Definately one of my favourite ODI matches ever.
Again, the selectors were absolutely brilliant with their XI and then Ponting used them incredibly well. I'd probably put that down as the best tactics I've seen in an ODI Match. Hauritz definately benefited bowling to so many left-handers, which is ironically an area in which Australia struggles, but who could begrudge him that?
Two other things - I thought the commentators were way harsh on Bracken's bowling. Yes, his stats are expensive, but he had Gibbs caught behind which would make it 2/36, which I'm sure no-one would then bicker at. :rolleyes: I thought he was fantastic bar his last over in which he seemed to fatigue.
Also - Neil Manthorp - wtb? He just went on a snide rampage. Hussey gets MOTM and Manthorp just insults him and his tour and then finishes with 'Well batted'. How good of you. Then Ponting comes up and he starts dissing Punter about the batting powerplay. Was so unimpressed.
I wish I could contact Ponting/the selectors and say thank you. It was a joy to watch that match.
For South Africa, I won't pretend I know who to select. But it seems strange not picking Prince and Parnell and dropping Gibbs and Ntini. Feel free to disagree, but both the Ps have looked really good against Australia in the past.