2nd Test: England v Australia at Birmingham, 4-8 Aug 2005

Ball-by-Ball Commentary


Match State: Day 1 start scheduled for 10.30am local time (9.30am GMT)

       Hello and a very warm welcome to you wherever you are to Cricinfo's
        coverage of the second Ashes Test from Edgbaston
       The first Test was a cracker and the old firm of Glenn McGrath and
        Shane Warne proved they were anything but over the hill
       What can we expect from this match?
       I'm Anand Vasu, your commentator for the game, hoping this Test
        lives up to the excitement of the first one at Lord's
       Let's cut to the chase and get straight to the news that is coming
        to us from Edgbaston
       Australia have won the toss and chosen to bowl
       England are unchanged for this Test while Australia have suffered a
        major blow
       Glenn McGrath stepped on a ball during pre-match warm-up and turned
        his ankle and has been ruled out
       Remember Glenn McGrath took 9-82 in the first Test and was the Man
        of the Match. His absence is a major boost for England
       Michael Kasprowicz will play in his place
       Australia have kept the faith in Jason Gillespie, who reportedly
        had a good bowl in the warm-up match leading up to this Test
       England have, for their part, decided to put their weight behind
        Ashley Giles, the King of Spain ... oops Spin, at his home ground
       Just to remind you, the teams are:
       Australia: Justin Langer, Matthew Hayden, Ricky Ponting (capt),
        Damien Martyn, Michael Clarke, Simon Katich, Adam Gilchrist (wk),
        Shane Warne, Jason Gillespie, Brett Lee, Michael Kasprowicz.
       England: Marcus Trescothick, Andrew Strauss, Michael Vaughan
        (capt), Ian Bell, Kevin Pitersen, Andrew Flintoff, Geraint Jones
        (wk), Ashley Giles, Stephen Harmison, Matthew Hoggard, Simon
        Jones.
       We can tell you that the pitch has caused quite a bit of concern
        over the last few days
       A freak hurricane hit the area, just 400 yards from the ground a
        couple of days back
       This meant that at one point an inch of rain had fallen on the
        pitch area in just a minute
       This makes it very difficult for the groundstaff to prepare the
        playing surface in the days immediately leading up to the match
       There is bound to be moisture under the surface, and a crusty top
        layer, usually indicating a lack of pace
       A slow seamer is the most likely prospect
       Steve Rouse, the curator, said recently, 'it's been the worst
        possible preparation leading up to a Test match'
       That can hardly be good news for anyone
       But if anyone will benefit from a slow pitch it is Australia
       They have the bowlers that can exploit seaming conditions -
        Kasprowicz and Gillespie, and Lee will anyway be quick through the
        air
       And of course, there's Shane Warne, in case the top comes off the
        pitch at any point
       England, on the other hand, have bowlers of genuine pace, who hit
        the deck hard, and they would much rather play on a quick pitch
       Play will be under way soon, so don't go anywhere and get an early
        word in at http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html
       We're now getting very close to the start of play. The game gets
        under way in just about five minutes, that's at 10.30am local
        time, 0930 GMT.
       It's Brett Lee to open the bowling
   0.1 Lee to Trescothick, wide: no run, just short of a length and far
        outside the off, slanting so much away from the left-handed
        Trescothick that it is called a wide!
   0.1 Lee to Trescothick, no run, back of a length and just outside the
        off, left well alone
   0.2 Lee to Trescothick, no run, pushed through a bit quicker and
        fuller, once again easily left alone to the wicketkeeper
   0.3 Lee to Trescothick, no run, and there's another one just outside
        the off and left alone and the ball bounces twice before reaching
        the keeper. No pace on this pitch at all early on
   0.4 Lee to Trescothick, no run, closer to the off stump this time, just
        short of a good length, plenty of effort from Lee, left alone to
        the keeper
   0.5 Lee to Trescothick, no run, pushed through much fuller, but also
        too wide to tempt Trtescothick to play a stroke, the ball thuds
        into Gilchrist's gloves quite low down
   0.6 Lee to Trescothick, no run, on the off and full, driven hard but
        straight to the man at mid-off

End of over 1 (1 run) England 1/0
B Lee 1-0-1-0 (1w)
AJ Strauss 0* (0b) ME Trescothick 0* (6b)

