Another outstanding day for England, makes me nervous and think there must be an absolute shocker of a day round the corner! But hopefully not with this England team who have demonstrated the exact discipline, skills, and hunger that's vital to push a side like Australia in their home conditions.
I cannot praise Alastair Cook's efforts enough so far on this tour. We know he has certain technical issues he has to battle with, but when he's in this kind of form, they are not as glaringly obvious and his new-found ability to cover drive elegantly is an exciting addition to his game. His patience and discipline in compiling his runs is a lesson to all players in making the most of their good form.
Trott is another player who has taken his game to the next level. The comparisons with Kallis are there to see. The way he works the ball through the legside is impressive and adds to the confusion of Ponting's tactics early in his innings. He got into a little trouble when Australia belatedly tried to rough him up with a clear short ball attack, and that may prompt this kind of strategy in his innings to come.
Thought Ryan Harris was the pick of the attack, stuck to the plans better than the rest, and showed decent control. Another long day for him though may see a recurrence of his knee problem.
The fielding was very un-Australian like, Hussey firstly setting the tone with a poor drop in gully, then Haddin made a hash of what should have been a regulation catch.
Really hoping this weather doesn't change, despite the forecast of showers on the horizon. Still a lot to do for England but we're in an excellent position.
Ha ha, hope you're not taking the mickey, I can be a bit boring can't I ??
