If I maybe a Nark and ask, what the heck Phil Jacques? He played a fantastic innings, maiden test century, he played a extraordinary knock. I was impressed by his ability to remain calm and composed early in his innings, especially being on 0 for 34 balls, that takes enormous amounts of self composure, not to stab at one or play a rash shot. After he reached about 20 I was glad to see he opened up and played a great innings. Here is my only qualm, Why did he charge Murali? Yes, he is on 100, yes his spot is probably nailed for a while, but, he had a great chance to really push on and get a big’un. I guess you could say the same about Hayden too, he got a little ambitious. However, well done Jacques, a great century, hopefully it isn’t the last for him for the summer.
Pup and Mr Cricket played I think played exemplary innings’. Clarke looks in great touch and seems to be reading Murali better than most others, and is not afraid to smother either, which is a good sign.
I was proud to see Johnson playing, however, he was a little wayward, which is understandable. Lee bowled extremely well and fiery, to get 2 wickets was a good show. From what I saw of MacGill, yes, I was not impressed; he looked to bowl a lot of pies. However, I do concede, he was bowling with an 11 over old ball, grip would be a problem, it is the first test and he only bowled a few overs, so he still has time.
Australia should not lose form here, they have everything to gain.