       End of the first over and the pitch already showing all signs of
        having very little in it pace wise
       Jason Gillespie will take the new ball with Lee in the absence of
        McGrath
   1.1 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, just short of a length and outside
        the off, left alone to the keeper, decent carry to the keeper on
        this occasion and Gillespie is right on the spot first up
   1.2 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, full and outside the off and once
        again it is left alone to the keeper
   1.3 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, slightly shorter, slightly wider,
        just dragged down a bit, left alone to the keeper
   1.4 Gillespie to Strauss, FOUR, on the off this time and Strauss is
        forced to play, and he does, with soft hands and an angled bat and
        sends the ball between the slips cordon and gully to the third-man
        fence for the first boundary of the day!
   1.5 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, pushed to the off side with a
        straight bat
   1.6 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, just short of a length and outside
        the off stump and once again no trouble leavig that alone

End of over 2 (4 runs) England 5/0
JN Gillespie 1-0-4-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 0* (6b) AJ Strauss 4* (6b 1x4)

       Australia's opening bowlers have not made the batsmen play as much
        as McGrath would have. That should help England settle, unless Lee
        can tighten his line and get the ball on off stump
   2.1 Lee to Trescothick, FOUR, on the off this time and Trescothick
        leans into the shot nicely, transferring weight from back foot to
        front, the timing is as good as the placement and the ball runs
        away to that short cover boundary at Edgbaston
   2.2 Lee to Trescothick, no run, full and straight, defended back down
        the pitch watchfully
   2.3 Lee to Trescothick, no run, very full, very far wide, left alone,
        plenty of effort from Lee on a slow pitch but it just is not
        coming together for him at the moment
   2.4 Lee to Trescothick, no run, back of a length and on the stumps, not
        much swing or threatening pace here, defended to the on side with
        a straight bat
   2.5 Lee to Trescothick, FOUR, full this time, perhaps too much so, and
        on the off, Trescothick watches the ball nicely onto bat and
        punches through cover for a tidy boundary!
   2.6 Lee to Trescothick, FOUR, Take that! A bit of width and full and
        Trescothick helps himself to a meaty cover drive! The ball
        scorches the turf and flies to the cover boundary, crashing into
        the advertising hoardings

End of over 3 (12 runs) England 17/0
B Lee 2-0-13-0 (1w) - City End
AJ Strauss 4* (6b 1x4) ME Trescothick 12* (12b 3x4)

   3.1 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, back of a length and on the off, that
        is the place to bowl on a slow pitch like this, defended towards
        gully with a straight bat
   3.2 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, once again close enough to the stumps
        to make the batsman play but not full enough to allow him to
        drive, defended back watchfully
   3.3 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, Dropped! Shane Warne spits the dummy
        at first slip! A tough chance low to his left as Strauss nicks
        one, but Warne can't get down quickly enough and a chance goes
        down!
   3.4 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, back of a length and on the off,
        pushed to mid-off
   3.5 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, full and just outside the off, left
        alone to the keeper
   3.6 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        left alone

End of over 4 (maiden) England 17/0
JN Gillespie 2-1-4-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 12* (12b 3x4) AJ Strauss 4* (12b 1x4)

       End of a good over from Gillespie, and if only Warne had been as
        quick with his hands as he is with a mobile phone, England may
        have been one wicket down! Rare lapse from a quality slip fielder.
   4.1 Lee to Trescothick, no run, full and on the off, decent pace as
        well, Trescothick opens the face of the bat and runs the ball down
        to gully
   4.2 Lee to Trescothick, no run, once again good pace, just outside the
        off, fullish, left alone
   4.3 Lee to Trescothick, (no ball) no run, just short of a length and
        outside the off, not much in this pitch for Lee, left alone easily
        to the keeper
   4.4 Lee to Trescothick, no run, and a repeat of the last ball. Lee
        steaming in and sending it outside the off, left alone to the
        keeper
   4.5 Lee to Trescothick, FOUR, full and outside the off, driven well
        through cover, Martyn gives chase and almost pulls the ball up at
        the ropes but trods on the rope in the process
   4.5 Lee to Trescothick, no run, just short of a length and outside the
        leg stump, left alone to the keeper
   4.6 Lee to Trescothick, no run, end of another steaming Lee over, but
        the ball was mostly left alone and a lot of effort wasted from Lee

End of over 5 (5 runs) England 22/0
B Lee 3-0-18-0 (1w 1nb) - City End
AJ Strauss 4* (12b 1x4) ME Trescothick 16* (19b 4x4)

   5.1 Gillespie to Strauss, FOUR, fullish and outside the off, Strauss
        sees it well and times it magnificently, on the up and through
        cover-point
   5.2 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, pushed to mid-off, no chance of a run
        here
   5.3 Gillespie to Strauss, one run, back of a length and on the pads,
        tucked away down to fine-leg for a single
   5.4 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        outside the off, Trescothick facing Gillespie for the first time
        today, ,left alone
   5.5 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        on the off, defended back down the pitch, the batsmen think about
        a quick single and wisely decide against it
   5.6 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, just outside the off this time,
        defended towards gully

