Should be a good day.

Yes, Monty seems to be out bowling Swann at the moment, which is a pleasant surprise. I wouldn't want England to be chasing more than 150 in the 4th inns vs Ajmal though

The whole series is weird with hardly anyone in the stands. I know we can't play in Pakistan but these matches are ridiculous.

Of course that'd be nice. But it's not likely (although of course possible) that England can get 6 more wickets for, what, 95 runs.

I'd be happy with a target in the 200-230 range.

(I don't suppose it's going to rain in Abu Dhabi?)

The forecast is for cloud on Saturday, followed by sun all the way.

200-230 *should* be within our grasp, but Strauss, KP, Bell and Morgan look woefully out of touch. Not sure if the pitch will start to break up......

I expect it will, but still....

We'll see.

Oh dear.

Understatement of the year so far

Oops.

Ok, so 1st test = thumped. 2nd test = choked in SA fashion.

What changes to make for the 3rd test ?

Am I correct in the only other batsman we have out there is Ravi Bopara ?

Got to be a Morgan out Ravi in, if nothing else to prove to batsmen that their places are not set in stone. Ravi also offers a few overs of military medium to bore the Pakistani batsmen out.

IIRC we need to win the last test to preserver #1 status...

Seems like Bell recovered from his dicky tummy. NOt sure if Monty or Finn will play. Seems like a bit of an anticlimax but the game starts in about four hours.

I think I'll just check out the OBO tomorrow morning.

Well this looks a little better.

Oops again.

Oink, are you a curse on English batting ?

Did anyone place a spread bet on the number of LBWs in this series ?