Ashes2005: 5th Test @ The Oval

The Ashes Urn

Image Courtesy: http://www.vauxhallsociety.org.uk/

Cricket lovers from all around the world will be glued to their telvision sets, monitor screens, radios, and whatever device they can possibly get a hold of, to catch a glimpse of what is possibly one of cricket's most celebrated event: The Ashes. As the series comes to a climax, temperaments are high amongst fans on both sides that are participating in this fight for glory. England lead the series 2-1, which leaves the fate of the Ashes Urn in the hands of the deciding match that is currently underway at The Oval in England.

Strauss celebrates his
7th Test Century

Image Courtesy: BBC

Match Report:
At the end of the first day, England were comfortably poised at 319/7 with some much needed contributions coming from Andrew Strauss and the ever-dependable Welshman, Andrew Flintoff. Strauss and Trescothick initiated the English innings with some cracking strokes that left the Australian captain in a state of distress. Even with the return of legendary pace bowler Glenn McGrath, both openers had no trouble in dispatching him and his fellow opening bowler, Brett Lee to the boundary. The introduction of Shawn Tait in to the bowling attack did not bother either batsmen either. In fact, it only made things easier, as the English batsmen raced away to 82 without loss.

Flintoff scored a
valuable 72 off 115 balls

Image courtesy: http://www.newstodaynet.com/

As was bound to happen, the master of spin, Shane Warne was introduced. From that point on, things swayed drastically in favour of the Australians. Warne worked his magical spin and in quick succession got rid of Trescothick, Vaughan, Bell, and fellow Hampshire mate, Kevin Pietersen. With the loss of four vital wickets, the English batsmen were coercively placed on the backfoot. It was left to Strauss and Flintoff to sail the innings to a respectable total, and they did just that. Strauss scored a marvellous 129 off 210 deliveries while Flintoff contributed with a spirited 72 off 115 deliveries. Flintoff was unfortunate to not reach his century as he was caught by Warne off McGrath. Soon after, Tait was rewarded for his persistence when he struck Collingwood in front, who was only able to manage a meagre 7 runs in his 26 ball innings. Not very long after, Warne got rid of Strauss, who was becoming a thorn in the Aussies' way. When stumps were called, Geriant Jones was at the crease with Ashley Giles, both at scores of 21 and 5 respectively.

Warne spun a web and
trapped the English
batsmen inside.

Image Courtesy: BBC

Jones will have to play the leading role for the rest of England's innings to ensure a total of anywhere between 350 and 400. The English are backed by a fearsome bowling attack and score of 350+ will be a difficult ask for a fragile Australian batting lineup. It remains to be seen whether the English will retain the Ashes, or share it with the Baggy Greens. Stay tuned for more on the Ashes 2005!