End of over 6 (5 runs) England 27/0
JN Gillespie 3-1-9-0 - Pavilion End
AJ Strauss 9* (15b 2x4) ME Trescothick 16* (22b 4x4)

   6.1 Lee to Strauss, no run, full one outside the off, Strauss leaves it
        alone
       Attacking field when Strauss is facing Lee - four slips and a gully
   6.2 Lee to Strauss, no run, just short of a good length and outside the
        off stump, Strauss is taking no chances with Lee at the moment,
        left alone to the keeper
       Don't forget Lee got Strauss quite a few times in the one-dayers
   6.3 Lee to Strauss, no run, pushed through slightly wider, still full
        of length, Strauss watches it carefully but leaves it alone
   6.4 Lee to Strauss, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        stumps, defended towards cover
   6.5 Lee to Strauss, no run, once again just short of a length and on
        the stumps, defended towards the off side with a straight bat
   6.6 Lee to Strauss, no run, just short of a length once more, outside
        the off, left alone to the keeper. Lee keeping Strauss quiet that
        over

End of over 7 (maiden) England 27/0
B Lee 4-1-18-0 (1w 1nb) - City End
ME Trescothick 16* (22b 4x4) AJ Strauss 9* (21b 2x4)

   7.1 Gillespie to Trescothick, FOUR, overpitched and outside the off
        stump, that's where Banger likes it, crashed through extra-cover
        for four
   7.2 Gillespie to Trescothick, one run, back of a length and on the off,
        placed down to the off side for a quick single
   7.3 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, slightly fuller and on the off,
        defended to the off side with a straight bat
   7.4 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, just short of a good length and on
        the off stump, played back to the bowler
   7.5 Gillespie to Strauss, FOUR, Strauss joins the party! crashed square
        of the wicket with an angled bat
   7.6 Gillespie to Strauss, no run, just short of a length and outside
        the off, this has obviously hit a spot on the pitch because it
        takes off, beats bat and Gilchrists collects it over shoulder
        height

End of over 8 (9 runs) England 36/0
JN Gillespie 4-1-18-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 21* (24b 5x4) AJ Strauss 13* (25b 3x4)

       Ricky Ponting might just be wondering whether he did the right
        thing by putting England in on this docile pitch
   8.1 Lee to Trescothick, no run, Lee musters up all his energy and bangs
        one in short. Hard work on this pitch. Trescothick ducks under it
   8.2 Lee to Trescothick, no run, once again a slightly shorter length,
        on the stumps, played back down the pitch
   8.3 Lee to Trescothick, (noball) FOUR, just short of a length and
        outside the off stump, Trescothick waits on it and chops the ball
        hard into the ground, the ball bounces over point and rushes to
        the fence
   8.3 Lee to Trescothick, one run, just short of a driving length and
        drifting onto the pads, worked away down to fine-leg awkwardly
   8.4 Lee to Strauss, no run, slightly fuller to Strauss, on the off,
        punched straight to the man at cover with an angled bat
   8.5 Lee to Strauss, no run, just short of a length and on the stumps,
        clipped to the on side, no chance of a run there
   8.6 Lee to Strauss, no run, on the stumps and at a decent pace,
        defended to the on side

End of over 9 (6 runs) England 42/0
B Lee 5-1-24-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
ME Trescothick 26* (28b 6x4) AJ Strauss 13* (28b 3x4)

       Surely it's time now for Ponting to consider taking Lee out of the
        attack and giving Michael Kasprowicz a go. Lee has gone for 24
        from 5 overs.
   9.1 Gillespie to Trescothick, two runs, back fo a length and on the
        pads, easy for Trescothick to nurdle the ball away to fine-leg and
        add two to his tally
   9.2 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, slightly fuller and on the off,
        defended with soft hands and an angled bat
   9.3 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, full again and on the off stump,
        played back towards the bowler
   9.4 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, back of a length this time,
        outside the off stump, angling away with the arm, left alone to
        the keeper
   9.5 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        on the stumps, Trescothick defends back down the pitch with care
   9.6 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, Gillespie hits his line and
        length again with the last ball of the over, left alone easily

End of over 10 (2 runs) England 44/0
JN Gillespie 5-1-20-0 - Pavilion End
AJ Strauss 13* (28b 3x4) ME Trescothick 28* (34b 6x4)

