Steve is not Finn-ished. Finn, 26, has been a one-day
regular for England in recent months but has not played a Test in over two
years, his last appearance in Tests was in the opening match of the 2013 Ashes.
Mark Wood’s fitness problems unleashed an opportunity for Finn and he fully
utilized it. He generated pace, bounced and swung the ball to jolt the
Australian batting line-up in the second innings.
The Australian pacers did make early inroads in the first
session, but the 87-run partnership between Moeen Ali and Stuart Broad
stabilized England’s position. David Warner dished out a counterattack, but he
lacked support from the other end. Steve Smith, Michael Clarke, Adam Voges, Chris Rogers and Mitchell Marsh
failed to provide the perfect foil to Warner’s aggression. The way Steve Smith
got out in the second innings was surprising
– a half-hearted premeditated pull shot is never expected from a batsman
who is enjoying the form of his life. Does pace-bowling friendly conditions
dent Smith’s confidence? He was found wanting in Cardiff and at Edgbaston, he
has been fragile as well.
Michael Clarke’s poor form has become a worry for Australia.
Is his poor form indicating the end of his career? He is a hard nut to crack and I firmly believe
that there is enough cricket left in him.
Peter Nevill is still fighting out there for the Australians. There has to be a fairytale innings from him and an inspiring partnership between him and Mitchell
Lastly, congrats Mitchell Johnson for your 300th Test wicket.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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