BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?

Subject: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 07:09 AM

Does anyone think the Aussies can pull off the great escape in the last (chance saloon) Test?

England have dominated the series, yet still did their level best to let the Aussies in throuh the back door. Vaughan's crazy decision to enforce the follow-on gave Warne & Co a sniff of a chance - another 20 runs or so and I think they would have won it.

If the Aussie's win the toss (and Ponting doesn't suffer another "Captain Madcap" moment) can they do it?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 07:21 AM

Well I must admit at the time, I thought Vaughan's decision was the right one...

As for the Aussies, yes they can do it but so can England.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 07:28 AM

Oh yes...now we have you thinking you'll cruise it...this is where we come in and thrash the pants off you!!! Hahahahahahahahaah!!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 07:41 AM

NOT AGAIN PLEASE YOU ARE BORING THE ARSES OF PEOPLE WITH THIS BLOODY CRICKET. I JUST WISH THE BEST TEAM WINS.

AUSSIE/ENGALND

TAM FRAE SCOTLAND

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 07:42 AM

You've got to use that metaphor haven't you Lynne?
Giok ¦¬]

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 08:12 AM

Simon Jones is out which is a bit of a blow.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 08:36 AM

I'll be glad when this shite is all over, not only me but a number of people, I mean there a people in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ierland that couldn't give a shit about Cricket, so why do you all shut up about this very boring game.

And leave the rest of the people in peace.

Tam frae Scotland.

PS
Scotland have never being beating by the Aussie this year.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 08:52 AM

Scotland - Ah yes - endless bloody roads, villages without pubs; grey houses......
Don't talk to me about boring, I've been to Scotland

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 09:01 AM

Tam, although the team is called England, the ECB is the England and Wales cricket board. Simon Jones, the player I moaned is out for the next game is Welsh.

England has been captained by a Scotsman (Mike Denness) and a Welshman (Tony Lewis).

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 09:02 AM

Ah Tam it'easy to see you don't like the proper 'beautiful game' I heard an interview with Jimmy Reid who was one of the leaders of the upper Clyde shipbuilders strike, eulogising about cricket in a broad Glasgow accent. Did you know that a lot of cricket is played in Scotland and a vilage called Freuchie won the UK Village Cricket cup in 1985.Anybody who is deaf to the charms of TMS and the asides of Henry Blofeld an Bill Frindle has missed one of lifes great events.
Giok {From even further north than you} ¦¬]

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: gnomad
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 09:14 AM

Tam is right that there are a number of civilised folk even in England who would undergo considerable inconvenience, pain even, rather than have aught to do with cricket.

Kinda makes you wonder why Tam (or I) bothered to open the thread at all.

With me it's just natural perversity, you Tam?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 09:19 AM

Interesting though, how often you seem to be opening and reading the thread Tam. I wonder who is forcing you to do that? I find a lot of the US politics threads boring, so I've found a really clever way to avoid being bored by them....I   DON'T   READ   THEM!

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 11:10 AM

Cricket IS the beautiful game. It's so sad that folks who haven't a clue what it's about trot out the old chestnut "It's boring".

Boredom is what exists between a couple of ears that fail to listen and learn, and behind a couple of eyes that look but don't see. It's a pathetic excuse for ignorance and apathy.

Lighten up - look, listen, learn, and live a more enlightened existence, and (likely as not) live longer......

Now, Baseball, on the other hand.....

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 11:18 AM

You mean American Rounders LJ?
G..

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 12:03 PM

I mean any sport that last for 5 days, two teams wear the same uniform, the scores at the end is different and yet they call it a draw. Mind you I find Football (soccer) boring as well, I like games like Rugby and cycling, which you see really good injuries but with cricket it starts at 11am and ends either 6 or 7 or when it's their bedtime.

Tam
I don't think that I'm in a minorty well I hope not.

But the world would be boring if we all did the same things wouldn't it.

Tam frae Scotland.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 12:18 PM

Cricket's boring eh, Tam? It's shite is it? And this from a native of a country whose national sports involve either:-

a) Hitting a tiny white ball with a stick until it disappears, then walking around looking for it, and repeating the operation seventy or eighty times. Boring. Shite.

b) sliding a big flat stone down a sheet of ice and sweeping in front of it until it stops. Now that shite truly is F***ING BORING!
S:0)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 12:35 PM

I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE however I said I just don't like cricket, at least golf and curling keeps you fit, at cricket the 'players' are standing most of time, doing nothing. The bowler jsut runs up and the batsman just stands there looking stupid, and he then moves forward and then lifts his bat up and the ball go thorugh to the wicket keeper, and you lot get excited about this.

But as I said what a boring place the world would be if we all liked to the same things, and anyway can you lot not take a joke.

Tam frae Scotland

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Ooh-Aah2
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 12:41 PM

Anyone who STILL bleats that cricket - draws and all is boring after this series needs to be taken off and quietly knocked on the head. Either they have the intelligence of a newt or else they have an inferior concentration span. What's 5 days?

I hope so much that England win - as an Englishman living in Australia I can tell you that the braying of delight from the Australians will be quite dreadful - the fact that they will get a draw in the series at best, and that they were all sure of a 5/0 whitewash to Australia before the series will be quite forgotten!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Alan Day
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 01:06 PM

Looking at the weather conditions it looks as though a draw is the likely result.
Al

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 01:39 PM

in Scotland and Northern Ireland cricket isn't that popular unlike England, and there is only one real team is wales.

but you lot just can't take jokes, I couldn't give a shit about cricket and so can another 5 million Scots.