       England are off to a great start here, 44 for no loss after 10
        overs. That's Langer-Hayden type numbers. Ponting must surely be
        wondering why he didn't bat first.
       And just as we wondered at the end of e's last over, he's been
        taken out of the attack and replaced by Kasprowicz
  10.1 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, back of a length and outside the off
        stump, left alone to the keeper
  10.2 Kasprowicz to Strauss, (noball) no run, slightly short and on the
        off, Strauss shapes to pull but can only awkwardly bunt the ball
        to mid-on
  10.2 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, once again Strauss can't quite get
        the ball away, defended to the off side
  10.3 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, just short of a driving length and
        outside off, punched to cover
  10.4 Kasprowicz to Strauss, (noball) no run, fuller and on the off,
        slanted to gully, and that's another no-ball from Kasper the
        friendly ghost
  10.4 Kasprowicz to Strauss, FOUR, short and wide, the friendly ghost
        just got friendlier! Take that says Strauss cracking a square-cut
        to the point fence!
  10.5 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, fuller this time and just outside
        the off, left alone to the keeper
  10.6 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, just short of a good length and
        outside the off, left alone to the keeper

End of over 11 (6 runs) England 50/0
MS Kasprowicz 1-0-6-0 (2nb) - City End
ME Trescothick 28* (34b 6x4) AJ Strauss 17* (36b 4x4)

  11.1 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, full and outside the off,
        Trescothick leaves that alone, but was that just te first hinto of
        swing? The ball appeared to curve in after it had passed the
        batsman
  11.2 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, just a bit of width and
        Trescothick bangs the ball, but Michael Clarke is at point
  11.3 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        on the stumps, played back down the pitch to the bowler
  11.4 Gillespie to Trescothick, FOUR, short ball banged in but there's
        nothing in this pitch at all, Trescothick moves across and pulls
        effortlessly to the fine-leg fence
  11.5 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        on the stumps, played away to the off side with soft hands and an
        angled bat
  11.6 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, very full this time and on the
        off stump, driven to the off side with a straight bat

End of over 12 (4 runs) England 54/0
JN Gillespie 6-1-24-0 - Pavilion End
AJ Strauss 17* (36b 4x4) ME Trescothick 32* (40b 7x4)

  12.1 Kasprowicz to Strauss, one run, just short of a length and outside
        the off, pulled down to fine-leg
  12.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, (noball) no run, full and outside the
        off, Trescothick drives and edges, straight to Hayden at gully.
        Hayden takes the catch and hears the no-ball call!
  12.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, left alone outside the off stump
       Two no-balls in the first over from Kasprowicz but a really costly
        one in his second
  12.3 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, back of a length and outside the
        off stump, left alone to the keeper
  12.4 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        on the off, punched to cover
  12.5 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, full again and outside the off,
        left alone to the keeper
  12.6 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a length and on
        the stumps, another careful defensive stroke

End of over 13 (2 runs) England 56/0
MS Kasprowicz 2-0-8-0 (3nb) - City End
AJ Strauss 18* (37b 4x4) ME Trescothick 32* (46b 7x4)

       How long before we see Warne in the attack?
       Not long at all. Here comes the champion legspinner
       Warne warming up and getting his field right
  13.1 Warne to Strauss, no run, tossed up and outside the off, spinning
        in a bit, Strauss pads it away
  13.2 Warne to Strauss, no run, fuller, flatter and outside the off, this
        one skids through a bit straighter and Strauss is able to leave it
        safely alone
  13.3 Warne to Strauss, no run, plenty of air from Warne, outside the
        off, he's just guaging the spin in this pitch, padded away
  13.4 Warne to Strauss, FOUR, tossed up again and slightly shorter,
        Strauss jumps down the pitch and lofts Warne back over his head!
        Good shot that!
       The ball seems to have gotten wet somewhere near the boundary. The
        umpires have decided to take drinks and sort the problem out

Match State: Drinks

       Is this England's chance to come back into this Ashes series?
        They've done very well so far. Have your say: http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html
  13.5 Warne to Strauss, no run, well flighted and outside the off, Warne
        on target here, left alone
  13.6 Warne to Strauss, no run, flatter one on the stumps, Strauss thinks
        about coming down the pitch but wisely decides against it

End of over 14 (4 runs) England 60/0
SK Warne 1-0-4-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 32* (46b 7x4) AJ Strauss 22* (43b 5x4)

