Starfighter
Cricket Web: All-Time Legend
Thing is McSweeney's still only averaging 34 after 28 matches. I do think he's a decent talent, but more like one who'll average high 30s in tests at best
It's not just the wickets, it's the setup, though the pitches are definitely part of the thing that is stopping batsmen developing when they reach FC level.
I hate to admit to reading BigFooty (but there's simply more discussion on there, even if most of the posters have apparently had a lobotomy), but a few guys on there talk about how all age group representative cricket in NSW is white ball and all the young batsmen are taught 'bat speed' rather than proper strokes. No one is learning to bat time. The focus on pathways also means batsmen are both playing less grade and fringe or ex-FC players drop out much sooner. So young players are mostly playing against other young players and not being tested as much.
As NSW is nearly a third of the country it's obviously going to affect things when they're not pulling their weight. Their Shield side has been a disgrace, and while the lack of test players is an excuse, it's been the case for a decade. They've had time to build a side without them.
All this talk from us might seem a bit over the top. I actually don't mind us seeing drop a test at home (as long as we draw or win the series) as it keeps things interesting. But the crapness of practically every team overseas of course prevents that. Pakistan should have been able to win a test, but went to pieces at crucial times to keep in with their stereotype. But I want a team that can win in England, and expects to. This summer with more sporting wickets has shown that the team has issues in those conditions, and are vulnerable under pressure. I want a strong side and a strong opposition that can test them, but not too much. Except England, stuff them.
