fast bowlers gave it their all.
The sting will be drawn to a certain extent when play resumes, and Andrew Strauss and Paul Collingwood must settle in for the long haul.
Any lead is a good starting point, but with so much time available and with the occasional ball spinning, England really should be aiming to establish a lead of at least 150 which would give them a chance of dismissing Australia a second time and winning the game.
well said Aggers.
The crucial thing will be whether the remaining English batsmen can blunt the Australia attack and take a useful lead, because batting last here will not be easy. Anything over 150 will cause jitters.
Flintoff and Jones must perform with the bat if this is to happen. Fingers crossed.
Monty - what a man!
Complain about this postAs you say Aggers, Monty can bowl better. And Gilo must surely have been looking on in something like disbelief. But the fact is that the Aussie batsmen play Gilo with something approaching contempt.
In contrast, they play Monty with respect. But he's also a bit of an unknown quantity to them (despite all the hype). And, boy does he make things happen. His enthusiasm is infectious and his attitude after being pelted for 17 by Symonds sums up why he will always take wickets: he has utter belief in his ability.
Complain about this postWho is this new guy Harmison England have brought in? He looks pretty useful :)
How often have England taken 10 wickets with Flintoff bowling and taking 0? Not often I'd think.
Complain about this postEngland must change its attitude. Flintoff may be good player but not a good captain. What on earth is Ashley Giles doing in Australia monty Panesar is what England needed fro the beginning! Is it croniesm that he was not picked! Too late to win the Ashes now England...
Complain about this postMonty Panesar has shown what the England attack has lacked in the first two matches.
It is time Duncan Fletcher (and Freddie) admitted they were wrong to leave him out of the first two tests.
As for tomorrow, the England batsmen need to bat with patience, grit and some common sense. They need to ensure they don't give away their wickets cheaply.
I am looking forward to a good contest for the rest of the match.
Complain about this postIf only Panesar had been selected for the first 2 Tests? Whoever chose Giles over Monty whether it be Flintoff or Fletcher should be sacked. Had Monty played in Adelaide I don't think Australia would have scored over 500 in their first innings and England would have drawn the game so now we'd only have been 1-0 down in the series and still in with a shout. It's so infuriating to think what might have been.
Complain about this postwe really need colly to stay in and get a few before we start thinking about the lead panesar was the talsiman today and we need KP for the batting to do the same i feel
Complain about this postThe utter folly of not picking Monty for the first two tests was revealed with his performance in the Australian first innings this morning. England supporters have every right to be angry and rue what might have been had the selectors taken their task seriously from the outset of this series. Blinding incompetence is perhaps more likely the reason Panesar was so shabbily treated. They exhibited poor cricket judgement in failing to believe the evidence of the quality Monty had shown in his first 10 test matches.
Complain about this postI think a lead of 150 for England is asking a bit too much on this wicket.I reckon if we bat well we'll have a small lead and will end up probably chasing 150-200 to win the game.Its up to our batsmen to win us a game now.Over the last year we've thrown away Test matches in Pakistan,India and at Adelaide because of poor batting in the second innings.We've got to do it this time or we'll lose.This is a result wicket!!!
Complain about this postAnd not a hint of a mea culpa...
Complain about this postStill favouring Giles now Aggers? Panesar was in form and had played all summer - dropping him for the first two threats was ridiculous, no matter if Giles did get the odd 20 with the bat. With Monty in the side I certainly get the feeling we wouldn't have allowed the Ozzies to rack up over 500 runs in Adelaide.
Mahmood also seems to have bowled with more pace and threat than Anderson, and with less runs given away too. I wish Read had been brought in as well, though: I have the feeling that Jones is due an error with the gloves. I gave up on Jones' batting a while ago.
If England don't go on from here I truly will despair.
Complain about this postI think AG should return back to UK and save money. Monty is still little upset that his Captain thinks AG should be playing, but he had a good day !!!!!!
Complain about this postThe collective relief and delight is almost palpable here. Well done England and I am so pleased for Monty and Harmy in particular. England must really extend themselves to take the series and they can do it as long as they continue to believe and play to their strengths. a ps for DF - I hope the convoluted and indefensible nonsense about the number 8 spot is dead and buried.
Complain about this postYes Aggers a great day for monty and harmy. I'm glad to see that you and some of your supporters are now slowly acknowledging we were right in calling for Monty's inclusion all along. You've got to play your best spinner, and Monty is ours, by a long way...It's a shame some that Fletcher and your good self didn't notice that earlier...Anyone for humble pie?...
Complain about this postSome very good points made above, Many of Monty's wickets were straight shooters [at 90+klm's] but still a terrific effort by he and [at last I have my mojo back] Harmison. 244 not much but England must bat for a few days, knock up a decent score then try to bowl Oz out again to win this test. Tomorrow a key day, Aussies will come out determined to keep poms to realistic score, never forget the match last 5 days and ozzies will fight every inch of it. RIP Giles, enjoy your retirement....
Complain about this postJustin Langer played for the spin - would never have made the same mistake against Giles...
Complain about this postMONTEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Complain about this postAll dispassionate comment aside, c'mon England supporters, it's time to party big-time.
Let our comments on the Ashes now resonate with the eccentric fevers of our British soul.
Monteeeeeeeeee justifies the last 40 years of british immigration policy.
We LOVE him, and rightly we should.
We embraced the world, we took over colonies, and then we let them come into our universe.
His magic, his joy, his unpredictability, seemingly effortless - whatever else happens in the Ashes, we had our day of joy.
And Harmison, despite his struggles, let us never forget this is the man who set the tone of last year's Ashes victory with his 5-48. God bless Hoggard, god bless Harmy, god bless Simon Jones, god bless our fighting spirit. We can win and lose with far more dignity than those Aussies would ever display.
- from a handsome charming Englishman, 41-years-old, who's lived in Oz for 30 years, but who's never lost his instinct for quality over crassness. Hehe.
Hate to say it Aggers but I will anyway, I told you so!
We fans who called for Monty weren't stupid. You could see for yourself today that England look a different team with him in it. Things happen when Monty's on the field. The 5 wickets were a bonus but we all wanted him in the team because he's an attacking player and against the Aussies, you must attack. If your stock standard ball isn't a stright one (hello King of Spain...) the straight ball becomes a weapon.
The Aussies have been vulnerable for years against quality, attacking spinners. The thing that still gets to me is if people like me, a cricket lover albeit now an armchair one could see Monty doing this a mile off, why couldn't our captain, coach or whoever picks the team see it?
Complain about this postIf England score 350 on this I'll be amazed / really pleased! Batting 4th on a track already taking a bit of spin will be no picnic, and facing Warney in those circumstance will be trying to say the least. We'll need 450 to make the game safe, 350 to say 'we're on top' ... anything around the 250-300 mark, and we're in a whole world of trouble!
Complain about this postPrepared to eat humble pie Aggers?!
Complain about this postI have to agree with you Aggers, that with spin looking likely to play a big part later in the match we need a minimum lead of 100, preferably 150, otherwise I fear a certain SK Warne will cause some nervy moments a la Trent Bridge and Adelaide.
I think to this end the morning session tomorrow is key - England lose no or just 1 wicket and it should be possible but a couple of early wickets and the Aussies will truly have their tails up.
Complain about this postIt's great not to spend the day depressed for a change - great effort from Monty and Harmy, and as Aggers said Freddie really captained the side well. If we can get through the morning session pretty well intact I am sure we can build a decent advantage.
Let's hope today has gone some way to dispelling the depression they must all feel about Adelaide.
Ajnd at least I can look Aussies in the eye for a while!
Complain about this postSpot on JA.
England requirements for their first innings:
1 * big partnership (100+) between 2 from Colly / Strauss / Pieterson
1 * Centurion
That should give a 100-150 run lead.
Complain about this postNot sure what I'm better pleased by... Monty or Harmy! Come on boys!
Complain about this postthe work has only begun
we need to move beyond the selection issues of the first two tests, all thoughts must move to beating the Aussies in this game.
I was one of many on this blog, who was baying for the blood of Fletcher at the lack of selection of Panesar. I dont think it matters now wether it was the coach or captain, who was responsible for the atrocious selections esp of Giles for Panesar
Win this game, nothing will matter if the Ashes are retained, however both Flintoff and Fletcher will be held accountable if they are not. Fletcher will be sacked and Freddie, will never captain England again, but keep the Ashes and the first two matches become a distant nightmare.
Complain about this postThis will come as a soothing relief to the English team, their army of barmy supporters in the Waca stadium and those sat in front of TVs and PCs. Soothing no less effective than the Fremantle Doctor.
I am happy for Mr Panesar. He sat out the first two Tests, watching his team struggle to get 20 wickets. When (at last) given the opportunity to show his worth, he took 5 in 24 overs.
Let us not shift our focus from this brilliant achievement by deviating to the issues of his (de)selection for the previous Tests. We should also not forget that Mr Harmison found his form to take 4 for 48 in 19 overs .
Its now over to the English batsmen to carry on with what these two bowlers achieved on the field today. (The dropped catch was a good omen).
Congratulations Mr Panesar, it was a long time coming.
Complain about this postBack to top
england really need a lead of 250 plus. the longer they bat the better.
what we dont want is to be chasing any sort of challenging total under pressure on a wearing pitch, taking spin, facing warne, who will be out to show anything monty can do.........
The annoying thing is being 2 nil down before our bowlers arrived at the party, we cant afford to slip up at all. If we win 2 and lose 1 of the last 2 mathces with monty taking many more wickets, then the decision to play giles at the gabba and adelaide, will go down in infamous cricketing history.
Complain about this postIt's up to one of England's batsmen to dig in and make a big hundred. If they are irresponsible now and throw away their wickets they will have thrown away the ashes.
Fletcher has proved himself past his sell-by-date. The biggest factor he brought to England last year was consistency of selection, but he broke his own rules by leaving out Panesar, despite the fact that the spinner had been averaging 3.2 wickets per test.
Monty clearly has a galvising effect on the whole team and however in the camp was responsible for over-looking this made a very costly mistake.
Rob
Complain about this postcricketwukup.com
Atlast we have woken up and the contest is on!
Complain about this postAt the very least England have showed that we are capable of taking the fight to them. The reality was, even playing well from the start, that England, like everyone for the last 20 years, were very unlikly to win the series in Australia. Not while Ponting and Warne are playing at their best.