  14.1 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        on the stumps, played back down the pitch
       This could be a very vital phase, with Kasprowicz and Warne bowling
        in tandem
  14.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, back of a length and outside the
        off stump, going away with the angle, elft alone to the keeper
  14.3 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, outside the off, punched to
        point
  14.4 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, fuller and closer to the stumps,
        driven to mid-off
  14.5 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, full and on the stumps this
        time, patted back to Kasprowicz
  14.6 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, outside the off and short of a
        length, left well alone

End of over 15 (maiden) England 60/0
MS Kasprowicz 3-1-8-0 (3nb) - City End
AJ Strauss 22* (43b 5x4) ME Trescothick 32* (52b 7x4)

  15.1 Warne to Strauss, no run, fullish and outside the off, driven to
        cover
  15.2 Warne to Strauss, no run, well flighted and on the off, defended
        back down the pitch, good drift and spin from Warne
  15.3 Warne to Strauss, no run, again on the stumps, clipped to the on
        side where the fielder under the helmet at short leg stops the
        ball
  15.4 Warne to Strauss, FOUR, slightly short, outside the off, and
        Strauss has no trouble rocking onto the back foot and easing the
        ball through cover
  15.5 Warne to Strauss, FOUR, and Strauss goes after Warne! Front foot
        down and a massive slog-sweep over midwicket for a boundary
  15.6 Warne to Strauss, no run, back of a length and on the pads, worked
        to the on side

End of over 16 (8 runs) England 68/0
SK Warne 2-0-12-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 32* (52b 7x4) AJ Strauss 30* (49b 7x4)

  16.1 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        on the off, defended back towards the bowler
  16.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a length and
        drifting onto the pads, worked to the on side
  16.3 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, fuller and on the off,
        Trescothick squeezes the ball towards the off side but it almost
        rolls back into his stumps
  16.4 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, fullish and on the off, pushed
        to cover
  16.5 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a length and on
        the off, glided to point
  16.6 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, full and on the off, driven hard
        but straight to mid-off

End of over 17 (maiden) England 68/0
MS Kasprowicz 4-2-8-0 (3nb) - City End
AJ Strauss 30* (49b 7x4) ME Trescothick 32* (58b 7x4)

  17.1 Warne to Strauss, one run, tossed up and outside the off, Strauss
        leans to his left and laps the ball round the corner
  17.2 Warne to Trescothick, no run, fullish and outside the off,
        Trescothick defends with bat and pad held together
  17.3 Warne to Trescothick, one run, and there's the sweep again, this
        seems to be the plan against Warne, a single to fine-leg
  17.4 Warne to Strauss, no run, it's the quicker, flatter one on the
        stumps, worked to the leg side
  17.5 Warne to Strauss, one run, full and outside the off, once again the
        sweep, it is now obvious that this is the strategy these two
        batsmen have for Warne, single to fine-leg
  17.6 Warne to Trescothick, SIX, tossed up just a bit more and outside
        the off, Trescothick goes for the big hit and makes clean contact!
        Huge six back over Warne's head!

End of over 18 (9 runs) England 77/0
SK Warne 3-0-21-0 - Pavilion End
AJ Strauss 32* (52b 7x4) ME Trescothick 39* (61b 7x4 1x6)

  18.1 Kasprowicz to Strauss, one run, back of a length and on the stumps,
        worked away to the on side
  18.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, back of a length and outside the
        off, left alone to the keeper
  18.3 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, slightly fuller and once again
        Trescothick defends and the ball almost rolls back onto the stumps
  18.4 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a length and
        outside the off, Trescothick leaves the ball alone to the keeper
  18.5 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, FOUR, full and wide outside the off
        stump, Trescothick goes for the big drive but can only edge the
        ball, luckily it goes past the gully fielder and runs down to the
        third-man fence
  18.6 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, FOUR, just short of a length and outside
        the off, punched well through cover this time and the timing is
        excellent!

End of over 19 (9 runs) England 86/0
MS Kasprowicz 5-2-17-0 (3nb) - City End
AJ Strauss 33* (53b 7x4) ME Trescothick 47* (66b 9x4 1x6)

  19.1 Warne to Strauss, no run, tossed up and on the off, defended
        carefully back down the pitch
  19.2 Warne to Strauss, no run, slightly fuller and on the off, Strauss
        goes forward and pads
  19.3 Warne to Strauss, no run, dragged down the leg side, left alone to
        the keeper
  19.4 Warne to Strauss, no run, full and far outside the off, Strauss has
        no trouble kicking it away
  19.5 Warne to Strauss, no run, and another one is kicked away. This can
        be dangerous. Is it football season in England yet?
  19.6 Warne to Strauss, no run, the straight one on the off, defended
        awkwardly towards slip

