OnlyClarkey
Club Cricketer
Yes yes, we managed to snatch a draw from the Aussies fingertips and all that. But we're no closer to gaining the Urn. It just means 1 less chance at winning.
I'll start from the top. Alistair Cook? He's looking out of shape, is he worth playing in the 2nd test when Bopara could probably open. If dropped, Bell could easily come in at 3 or 4, allowing Pietersen the other. Bell needs a chance, he will play well if he's chosen, in my opinion. And it also allows Pietersen a go at 3 if he wants it.
Next on the agenda, Stuart Broad. Useful with the bat, but what's happened to his bowling? I say he needs to be dropped for the next game, allowing Ryan Sidebottom to get his chance. Siddy has the agression and passion required to make each ball a battle. He's also pretty handy with the bat.
Finally, 2 spinners? 1 spinner? Now we've got the spinning pitch out of the way, I'm afraid I would drop Monty. He is a better spinner, no doubt, but Swann is not that much worse and provides a very good anchor with the bat. In his place, Steve Harmison. Time for him to step up and prove he's still got it.
I'll start from the top. Alistair Cook? He's looking out of shape, is he worth playing in the 2nd test when Bopara could probably open. If dropped, Bell could easily come in at 3 or 4, allowing Pietersen the other. Bell needs a chance, he will play well if he's chosen, in my opinion. And it also allows Pietersen a go at 3 if he wants it.
Next on the agenda, Stuart Broad. Useful with the bat, but what's happened to his bowling? I say he needs to be dropped for the next game, allowing Ryan Sidebottom to get his chance. Siddy has the agression and passion required to make each ball a battle. He's also pretty handy with the bat.
Finally, 2 spinners? 1 spinner? Now we've got the spinning pitch out of the way, I'm afraid I would drop Monty. He is a better spinner, no doubt, but Swann is not that much worse and provides a very good anchor with the bat. In his place, Steve Harmison. Time for him to step up and prove he's still got it.