However, if we can squeeze a win anything can happen.
Even if we dont retain the ashes, with the age of Warne and co. I do not think it will take so long to get the ashes back again.
Complain about this postIt's great to see Monty (and the other bowlers)do so well, they have all been under a lot of pressure so far this series.
You can bet that the Aussies will come back at us hard tomorrow, so we'll have to bat at our best to gain a lead. Strauss and Cook showed their intent, and we must not let McGrath, Warne, or Clark settle into any kind of rhythm where they can slow down the scoring and build up pressure.
But I'm feeling a lot more positive now that we have shown that we can bowl out Australia for a competitive total.
Complain about this postNow then Aggers, let's recall what you said about choice of spinners just before the first test? Ha ha!!
Most of us England fans were unrepentant in the fact you play your best spin bowler regardless if he might possibly on occasions make 20-30 runs with the bat. We are now looking at chasing 240 runs instead of 600+ ...what we were all saying was the whole point of playing Monty. Is Giles' batting that good to make up for his toothless bowling and 360 runs?
Complain about this postCome on Aggers, tell us do you still think we picked the best team for the first test? No doubt you'd have been smug about your views had Monty failed to impress - C'mon, be a man; admit you were wrong!!!
I just hope that Duncan Fletcher and Andrew Flitnoff are big enough to admit that they made a mistake in dropping Monty! However, it is easy to lay blame on individuals, when as a team we have started very slowly and against the best team in the world on the home patch, we were always going to struggle!
Maybe this is the turning point now and Monty and Harmy can take some of the pressure of Hoggard which they have appeared to do in this innings. Hopefully, this can continue for the remainder of the series and we can salvage some pride.
Complain about this postIt's time Giles packed his bags and left for home. He's played his last Test on this Ashes Tour and if it was up to me he'll never play another Test again.
He can spend the rest of the winter writing his autobiography - Setting My Washing Machine To Spin- a very apt title as it's the only thing he's ever spun in his life apart from the trash about it not being fair that everybody gives him a hardtime when he produces figures of 0-86 from 23 overs.
What a breath of fresh air it was to see that huge smile on Montys face and too see a spin bowler actually spin the ball.the only problem there might be is IF not WHEN Vaughan returns he may wish to have his friend back in the team.
An England 1st Innings score of 350 and it's game on!!
Complain about this postSee what happens when we pick our best available team.....
Complain about this postWhile all the headlines will undoubtedly be Monty's, I thought Harmison's contribution was the more important. Monty, while picking up a five-for, did not bowl particularly well and many of his wickets were from poor shots rather than wicket-taking balls (poor Giles, if he didn't have bad luck he would have no luck at all).
Harmison was back to his best today, bowling with pace, bounce and, most importantly, accuracy. His were wicket-taking deliveries, form we haven't seen for a long, long time.
However, all is not yet won. We had a good day but Adelaide taught everyone that cricket is a long-term game. What we need is for England to bat all day tomorrow and build up a score of 400+ and for the bowlers to show the same menace and threat in Australia's second innings.
Complain about this postBravo Monty! England have badly missed Simon Jones this series. I hope he comes back to fitness soon. Guess the man is destined to never play down under.
Complain about this postIt's up to one of England's batsmen to dig in and make a big hundred. If they are irresponsible now and throw away their wickets they will have thrown away the ashes.
Fletcher has proved himself past his sell-by-date. The biggest factor he brought to England last year was consistency of selection, but he broke his own rules by leaving out Panesar, despite the fact that the spinner had been averaging 3.2 wickets per test.
Monty clearly has a galvising effect on the whole team and however in the camp was responsible for over-looking this made a very costly mistake.
Rob
Complain about this postcricketwukup.com
In the last two Ashes Series played in Australia we have started on the back foot - Nasser putting the Aussies in and Giles picked ahead of Monty. It just sends out the wrong signal. No way back in the series from here but well played today England.
Complain about this postIts so nice to have something to cheer about, AT LAST. ! But although we can celebrate Monty and I think more importantly Harmeson's return to form, words of caution are necessary. ! The Aussie batsmen will not be 'smoked' out in the 2nd innings, so a big lead is absolutely essential, and Warne is going to have a big influence on this match too. ! Its now 'grit your teeth' time, a time to dig in, play carefully and just punish anything loose.
Complain about this postIt was a mistake to select Mahmood just as Anderson was coming into form, and I fear he will be 'carried' in this match as he was his usual eratic self. I was a little amazed to watch Flintoff's 'muted' congratulations too, each time Panesar claimed a wicket, and I think these views of his body language suggested something 'not really nice' in the England camp. ? Anyway, well done Monty. ! I thought Harmeson bowled beautifully, and if he can keep this up in the 2nd innings, and he gets to start the bowling, which he has always done then his tail will be really up and I think he can do big things. All in all a great day, but I still do not believe England will win. Too much 'frailty' still around this team.
A little humility would be appropriate at the end of the first day's play ...it's too early to start the celebrations. Remember the second Test and who laughed last and who needed the trauma counselling ?
Complain about this postWhat a relief, what a contrast to previous bowling efforts!
Complain about this postTo be honest I had my doubts about Monty, but '5 for' -brilliant! Being a Warwicks guy, its a shame for Gilo, he's received some stick over the years. Gilo would would have fancied a go on this pitch, rather than the lifeless wickets he got; though I doubt he'd have returned a 5 for 90 odd.
We have a chink of light, I just hope we can force the Aussies onto the back foot with a confident batting display. Bells a bit of an enigma, classy, but not quite the article (has a touch of the Ramprakesh about him), though he had a tough one today!
We need 400. Any less, and Mr Warne will have the last laugh when Flintoff and Co. step up for the final innings.
Brilliant day. A lead of 150 would be great but it's a long way off. Oddly Giles' 20 runs here and there would be much more useful in situations like this, in which he could actually help bowl sides out for less than 500. Poor chap though. Means well.
Lee - another wicket with a no ball. I remember at least 29 other ocassions when he has taken a test wicket with a no ball without being called. Why haven't the elite umpire panel flagged this as something to watch out for as he slides through the crease?
Also why does G Jones never get any praise?
Complain about this postSpot on Aggers. We need to get a lead of at least 120 and then we have to expect them to come out more focused for their second innings and get 300+ with Ponting playing a bigger role. After that, hopefully we can hold our nerve and chase the runs (with a bit of luck Monty won't have to bat!!). Come on England!!!
Complain about this postThank heaven for Panesar - the Sikh of Tweak has really made a difference - suddenly England look like they can take 20 wickets in the match. There'll be time enough and plenty after the match, if England get the result they crave, to talk about whether or not Monty should have played in the first two Tests - for now, let's just dig in and get right behind the boys. We've enough hard work ahead to retain the Ashes without distractions.
Complain about this postIt's true that Monty brought a sense of urgency and energy to the England side, but I really think that Harmison is the man that England fans should really salute. After receiving so much critisism and being under so much pressure, he really stood up today. If he hadn't got the Punter, and he and Hussey had got going, who knows what England would be looking at right now. As an Aussie, truth be told, I'd like to see England crushed, but to see beautiful bowling and the chance of an exciting game and series is great. Come on Aussie, but keep it up England.
Complain about this postAlso, this Hussey has been nicknamed the 40 year old virgin. We can't get him out. Perhaps someone should find him a lady friend.
Complain about this postWell, well, well....Monty made all the difference - what a surprise eh? - Not. Whoever really did vote Panesar out of selection for the first two Tests should hang their heads in shame - what a misjudgement. In those matches England never looked like taking the wickets they needed. Today, we only have to look at the stats to see why so many people wanted Panesar in the side - he makes things happen, he attacks, and above all - takes wickets. Would Gilo have got 5 on that track? Of course not. At one point today it was Mahmood who was effectively tieing one end up with miserly, controlled bowling whilst Monty attacked at the other, always looking like making a breakthrough. We are now in a good-ish position (shame about the 2 wickets lost though) but must play very, very well throughout the remaining 4 days, it will still be tough. How tragic that we have waited until 2-0 down to select the right team. My view is that the damage is already done for this series - 2 wins from 3 is an enormous ask, all things considered - but at least we have a glimmer of hope. Shame it's majorly our own fault, with flawed selection handicapping us from the off. Fletcher's tosh about "batting down to 8" being the priority is muddled thinking. Yes, we need to bat as deep down the order as we can, but even more importantly we need to take enough wickets at crucial stages to keep the pressure on, which we never looked like doing before now. Even Harmy has bucked up too, more than a coincidence I feel, now that the changes have been made that were so necessary. I still think we've left it too late, but at least we have the right bowling attack out at last.
Complain about this postOh balle balle! well done Monts! Agnew's right - he can and will bowl better, but a fiver on the first day, against the Aussies? Not bad son! Get in!!!
Complain about this postLets hope Collingwood and Strauss can play through the morning session at least. That would provide an ideal base for Pietersen sometime in the afternoon once the bowlers have tired a little. He could wreak havoc against Warne if he bowls too short with that extra bounce in the pitch.
Complain about this postEngland will hopefully not pay the ultiimate price for their cautious selections. They won the Ashes last time largely due to their brave and positive cricket. Their selection of Giles over Panesar was surely a defensive, cautious one with one eye on the weaker lower-order. Now the side is right, to my mind, and some brave and courageous decision-making will hopefully bring its reward - as it did today with Panesar, after his 17-run over! Well done boys, especially Monty and Harmy!
Complain about this postOh how nice it is to be proved right. Nice to see Panesar given his chance and taking it with both hands. To all those who have been criticising the growing bandwagon of supporters calling for Monty I hope you now see why we were all crying out for him.
All you stalwarts who have been criticising newer fans to the game giving their opinion can eat humble pie now, we may not know the averages of every England player since the start of time but we do know a good player when we see one...
Complain about this postWhile Giles has bowled many "gun-barrel straight" deliveries, I remeber balls which bowled Damien Martyn last year and Brian Lara the last time West Indies were over that turned plenty to beat quailty batters.
I don't doubt Panesar is a more likely wicket-taker, but that does not make Giles a poor bowler. His contributions to England's five-year renaissance have been greatly undervalued, with ball, bat and hands in the field. I reckon he has caught more than he has dropped, although missing Ponting was costly.
