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England vs Jamaica Day 3

Thursday, March 4 2004

England vs Jamaica Day 3

England 320 and 259-6 declared
Jamaica 281 and 106-6

At the start of this game, Paul Collingwood found himself leapfrogged by Rikki Clarke as first reserve in case any of the first choice batsmen found themselves ill, injured, or dropped. Today, given his opportunity because of Mark Butcher's injury, he put together an attractive hundred which, at the very least, has put him in pole position as first reserve, and may even lead to a place in the test side. Those who would write off today's innings of 103 as a comfortable knock against limited opponents in easy conditions may want to look at the performances of England's other recognised batsmen in this game. Not for the first time, Collingwood showed more application than one or two of his more famous colleagues and, as a result, scored rather more runs.

Things did not start well for England today. Trescothick would benefit from some time in the middle, but he failed to add to his overnight score, being caught in the gulley attempting to drive the ball without any discernable foot movement. Flintoff was next in and should have departed almost immediately, but was dropped in the slips with only a single to his name. Having been granted a life, he then bashed a quick 57 in characteristic fashion before making way for first Giles, and then Clarke to spend some time in the middle. After they departed, Vaughan's declared and set Jamaica a notional target of 299. Given that tea was almost upon us, the more important thing was for England's bowlers to improve on their first innings performance.

Anderson started well, having Parchment caught by Vaughan early on. But after that success, he, Harmison and Hoggard struggled to trouble the batsmen. The game seemed to be petering to the inevitable draw, but things did liven up in the final hour. Flintoff ended the second wicket partnership, having Pagon caught behind and then we were treated to the Ashley Giles show. He quickly took four wickets to remove the Jamaican middle order, but there was not enough time to force the win.


Posted by David