Why we can't win the Ashes

[Bulls forever]

So why'd we win the 3rd test if Punter is so horrible?

MITCH, if he maintains that form, get your money on, almost unplayable in Perth, granted Melbourne won't swing in the stadium, but if he gets into them early look out. Humidity in Sydney might let him swing it. We wait and see. Sorry forgot the reborn Huss.

[Bulls forever]

I agree that N Hauritz is the dominant slow bowler in Aus, although that bar isn't set horribly high anymore...

If you say a spinner must play, then he makes it, as the BEST slow bowler in AUS right now.

But REB, don't use his batting mate... Yeah he made two tons, but if we start looking at a number 9 or 10 because they can bat a bit, then we are really up the pooper...

I still believe you pick your best XI, and as far as bowlers go, no spinner is in there...

MP, have heard they have changed the drop in for a grassier one for Melbourne, pitch tampering, all for it if it means we beat the POMS. And if they have, 4 quicks you will probably see. Agree with the Horrie bit, but he might now be in the dust bin, not many fringe players bag Aus cricket and get another look in.

[Media Park]

My post must have come out wrong...

All I'm getting at is this obsession with a slow bowler in the side...

There is no point playing a Steve Smith type player, because he is not good enough to bowl in Test cricket, nor is he there with the bat, same with Beer, Doherty...

If your four best bowlers are quicks, and I mean the four bowlers most likely to take 20 wickets, then they should be the ones playing...

[smac]

So why'd we win the 3rd test if Punter is so horrible?

Because of his brilliant batting. Although I do admit his fields were MUCH better for this match. Remember NFC, it is series victories not test victories as to how Punter will be remembered and he is one test away from being a three time Ashes series loser.

Has any other Aussie captain managed this dubious feat? However, I hope you are right and I am wrong.

regards,

REB

I keep hearing this and with no stats to hand, I ask "how many captains have taken the team to so many Ashes campaigns?" Does being a long term skipper skew the stats?

Isn't he also the skipper with more wins in test cricket than any other?