Tam

I was just trying to raise a laugh, but you lot have the sense of humour of a dead cricketer, so I hope all enjoy the 'game' and then get a life.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 01:40 PM

I like ALan day, he's the one that is smart.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 01:51 PM

Now before you jump down my throat, I'm only joking, kidding on, however if I have upset anyone then I'm sorry let's agree to diagree ok.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 06:41 PM

I generally like to back the underdog. But I'm confused which side that would be this time...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 06 Sep 05 - 10:37 PM

I think Australia must qualify for underdog status since they have been outplayed for most of the series, only able to hang on through pure bloodymindedness, but having said that, I have grown accustomed to seeing them come back from the brink of disaster and take the win.
I can't help thinking that they will do it again, but I also have this nagging feeling that perhaps the time has come for England to return.

The short answer: Dunno

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 02:51 AM

One thing for sure though - This is the best chance England have had for a long time and the only chance the're likely to get for another long time if they miss it.

But they only need to draw. Australia need to win.

Be aware that we will be witnessing a rare and exciting moment in cricket history.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 03:00 AM

He wishes for the cloths of heaven

Had I the heavens' embroidered cloths,
Enwrought with golden and silver light,
The blue and the dim and the dark cloths
Of night and light and the half-light,
I would spread the cloths under your feet:
But I, being poor, have only my dreams;
I have spread my dreams under your feet;
Tread softly, because you tread on my dreams.

        -- William Butler Yeats

It's the last line that is pertinant here Tam, cricket lovers are passionate people.
I'm not upset that you don't like cricket,I do though take issue with your sweeping statement including 5 million of our fellow countrymen in your argument though.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 06:58 AM

well I'm going on hoilday to Aussie, to visted my family there, and they are a mixter of Scots/English and Australian, we just have a carry on about England, because we just do it for a laugh, I don't really mean all that stuff about the English. But as I say there are some people who just can't take a joke.

I just hope the best team wins that's all

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Paul Burke
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:01 AM

If the wild bowler thinks he bowls,
Or if the batsman thinks he's bowled,
They know not, poor benighted souls;
They too shall perish unconsoled.

I am the batsman, and the bat;
I am the bowler, and the ball,
The umpire, the pavilion cat,
The roller, pitch, and stumps, and all.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:08 AM

is it poerty now, I thought it was about cricket

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:11 AM

But cricket at its' best IS poetry Tam.
G..

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:12 AM

I'm praying for 5 days of rain and the forecast looks like plenty of rain to come :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:20 AM

is it? I mean seeing a fat Aussie (Warne) smoking a fag and then saying he's a sportsman. I mean if that's poetry, then OK it is.

But mind you I like the one day cricket because it's fast.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:26 AM

comm on aussie comm on comm on .the song will be sung again
we got warnie we got mcgrath

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:32 AM

COME ON AUSSIE COME ON I just love that song, well that part of the chorus, somhow I don't think the English would like it.

please remember that they won the world cup in 1966, and they will bot let the world forget it, mind you in 1967 Scotland were the unoffical World champions, and in 2004 Ireland were the unoffical world champions at rugby union, it's sad that the Englsih don't talk about that isn't it.

But I just hope the BEST team wins

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:53 AM

I, as an Aussie, refuse to comment on this thread!

Oh...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 07:59 AM

Fat he may be, and a smoker and serial philanderer etc etc... but he's the finest bowler of all time and a great character. I shall miss him desperately when he retires, but it will be some consolation that England will probably dominate the game for 10 years unless the Aussies manage to conjure up a clone.

For the life of me I can't understand why every youngster in the land isn't trying to copy that wristy magic of his. I was a half-decent medium pacer back in the 60's and remember trying to bowl leg spin out of the back of my hand during friendly games. The only danger I managed to inflict with this action was to spectators and fielders.

Warney - we love you mate - but for Christ's sake have a bad day or two in your last UK ashes match (especially if we have to bat 1st)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 08:01 AM

Ooops - sorry - for "bat 1st" read LAST!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: muppett
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 08:18 AM

Who do you reckon should replace Jones then, Collingwood or Anderson, tricky, I think my vote would go to Collingwood for his all round ability.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 08:24 AM

If Anderson was on top form, I'd pick him. I'm not sure from the snippets I've read that he is though.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 12:30 PM

"For the life of me I can't understand why every youngster in the land isn't trying to copy that wristy magic of his"

all teenage boys are desparately trying it in the privacy of their bedrooms :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 07 Sep 05 - 02:59 PM

If I was betting I think I'd put my money on Australia. And not just because they've a McGrath in the squad.

Which would mean that I'm seeing England as the underdog, so I really should want them to win. (But if they play for a draw that's a different matter. Any side playing for a draw deserves to lose.)
.............................

Anyway I gather everyone all over England is supposed to sing Jeruslame at 10.25 on Thursday for the start of the match. But noone has said what key it is supposed to be sung in. Any suggestions there?

