Wello's Ashes Blog

Today did not make comfortable viewing for the passionate England cricket supporter, and that's putting it mildly. The Australian juggernaut has really moved into top gear against an England side who are now battling desperately against the prospect of a huge defeat.

At 602 for 9, Australia are in an impregnable position and it's clear that far from weakening as a team, the addition of Michael Hussey and Stuart Clark has actually strengthened their already formidable line up. One thing is very clear - the Aussies are determined to the point of obsession to win back the coveted Ashes. Players like Ponting, McGrath and Warne are all- time greats and they will do everything in their power to make sure the urn returns down under.

Sympathy for Englishmen in Australia is a rare thing and the Australian equivalent of the Barmy Army, 'The Fanatics', have several unpleasant songs concerning England's absent opening batsman Marcus 'Stress - Cothick'. The criticism is not just confined to the Aussies though, and England fans throughout the Gabba are particularly unimpressed with the listless performance of Steve Harmison. He has all the attributes of a world class quick bowler but simply did not deliver when his big mate Flintoff really needed him, and the worrying thing is he doesn't deliver far too much for a player of his ability.

James Anderson also found his first taste of Ashes cricket a chastening experience, though his relative youth can excuse him somewhat. The Australian crowd now sense blood and it will take an almighty effort to keep them at bay. To be fair to them, they cheer loudly when Freddie Flintoff comes on to bowl, respecting him as a 'fair dinkum' bloke and champion cricketer but when he comes out to bat tomorrow, they'll be doing everything they can to make it a short stay for the England captain.

Time for some bulldog spirit, and a lot of luck.

Wello