For me, it was 50/50 who to pick in the first test, and I can understand why Giles got the nod with England looking to keep things tight and Australia within reach. Obviously this didn't happen, but without a meltdown session in Adelaide England would be firmly in this series
Giles does not deserve the reputation he has attracted. He is a good cricketer who never hides when things are tough, although I accept that Panesar will, and should, stay now he has been picked.
Complain about this postaggers, do you still think england were right to go with giles in the first two tests after monty's five fer on a wicket that doesn't favour spin?
Complain about this postBowlers have done their bit, bravo.
A 380 reply here is absolutely vital.
Am damn certain 58 bloggers are going to join in here saying 'Monty.... from the start...I told you so' as if they were the only one.
It's all past. Now it's a matter of nerve, application and everything going England's way to go to the MCG 2-1.
Collingwood ton would help.
"Wharney, you've just dropped the Ashes."
Complain about this postApparently, the reason England have been so fixated with the No. 8 spot is that they have been playing a lot of pool lately...
Complain about this postPerhaps Aggers you'll now agree that all of us calling for Monty earlier in the series was the RIGHT call? Granted a different pitch, but quite simply some bowlers have a knack of taking wickets, and the ability to worry a batsman on any surface.
Complain about this postEngland have proved yet again there capability to fightback underpressure, at the very least they have put the pride back into this series, more of the same from collingwood and co tomorrow, followed by the most underated england bowler around well for the last 2 test matches anyway, some guy called steve harmison!Great comeback monty panaser,
ps the ashes are comin home
comin home....those ashes are still, wait for it!
comin home!
ps moment of the day
Complain about this postshane warnes long n oh oh so lonely walk back to the pavilion, when panaser snared him
if looks could kill!
What was said to Langer as he left the field due to Monty? He took a couple of stuttering steps towards a spectator, seeing red it seems.
I predict more Aussie angst in this crucial test.
Complain about this postAggers,
ALL TMS followers respect your words and wisdom but occaisionally you have gone off the boil recently and comments such as "Giles must start in the first test" we as wide of the mark as Harmison's first delivery. Will you please state for the record and say, Monty should have started instead of Giles. Mahmood instead of Anderson would have been better too - which would have been my first choice test team as they were fit, had some cricket already under their belt. I know, hindsight is a wonderful thing!
I agree we need atleast 400 and we need to get them quickly.
Still, good to see you're back on form.
Wes
Complain about this postIf Fletcher had really bitten the bullet and played Read for Jones, Hussey may well have gone for 20 odd aswell....
Jones really got to perform with the Bat tomorrow.
Monty you're a legend
Complain about this postMonty did take wickets with delivery's that did not spin, but this was because he had delivered ball which HAD spun. Langer was clearly allowing for turn when he played and missed. Gilo rarely turns the ball especially on the first day, concequently is easier to play. As monty gets more revs on the ball he gets more dip too, that is partly why Symonds got a top edge.
However he did bowl to many short or full pitched deliveries.
Go Monty!
Complain about this postTo "Dan" Remember this...
"I agree with whoever said Agnew should stop doing this as a blog and return to it being an article on the main site. I'm sick of having to read a thoughtful piece traduced by boneheaded, Johnny-comer-latelys, who got into cricket in 2005 when we won the Ashes and now think they know more than the coach who dragged us from being the worst test side in the world in in 1999 when he took over, to winning the Ashes en route to us becoming the second best side in the world. We lose one game and everyone's knees start jerking wildly - 'Play Monty', 'Play Read', 'Bring in Lewis', 'Call up Broad' - I'm just waiting for the person who suggests recalling Hick is a good idea."
Seems us Johnny-come-latelys know more than your beloved Aggers, I hope today has taught you that you don't need to have been watching cricket for 50 years to have a valid opinion.
Complain about this postA great day turned to quite good with the loss of two wickets. Aggers, I have to agree with Richard the Red, a lead of 150 to 200 is a huge ask on this track - one individual would have to post a big score. Step forward Freddie? I suspect not and will be happy if we get 320. Anything above 350 and we'll have a huge chance. Highlight of the day was Harmy taking wickets. Don't think he bowled that well and he is not upright enough for my liking (hence a few balls being taken at slip) but taking wickets breeds confidence, and fast and tall will always be a useful combination on any pitch in any game. Monty - I'm a fan, a great personality and wonderful to see but lets not get carried away until he has 20 or so tests tucked under his belt.
Complain about this postCome on boys, win this one and stir it up!
We have to hope that England's top 7 can actually build up a first innings lead now, otherwise Fletcher and co will go back to arguing that we need someone who can allegedly bat at No. 8 and all Monty's fine work today will be undone.
Complain about this postWhen we are 89-9 I can forsee Monty coming in and sharing a 200 run 10th wicket partnership, before bowling out the Aussies again in the second innings.
OK....maybe not. Great day's play, and despite the two wickets at the end (thank god for the drop!) we are in control at the moment. Come on England!
Complain about this postwill aggers apologise for stating repeatedly that monty would not have made a difference in the 1st 2 tests. if he can get a 5 fer on a 1st day track what might he have done at adelaide on day 5?
Complain about this postHooray!!
Good to see monty back in the side and the enthusiasm that all the bowlers showed. Fair play to Giles for applauding monty when he got his wickets, he could have sulked but realised that the team winning is more important. Hope the batsmen deliver on day two...
Complain about this postit's very nice to see the happy faces of panesar, harmison, flintoff. i wish to say to flintoff "you have the potential and you done it. save it till end"
Complain about this postjust a thought, that monty is a sikh. us in the sikh community call him "THE FLYING SIKH" as he flys through the air when he achieves the unbelieveable,ie the wicket, misses the ocassional flying high five.
hope he sustains he eagerness and nerve.
"LONG LIVE THE FLYING SIKH."
ps
since it is Xmas, "HAIL THE FLYING SIKH"
Gursarn Bansal
Complain about this postthe salient point about panesar's bowling is that he actually bowls with zip and gets work on the ball.
By at least trying to give it a rip, he manages to deliver with lots of over spin which leads to dip and creates bounce.....and it was the bounce that did for langer , symonds and warne.
By comparison, Giles rolls out these gentle little lobs with little action on the ball which means there is no dip, no extra bounce and no problem for the batsman.
As any top finger spinner will tell you, its bounce that creates the danger as much as turn, so dont put down panesar's efforts just because he wasnt turing it square.
this lad is the real deal, the best spinner england has produced for decades, he has been englands best bowler (of any speed) over the calender year and frankly the decision to omit him from the first 2 test matches of the ashes series was nothing short of scandalous.
Complain about this postHopped, skipped and jumped my way to the office kitchen this morning for my early brew; excited that Monty had a great day, and Harmison too.
Particularly thrilled it was Harmy who bagged Ponting.
But I was alarmed when after crowing to my tardy work colleagues that we were doing so well, I hit refresh to see two early wickets had fallen.
Which, personally, takes the P@"%!
Any talk of England reviving their fortunes should be very carefully tempered with a dose of caution. Any hint of a collapse tomorrow and we can forget a triumphant 3-2 series win.
One day down; Four to go. EVERY batsman has a duty now. Collingwood and Pietersen seem to be in form; but honestly can we hope to see good knocks from Strauss and Flintoff?
But Geraint Jones...turn up or fly home!
Hooray for Monty!
Hooray for Harmy!
Hooray for Captain Flintoff
and yes Hooray for England.
The battle is won, but the war isn't yet !
Complain about this postJust shows what could have been. The selectors went in with a negative approach, looking to keep the ashes, rather than going out to try beat the aussies. We know that the only way to beat them is to play aggressive cricket!
And if Harmison had got some overs under his belt then he would have been firing from day one of the test series. The management need to take a look at how the tour was approached and ensure in future the same does not happen.
Well done to Monty, he should have been there to start with, but lets not give Giles a hard time. He has served his country well, and over the past 5 years he has been our best available spinner. He deserves credit for his commitment over the years, but now it is time for Monty to shine.
And btw Monty now has 3 5 wkt hauls in 11 test. Is this the best ratio in the side?
Complain about this postOne key point that is being overlooked about today, is that England had bowlers working in tandem and creating pressure at both ends. This has not happened for a long long time. Giles is effective in containing the aussies and our success in the past has come from Harmision, Jones or Harmison making the breakthrough at the other end. Giles did his normal stuff in the first 2 tests with not much coming down at the other end. I would not underestimate the value of Giles and understand the loyalty to him considering the overall effectiveness of the bowling unit. On this wicket, we will probably need his late order runs, rather than having Hoggard (v limited batter) coming in at 8. That said Monty was great to watch despite very little turn, so credit to the loop he puts on the ball.
Complain about this postLook can I just say something in defence of AG...ermm no I can't. Brilliant stuff from Monty and yes I thought Freddy was brave with the decision to keep him on after the Symonds mauling. However, I thought that Freddy's field placings were a little on the conservative side at times particularly when the Aussies were in trouble. Still let's not get too gloomy just yet! One more great day for England and then we can look forward to us collapsing in the 4th innings...DOH!
Complain about this postThis looks like it could be a close and great test match but England need to be very careful with the bat. They need to play it simple and play for time (which they have plenty of) otherwise i feel they will be bowled out cheaply if they try and think about scoring quickly or even averagely. Collingwood is not the best player of seam and hes got his work cut out on this pitch which looks like its doing a little bit off the pitch so he needs to concentrate very hard if he is not going to let his wicket go cheaply. I admit though i do fear for England once Warne will start getting going on day 2.
I have to say Im very happy for Harmi as only yesterday i was saying i didnt think he could get his form back but that early wicket of Ponting seemed to be the medicine he needed. Lets just hope he can keep it up as we will need him if we are to get in anything from this test and series.
And Monty proved the press and fans right in his inclusion and will hopefully bring some entuhsiasim and hope to an underperofming english attack. I hate to say i told you so England selectors, but he really should have been picked from the start.
Complain about this postDelighted for Monty that he has been given his chance, albeit two Tests too late, but even more so for Steve Harmison. Here is a guy who has genuine talent (he didn't get to be ranked Number 1 in the world by accident) - if only he would believe in himself.
In Hoggard, Harmison and Panesar we have the nucleus of an attack to bowl any side out twice and win a Test Match. If England can now get runs on the board anything is possible in Perth - a draw is now looking the most unlikely result.
