England’s “Swann” Song in Adelaide

After four fantastic days at the Adelaide Oval, England were in a match winning position going into the final three sessions of the second test. Australia went into the last day on the brink, trailing by 137 runs with only six wickets remaining in their final innings. Surely Ponting’s men required a miracle to survive the day? For weeks now the topic of conversation up and down the country has been the weather.  For once, I think all England fans would have settled for snow if it meant a sunny day in South Australia.

England had mixed feelings as they woke up for the fifth day. On one hand, we were in touching distance of an infamous win on a bright sunny Adelaide morning, the lesson to be learnt here is to never trust weathermen. Unfortunately though, England would be taking the field a bowler down after the severity of pace man Stuart Broad’s injury was revealed. The devastated Nottinghamshire bowler had suffered a grade three tear in a stomach muscle and would not only be unavailable to Strauss for the rest of the test match, but for the remainder of the series. A big blow indeed for Flower’s side.

Despite this, England took the field with confidence and vigour. All eyes were on world class off-spinner Graeme Swann as he looked to take advantage of some substantial rough kindly provided by Doug Bollinger. With the ball turning and bouncing, Australia were going to have their work cut out. Despite this it was quickie Steven Finn who made the break through, dismissing the main threat Mike Hussey and justifying skipper Strauss’ decision to take the new ball.

From here on jubilation ensued. Anderson took the wickets of Haddin and Harris in consecutive deliveries, leaving the Aussie quick Harris with a king pair to his name. It’s a good job you bowled well Ryan. It was Swann though who was going to take the accolades from the day, dismissing North, Doherty and finally Siddle to finish with figures of 5-91 from 41.1 overs including 12 maidens.

England managed to not only secure a one nil lead in the series but do so with unequivocal ease. Losing by an innings and 71 runs, this is the first time the old enemy have suffered an innings defeat at home since 1993. The Australians were completely outplayed from start to finish and have possible changes to consider looking ahead to Perth later in the month. England’s celebrations encapsulated team spirit and a realisation that they are capable of greatness within the realms of international cricket.  

As I shot out of my arm chair screaming like a child on Christmas morning when we took the final wicket at 1am yesterday night (sorry housemates!), I sensed a feeling of overwhelming pride. Never before have I witnessed such a one sided performance in such a pivotal game. Despite tired eyes I still managed to stroll up to my nine o’clock lecture this morning smiling like a Cheshire cat. Better luck next time Ricky! Let’s head to Perth!!

Thanks for reading!