Actually I have a feeling that Jerusalem and Waltzing Matilda wouldn't work quite well as tune and countermelody, with a bit of tactful timing. But perhaps tactful timing mightn't be the order of the day.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 03:29 AM

yer gotta win something your no bloody good at soccer

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 03:57 AM

On dodgy ground there Tam mentioning football, you only need to remember Ali's Army as far as Scotlands abysmal attempts at the World Cup is concerned.
As for the cricket, I have this deep dread that England will be looking for a witch doctor to drum up some rain before this last test is out, they do after all make a bit of a specialty of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. I would be happy to be proved wrong though.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: RobbieWilson
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 04:32 AM

Tam, I'm with Giok in that you can count me out of your 5 million. I got my love of cricket from my dad who, like Jimmy Reid was a shipbuilder on the Clyde.

I have loved this series and especially watching Shane Warne, undoubtedly one of the most talented and conbative sportsmen I have ever seen in any sport.

The crowing about how dominant England have been has really amused me. They are one win ahead on the strength of a batsman being wrongly given out when Oz were only two runs short of victory. They almost gave away the win in the 4th test and the draw in the 3rd.

I watched the final session of the fourth test in a pub at Bridgnorth festival with locals and fokies and as always as a Scot in England I took a lot of stick. I will be watching this one at Bromyard and will of course be rooting for Australia in order to avoid this.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Old sore ribs.
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 04:47 AM

Northern Ireland 1 England 0, last nights defeat has to be the greatest humiliation from the United States 1-0 victory in the 1950 World Cup, some incentive for the willow whackers, pardon me while I laugh, ha-ha-ha-ha, etc, Old sore ribs.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jim
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 05:15 AM

WON THE TOSS!!!!!!!!!!!
Last chance for the Aussies almost gone!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 06:23 AM

50 in 50 minutes, for none. Poor bowling - Hope fading for the Oz

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 06:25 AM

57 for none now..... is that good?

LTS - lifelong cricket hater, despite spending several years trying to understand it....

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 06:35 AM

Warnie has come on in the first hour of day one.

Dire.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 06:56 AM

..... and the great man has done it again ... hang on to your hats folks!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Hrothgar
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 07:15 AM

We're just running dead to get the money on.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 07:19 AM

Warne gets Vaughan - two down. Give us a break Shane!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 07:29 AM

Ask not for whom the BELL Tolls
Warnie - go away please

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 08:52 AM

Scotland won, England football beat, Now all we need is the Aussies to win.

(Only kidding)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 08:53 AM

I meant the English football team.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 09:09 AM

I'm only joking really, as I said I like one day cricket, and at the oval next month the Fremantle dockers and the west coast eagles who are both Aussie rules football teams are playing there.

I am going to Aussieland in Decembmer and the dockers and the eagles are both the local teams, they're from western Australia.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 10:07 AM

204 for 4 at 3.00pm.....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 10:15 AM

213 for 4 at tea - Freddie & Straussie pulling it back together. Maybe Warnie won't go down in Aussie folklore after all...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 10:22 AM

Liz- thought you hated the game? Maybe you're falling in love and don't yet know it.

My daughter, after saying for the thousandth time "Dad, it's the most boring game ever - why do you watch it!!?" now keeps pestering me to take her to matches. She even bought a book on the technicalities of the game, and now takes great delight in educating young blokes in the finer points of the game.

Liz - pick a fine sunny day, pop on your sun cream, pack up a nice lunch (include a hip flask) and get yourself off to one of our top cricket grounds..... put your feet up, breathe in the air, relax and enjoy. Fall in love - forever...
(Trust me on this)
Luv - LJ
xxx

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 10:25 AM

(alias Doctor Jim)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 10:26 AM

NAh... ain't going to happen... got far too many more exciting things to do... like watch paint dry!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 10:31 AM

Yep - "watch paint dry" was another phrase my daughter always used - (before enlightenment)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Dazbo
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 11:53 AM

Flintoff out now after a valiant fight back with Strauss - Warne took the catch. I say revive body-line when Warne goes into bat!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 03:32 PM

319 for 7 at close. It's a good job Strauss and Flintoff got some runs. I'd hoped that England would have been batting all day tommorrow but it's not looking that way. Still, Australia have to score the runs, whatever we make and it might rain tommorow...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Ooh-Aah2
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 03:42 PM

(In a strained voice): When's that bloody rain coming then?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 03:51 PM

I thought it said Friday last time I looked. Anyway now,

Going by the BBC: It doesn't

Going by the Met Office: We get some rain Saturday and Sunday.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 06:15 PM

So who got the best of the day's play then? To me it seems pretty evenly balanced, but I don't think you need to be praying for rain just yet. Even allowing for Warne, England has a superior bowling attack and the Oz batsmen have not been at their best, not so far at least. So I say lay off the prayers, rain will only spoil it.
(Especially for Australia)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 06:50 PM

I'd say on balance, it was Australia's day. I think England would have been hoping to bat all tommorrow and post a total in excess of 500 and I don't think they will make 400.

I'm a bit more doubtful about England having a superior bowling attack with you having McGrath back and us missing Simon Jones but we shall see, and your batsmen still have to fully prove themselves.

Tommorrow should be interesting (again!). If our tail goes quickly and Australia bat well, we could be worrying about you getting a healthy first innings lead and Warne might be even more damagine second time round on an older wicket...

Oh well, as we've seen in this series, anything could happen...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 07:05 PM

I wish I was as fat as warnie and bowl like him a great CHAMPION

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 07:21 PM

Well Australia have had fatter bowlers - fast bowlers too! Merv Hughes. And batsmen... David Boon always looked if he had a few extra pounds - remarkably sharp in the field though.

