Ashes 2023

[JeMeSouviens]

I think the risk aversion in choosing Moeen is as much to do with his batting as bowling. He makes the tail that bit shorter. I feel a bit sorry for Ben Foakes, I'd have brought Bairstow in for Crawley and kept a proper keeper, although who opens with Duckett would be an interesting question in that circumstance. I think Broad/Anderson/Robinson over Wood are easy choices just due to the conditions. They're all perfect for seaming English wickets. Stokes' fitness is a big worry though. Will B/A/R manage to carry the load of a long Smith/Labuschagne inspired Aussie innings if there's nothing doing for Moeen?

Fascinating stuff.

[Mibbes Aye]

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I think the risk aversion in choosing Moeen is as much to do with his batting as bowling. He makes the tail that bit shorter. I feel a bit sorry for Ben Foakes, I'd have brought Bairstow in for Crawley and kept a proper keeper, although who opens with Duckett would be an interesting question in that circumstance. I think Broad/Anderson/Robinson over Wood are easy choices just due to the conditions. They're all perfect for seaming English wickets. Stokes' fitness is a big worry though. Will B/A/R manage to carry the load of a long Smith/Labuschagne inspired Aussie innings if there's nothing doing for Moeen?

Fascinating stuff.

Foakes I do feel very sorry for. He should have been playing long before he finally got a run. If Bairstow needs to play but isn't keeping I would have given him a shot at the top of the order - I think I suggested that on here and maybe on the Guardian BTL about four years ago. Probably would have been a dsaster but it would have spelled some justice for poor Ben Foakes

[JeMeSouviens]

Crawley comfortable and confident (so wtfdik? ) 35 no. England 66/1 after the first hour.

Aussies playing a containing game. TMS surprised.

[Mibbes Aye]

Bowled Gaaaazza

[Mibbes Aye]

Fantastic timing and a wicket right before lunch for Boland. The session had been England's, you can't quite call it Australia's now but it's far more even. England keeping the run rate up though, it must have been over four and a half an over there.

Good session and I'm looking forward to seeing Harry Brook at the crease.