End of over 20 (maiden) England 86/0
SK Warne 4-1-21-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 47* (66b 9x4 1x6) AJ Strauss 33* (59b 7x4)

  20.1 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        outside the off stump, Trescothick, nearing his half-century,
        watches it carefully and leaves it well alone to the keeper
  20.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, fuller and on the stumps,
        Trescothick is forced to play and defends towards gully with an
        angled bat
  20.3 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a length and on
        the stumps this time, rare movement off the pitch as it comes in
        to the left-handed Trescothick who takes the ball awkwardly on
        thigh pad
  20.4 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, back to that line outside the
        off and slanting away, left alone to the keeper
  20.5 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, full and outside the off, left
        alone to the keeper
  20.6 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, pushed through a bit wider,
        driven well but to Clarke at point

End of over 21 (maiden) England 86/0
MS Kasprowicz 6-3-17-0 (3nb) - City End
AJ Strauss 33* (59b 7x4) ME Trescothick 47* (72b 9x4 1x6)

  21.1 Warne to Strauss, no run, tossed up and on the off, spinning in,
        defended towards mid-on
  21.2 Warne to Strauss, FOUR, short, but only just, and Strauss sees it
        early and puts it away wide of mid-on. Top shot that!
  21.3 Warne to Strauss, one run, fuller and on the off, froom round the
        wicket, Strauss jams the ball towards cover for a single
  21.4 Warne to Trescothick, one run, full toss on leg stump, clipped off
        the toes to midwicket where Lee tumbles and fields
  21.5 Warne to Strauss, one run, tossed up a bit more and outside the
        off, eased through cover for a single
  21.6 Warne to Trescothick, two runs, eased through cover for a brace
        that gives Marcus Trescothick his 50! It's come off 74 balls and
        included 9 fours and one tremendous six off Warne!

End of over 22 (9 runs) England 95/0
SK Warne 5-1-30-0 - Pavilion End
AJ Strauss 39* (63b 8x4) ME Trescothick 50* (74b 9x4 1x6)

  22.1 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, full and outside the off, left well
        alone, Kasprowicz comes round the wicket now
  22.2 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, full and on the off, defended to the
        off side with bat held close to pad
  22.3 Kasprowicz to Strauss, FOUR, overpitched and a touch wide outside
        the off stump, driven well through cover for another boundary
  22.4 Kasprowicz to Strauss, FOUR, once again outside the off and too
        full, Strauss plays a classy cover drive to bring up England's
        100!
  22.5 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, back of a length and on the off,
        defended carefully
  22.6 Kasprowicz to Strauss, no run, closer to the off stump as
        Kasprowicz comes back over the wicket, left alone to the keeper

End of over 23 (8 runs) England 103/0
MS Kasprowicz 7-3-25-0 (3nb) - City End
ME Trescothick 50* (74b 9x4 1x6) AJ Strauss 47* (69b 10x4)

  23.1 Warne to Trescothick, FOUR, tossed up and outside the off, heaved
        through the onside for four more. That was uppish but safe
  23.2 Warne to Trescothick, no run, full and on the stumps, kicked away
        to the off side
  23.3 Warne to Trescothick, one run, on the off, slightly short, the
        googly, we did not see a single one in the first Test, worked to
        the on side
  23.4 Warne to Strauss, no run, full and outside the off, big legbreak
        this time, padded away dangerously as Warne appeals to Billy
        Bowden
  23.5 Warne to Strauss, one run, on the off, turning in, single picked
        off wide of mid-on
  23.6 Warne to Trescothick, one run, flat and on the pads, worked away to
        the on side

End of over 24 (7 runs) England 110/0
SK Warne 6-1-37-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 56* (78b 10x4 1x6) AJ Strauss 48* (71b 10x4)

       Lee comes back into the attack
  24.1 Lee to Trescothick, no run, short and a bit of width, cut but to
        the man at a rather deep point
  24.2 Lee to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and outside
        the off stump, angling in a bit to the left-handed Trescothick,
        defended towards cover
  24.3 Lee to Trescothick, one run, short ball, a bit of width too, cut
        down towards point where Clarke makes a good diving save
  24.4 Lee to Strauss, no run, fullish and outside the off, left alone to
        the keeper
  24.5 Lee to Strauss, no run, just short of a good length and outside the
        off, Strauss shapes to cut but can't get it off the meat of the
        bat and the ball squirts down to point
  24.6 Lee to Strauss, no run, fuller this time and angling in to the
        stumps, defended to gully

End of over 25 (1 run) England 111/0
B Lee 6-1-25-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
ME Trescothick 57* (81b 10x4 1x6) AJ Strauss 48* (74b 10x4)

  25.1 Warne to Trescothick, one run, outside the off and full, square-
        driven, Clarke has to scramble and dive to stop that
  25.2 Warne to Strauss, no run, well flighted and outside the off, padded
        away
  25.3 Warne to Strauss, OUT: tossed up, outside the off, very far outside
        the off and Strauss gets ready to play a big cut, the ball breaks
        back a long way and hits timber!