Complain about this postSo finally Monty in !!!!!!!!! hooooraaa.. But where was he for all those first 10 days of test cricket? Did Engalnd make mistake for the previous two tests by not selecting Mr. Monty?
Let see how we going to bat tomorrow and then bowl.
Hope England can win
Good Luck to them
Complain about this postAG is silver but Monty is golden...
51-2 though is not "useful" though is it Aggers? It's gut-wrenching I'd have said - threatening another oh-no-here-we-go-again-batting-collapse!
Great commentary from the TMS team, just a shame the webcast doesn't go abroad.
JNW
Complain about this postDeep deep down, what must Fletcher and co be thinking ? Ex pro's [who are close to Fletcher] are saying that the 1st two wickets didn't offer as much as this Perth wicket. This may be true ? But would Giles ever in a million years get 5 wickets on day 1 of a test match against Australia, especially when they ckose to bat ? We all know the answer to that one........................
Complain about this postIts good to see Panesar rattling the Aussies. Harbhajan took over 30 wickets for India against them in 3 matches in 2001 as an unknown quantity. Hopefully, Monty may do the same.
The main thing is that England are in the game. They will still need to play out of their skins even if the victory target is around 200.
Complain about this postGreat day for the english bowlers, just ashame that DF left it too late to include panesar.
Complain about this postHope he does not choke when eating all that humble pie now.
We all know that the Aussies will cause BIG problems tomorrow. England need, and will be lucky to get a lead of 100. If we can get that 100 and bowl as we did today we give ourselves a chance. The problem is that as England fans we know that more often than not we allow teams back into games. Remember the hour we had in the last test!
With the exception of Jones we now have the best side playing- and it shows. Jones is rubbish but he needs to repay the rediculous favouritism that he is being given by his 'friends', Fletcher and Flintoff. I wish I could have someone who supports Jones's inclusion in the team write on thie blog tomorrow 'I told you he should be selected . .". Please Jones - DO SOMETHING FOR ONCE!
Come on England! Keep the posiive vibes provided by Monty and Harmy going - and Jones, DO SOMETHING with the bat (don't know if I mentioned it!)
Complain about this postwell JA I don't hear an admission that you were wrong. Still no Read but one step at a time. All this I am afraid is too late. England started with negative approach and we have seen the results.
Complain about this post> At 12:01 PM on 14 Dec 2006, Martin wrote:
>
> See what happens when we pick our best available team.....
Maybe we will if Read gets a game this series, yes. ;-)
Complain about this postWhat a great start for Monty and England.
I would say however those of us who wanted Monty in also wanted to run with 4 bowlers and Ed Joyce as an extra batsmen. Given we are two down how much better off would we be with a stonger batting line up.
As it goes I would have not have played Harmison so humble pie from me hope he is coming back to his best. But if he is in we do not need Mahmood. Lets hope the faith shown in Jones is repaid with the bat or we will be clammering even louder for Read.
Andy
Complain about this postWhat must big Dunc be thinking- Monty is a genius. What odds for Gilo to do a Martyo?
After the CWC, I think its time for Fletch to gracefuly step aside and someon like Paul Terry or Peter Moores to take over - and Straussy as skipper.
Complain about this postDoes Aggers now admit that picking Giles (something he approved of) was still the right decision?
I note with interest that no admission of him being wrong was mentioned.
Complain about this postHopped, skipped and jumped my way to the office kitchen this morning for my early brew; excited that Monty had a great day, and Harmison too.
Particularly thrilled it was Harmy who bagged Ponting.
But I was alarmed when after crowing to my tardy work colleagues that we were doing so well, I hit refresh to see two early wickets had fallen.
Any talk of England reviving their fortunes should be very carefully tempered with a dose of caution. Any hint of a collapse tomorrow and we can forget a triumphant 3-2 series win.
One day down; Four to go. EVERY batsman has a duty now. Collingwood and Pietersen seem to be in form; but honestly can we hope to see good knocks from Strauss and Flintoff?
But Geraint Jones...turn up or fly home!
Hooray for Monty!
Hooray for Harmy!
Hooray for Captain Flintoff
and yes Hooray for England.
The battle is won, but the war isn't yet !
Complain about this postBefore we all get too excited - the Perth Pitch traditionally flattens out as the Test Match go's on, not get worst. This match has a similar feel to it as the one last year against the South Africans where Austraila were bowled out for a similar score on the first day, bowled South Africa out for 280 odd on the second day, then scored over 500 to leave S africa struggling at the end. Hope Monty continues to spin his magic around the aussies, but still early days yet - as we all know from the last test, 1 bad session can lose you the match!!
Complain about this postMonty reminds me of Michael Owen (before the injury!!). It doesn't matter how badly Michael was playing, nor did it matter how much pressure he was under - he would always score goals. Monty is the same. He has this ability to perform at the highest level. So what if he only took the odd wicket in preparation. When it matters for real, he will take wickets and the people batting against him know he will take wickets - which puts them under even more pressure. Why did the selectors not see this unique part of his game? Still amazes me.
Complain about this postWell done to Monty and Harmy - great work.
One thing which I did notice is that unusually, in today's ultra competetive cricket, some of the Aussies walked without waiting for the umpire.
Will any England batsmen do the same?
Complain about this postWhoa monty monty. Brings back memories of the summer when he and harmison shared the 10 wickets. It seems 'gbh' needs another attacking wicket taker in the side to take the pressure off-the ponting dismissal and the fired up reaction could be a series turning point. Huge pressure on the batsman now-are they still haunted by adelaide?
Complain about this postPanesar Has Shown His Quality and Mr Sheppard needs to think twice before deciding the team, Spinner Ashley Giles you must be having a laugh ?
Complain about this postMonty and Harmi are a good team remember they took 19 wickets (11 for Harmison and 7 for Monty) against Pakistan in the 2nd test. Also add Chris Read in as he knows how to catch off Monty's deliveries better than Jones, what a team we could have
Complain about this postOn Panesar's performance, there are a lot of people out there saying "I told you so...!"
What a fantastic start for Monty, and great to see Harmison chipping in with some very good bowling figures. It meant that there wasn't too much pressure on Flintoff's shoulders (or rather, ankle) to lead the bowling attack, and hopefully he can now focus on his batting. But i'm not getting carried away, because... well, why would you...!?
Complain about this postThose comments after the first test Aggers about all us Panesar fans deluding themselves certainly seem even more crazy now than they first did then. Panesar is a class act, and that hasn't changed from the summer, and he brings with him an aura that does unsettle the Aussies, whereas they are not at all concerned about Giles. I think it is safe to say that it will be a long time before Monty is left out again.
Complain about this postA great bowling display by the boys, especially after the soul destroying events in the last test and losing the toss. Shame about the 2 wickets, but with a bit more of the luck that we got today and we may get back into the series.
I think it is about time that JA came out and admitted that it was the selectors and NOT the fans who were "deluded" about the omission of Monty in the previous tests. Hindsight is a useful thing, but we were ALL demanding that Monty should be given a chance. He proved today that he can take wickets without massive spin, he has variation that keeps the batsmen on their toes at all times. Unfortunately Gilo was too predictable and pedestrian for Test cricket.
A good day, but the Aussies will come out fighting tomorrow and there's still a lot of hard grafting to be done by all the team.
Complain about this postAnyone else notived how Monty brought out the best in Harmison?
When you have a quality spin bowler who strangles the run rate and takes wickets as well as being totally controlled, it allows the quicks more freedom, which is why Harmison bowled so well.
As a pom now living in Aus and having lived and supported Northants, it was great to see Monty finally get his chance and play so well.
Even as an England supporter, you have to respect Michael Hussey. What a cricketer. Had he played 5 or 6 years ago when he was clouting county attacks around the park for Northants, he would surely be the best batsmen in the world, that's if he isn't already. A class act.
Even though England have started well, we still have alot to do. If we have to chase 200 batting last, I fear Warne may have enough to win Australia the test match. We have to bat all day and try and get a lead of 200 if we want to win.
Complain about this postgood shout aggers,just heard mr hussey speaking,he seems to think the aussie batsmen will sort monty out in the second innings,what do you think.."IF" england can get a lead of three figures,surely monty and the other bowlers will get a lot more help from this wicket ,it is definately,not a 500 hundred plus wicket,what say you?
Complain about this post"I have 1 fresh serving of humble pie with Monty sauce as ordered for a Mr J Agnew."
Seriously, who really thought Giles was the better player?
Complain about this postRicky Ponting must be glad Monty didn't play in the first two test. England's swap off Mahmood for Anderson must be to compensate for the lack of batting in the lower order
Complain about this postHas anyone noticed that when Wally Hammond scored a double century in Australia in 1928-29, he followed it with another one in the next match?
Complain about this postHis 251 at Sydney was followed by 200 and 32 (run out) at Melbourne and then 119 not out and 177 at Adelaide. In fact, he posted over 200 runs before his wicket was taken in three successive tests!
Can it be that we will one day speak of the deeds of Hammond and Collingwood in the same breath? In that series Hammond scored 905 at 113.12...and most tests went on for 6 or 7 days!
5 & 96, 206 & 22* and 10* overnight makes 339 at 113.00- You're on target, Colly!! Your knighthood beckons!
Well done England,
Stuck to a good bowling plan for once, and bowled with aggression and fire!
This from an Aussie supporter!
It will be interesting to see how the Aussies bowl on this wicket, i guess after day 2 we will have a better idea of how well England have bowled...
Makes for an interesting test match!
Bring on the Warne factor... (NB Symonds can bowl a bit of offspin too)
Complain about this postGet in, get a lead of 150 - 200, send Monty and co back out there, knock the Aussies over cheaply, wont have to bat again, job done.
Well, that would be my plan... :)
Complain about this postJohnathan,
I am sorry but your Giles campaign has been shown to be completely wrong.
HG
Complain about this postQuite right Aggers.
Also it was no guarantee that Monty would have peformed miracles at Brisbane which was the only venue that you thought his non-inclusion was correct, and he was a bit off form at the start of the tour struggling to get to grips with the kooka, with some yips and bowling quite flat in the nets.
Looks like he's sorted it now though!!
Of course his non-inclusion in Adelaide was a disgrace, but then again, changes between Adelaide and Brisbane were always going to be implemented through injury only due to the short time between them.
Colly, Kevin, Freddie, Go-Jo...THE HOPES AND DREAMS OF OUR GREAT NATION ARE AT YOUR FEET! Tread carefully as tread on our dreams!
