Even before the first match, we were annoyed that the ‘series’ (can only two of something form a series?) was so short; after the fun and farce of that game in Cape Town, it seems downright disheartening.
If we had a mailbox, we’re sure it would be overflowing with letters asking us to report what’s been happening in the cricket world lately. So, in response to all you correpsondents who have had their letters returned to sender (address unknown), here’s a brief summary of the various international series.
There are some things that you can never get tired of: boobs, repeats of ‘Allo ‘Allo! and laughing at the Australian cricket team probably being the three most significant.
In a stranger world, Owais Shah might still be playing for England. Thankfully, he’s not.
The movement of players around the world may solely be based on the desire to make some more cash, but though we are happy to describe the likes of Keiron Pollard as profiteering, T20-specialising leeches, we firmly consider that any of the brave England boys who opt to boldly go into the wild frontiers in search of a game are genuine, praiseworthy individuals in pursuit of cricket’s fundamental essence.
We thought it was time for another look at what has been happening around the world, with the other eight Test sides all still involved in ongoing series.
Nobody really expected convincing back-to-back series wins against India, so on the face of it, a home win and an away defeat were par for the course. What was disturbing was the dismal spectacle of an England side being thrashed in four of five matches and crumbling in the field in the other.
In the final match of the tour, England win thanks to a top notch bowling performance and powerfully competent batting.
India vs. England. Again! This really is the last time, honest.
THIS IS SPARTAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. Or Englanddddddddd, but that doesn’t really work.