I believe England once had a player who got dropped for being too fat. Colin Milburn - I don't remember him but my father says he was a very gifted batsman.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 07:29 PM

Well I am as fat as him, but my wrong-un isn't as good as his.

All you say is true Jon, but most especially the last bit.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 07:38 PM

...of the previous post, that is

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 07:42 PM

Yup, England are definitely the underdogs now. Though since that is what sometimes seems to suit the national temperament, that might actually mean they are in a better position to win after all. Which would mean they are now on top after all, in a sense...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 08 Sep 05 - 08:26 PM

Just in case anyone else in interested. I just looked at the Cricinfo article on Colin Milburn - here

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 07:05 AM

All out for 373. One would have expected a little more but now we will see how the Aussies can respond. This is what we've all been waiting for.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 10:16 AM

can I say that these people can watch the highlights on the channel 4 so you don't need to tell us what is happening

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 10:43 AM

No wickets down yet - storm clouds looming (one way or another).

I'm just hoping Warnie's fingers get so sore he can't bowl as many overs in our 2nd innings. If he knocks us over and we don't regain the ashes I'll try and console myself with the thought that he'll end up with arthritis and never be able to play the guitar.
(only joking Shane)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Muppett
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 10:50 AM

WAY HAY IT'S RAINING !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'M SINGING IN THE RAIN JUST SINGING IN THE RAIN

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 11:15 AM

I did say that we might end up praying for rain, as Jon says without Jones we have a problem. I do think they did better by not picking Anderson who doesn't shine on the big stage. However even before Bell got his 'duck' I did think he was not worth his place in the side. If they manage to get a proper game without the weather spoiling it Australia will win.
G..

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 11:26 AM

what happened to the English thing where you lot are not biased at all and that every man is equal.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 11:35 AM

and at the end of the day we don't really cares who wins because after all it's only a game.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Bunnahabhain
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 11:38 AM

What happened to the English thing where you lot are not biased at all and that every man is equal?

We started to look like we wouldn't lose. Equality tends to have more supporters amongst those who are relativly worse off.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 11:43 AM

Can't understand why they've taken the light - after all, they only need another 62 to avoid the follow-on!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 11:43 AM

That's ComprehensiveEducationspeak

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 11:51 AM

what happened to the English thing where you lot are not biased at all and that every man is equal.

You mean with the rain Tam? It's the same rain preventing England play as it is preventing Australia play. That seems equal to me.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 12:14 PM

SO! - They're planning on only having to bat once - get around 600 then let Warnie loose - that's so cunning and devious (bordering on the criminal) - it's in the genes.

Big Ern would be proud of 'em - that little Urn might be staying put after all.

                               XXXX!!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: freda underhill
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 05:54 PM

from the abc website..

Warne stuns Ashes crowd with five wicket haul
AM - Friday, 9 September , 2005 08:27:00
Reporter:
TONY EASTLEY: It's been the most hyped Cricket Test in years, with England poised to wrest the Ashes away from Australia.

The first day of the fifth and final Test at The Oval in London didn't disappoint the fans, from either side. England won the toss, batted and looked like building a formidable score, with opener Andrew Strauss in scintillating form against a fairly lacklustre Australian pace attack.

But Shane Warne, who may be playing his last Test in England, had other ideas. In a marathon spell, he took five wickets, the first time he's knocked over a team's first five batsmen.

SPORTS COMMENTATOR 1: As he bowls again, and it's edge to slip, and he's caught by Hayden. That is a great catch.

SPORTS COMMENTATOR 2: In goes Warne again, down the leg side. It's flicked away. Oh, it's a real strangle really, by Vaughan. And it's presented Shane Warne with his second wicket of the morning. And there, belt in the pad, he's out! My word, it's given out. Absolutely.

SPORTS COMMENTATOR 3: As Warne, fair-haired creeps in again. Again bowls from wide of the crease. He hits it and bowls him with a wonderful bit of bowling.

SPORTS COMMENTATOR 1: Warne tosses right up and he goes forward. It comes off the pad, a bad pad, catch, out! Brilliantly caught Katich in close. And Warne's perseverance, my word it's been perseverance that's been rewarded. His fifth wicket.

SHANE WARNE: Given the situation of the contest of the games and how tight they've been, and with the batting and bowling, it's probably been my best series by a long way.

I know statistically sometimes doesn't really show an indication, but I've just been happy with the way I've bowled, the way I've batted rather than the numbers. Yes, the numbers have been fantastic, but I think just I've been really, really happy with the way I've bowled, and that's the most pleasing thing. This job's not done yet though.

JIM MAXWELL: No, well you deserve a rest, but I think you might have to bowl a few more overs.

SHANE WARNE: Don't mind, mate. They can carry me off if they have to, with a stretcher.

TONY EASTLEY: Shane Warne with the ABC's Jim Maxwell.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 07:14 PM

It will (even though we may not like what he can do to us) be a shame to think this probably will be Warne's last series over here. I suppose you never know though, even though he is older and apparently can't bowl one of his balls, he's probably craftier with all the experience he has and spinners tend to have a longer life span than fast bowlers...

