A calculator for Mr Gilchrist please

Let’s see: 166 – 41 = 125. 63-13 = 50. Gilchrist will need to score 175 to wipe of the runs scored after he dropped Trescothick and Vaughan. Some consolation for Geraint Jones I guess!

England are in a wonderful position to go 2-1 up in the series at 5-341 at stumps. It was a great toss to win for England and with Australia’s blunders to help, they took full toll. McGrath returned but despite bowling well (mostly), he was very expensive and had two dropped catches. To rub salt into his own wounds, the very next ball after Gilchrist dropped Vaughan (which was a very difficult chance), over went Vaughan’s off stump (again) but Steve Bucknor’s left arm was signalling no-ball.

Warne’s 600th came as Trescothicks’s dismissal was Pietersen all over again. Except this time it actually was out. I only saw a quick replay while sitting at the card table his morning, but it was a sweep that hit plenty of things including the back of the bat and Gillie’s knees before popping up for Gillie to make a smart grab.

Even more startling was that Ponting gave Katich a bowl. Vaughan was so shocked that he smashed a full toss straight down McGrath’s throat at long on.

Australia took some late wickets to revive themselves somewhat. Their chances of winning seem somewhat remote. They possibly could be thinking more along the lines of not losing. All will depend on their first dig. They will need a big improvement on Edgbaston. But this pitch really is a belter. No more evidence to that is needed than this: Ian Bell 59 not out.

The Name’s Bond

There is some other cricket aside from the Ashes being played in various parts of the world. But enough said.

I would like you all to be aware that New Zealand quick, Shane Bond has made a welcome return to Test cricket. The Kiwis will welcome his return after a long struggle with back injury. Bond was a sensation at the last World Cup and was a top drawer bowler at his peak.

All the best to him and let’s hope he can make it all the way back.