I was livid about England tactics in the allegedly 'brilliant match' which saw England opt for defeat in the first test.
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Yesterday, England's bowling was inadequate. Had it not been for Tongue ... The fielding was not up to scratch and countless runs were lost to no balls.
England were different again this morning. The bowling was as good today as it was mediocre yesterday. The remaining five Aussie wickets tumbled.
England made a splendid start with Duckett and Crawley and were even able to get past losing the latter for a 48 which had promised to be so much more.
Pope, Root and Duckett all fell victim to extremely ill-judged shots to short pitched deliveries - indeed, Root was effectively out twice as the first time his wicket fell - it was to a no ball!
Appalling! Wild heaves on a pitch from all of the top five batsmen to no purpose whatsoever.
England have treated the Aussies with contempt and will pay a heavy price.
I do not know if the word 'dimwittery' exists but if it does not, then I claim it for this bunch of players who have not been rational in their approach to Ashes cricket.
A shambles. Can this match be rescued? - I hope so but thoroughly doubt it with these attitudes! Wafting the bat in an uncontrolled manner at bouncers, with three fielders waiting out in the deep, is simply crazy.