I think the only fast bowler in my memory that I can remember wondering whether he was ever going to slow down was Courtney Walsh - never the most glamourous of the WI fast bowlers but his work rate was astounding. To quote form cricinfo:

"A physiological phenomenon, Courtney Walsh probably bowled faster for longer than any man in history. His spirit was as unbreakable as his body, urging him on to the previously undreamed-of heights of 519 Test wickets and 30,019 balls, not to mention the countless overs he sent down for Gloucestershire and Jamaica."

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 07:19 PM

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 07:34 PM

Taking the light does seem a little strange at this point in the series, but these guys are cool under pressure and probably know what the're doing.
Lowden, you may have a point too. That would be a spectacular finish to a spectacular series wouldn't it? Can it be done?
No Rain! No Rain! No Rain!...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 08:09 PM

I've never seen rain like it this afternoon. Torrents of rain, hailstones, lighning. We were in a greenhouse in Kew Gardens, and the rain was coming through the roof, which it isn't meant to. They had to cancel all the trains locally because of flooding on the line. Took us five hours to get home instead of an hour and a half.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: freda underhill
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 10:11 PM

This is such a great game, I will be happy whichever side wins. If England gets the Ashes (as you are so close to doing) I will be cheering with you.

freda

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 10:12 PM

you bloody poms pray to much

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: ad1943
Date: 09 Sep 05 - 10:59 PM

Colin Milburn...now there was a batsman !

We saw him in Australia in the 1960s

In later days he would be seen in the Members Stand talking with players at the Sydney Tests.

Larger than life in every way

Best wishes

Allen

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 03:49 AM

Rained so hard I got stuck in a flooded car park in Ikea - which is preferable to watching cricket so I was happy..... Today it is persisting down.... looks like it's set in for much of the day.... : )

Seems we're going to pull our old trick of snatching defeat from the jaws of Victory again... we're sooooo good at that!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 04:20 AM

Bad light does exactly what it says on the tin, it makes it hard to see. If you are intent on not losing wickets unnecessarily and posting a huge score, you don't take chances.
G..

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 05:03 AM

True Giok, but I tend to panic under pressure, and knowing we have to win this one I made my judgement from over here where I can see quite clearly...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Hrothgar
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 05:41 AM

Trust the flamin' Poms! Just as Matt the Bat is finally getting his eye in, they make it rain!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 05:52 AM

I think as it stands, there aren't many overs lost. They try to make up so many per day. Doing that of course depends on weather for the rest of the game.

Even if more play is lost, I don't think Australia need to panic yet. 112-0 is a good start and they might have hopes towards that sort of 600 total.

Hopefully though England will take at least 4 wickets before lunch.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 06:08 AM

A100 maiden century for Mackenzie

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 06:35 AM

I'm a born again Christian, I'm praying that the next few days it will be fine.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 06:39 AM

Go with Grace my son

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 06:42 AM

Too late Tam, or too much sin. It's raining.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 07:05 AM

Naw it isn't not now, God must of heard my prayer

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 08:41 AM

Langer gone at last! 185-1.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 09:06 AM

For a batsman that Aggers said looked uncomfortable at the crease yesterday afternoon, he lasted a long time!
G.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 09:19 AM

Oh you are on the radio then...

I'm listening to the radio but that is a Norwich City vs Plymouth football commentary. I've been watching the cricket on my PC - channel 4 TV - but they have wandered over to horse racing at the moment (I think it's for more rain this time).

As for the rain and the cricket, much as I would take the ashes any how, I think Ritchie Benaud had it right earlier when he said this game really should be a win one way or other... Well I'll modify that a bit... a draw would be OK but in the context of this series, it would be a shame if the draw was simply one decided by the weather,

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 01:37 PM

277-2 at close - Australia 96 behind. Australia have batted well today and have got a good base :-(

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 05:27 PM

...but have they got enough time?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 05:40 PM

I'd think so, or at least enough to test England's nerve. What would you rekon on assuming Australia don't get bowled out? A declaration round about tea tommorrow?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 07:43 PM

Well in the first dig they took four sessions to bowl England out, and they should be able to do it more quickly in the second, but is Warne's 6/122 a statistical aberration?

I can't see us compiling enough runs in just one day, especially since we're 96 behind even starting, and I doubt if we can knock England over in just one day, and then there's the weather...I guess a declaration at tea or at stumps maybe would have to be the only way to go.

I'm almost prepared to start issuing "Cricket's The Winner" posts.

It doesn't look good from here.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 08:05 PM

John, I think if it came to the push, Ponting could even declare with scores level. He could lose the game doing that, though I think England would be content to bat it out if they could, but he's got to try to create a win from somewhere.

My best guess as to his plan (which of course could change with early wickets lost) would be to continue steadily as they have done until lunch and then taking chances in an effort to get some quicker runs (presumably with Vaughan by then setting some very defensive fields).

It is like chess, isn't it?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 08:08 PM

It is like chess, isn't it?

Well I often say that but to be honest, I can't play chess (know how each piece can move but I'm useless).

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 08:15 PM

Hmmm...

I wish you could 'castle' in cricket.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 08:20 PM

Sorry, that was ignorant of me. Castling - When your king is in critical danger you can move him to the other side of a rook for protection.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 10 Sep 05 - 09:25 PM

Sort of legal version of lbw...

Perhaps they should have some kind of cricket equivalent of a tie-break or a penalty shoot out when there's otherwise going to be a draw.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Hrothgar
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 03:51 AM

... and when they can't make it rain, they turn out the lights!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 04:20 AM

Never quite forgiven us for the 1932 Bodyline series have you?

