Thread: Ashes 2013!

bugger!

Is it just me, or did that not look very conclusive? Initially I thought the hot spot was at a different height to the ball going through.... but I would need to see it again...

Either way, it's over now!

And if the pathetic umpiring decision on Broad's obvious thick edge to slips had not happened it would have been over an hour earlier

So close!

Anyone with any fingernails left? I think I've chewed mine up to the elbow.

So I was totally wrong about how quickly it would be all over, and that it wouldn't be as close as the 2005 series. 14 runs is close enough.

Graeme Swann in blast at Sri Lankan 'cheat' | Mail Online

Cricket is back! Long live the ashes, so near, bring on a green top wicket,Bob

Fox Sports report card for the Aussies, Bob

Ashes Report Card: Who starred and who stank for Australia in the first Test from Trent Bridge

• Malcolm Conn
• News Limited Network
• July 15, 2013 6:22AM

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Ashton Agar walks from the pitch after losing his wicket for 14 on the final day of the first Test. Source: Jon Super / AP


NEWS Limited Network's chief cricket writer Malcolm Conn runs the rule over the Aussie XI after the first Test from Trent Bridge.

Shane Watson: 5 - A useful start in the second innings and some impressive, economical bowling but must bat longer.

Chris Rogers: 5 – Unlucky lbw decision in the first innings and fighting half-century in the second. Must also press on.

Ed Cowan: 2 – A double failure with two poor shots has left his Test place in jeopardy.

Michael Clarke: 3 – Received the ball of the match from Jimmy Anderson but scored of 0 and 23 with hurt in a close loss.

Phil Hughes: 7 – A fine 81 not out in the first innings for a record last wicket partnership and unlucky lbw for 0 in the second.

Steve Smith: 5 – Important 53 in the first innings but was out to a culpable short ball when the attack was at his mercy.

Brad Haddin: 8 – Nerves of steel for an outstanding second innings which almost stole the Test.

Ashton Agar: 8 – Wonderful level-headed debut. Kept Australia in the Test with a world record 98 and his bowling improved.

Peter Siddle: 8 – Led the attack with distinction after a slow start, claiming eight wickets on a flat, dry pitch.

Mitchell Starc: 5 – Inconsistent with the ball and disappointing with the bat but still claimed five wickets for the match.

James Pattinson: 6 – Struggled at times but still claimed five wickets and batted beautifully in support of Haddin



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