       England 112/1, Partnership of 112
       AJ Strauss  b Warne  48 (76b 10x4 0x6)
       ME Trescothick 58* (82b 10x4 1x6) SK Warne 6.3-1-38-1

       There you go, Shane Warne is back in business. You can't keep this
        man out of the action - either on or off the field - for too long!
       What a terrific bowler he has been for Australia. On any pitch, in
        any conditions he delivers when his captain needs it the most
  25.4 Warne to Vaughan, no run, well flighted and on the middle and leg
        stump, defended very carefully
  25.5 Warne to Vaughan, one run, fuller and just outside the leg stump,
        clipped to the leg side
  25.6 Warne to Trescothick, one run, on the pads, worked away for a
        single

End of over 26 (3 runs) England 114/1
SK Warne 7-1-40-1 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 59* (83b 10x4 1x6) MP Vaughan 1* (2b)

       And finally, an over where Australia taste success. Just before the
        lunch break as well.
  26.1 Lee to Trescothick, FOUR, short and a bit of width outside the off,
        Lee from round the wicket, Trescothick guides the ball between
        gully and backward point to the third-man fence
  26.2 Lee to Trescothick, SIX, short again from Lee, this time it is far
        too wide and Trescothick has no trouble going inside out and over
        the point fielder for a six over third-man
  26.3 Lee to Trescothick, no run, defended back down the pitch
  26.4 Lee to Trescothick, FOUR, overpitched and outside the off, Lee
        losing the plot a bit here, smashed through cover for yet another
        boundary
  26.5 Lee to Trescothick, no run, just back of a length and outside the
        off, coming in with the arm a little, Trescothick leaves it well
        alone
  26.6 Lee to Trescothick, FOUR, And Trescothick helps himself to another
        boundary through cover before he jogs off the field for the buffet
        that awaits him in the dressing room!

End of over 27 (18 runs) England 132/1
B Lee 7-1-43-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
MP Vaughan 1* (2b) ME Trescothick 77* (89b 13x4 2x6)

Match State: Lunch - Day 1

       At lunch on the first day England have had the best of it
       Put in to bat by Ricky Ponting they have raced to 132 for 1 in 27
        overs.
       Marcus Trescothick has been the star, crashing 77 from 89 balls
        with 13 fours and two sixes.
       We'll be back with all the action from the post-lunch session in
        about half an hour, at 1210 GMT
       Till then, this is your commentator, Anand Vasu, signing off,
        inviting you to send all feedback to http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html
       Welcome back
  27.1 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, good length delivery outside the off
        stump, swinging away from the right-hander, Vaughan leaves it for
        the keeper
  27.2 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        left alone to the keeper
  27.3 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, slightly fuller this time and still
        outside the off, left alone easily to Gilchrist
  27.4 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, just short of a length and outside
        the off, a touch of away movement as well, that should please
        Gillespie
  27.5 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, slightly fuller, but the same result,
        a hint of away movement and Vaughan is happy to leave the ball
        alone
  27.6 Gillespie to Vaughan, three runs, very straight this time and full,
        Vaughan leans across and flicks through midwicket for some much-
        welcome runs early on in his innings

End of over 28 (3 runs) England 135/1
JN Gillespie 7-1-27-0 - Pavilion End
MP Vaughan 4* (8b) ME Trescothick 77* (89b 13x4 2x6)

  28.1 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, no run, just short of a good length and
        outside the off stump, left alone to the keeper
  28.2 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, no run, full and on the off, defended back
        down the pitch
  28.3 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, two runs, just short of a length and outside
        the off but Vaughan manages to get to it nicely and stroke it
        through extgra-cover
  28.4 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, FOUR, back of a length and on the off,
        pushed just wide of Clarke at cover, enthusiasm gets the best of
        the young man and he has a powerful shy at the stumps that runs
        away for four overthrows
  28.5 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, FOUR, a more conventional boundary this time
        as Vaughan strokes a delectable cover drive! He is so good when
        playing like this
  28.6 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, (noball) no run, fullish and on the stumps,
        defended
  28.6 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, no run, just short of a good length and on
        the off, punched off the back foot to mid-off