Giok ;~)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: gnu
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 05:32 AM

Is it game on oe what?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 05:40 AM

Yes gnu, the're playing. Weather predicted to be cloudy but hopefully no rain.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 05:52 AM

Martyn has followed the example set by his captain.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Hrothgar
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 07:31 AM

I had the good fortune to be in Melbourne when Allan Border and Jeff Thomson nearly pullrd off an unlikely victory against England (um, 1982?).

A week later I was also at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Australia, who at that stage only needed a draw to retain the Ashes, were running up an unbeatable score, and I commented to a couple of old blokes sitting near me on the Hill (this was when there was a real Hill) that it would be interesting if Chappell declared to see if Australia could get England out and make a good game of it.

Their reaction: "Not after what Jardine did to us!"

We forgave Larwood (who emigrated to Australia and only died in Sydney a few years ago), but we'll never forgive Jardine.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Hrothgar
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 07:33 AM

They just skittled Gilchrist. Getting interesting. Just think, every wicket they take brings them closer to Warne in their second innings.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 07:38 AM

So what are we betting on now? Australia all out with a lead of about 30?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 08:45 AM

Oh well 367 all out - 6 runs behind - would not have predicted that this morning...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 08:49 AM

No?

Unpredictable you say?

I guess you won't be taking any guesses as to what's going to happen next then?

Me neither.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 09:36 AM

It must be great as having an English umpire at an England cricket mtach, just a bit biased me thinks.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 09:40 AM

Who's that Tam? Billy Bowden (New Zealand) or Rudi Koertzen (South Africa)?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: ard mhacha
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 10:22 AM

Drawn game, money on.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 11:41 AM

I think as it sits now it will be a drawn game played out or rained off, I'd prefer to see it played out.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Alan Day
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 12:50 PM

It has been a strange day regarding the light.First thing this morning I thought I had got up too early or that it was about to rain heavily and it has been like it all day.
What cricket we have had has been spectacular once more Flintoff was World Class and Shane of course is always World class.How can a spin bowler take so many wickets on the first day.The Australian side without Warne will not be so formidable and of course he is the one that even now could win this series.
Whatever the outcome it has been great fun.
After a week or so Tam you can come out of that big hole you have dug for yourself.Or is there a fourth umpire we do not know about?
Al

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 03:54 PM

It will be a nervous enough day tomorrow with the 90 or so overs that remain to be bowled. If Warne had been able to bowl more today - the last day of this Ashes series would have been even more nerve-racking that it is still going to be....There is still time for The England batsmen to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. The England bowlers
don't deserve that. They used the conditions well today - and they have been the better of the two attacks all through the series (even though MacGrath and Warne may be the best individual bowlers).

The turning point would look like being the Aussie opener's strange choice to go off for bad light. This in itself did not result in too much time being lost to that innings but the light meter setting meant that whenever the light reached this level - the umpires had to ask the batting side if they wished to go off. Not too surprising that the England batsmen said yes.

It was funny watching and hearing the mainly English crowd - who had all payed a lot of money to watch cricket - cheering when the umpires called the sides off for bad light and trying to influence the umpires - by raising their umbrellas. Just as funny was the Australian supporters taking off their shirts and the Aussie team wearing their sun-glasses in the vain attempt to suggest that the light was perfectly OK........

A case could be made that the loss of Strauss's wicket was a little unfair for the only reason Warne was bowling so early was the light level. The umpires did seem to get it right after that. No one may be in great danger from spin bowlers but it is fair to both sides if they are offered the light - irrespective of what form of bowling is available. It might be a little hard on those who pay to watch but the umpires must be seen to fair to both sides - for continuing in bad light - for one side - may result in a false outcome.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Ooh-Aah2
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 04:43 PM

Nice one Jon, that shut Tam up. Typical sour Scots bulshit.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 07:30 PM

bloody poms

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 07:49 PM

Out of curiosity, was anyone there to see the light?

It can't have been anything like this there. but where I live (near Cromer, Norfolk, UK) it was so misty... At a wild guess (expecialy as I've never been there, and I'm not sure I've been to any test ground - poss Old Trafford as a kid, thought only memory then is Worcester where wasps and Ice cream overide any memories of the game - though Pip would tell me Tom Graveney and Basil D'Oliveira were there...) I'd guess the width of the field is probably similar to the playing bit at the oval and I could not see across it - the most I could pick out the times I went outside this aftrnoon was some form of shadow where a line of trees stand.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 09:01 PM

I'd have thought if they were into technology enough to have light meters they'd have been into technology enough to have floodlights...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 11 Sep 05 - 09:21 PM

I'd have thought that maybe there are some more practical considerations there.

Even I with no knowledge beyond ohms law (and a couple of other snippets) could couple a light dependant resistor to some AD converter on some chip (I do it outside with a solar panel to decide whether mabye pond pump should be running or an outside light at night) although I've no clue what Lux there is - just a simple voltage divider that will give a reading between (almost 0 and 5V). But I wouldn't have the first clue how to illuminate a stadium and give a suitable light for play.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: rhyzla
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 04:01 AM

Apparently they tried lights during a day match in India recently, and the players wlaked off in the end - because they still couldn't see the red ball, and they could see 4 shadows of everything!

Ok, what are the predictions for today.

