Ashes 2009, England v Australia, 1st Test, Day 4 Report

Another horrible day for England. They came out with absolutely no energy and will to win. As the TV commentators repeatedly pointed that being in a negative state of mind can be lethal and that is exactly what has happened. England have already lost two wickets and it will be a struggle to last a full day tomorrow. In my opinion, England would be lucky if they are able to draw this test match. Ravi Bopara who could play a long innings has departed and the batting pair at this moment – Strauss and Pietersen are the last ones that can actually save the match. England cannot lose any more wickets till Lunch Day 5, if they want to save this match.

Well Australia dominated pretty much the whole day and morning session was no different. Brad Haddin and Marcus North continued to score at will. The slowness of the pitch hasn’t helped England either. None of the bowlers are getting any sideways movement and England doesn’t stand a chance to win without swing. Marcus North and Brad Haddin absolutely demoralized and destroyed the English attack. Both reached their hundreds and Brad Haddin became the fifth Australia wicket keeper to get 1000 runs. Both batsmen accelerated the scoring hitting English bowlers all over the park before Brad Haddin finally gave his wicket away. And there came the declaration.

English batsmen walked in and we saw the difference between two sides. Australian bowlers had the passion and energy to win this game and picked two quick wickets rather than the lackluster bowling by English bowlers. Ravi Bopara got a bad decision as the ball was hit him too high on the pads to be give LBW.

Now onto Strauss’ captaincy and English strategy – I think the fast bowlers were overused this match. There was lots of help for spinners on this pitch but Panesar and Swann didn’t use it to their advantage. And Strauss was left with no choice but to use the fast bowlers.