Complain about this postBeing a relatively new cricket supporter, and an American to boot, it amazed me how the spot-on, tip-top talk of the English summer was left off the team for the first two Tests...
What reason that?
Not only was he a wonderful entertainer, but he was one of the standouts on the English side as far as getting results.
On what planet does a player of this stripe get left behind by his country???
Its a truly wonderful thing to see that despite the madness that possessed the Selectors before Brisbane and Adelaide, Monty was able to rise to the occasion. Not only did electrify and uplift a side (and its supporters) when they needed it the most, but he showed what a true professional he is.
Thank you, Monty.
Please come to the States and be our President.
:)
Complain about this postI think the general feeling is that England's performance is far better than the last 2 tests; I also agree that with the history of England batting being a little incosistent, they have to go out there and prove that they can bat and take it to the bowlers. I think a good lead is possible with sensible aggresive batting.
Still congratulations so far to the whole team, regardless of the agreement on team selection here (Read vs Jones; Anderson vs Saj M), we should all get behind the team now and hope they can prove to everyone, and themselves that they are capable of a good performance.
Complain about this postWhere have you been Monty when England needed you? Banished to the cricket shadows by myopic English selectors! If Monty keeps this up, he will be opening the batting next!!!
Complain about this postBut why, oh why, has it taken Harmison three Test matches to bowl anything like he can?
The non-selection of Monty and the reemergence of Harmison's true form, show what a missed opportunity the first two represent. England could have been two up instead of two down.
So Aggers in previous blogs you said that those who argued for Panesars inclusion ahead of Giles were missing the point?
Would you like salt and pepper on those words Sir or will you be eating them as they are?
Complain about this postDoes anyone else love Monty Panesar, what a breath of fresh air, a pure genious exactly what the doctor ordered
Complain about this postnice 1 Aggers,
great to see Monty taking his chance and coming up with the goods, nice to see Harmison finding his form aswell. This will now make the series much more exciting and contested.
Complain about this postShould we all take credit (obviously not Aggers) for saying Monty should have been in the team fro mthe 1st test?
Shall we claim Nostradamus abilities?
Shall we contact Arthur C Clarke?
Or shall we just say it was common sense from the start and it is a shame that England have to come back from 2-0 due to short sighted, pig headed individuals.
Complain about this postIf we win this test though I really feel we could retain the Ashes now we are starting to fire.
Theirs only one Monty!!!!!!! Just imagine what he'll be like when he does bowl better!!!He should of been in from the start and big Dunc should be ashamed of himself for not picking him. Monty in the future will be a true England great and a world class bowler. So come on England and lets whip the Aussie's in their own back yard. The ashes will be coming home with England winning the series 3-2.
Complain about this postWhat's all this about making me wait ? I last posted something at least 24 hours ago. There's been a lot of cricket since then. Have you got the wrong address ?
Complain about this postcome on mahmood you can prove why we don't need gilo at eight we'll love you as much as panesar then :)
Complain about this postYour having a Laugh Aggers !!
' Shame Monty did not bowl before' ........
You were the one who said the teams were right !!
Where were you when we said he should be playing ?
I will tell you ............you were against it !!
Complain about this posta good day for england, tarnishe da bit by bell's duck.
Complain about this posthats off to panenasar. and to harmison...........eventually!
monty's interview was painful. the ecb's media training has a lot to answer for . i think he said he 'got in the right areas about 6 times'
this cliche drives me nuts!
now over to the batsmen. this looks likely to be an exciting 4 day test. it's anybody's game
Never mind about Underwood. Panesar will become the greatest English spinner since Verity, and perhaps of all time. His potential is awesome - 5w against that batting line-up, despite not being at his best!
Complain about this postWhen, years from now, Monty retires with 300 test wickets to his name and 20+ 5w hauls, I hope people will look back and smile at the thought that one day the England management chose Giles instead.
Your having a Laugh Aggers !!
' Shame Monty did not bowl before' ........
You were the one who said the teams were right !!
Where were you when we said he should be playing ?
I will tell you ............you were against it !!
Complain about this postAm I overjoyed with England's performance.....and it's funny cos I'm Indian !!! But Monty's arrival is so good for CRICKET and that's what I care about.England's never had a spinner like Monty, but as someone commented, with the success of the British immigration policy, players like Monty can play for England and close the difference with the Aussies and bring them to earth.C'mon Poms, win this one and turn it upside down !!!
Complain about this postMonty, Monty, Monty! If England loses ashes by 3-2 then trust Gilo and Flintoff will need another career soon. What on earth made them leave best english spinner on bench for first two tests. Moral story for Freddie, be professional and pcik players not because they are ur friends but cos they are best players.
Complain about this postIm feeling quite smug today as I predicted the exact selection changes in yesterdays blog! :-)
I hope now that no one questions Montys ability or his temperement. So what if he cant bat and is average in the field. He is in the side to take wickets and thats exactly what he has done! Well dont Monty!
Have we seen the last of Gilo?
Great to see Harmy back on song!
I think England will put on between 350 and 400 but then we have to combat the Warne factor batting last, hope we dont need any more than 250 to win. Will this track hold up? Lets hope so and drag it back to 2-1......COME ON ENGLAND!!!!!!! GAME ON!!!!!!
Complain about this postEngland will get all nervy as usual in a 4th innings run chase if they need anything more than about 50, so they need the runs this innings please!!!!
Complain about this postWell done, Monty. Hard luck, Gilo, I suspect you won't be called on much (ever?) again, but you can be proud of the efforts you put in for the team. You certainly don't deserve a lot of the flak coming your way. Great to see Harmy back on song; whatever he took in the morning he should take again for the rest of the tour.
It's now firmly down to the batsmen to play their part. Sadly, Cook has failed again. He certainly has talent, but I wonder if he is just too young and inexperienced for the Ashes pressure cooker and should be blooded against other teams over the next couple of years. Unless Cook comes up with the goods in the 2nd innings, how about replacing him with Ed Joyce?
Complain about this postGlad that the Monster has finally got his chance. What worries me is the opening pair. How often do a team win a test match without an opening stand of 50.
Complain about this postCook looks way out of his depth. Stresscothick needs to apologise for putting us in this position.
I dont like to say 'We all told you so' but WE ALL TOLD YOU SO
Complain about this postcouldn't agree more, people were justified in questioning Harmy's inclusion after the first two tests but he has proved that when razor sharp he is still a deadly weapon. I heard a wonderful refrain today... to the tune of a popular rock song out at the moment.
'What's that coming over the hill? is it a Monty? Yes it's a Monty!'
'What's that going over the hill? Is it a Warney? Yes it's a Warney!
Complain about this postBrilliant comeback for England ... Monty Panesar proved his worth and that too in such a pressure situation. Mahmood did not bowl bad either , its just a matter of time that he would start getting the wickets too. Harmison - better late than never - good job done !
Complain about this postAbout Fletcher, I dont see what difference he made to England camp. He should resign if England lose the Ashes - the way he goofed up.
Its all upto the batsmen, now that England bowlers look more confident.
Ultimately we want to see some good nailbiting cricket right up till the Sydney test. One sided wins are no fun, not only for the spectators but also for the teams.
Need some adrenaline rush !
Go England.
Monty was brilliant today but I feel all he can do is salvage some pride for England, it is too late for him to save the series.
Everyone knew, except Freddie and the selectors, that Monty should have played from the start. Once again, as England seem to do in all sports, we went with the tried and tested and it came back to bite us.
Complain about this postDear Jonathan,
What a wonderful cricket, what a wonderful day for England with Monty & Harmy leading the way for a stunning fightback. I am very pleased that my judgement was justified in the first day of the Third test, by Monty taking 5 wickets & Harmission taking 4 wickets with diciplined bowling on accuracy, line & length.I am very happy that I was one amongst the thousands of people voiced from day one that Monty must be included in the team with Read. Also Harmission should get his bowling back to his best & England will have a chance to retain the Ashes. Eventhough Read is not playing Monty & Harmission have done the damage with everyone's effert as a team.
Now it's time for the England batsmen to build up a good total and at least 175 to 200 lead in the first innings. Eventhough with the loss of early two wickets, I still firmly believe this can certainly happen. Strauss, Collingwood, KP, Flintoff, (Jones must justify his selection by making a good score) and Mahmood can make this happen.
There is a platform set for a victory, it's all depend on how batsmen are going to perform & take this to third day. I do hope the batsmen will not waste the hard & wonderful work by Monty & Harmission.
Jonathan, I do believe England will not waste this golden oppotunity & win this test to take the fight to the 4th test to retain the ashes.My kind request is " Do not underestimate "Shane Wanre" & play pritty with guts, patience, concentration & common sense. Do not trow away the good opportunity to get back in the series & to prove history does not always repeat.
Complain about this postWhy is everyone jumping for joy?? I just dont get it??
Yes Harmison bowled well which is good news. Monty did well, but will have to thank the ozzie batsmen for most of his wickets.
250 is not a bad score batting first. England are 50-2 with one of the worst tails in world cricket. If England lose a couple of early wickets they will be lucky to make 150 let alone a 150 lead. What planet is everyone on??
Flintoff is not a batsman - he is an allrounder - Jones cant be relied on for anything and all 4 bowlers will probably contribute about 20 runs if lucky. So unless one of collingwood or pietersen score a century its game over for england.
One last thing - why is everyone talking about mcGrath like he is on his last legs?? show some respect to the greatest fast bowler that ever lived!! In an era when eveything favours the batsman and averages are on the increase - here is someone who is still averaging under 22 for his wickets (in this era) and has more wickets than any fast bowler that ever lived. One bad innings on a flat pitch and people are talking about him not being the same?? Interesting to note that only hoggard can match his hail of 10 wickets this series of english bowlers, and only panesar has a better average. Washed up?? more like cleaning up.
Complain about this postAdam Lurchwood, have you ever played the game? Spin bowling is not all about spinning the ball and whilst Monty never spun it big on DAY ONE, he put doubt into the batsmans mind with the odd turner and that is why they played at the ball expecting spin. Thats when a straight one comes a good ball. Monty has dip, flight and varies his pace and thats what makes him miles ahead of that trundler Giles. When Giles bowls its straight on ball after ball, the batsman can play it in there sleep. Monty will turn it big on day 3/4.