Mine is - Warne will take 6 for 50 and England will be bowled out just before tea with a lead of 180.

Australia will end at 120-3, and game drawn, and ashes to England!

Anybody else want to make a prediction before play starts?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 04:11 AM

Judging the light via the TV is deceptive as they can crank-up all their camera technology to make the dimmest of light look good. For example, late on in the day - the view of the pitch out of the TV studio window looked to be almost night - but when they switched to The Analist chap - who was standing on the playing surface and judged that it was too dark for any further play - it looked to be pretty good daylight.

But the point is that the light yesterday was worse (or the same) as the meter reading taken when the Australian team were offered the light and made the choice to go off. That was a surprising choice but the choice for the England side to go off - when they were offered the light - was no great surprise.

It is cloudy again here today in the West Country - and about the same as yesterday. I suspect it will be slightly more gloomy in South London. Not perhaps as gloomy as it may be currently in Australia..........But the fat lady has yet to sing 'Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport'.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: gnu
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 04:56 AM

When will play resume? Forecast for SE is cloudy with sunny periods.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 05:08 AM

The sun has just come out here.........

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 05:37 AM

Gloomy here...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Hrothgar
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 05:54 AM

rhyzla, I think that you are uncomfortably close to the mark.

However, a quick hat trick to Warne, another to McGrath, and the Poms will be in terrible trouble.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 06:10 AM

Well play has started but... I'd not expect to ssee England bowld out to allow Australia a realistic chance of making the runs. Prediction = draw.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 06:29 AM

3 down, 7 to go. First hour isn't up yet.

Just an observation...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Hrothgar
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 06:35 AM

I was nearly right about McGrath.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 06:49 AM

Came close to loosing another one then... There are times I simply do not understand the need for a quick single - it must be the most stupid way of getting out when there is no hurry for runs.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:05 AM

What did I say about Bell?
G..

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:25 AM

Northern Ireland beat England, You're nearly losing the ashes but not quite and now all you need is Scotland to be Elephant polo world champions.

Great isn't it

(only joking)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Ooh-Aah2
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:27 AM

Some Scots are tedious wankers

(only joking)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:29 AM

Flintoff gone. (Not joking).

Twists & turns - still some left it seems

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:30 AM

Tam, one thing England can not do is lose the Ashes. Only Australia can do that. It's a matter of possession...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:31 AM

I think Tam is a scocthman who drinks too much scots.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:32 AM

scotchman that is.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:33 AM

Aye John - still plenty to keep the interest...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:45 AM

127 - 5

Any predictions?

Apart from the fact that Pietersen is going to be very sore.

He must be the key. Anyone who escapes the way he has done so far - is bound to influence the result. But given the weather, the ammount of overs that remain to be bowled and the way they are playing - it looks at the moment that Australia are slight favourites.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: rhyzla
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:45 AM

I'm beginning to think my prediction at 9.00am this morning was a tad optimistic for England. At this rate we'll be lucky get 180 lead.

The issue now is about occupying the crease as well as trickling the runs. If we give them anything less than 6 an over to get, they'll do it.

By the way, what's Bret Lee on?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:49 AM

I haven't insulted anyone, be calling them wankers, it's just some people that can't take jokes.

If don't me on this thread then don't post on it and then it might disappear, as I said I have not once insulted anyone so why Insult me, if you don't like what I'm writing, then don't answer my posts.

Tam From SCOTland

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 07:58 AM

By the way, what's Bret Lee on?

Whatever it is -I want some.

And whatever it is - I hope it runs out quick.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 08:03 AM

After all it's only a game, my god some people take this 'sport' very serious, it's only a game I mean you won't die will you?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 08:03 AM

Tam, where in Scotchland do you live?

I'm afraid I've only visited 3 times but, unlike a couple of others in this thread, have enjoyed the country and the scenery. I think the best one was when I was about 14, spent mostly camping in Glenbrittle and walking from there and but also getting out by ferry to port Tarbert, although I've good memories of the others too.

I like drinking scots too although I have to be careful these days. I'm particulary fond of a good Islay malt. So if you happen to have a good bottle of Lagavulin or Bowmore, etc. going spare, you know who to give it to.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 08:15 AM

I live in a place called Saltcoats which is on the west coast, 30 miles south west of Glasgow, I like you Jon because you are very nice.

Tam frae Scotland

OK Jon.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 09:17 AM

60 overs left to bowl.

The more the England team can use up from now on - the less the Australians will have.

Very evenly balanced.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 09:21 AM

Another wicket now but we are what - 192 runs ahead already. I really can not see Australia having enough time to win.

But... usual rider of course...

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: greg stephens
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 09:27 AM

The most exciting series is now drawing peacefully to its close. Nothing more interesting can now happen......(probably)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 09:46 AM

7 wickets down.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 09:48 AM

THIS IS UNBEARABLE

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 10:15 AM

Phew!

England have made it to tea.

49 overs to go.

What a time to score your maiden test century.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: muppett
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 10:30 AM

Could be a twenty 20 style finish !!!!!!!!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: muppett
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 10:31 AM

What's the chances of a tie?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 10:32 AM

If only these comentators would not say how well a batsman is playing.
Three times that Tony Greg has put the mockers on England batsmen and Atherton tempted fate just before the 7 wicket fell - by saying that the Aussies have had the stuffing knocked out of them.

