Australians mourn the ‘death of cricket’ after humiliation
“Humiliation of a century”, “Pathetic Aussies hit Ashes low”, “Ponting’s men humiliated” – read some of the headlines in some Australian newspapers. Cricket http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Australia-c746 most certainly hit a new low on the much awaited boxing day as things did not go as they
were planned for the Australians. Their team was routed at a humiliating score of 98 in front of 85000 cricket fans who had come to watch the match. England then went on to further torment the Australian bowlers after they posted 157 runs without the loss
of a wicket.
The Sydney Morning Herald wrote an obituary in their newspaper, that read, “In affectionate remembrance of Australian cricket, which died at the MCG on 26th December 2010. Deeply lamented by a large circle of sorrowing friends and acquaintances.
RIP,”.
The criticism of Ricky Ponting and his men was unforgiving as they failed to capitalize and challenge the English bowlers who completely annihilated the Australian batting line up. Some of the Australian batsmen succumbed due to bad shots, while others were
victims of some absolutely brilliant bowling. Peter Roebuck wrote that Ricky Ponting and his men were like ‘lambs to the slaughter.’
It is unlikely that the Australians will be able to win the Ashes from here on, after England batted brilliantly with a magnificent ton from Jonathan Trott who lead his team from the front well supported by Matt Prior. Alastair Cook scored a well deserved
80 while Matt Prior batted on 75 not out. England now lead by 346 runs after their first innings and it is expected that they will bat some more for the third day, to increase this lead against the Australians.
If Ricky Ponting and his men expect to save the test match, it would require some absolutely brilliant performance from their batsmen. Ricky Ponting lost his cool with the umpires as well questioning them over a decision that was taken by the third umpire
after a review. Trott proved to be the anchor of the England innings, as the Australian’s are most certainly destined for their doom. This also puts a big question mark on the career of Ricky Ponting who has failed to perform in six out of the last seven innings
that he has played. The Australian’s certainly cannot expect rain to miraculously save them the match.
If Ricky Ponting wishes to save his career, he would have to fight hard to do that. At the moment though, England seem well poised to win the match and there is very little the Australians can do about it.
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