The SquizLog

The Ashes Decider at The Oval

The fifth and final Test of what has been an enthralling Ashes series is almost upon us.

England are rightfully confident of regaining the little urn that they lost back in 1989. Their fans have gone cricket mad to the extent that the English players have become sex symbols!

I can relate to the English desire to restore pride in their national cricket team. In 1989 I happened to be living in England when the visiting Australians were greeted by the English tabloids as "the worst Australian team to visit these shores". How quickly things changed. I well remember one day in the office when I was asked the score during the opening day of the Test at Trent Bridge. My reply of "none for 280", no doubt delivered with a grin, was greeted with the response: "You smug bastard!"

Now it would appear that the boot is on the other foot. Well almost. Australia can still escape with the Ashes if they win at The Oval. McGrath has been passed fit and England are still deciding who will replace Simon Jones.

Hopefully for Australia, they will win the toss and Hayden and Langer can return to their glory days by posting a big partnership to set up a platform for their team to push for victory.

Whatever happens, this series has been the best thing to happen to Test cricket for many years.

Posted to Cricket by Keith Pitty