Why do they do this - it is hard enough without these silly buggers? Please don't leave us Ritchie.............

The fat lady may be one her way - but she is not here yet.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 10:52 AM

"What's the chances of a tie?"
Already working on it Muppett - it will have a motif on it - the Ashes Urn - and I will wear it with pride.

I will also design a scratch plate for my guitar with same motif.

" in England's green and pleasant land..........."

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 11:07 AM

Last chance for the Aussies - an immediate declaration

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: muppett
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 11:10 AM

Don't wear shorts LJ, so how about some shorts?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 11:11 AM

My brother John how is in Australia visted a place called Sudbury in Victoria, and he was saying that this is where the wickets were burnt all those years ago and the wee urn was also made there.

Tam Frae Scotland

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 11:20 AM

Did Warne drop the Ashes - when he dropped Pietersen?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: muppett
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 11:21 AM

Sorry I meant to say don't wear Ties LJ So how about some shorts

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Lowden Jameswright
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 11:41 AM

I've seen your shorts - are you serious?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Alan Day
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 11:51 AM

A GREAT WIN FOR ENGLAND
SORRY AUSTRALIA YOU HAVE LOST THE ASHES
FANTASTIC SERIES CRICKET IS THE REAL WINNER
Al

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Rasener
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 12:15 PM

What a disapointing finish in store.
I would like to see England go out there and bowl Australia out in 10 overs.

never mind we won the ashes. Well done England. You are truly the best in the World now.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 12:32 PM

Aye Villan but if you were Vaughan would you have declared giving Australia a sniff? I think gallows would have been errected on the pitch had that happened it it went wrong!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 01:26 PM

Ashes to England, dust to Oz.
Daughter tells me that I should sing my "Aussie" song, "Emptyhanded" tonight, but that would be twisting the knife...
Well done England, and well played both teams.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 01:27 PM

until the next time, I sort of Glad that the Poms won the Ashes.

Scotland won the world championship elephant polo.

SCOTLAND ARE WORLD CHAMPIONS

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Tam the man
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 02:05 PM

ENGLAND WON THE ASHES THAT'S GOOD NEWS.

I wish England well in their celbrations tonight, not bad from a Scottish tendoidous wanker!

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 02:07 PM

Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport

Well done to both teams.

Now that I (finally) know the result - I can at last sit down and enjoy the finest sporting contest I have ever been fortunate to witness. It was so well-contested that I never could relax - at any point.

Until I watch the highlights tonight at 07.30 on Channel 4.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 02:23 PM

What a series! Congratulations to England and hard lines to Australia.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: rhyzla
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 03:48 PM

Thank god I was wrong, from an English point of view.

Best cricket I have ever witnessed (and I went to Edgbaston - still have the ticket) - I bet I will bore my grandkids rigid in years to come!

Trouble is - how do you follow that?

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,OOh-Aah2
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 04:05 PM

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!

(bursts into tears of joy)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 04:11 PM

Thank god I was wrong, from an English point of view.

Did any of us get the result of the series right? My "bet" before it started was 3-1 to Australia.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 04:41 PM

This should make the next England Cricket Tour to Australia a lot more exciting, with the Ozzies determined to get the Ashes back ... That'll be in 2006-7.

(And if they don't succeed I imagine some joker will publish a press notice about "the Death of Australian Cricket", and they'll toast up some more bails, and the whole thing can start up again...)

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 12 Sep 05 - 05:51 PM

I've enjoyed every ball of this series.

Well done England, welcome back.

Cricket's the winner.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 13 Sep 05 - 04:18 AM

Did any of us get the result of the series right? My "bet" before it started was 3-1 to Australia.

Well Glenn MacGrath's predicted 5-0 whitewash was well wrong anyway.

Before the series - I thought that this England team could win - as they were (and have proved to be) a good and effective unit. I didn't realise quite how good the Australian team were and how narrow the margin of difference was going to be.

I hear that both teams were talking together up to 10PM. This reminds me of one of those boxing contests where both say what terrible things they are going to do to each other and having done just that - immediately rush congratulate the only one who trully knows how narrow the difference was and how much effort was required to even compete at that level.

Nice also to see that today's victory parade will include the winning women's team.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: John O'L
Date: 13 Sep 05 - 05:59 AM

Did any of us get the result of the series right?

Well apparently before the series started there was some debate in the English camp about whether or not to give Pieterson a run.
Shane Warne said they'd be wise to include Pieterson in the side because "he can hurt us".

To be fair Warne probably didn't realize at the time just how much.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: Hrothgar
Date: 13 Sep 05 - 06:40 AM

Just remember to turn up, shaved and sober, at the Gabba in December next year.

We want 'em back.

That bloody Petersen - luckiest batsman in the world before lunch - best batsman in the world after lunch.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 13 Sep 05 - 01:24 PM

Just remember to turn up, shaved and sober, at the Gabba in December next year.

And I was hoping for an equal contest........*Smiles*


Happy Birthday to Shane Warne.

Subject: RE: BS: Last Chance for the Aussies?
From: The Shambles
Date: 13 Sep 05 - 01:30 PM

That bloody Petersen - luckiest batsman in the world before lunch - best batsman in the world after lunch.

It must have been something he ate?

I hear his usual lunch consists of chewing the raw bones of a few Australian bowlers.

The 'six maniac' certainly ate poor old Bret Lee alive - after lunch........