Harmison bowled well because others were bowling well around him. Last time he got a Michelle was when Monty took the first 5 wkts against Pakistan and Harmy finished it off. The same has happned today it takes two to tango its just a shame that the coach and skipper who are paid a massive amount of money could not see it!
Aggers, you must go as well, lets have someone who knows the game reporting!!
Complain about this postGreg
They said that last years was one of the greatest test series' of all time. Well, I think England are just trying to top that achievement and give the Ozzie's a 2-0 lead before coming back and winning 3-2. Ok, so maybe thats a little optimistic but how I would love England to come back and win a couple of tests and wipe all those smug grins off their faces. Come on England!
Complain about this postI think the delirium surrounding Monty's triumphant return to the side will unfortunately cause people to overlook exactly how well Harmison bowled today. That to me is bigger than Monty - sure his 5fer is fantastic and it merely adds more fuel to the debate and blah blah yawn - the fact that Harmison looked like he might be getting some of his form back is huge.
I just hope England build on this start and not throw it all away again like we have done so many times previously. Let's win this match before we make him Sir Monty.
Complain about this postGood to see Monty & Harmy back in business and firing. Great to see Monty bounce back from Symonds onslaught and pouch his wicket & Harmy taking Ponting's wicket- fantastic !! Key moments of the day, for me. Come on boys- bat well tomorrow, keep battling and build a good platform for victory. If someone knows how to get Mike Hussey out, can they shout out loud. He looks a fantastic player, positive from the first ball he faces, dogged, determined and uncomplicated, with, it seems, limitless reserves of energy and concentration. Another Steve Waugh in the making, unfortunately. Come on Freddie- work him over and then get him out !!
Complain about this postWell done England esp Monty & Harmy on day one.
No point now in debating should monty have played from the start or not!! Its easy to criticise pickiong Giles with hindsight!!
What is more important is that England do not repeat the day five adelaide debacle on day two of this test.
If England can establish a good lead probably at least 100 and put the aussies under some real pressure this test could be ours for taking.
51-2 at close is ok but it could end up 130 all out if we are not careful.
So its down to an improved performance from both Strauss & Flintoff with the bat and the same again from the brilliant Collingwood and Pieterson.
England should not be complacent but nor should they be negative. A big score is still possible on a day two pitch with some responsible but positive batting.
Whatever happens England will have to bat much better in the second innings if it comes to that scenario.
The application shown in the first innings at adelaide must be applied in both innings
As for Monty he has bowled better but what he delivered today was a knack for taking wickets just when they were needed and he showed great character to bowl well after being taken for 17 runs off one over.
As for Harmison I think the overs he has had under his belt now has helped and he must raise his game to this level for the rest of the series to give England a chance to retain the ashes
Complain about this postThe scene is set for the greatest comeback in the history of Cricket. Could England be any lower after Adelaide, now this test is there to be won. One more test needed to retain the ashes down under. What a thought! I predict Pietersen will now be the second day hero, scoring runs aplenty and giving marvellous monty and the bowling boys something to aim at.
Complain about this postSo where's Mike Selvey and his sneering dismissal of Monty as "the people's Panacea"? Now is not the time to say 'told you so', tempting as it is, but it shouldn't be forgotten that the selectorial conservatism of Fletcher and Flintoff has already cost England the Ashes; belatedly they have discovered that you need a positive attitude – and your best team – to win test matches. The inclusion of Monty and Mahmood has injected a new energy into the team, and that's spilled over into the performance of the other players, in particular Harmison. Early days, admittedly, but at least England are at last displaying some fight and spirit.
Complain about this postHas today been Montyzoomers revenge?
Complain about this postIf Monty had played in Adelaide the series would likely be 1-1 and he would have been Sports Personality of the Year!
Complain about this post"He will bowl better and get fewer wickets, but he brought a wonderfully fresh spirit and enthusiasm to the team." - Agnew
"Well he's bowling well but he's no Shane Warne"
- repeated remarks from commentators
Good to know the negativity is alive and well.
Complain about this postmonty said he wasn't a miracle worker but from this performance miracles can happen!
Complain about this postI cant understand why people label Ashley Giles as King of Spin. He can only be only the king of spin if there is no other English spinner available. Here are few statistics
NAME MATCHES WICKETS AVERAGE
Warne 142 694 25.44
Muralitharan 109 664 21.88
Kumble 110 553 28.75
LR Gibbs 79 309 29.09
R Benaud 63 248 27.03
Chandrasekhar 58 242 29.74
Harbajhan Singh 57 238 29.86
Abdul Qadir 67 236 32.80
DL Vettori 72 219 35.01
Grimmett 37 216 24.21
Saqlain Mushtaq 49 208 29.83
Ashely Giles 49 143 40.60
Monty Panesar 11 37 30.11
There are loads of bowlers with 200 or more wickets and 11 of them were spinners. There will be a lot more who have between 143 and 200 wickets (more than Giles). As one can see that his average is pathetic as well.
For heavens sake stop calling him King of Spin as the its an offence to the spinners who are alive and a disgrace to those who have died.
Although Monty is new to the international cricket it doesn’t take one to have a statistical mind to see that his figures are more impressive than the so called King of Spin.
Well done England……..for once the team has been selected properly……however I would still prefer Reed over G.J.
Complain about this postplz play following team
Complain about this poststrauss, cook,bell,collingwood,pietersen,joyce,flintoff,jones,hoggard,harmison,panisar
Despite all the excitement over Monty's performance I think the two wickets give Australia the edge. My feeling given the psychological position after Adelaide is that England will struggle to get 200. I hope I'm wrong.
Complain about this postWell done Monty and Harmison!
A good first day, but I can't help but feel a little dismayed by the seemingly tabloid paper like attitude of English cricket fans during this series.
Panesar should have played earlier, but some of the things said about Giles are out of line. The guy did a job for England for a long time, he'll move over now and should be remembered as a good servant of English Cricket. Why can't people just be happy that Monty is playing? Why the need to vilify Gilo? It doesn't say much for us as Cricket fans.
Also think the bandwagon jumping has gone as far as Geraint Jones aswell, he's had a fine series behind the stumps, if not with the bat yet. He's been picked, get over it, he doesn't deserve to be dropped mid-series.
Let's hope we can get 400+ on the board tomorrow and give the Aussies a real target to aim at. We can win this test, lets concentrate on doing just that, rather than getting caught up in all the hype.
Complain about this postEnough said about Monty...I just want to know how the other selection conversation must have gone...."yes Chris, I know you are a far better keeper and I know you've batted as well if not better than jonesey in test matches over the last 12 months but, you know, he's a good guy and I just have this feeling that he will come good over the next couple of years so no matter what you do, he's in..."....next time the luck might not be with us as it was for Symonds today!
Complain about this postPanesar has shown Fletcher and Flintoff's selections so far to be ridiculous, they could be responsable for us loosing the Ashes. Does BBC columnist Jonathan Agnew admit he is wrong for agreeing with their decision during the 1st test?
Complain about this postThree cheers for Monty - I'm going to grow a beard like his (or maybe just a 'tache)
If only Robert Key had opended with Straussy we would be better off batting wise
Complain about this postBack of the net! The Monster has arrived! sadly a month too late. It's time now to put the shambles of the last 2 tests well and truely behind us and capitalise on the confidence and inspiration that Monty, and not forgetting Harmy have displayed on the first day. If Colly can display the same grit that he has throughout the Ashes and if Strauss can score some (of late) elusive big runs, we could make a decent lead here. Regardless of what has happened up until now, if we win this one it puts the pressure back on the aussies, they are expected to win the boxing day test, and that adds presure in itself.
Moving forward, I like the look of our top 5, but both Flintoff and Jones need to start contributing seriously in the lower middle order for us to become serious players on the world stage - the whole issue of Giles at 8 because of his batting has been required to prop up a weak 6 and 7
Both Flintoff and Jones look the part, but would do well to take a leaf from Collingwoods book - 'None shall pass'
Complain about this postAt last we have seen an England bowling attack with some bite! Well bowled Monty and Harmy! We can start asking other crucial questions like how to get more wickets out of Fred and whether we should strengthen the batting by bringing in Reid (!) for Jones. Clearly Flecther and Fred were not quite big enough to admit that they had made a mess of that sekection decision as well.
The King of Spain has been a fine team man for England. Gilo has bowled well for England in the past without being a wicket taking threat and his efforts with the bat should not be ignored, but you can't help feeling that his efforts with the bat woudl not be needed if he was better at taking lots of wickets! So thanks Gilo and all hail Monty P!
Complain about this postWatch Johnathan, u were the one who were against Monty. You even said that he would not have made much difference had he played in Brisbane and Adelaide. How wrong you were. Duncan Fletcher dont deserve any credit because he was eventually forced to pick Monty and that was because of criticism. He would have definitely made alot of difference at the adelaide as well. He is the sort of bowler who can take wickets when batsman attacks him. Like Symmonds today. Also spin played the major part on the last day at the adelaide and sadly Giles was sadly not part of it. Most importantly someone else would have fielded at that deep mid wicket position when Ponting hit that pull shot.
Complain about this postFor Duncan Fletcher, he faced alot of criticisim for not picking Monty and again he will face more criticism for picking him too late. He would face some more criticism when Chris Read will play in the next test match. Keep it up Duncan.
I hope you will realise now that what is more important for england. 25 runs from Giles or 5 wickets from Monty.
What we need now is one of the top order to go on and make a big one.
Complain about this postAs I have said before I dont believe this Aussie side are great, we can beat them.
Dont lose your grip England... Sieze the opportunity and dont be afraid.
Not only is Monty our best spinner, he is arguably our best bowler of any sort. It was an absolute clanger to leave him out, particularly after Brisbane when it was so obvious we needed a wicket taking threat. If Giles was capable of scoring big runs it would have been more understandable, but he is a useful tailender not even an allrounder?! The Aussies no.9 Bret Lee is a better batsman than Gilo.
Complain about this postAs usual Aggers I enjoyed reading your report- to me it is only the end of the days play when you have submitted your report.
Complain about this postHowever, would I be right in saying that you still have problems/concerns with Monty. Just from reading your report I get the feeling that you are not totally enthused with him. I think if Giles had taken a "five for" today your report would have had a completely different tone.
Secondly, with regard to Freddie as skipper I was hoping he would resign before the third test so as not to lose my respect - a bit like the Martyn retirement thing-and I still believe this as a renewed energy in the England team today had nothing to do with Flintoff but purely down to Monty. Bring back Vaughan as skipper - he would score as many runs as Cook as an opener.
