England v Australia A - Day Three

It was an indication of how far my expectations have changed that I was slightly disappointed to find Australia A 100-3 when I got up this morning. This is partly because of my raised expectations of England’s performances, but also a reflection in the changes in the depth of talent available to Australia.

This isn’t a bad Australia A side – it’s perfectly possible to imagine Khawaja, Ferguson and O’keefe donning the baggy green in future and Paine, Smith, White, McKay, Hughes and George all have recent test experience – but they look rather flat compared to past incarnations. It’s not so long since Australia could have fielded an A side that included Matthew Elliott, Darren Lehmann, Stuart Law, Michael Bevan, Stuart MacGill and Michael Kasprowicz, after all.

There is undoubted promise, though. Khawaja, for all his failure in this match, is a genuine talent. Phillip Hughes, who can’t get a place in the uber-squad, has a first class average of 55, although centuries have been thin on the ground of late. Tim Paine could easily take over the gloves from Brad Haddin and O’Keefe and Smith both have plenty of ability. The future certainly isn’t bleak for Australia, but the performance, and relative strength, of the A side is simply an indication of where Australian cricket is at the moment. Hard work lies ahead.

Good day

Ian Bell

One of the most infuriating characteristics of England batsmen in the recent past has been their inability to go on and make really big centuries. Bell has shown before that he has the appetite for big scores, but this was a statement of intent. He will be disappointed not to have made a double century, though. Like Michael Vaughan, he seems to be vulnerable in the 190s.

Tim Bresnan

Having had a quiet first couple of days, Bresnan impressed, as so often, with the bat, and then knocked over three top order wickets, including two in two balls, to show why he’s on the tour.

Phillip Hughes

Having resembled a cat on a hot tin roof in the first innings, and having been omitted from the uber-squad, Hughes looked much more the batsman who terrorised South Africa in his debut series. He hit one monstrous slog sweep off Monty Panesar and the square cut that took him to fifty was beautifully played.

Bad day

Usman Khawaja

Anyone can get out first ball, but this wasn’t good timing for Khawaja, who has been widely touted for a test place. He may have to wait a little longer for his chance.

Peter George

Again clad in kit from the Australia A lost property box, George leaked runs and didn’t look a serious threat.

Callum Ferguson

Another widely touted for a test berth, and a player who has batted well in ODIs, Ferguson has had a match to forget.

Champagne moment

No particular moment really stood out, but Ian Bell’s cheeky uppercut to reach 150, Phillip Hughes’ six off Monty Panesar and the same player’s withering cut shot to reach fifty were all highlights.