Today's cricket

[Hank]

I've always liked Bell and think when he's in good touch he's the England batsman I'd most like to watch apart from KP.

That said, he does have a tendancy to let the pressure get to him in tough situations and his test batting average is boosted by big runs against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka (though good luck finding a top bastman whose averages aren't improved by big runs against lesser teams). However, you've got to remember he's been part of one the best ever eras for English cricket, is a good fielder and has test centuries against every test nation (quite rare) and averages 40+ in tests against India, Pakistan, South Africa and the Windies (32 against Australia). Not too shabby.

[Muddy Retriever]

However, you've got to remember he's been part of one the best ever eras for English cricket

I see that as reinforcing my view. He's been part of a good team so over the last few years often he has come to the crease with England in a strong position and the pressure has been less. But if England have had a faltering start I never expect him to tough it out for long.

I don't know, maybe I'm being unfair. It's only my perception and I don't have any facts to back it up. You're right to say that when he is on song, his stroke play is very watchable.

[Alf]

Rooty is out England 302-8. Good innings by the Yorkshire lad :thumbup:

[Stagger]

Rooty is out England 302-8. Good innings by the Yorkshire lad :thumbup:

Aye, Well done Rooty.

Eng all out 330 India 22-1

[Swoop]

Aye, Well done Rooty.

Eng all out 330 India 22-1

Trev, if you keep giving the scores then Alf will have to find something else to do!:wink:

[Derby Tup]

Jimmy has got the Little Master :w00t:

[Swoop]

Jimmy has got the Little Master :w00t:

And another - not bad for a Lancashire lad!

[Alf]

Some steady batting from India today with Dhoni pushing himself up the order. India are putting themselves in a position for a 1st innings lead.
227-4 at tea.

[Alf]

At last an Indian wicket :thumbup: 269-5

[Alf]

Brilliant run out by Cook! Dhoni out on 99. 295-7