Does anybody else agree with me>
Would just like to point out that with the exception of Punter Ponting, all the top order got in and made 20+. I think this gives even more credit to the English attack.
Complain about this postWhile i agree with all the comments praising Monty, i must point out that you cant blame Giles for whats happened in the previous tests. He was picked just the same as any other player. If you want to blame people then look at the management and selectors.
Complain about this postJim, what you call arrogance and contempt we call confidence and self belief... what did you want Ponting to say? 'we are scared of Panaesar, and will block him all day'
Get a grip mate....
Complain about this postAn uplifting day at last for us - however your putative 350 is very wishful: their bowling attack is marginally better than ours, we have no batsman in Hussey's kind of form so reaching their total will be an achievement. Maybe Monty will biff us past to 300 if we're lucky - it certainly seems like his luck's in.
Complain about this postI woke up this morning and felt I was in a dream world. Harmison got a four-for and Panesar a five-for. I admire Duncan's courage with sticking with Harmy - I said in a previous entry Harmison wouldn't have made my final 11 in either of the first two tests - but I'm glad Panesar has proved the whole nation right. What a man. What a character. He brings an undeniably huge boyish charm and energy. He's got grit and determination to boot. I now feel we've got the firepower to take 20 wickets in a test and potentially save the series (that is a tall ask, but I live in hope!).
I will definitely be watching the highlights tonight on the telly. Panesar's enthusiasm is definitely infectious and I want to see those 5 incredable celebrations again.
Complain about this postEngland had their day of success against the Aussies, but remember the Aussies have bowlers who are capable of bowling the English out very cheaply and for a very, very low score. I think Panessar was lucky to have those wickets, however if with his mediocore spin he can get wickets, i can't imagine what Warne will do. Look at Bell he was so nervous when he was facing Lee, and the other English batsmen. they do not look confident at all. The Aussie bowlers have noticed that. and tomorrow will tell the story, and true grit of the Englishmen.
Complain about this postEngland have performed like top professionals and have worked hard to dismiss Australia on Day 1 for under 250. It is now imperative that England's batsmen forget about the series deficit and simply bat! It has to be instinctive and natural. If they start to over analyse the situation they'll lose their edge. We have to have the Aussies immediately on the back foot in the 2nd dig. This is a real live chance to get competitive in the series. Australia will naturally feel the pressure if England can have them trailing by 150/200 at the halfway stage. They're only human don't forget. 'Come on the middle order'.......believe in yourselves !!!
Complain about this postMonty SHOULD never have missed out on any of the test matches.
Better late than never.
TAKE THAT AGGERS!
Don't speak too soon for the wheel's still in spin.
Complain about this postnow the england managment know why the whole nation was asking for monty to be picked,no disrespect to gilo but i think hes has his time in the england team but lets just hope its not 2 tests too late.we need the batsman to get some runs on the board with the captain leading by example,fredy says he doesnt feel any presure but i think its time for him to deliver
Complain about this postBack of the net! The Monster has arrived! sadly a month too late. It's time now to put the shambles of the last 2 tests well and truely behind us and capitalise on the confidence and inspiration that Monty, and not forgetting Harmy have displayed on the first day. If Colly can display the same grit that he has throughout the Ashes and if Strauss can score some (of late) elusive big runs, we could make a decent lead here. Regardless of what has happened up until now, if we win this one it puts the pressure back on the aussies, they are expected to win the boxing day test, and that adds presure in itself.
Moving forward, I like the look of our top 5, but both Flintoff and Jones need to start contributing seriously in the lower middle order for us to become serious players on the world stage - the whole issue of Giles at 8 because of his batting has been required to prop up a weak 6 and 7
Both Flintoff and Jones look the part, but would do well to take a leaf from Collingwoods book - 'None shall pass'
Complain about this postabout time monty started a match.
Complain about this postHow defeatist of you Tom. Why shouldn't England win these last 3 Tests and WIN the Ashes?
Complain about this postIts about time we got over Giles v Panesar selection and moved on. Time to bat sensibly but positively and aim for decent lead to offset batting second innings on a tricky pitch.
Complain about this postC'mon England!!
I am sure that Monty will have good days and bad in the future and may well have not bowled perfectly today (and he will eventually cease to be a novelty for the Aus batsmen) - but the key point is (as others have said here) that things happen when he is on the pitch; plus, you want players who actually want to be there and compete, not just make up the numbers.
I note the comments re Freddie's enthusiasm (or lack of) for Monty's wickets - but did anyone else listening to TMS pick up on a slightly less than fulsome attitude by the Brit commentators towards Monty ? Whilst the Aussies on the team sounded genuinely impressed (and staggered that he was not playing earlier) some of the Brits seemed a bit mealy-mouthed - underlining that maybe the pro-AG sentiment runs beyond just Freddie and Fletcher .....
Complain about this postExcellent bowling by England, now we have to bat properly. We need someone who is going to bat all day tomorrow, someone like Sir Geoffrey of old.
Complain about this postAll England cricket fans, even the ones who supported Giles' selection for the first two Tests, will be delighted by Panesar's success.
However, those who use today's performance to "prove" they were right all along are misguided. We lost in Brisbane because of poor batting in the first innings, and in Adelaide (especially) because of poor batting in the second. Given the pitches those matches were played on, we should have started today at 0-0, having drawn the first two. and Panesar's inclusion would not have improved on that.
By all means say Panesar should have played throughout, but don't delude yourself either that if he had done, we'd be 2-0 up, or that if he had done, we would have drawn both matches. The Giles/Panesar debate shouldn't cover up the reason for two defeats on two featherbed pitches - the batting was inadequate when the pressure was on.
Complain about this postWell the very least U can say about Jonathan
Agnew is that he is consistent in his disdain for
the merits of including Monty in the First XI
Talk about grudging admiration !!!
He may be the People's choice - but at least he
looks like a Wicket Taking Bowler unlike Gilo.
Still at least the latter can take solace in the
fact that he writes an entertaining Tour Diary !
Anyways over to KP / Colly & Fred to put some
Complain about this postruns on the board and give us a springboard to
getting back into this Ashes series
Good on you Mr Panesar.I always thought that if Your captain was selecting Giles instead of you,then he ought to be looking at the seven players before Mr Giles.Please let it be said that a bowler is a bowler is a bowler,and batting ought to be left to the batsmen.
Complain about this postGood on you,and keep up the good work.
Are some journalists a little too close to the England set up to be objective? It`s been painfully obvious to us mere cricket fans that England`s most successful and exciting bowler of last summer has been ignored. This is either extremely incompetent or worse ; some kind of nepotism. And yet we`ve been accused of "banging on" about Monty as if we were ignorant on the subject.
Even after his 5 wicket haul, some of the commentary has been slightly grudging. He may not have bowled brilliantly and yet he still took 5 wickets. What might he be like if he starts bowling well?!? Monty is basically a great guy to have in the team, he regularly takes wickets and as some one else said, he "galvanises" the team.
But then what do I know? I`m just another ignorant blogger.....
Complain about this postEngland as a team put up a really good show; but once is not enough. They will have to keep intensity throuot till they win this game, may be on the fourth day or early on the fifth day.
Complain about this postIt seems at last the coach Fletcher found right balance, he was desperately seeking.Probably, he also realised one has to play positively even to draw a game, I mean the second test at Adelaide which was foolishly lost and that to by the professional cricketers.
Bajarkar
This may be a little unkind on my part, but does anyone think that Freddie kept Monty on after his 17 run over in the hope that he would it would have been repeated a few times, getting him whacked out of the attack? This would have shut up all the Monty supporters and given some justification to Gilo's selection for the first 2 tests.
Complain about this postWonderful performance from Monty though.
Well said Aggers,
Although I do remember some pundits not too far away from this site advocating the inclusion of Giles over Panesar in the first test. Are these doubters now ready to renege on these dalliances with the bizarre and taste their humble pie?
Complain about this postAll hail the Sikh of tweak, misguided and conservative to leave him out. Would you have played Thorpe instead of Pietersen Aggers?
Complain about this postGreat to bowl them out, still v nervous though. Will keep the faith but but 51-2 is a worse score than they had. Come on England, no more looking back, Adelaide long gone time to hold heads high and tonk some runs. I ache to hear the sweet whining of the beaten Aussie.
All hail the Sikh of tweak, misguided and conservative to leave him out. Would you have played Thorpe instead of Pietersen Aggers?
Complain about this postGreat to bowl them out, still v nervous though. Will keep the faith but but 51-2 is a worse score than they had. Come on England, no more looking back, Adelaide long gone time to hold heads high and tonk some runs. I ache to hear the sweet whining of the beaten Aussie.
Jim
Poor, bitter, whining Jim.
It is very clear from your posts just how hard the last few weeks have been on you. If you don't enjoy the cricket... if it makes you so angry and bitter... stop watching.
Exactly which comments by Ponting were "disgracefully disrespectful" to Panesar? He said they would target him for some treatment. What is disrespectful about that? Wouldn't England do the same to a young Aussie player?
You seem like the type of England supporter we see way too much of. The ones who expect every opposition player and supporter to spend all their time praising the English. The type who spends so much time moaning when someone dares make negative comments about them... that they forget that you guys do nothing but criticise them when they don't play the way you want them to.
I'm very sorry that the Aussie players and supporters celebrated the win in Adelaide. Having regard to your comments after one day’s play in the current Test, I can only imagine that you would have greeted an English win with a quiet golf clap.
I've not read of any players bragging or gloating. I have, however, read of several of them commenting on how the job isn't done against a good England team.
It appears that you take offence at the Aussie players being happy with 2 wins out of 2. HOW DARE THEY!!
It also appears you have no tolerance for Aussie supporters bragging about 2 wins from 2. I think you should cast your mind back to the comments of some of your countrymen when England went 2-1 up last year... or better still, after the series had been won. I'm sure you'd find it interesting.
Then again you'd probably find a way to justify the bragging and gloating of the English team and supporters (ticker tape parade anyone??)... whilst still moaning about our "nauseating arrogance".
Lighten up buddy. I seriously hope things don't go pear shaped tomorrow. You'd have to go on anti-depressants.
Complain about this postWhatever the arguements about Ashley Giles being a better all rounder, Monty's enthusiasm, I believe lifts the other players. Furthermore, wickets are like goals in football and most captains will take them over a tail ender maybe adding 10-15 runs extra a innings. I think much is made of Monty's batting, but his bowling and the spark he brings compensates for any lack of technique with the bat in hand. I think Ashley Giles has been a model pro for England and will be again when needed, he doesn't however have the 'feelgood' factor Monty so clearly provides. The 1st 2 tests dampened the spirits, he has lifted them and our Ashes hopes.
Complain about this postIt was exactly the same argument with Thorpe and Pieterson at the beginning of the last Ashes and look how that paid off. (although Thorpe was actually proven, genuine class)
Whilst it's a little early to be hailing Panesar as the saviour it looks like the selectors have righted a massive wrong 2 tests too late.
Complain about this postWhatever the arguements about Ashley Giles being a better all rounder, Monty's enthusiasm, I believe lifts the other players. Furthermore, wickets are like goals in football and most captains will take them over a tail ender maybe adding 10-15 runs extra a innings. I think much is made of Monty's batting, but his bowling and the spark he brings compensates for any lack of technique with the bat in hand. I think Ashley Giles has been a model pro for England and will be again when needed, he doesn't however have the 'feelgood' factor Monty so clearly provides. The 1st 2 tests dampened the spirits, he has lifted them and our Ashes hopes.
Complain about this postCould not picking Monty for the first two tests be the worst decisions in Ashes history?
Complain about this postCometh the Hour, Cometh the Man...
Monty has proved what we the mere armchair cricket fan have always known....that he is a class spinner, and on his day up there with the harbhajan's, murali's of this world...
The pressure going into this match for him to perform would have been huge, but he took it in his stride and shown he can mix it at world class level. Time for the King of Spain to do the honourable thing and abdicate..
As a British born Sikh I feel inspired that one of my community is performing and shining on the world stage.. chak deh monty.. the fans are 100% behind you.
Complain about this postPeter - McGrath was good, not any more mate. Taking wickets against this line up isn't special, he's had it. Have you seen him plodding around the field? Good grief. Australia 2-0 up in the serires should bring in someone else maybe under 30 for a change. Clarke covers the McGrath role well enough, time to move on.
Complain about this postGreat effort by the England bowlers, clearly Panesar has made a huge difference but the fact that Harmison finally turned up meant that for the first time England had an attack that could work together and create pressure...which then leads to mistkes by the Aussie batsmen. After all the justified flack thrown at the English batsmen after Adelaide, tomorrow is an opportunity for them to prove that they have what it takes to get back in to this Ashes series. Come on England!
Complain about this postRef post 41. I don't know why Geraint never gets any praise. Some people just need a fall-guy I guess. You know what they say - if you keep telling someone they're crap, they'll start believing it. And from what I've seen, his keeping has been good in all 3 tests so far.
And before anyone starts banging on about his batting - I'd be the first to admit that he needs to make a good score, and I would really like him to. But who's to say that Read would do better? Interesting to note that Jones's average this series is only 1 short of Gilchrist's (the "best" wkt-batsman in the world??).
What's with the calls for DF's resignation? The ozzies lost last year, and didn't sack their coach, captain, or anyone else. They picked themselves up, learnt from the experience and came back determined to win this time. I think England can learn a lot from that attitude instead of this footballer's thing of using the coach as a scapegoat every time.
Complain about this postColley need to get a big hundred - that will get warnie wound up as the dropped catch - see what happend when giles dropped ponting . This will play on his mind again and again and will let KP , freddie and dare I say even jones pile the runs. I am sure that is is a 370/380 pitch - remember 4 of the top 6 aussies gave away their wicket!
Complain about this postLets not dwell on what might have been had we picked a different side for the first tests. What matters is this match. We need to keep our concentration and put in a good day with the bat tomorrow, and keep on winning sessions day in day out. Lets save the questions for when the Ashes are safely under lock and key!
Complain about this postLets not dwell on what might have been had we picked a different side for the first tests. What matters is this match. We need to keep our concentration and put in a good day with the bat tomorrow, and keep on winning sessions day in day out. Lets save the questions for when the Ashes are safely under lock and key!
Complain about this postCome on Aggers! You can't just gloss over this - you after all called 90% of bloggers here deluded (us deluded!!). Now it's your job to have an opinion, and fair enough - but you should also be able to spot and confess to errors of judgement!
Repeat after me...! -
"I now fully accept that to believe a non spectacular left arm spinner (who can bat a little bit but had not played first class cricket for over a year) should have played in place of England's most exciting spinner for a generation was very very poor judgement!. I apologise for calling those that disagreed with me deluded, i realise this decision by the England management - which I fully supported - may have cost us the chance to retain the Ashes"
Complain about this postAh... is this the same Aggers who backed the selection of Giles over Panesar for the first two tests? How easily he forgets...
Complain about this postTomorrow will be a challenging day for the batsmen and there were signs today that Paul Collingwood's nerves were on edge. The bowlers have confounded their critics (Harmison) and justified their tragically belated selection (Panesar). The pressure will now be on the batsmen to atone for their dismal performance in the second innings at Adelaide. They should view Harmison as a sort of role model- an example of someone rising from the dead. Let's hope they keep their heads and consolidate a commanding lead.
Complain about this postIf the Australian innings was anything to go by there is little chance of this game petering out to a draw. The pitch is lively, a result, either way, inevitable
"Ashley Giles would have looked on and wondered how many gun-barrel straight deliveries he has bowled over the years at left handers."
Complain about this postI think you missed the point. Ashley Giles only bowls gun-barrel straight balls. Monty bowls with flight and spin, so that when he does bowl a quicker one, it's a dangerous ball. It's all the looping ones coming in before that set up the wicket.
good call Aggers,
it's evident that hazy decision-making by the likes of gilchrist aids monty's figures, but this is just what happens at high-level international cricket, under intense pressure. gilo's never had an element of creating unease, which monty has, and the english fans' adoration of him only enhances this for the aussie at the crease.
now if freddie finally comes to the party with the bat....no, i'll leave it at that. too early.
Complain about this postIf Monty Panesar had played in the first 2 Tests would he have become BBC Sports Personality for 1966 ? we will never know !
Complain about this postKieran McMahon - Flintoff resign as captain and bring back Vaughan? Kind of difficult right now given that Vaughan has barely played any cricket? Surely not even Duncan Fletcher is stupid enough to make that mistake twice???
Complain about this postactuually i think its not that late even now we ,ve come back on track.panesar will be hopefully with us in next whole series remaining and from here we start our fightback n can win 2 out of 3 definitely as we did in 2nd and 4th test of 2005ashes n saved the third test so, let,s hope we can do it again.remember series is far from over yet.
Complain about this postBeing a Strauss-for-captain believer as of the Pakistan series in the summer, I'm finally seeing why (in your Podcast) Boysie has been so defensive of Freddie. After this great day for England, thankfully I'm still looking foreward to see what contribution Mahmood can make in Australia's second innings. Along with Panesar I thought he should have been in the team atleast in Adelade as, although inconsistent, he is the kind of player who can come up with big hauls occasionally. This (and the luck needed with Mahmoods bowling) are the two things England need if to have any chance of pulling off the miracle required.
Complain about this postWhat were they thinking ever considering playing a spinner who doesn't move the ball. At last they have come to their senses and put the right man in the team. Good to see the key bowlers firing on all cylinders as well. Just hope its not too late.
Complain about this postGreat to see Monty show Mr Fletcher why he should have played from day one! His bowling will improve now he has come through what must have been a high pressure first day - many people will have expected him to struggle with the pressure of playing in such a decisive match and I for one am delighted he passed the test with flying colours!
Complain about this postGood to see we are continuing with an attacking style of cricket that served us well for four days last time out.
Thought Geraint Jones did well behind the stumps - let's hope he can reproduce that sort of form with the bat in his hand!
Monty Panesar proved what most people knew from the beginning - that you do not beat the Australians with a defensive team.
Whilst England may concede runs (such as Symonds' 17 from 1 over), the ONLY way to beat Australia is to bowl them out - and that is where Monty comes in. Attempt to control Australia and they will make you suffer, as they have done time and time again over recent years.
Steve Harmison also showed that the lack of warm up cricket DID affect him (and most of the rest of the team) and now, thankfully, he seems to have got his eye in. I think that Flintoff took a lot of pressure off Harmison by not making him open the bowling - and it worked!
THIS is the team that should have played from the off.
Complain about this postMonty produced the goods as there was no pressure on him or England. Everyone has gone nuts over him, but the expectancy has rocketed.
The pressure is now on him (from everywhere) - the media is great when a player does well, but stinging if not so good.
For me, he needs see how Shane Warne has maintained his standards for years, still the best bowler ever.
I'm more pleased for Steve Harmisson, a super guy and super player who's taken a lot of stick - his excellent 4-48 contributed hugely (and conceded far less runs than Monty).
Vijay
Complain about this postAny remaining apologists for Monty's non-selection at Brisbane and Adelaide will probably trot out the same old mantra that "it wouldn't have altered the result". This may or may not be true.
Complain about this postHowever, the charge that they will find it difficult to refute is that, on today's evidence, we did not pick our strongest side in the first two Tests.
Has Alastair Cook heard of the middle of the bat? Useful guy for catching practice, but useless when out in the middle for England.
As for Ian Bell, what was he playing at? Awful shot.
Complain about this postJonno,
you're still only reluctantly acknowledge the worth of Monty - alluding to his offerings of enthusiasm rather than the quality of bowling that managed to get 5 wickets on a 1st day WACA pitch. As an 'expert' it's always refreshing, but rare, if reflections are made about arguments erroneously uttered. Your comments above which infer lucky Monty and poor bugger unlucky Giles don't reflect any dignity or grace upon realizing that one clearly has made a bad call. I wonder if Fletch will react similarly.
Complain about this postThe previous two tests are over - no point even thinking about them. The point now is that England have a great chance to gain a first innings lead and have another crack at the Aussies' batsmen. The enthusiasm and positive attitude Monty has brought, along with his own bowling of course, is exactly what the team needs.
Complain about this postMonty holds his nerve ! The whole of the cricketing world will be looking at Fletcher and asking why? His theory of Giles getting runs at No.8 was nothing more than a cover for his negative attitude.The sooner the TCCB realise this the better. Fletcher has to go.
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