End of over 29 (11 runs) England 146/1
MS Kasprowicz 8-3-36-0 (4nb) - City End
ME Trescothick 77* (89b 13x4 2x6) MP Vaughan 14* (15b 2x4)

  29.1 Gillespie to Trescothick, FOUR, back of a length and slipping down
        the leg side, Trescothick moves across his stumps and flicks it
        fine for four to bring up the England 150!
  29.2 Gillespie to Trescothick, no run, just short of a good length and
        on the stumps this time, played back down the pitch
  29.3 Gillespie to Trescothick, one run, fullish and on the off, defended
        down towards point with soft enough hands to steal a good single
  29.4 Gillespie to Vaughan, FOUR, short and just a hint of width, Vaughan
        goes back and launches the ball through point for a boundary!
        Vaughan in ominously good nick here
  29.5 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, full and straight, driven well but
        straight to mid-on
  29.6 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, short and a bit of width, cut towards
        cover

End of over 30 (9 runs) England 155/1
JN Gillespie 8-1-36-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 82* (92b 14x4 2x6) MP Vaughan 18* (18b 3x4)

  30.1 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, good length ball outside the
        off, carefully left alone to the keeper
  30.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, (noball) no run, punched to extra cover
  30.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, just short of a driving length
        and on the middle stump, tucking up Trescothick a bit, played back
        down the pitch with a straight bat
  30.3 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, back of a length and outside the
        off, left alone to the keeper
  30.4 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, fullish and on the off, played
        down to backward point where clarke tidies up without fuss
  30.5 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, FOUR, overpitched and outside the off,
        driven very hard to cover where Justin Langer dives over the ball
        and allows a boundary
  30.6 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, two runs, back of a length and a bit of
        width, cut well, Clarke dives and half stops the ball

End of over 31 (7 runs) England 162/1
MS Kasprowicz 9-3-43-0 (5nb) - City End
MP Vaughan 18* (18b 3x4) ME Trescothick 88* (99b 15x4 2x6)

  31.1 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, full and on the off, Vaughan is
        careful in defense
  31.2 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, just short of a length and outside
        the off, Vaughan judges line and length early and leaves the ball
        alone
  31.3 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, just short of a length and on the
        off, a hint of away movement, defended towards cover
  31.4 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, back of a length and on the off,
        played down to mid-on with good use of the wrists
  31.5 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, a touch fuller and outside the off,
        defended very carefully once more
  31.6 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, closer to the off and full, Vaughan
        punches to cover to end a maiden over

End of over 32 (maiden) England 162/1
JN Gillespie 9-2-36-0 - Pavilion End
ME Trescothick 88* (99b 15x4 2x6) MP Vaughan 18* (24b 3x4)

       It's worth noting that this is Trescothick's highest score against
        Australia. His previous best was 76, four years ago, at this very
        ground.
  32.1 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, no run, back of a length and on the
        stumps, defended to the on side
  32.2 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, two runs, on the pads this time and
        Trescothick has enough time to work the ball to fine leg
  32.3 Kasprowicz to Trescothick, OUT: Gone! Back of a length and outside
        the off, just seaming away a touch, Trescothick feathers the edge
        to Gilchrist!

       England 164/2, Partnership of 52
       ME Trescothick  c Gilchrist b Kasprowicz  90 (102b 15x4 2x6)
       MP Vaughan 18* (24b 3x4) MS Kasprowicz 9.3-3-45-1 (5nb)

       Disappointing end to a fine innings from Trescothick. He's never
        made a Test hundred against Australia and that is going to have to
        wait for a while
  32.4 Kasprowicz to Bell, two runs, back of a length and on the pads,
        glanced to the on side to get off the mark
  32.5 Kasprowicz to Bell, FOUR, short and a bit of width and Bell can
        chop it down to the third-man fence. Bell quickly under way at his
        home ground
  32.6 Kasprowicz to Bell, OUT: Gone! Bell tentatively pokes at this one
        from Kasprowicz that comes in just a touch and then straightens!
        End of Ian Bell even before Warne could get a crack at him!
        Australia are well and truly back in this one

       England 170/3, Partnership of 6
       IR Bell  c Gilchrist b Kasprowicz  6 (3b 1x4 0x6)

End of over 33 (8 runs) England 170/3
MS Kasprowicz 10-3-51-2 (5nb) - City End
MP Vaughan 18* (24b 3x4) 

       Somehow or the other Australia find a way to claw back into the
        game. Here it is Kasprowicz doing the job
  33.1 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, defended to the off side with some
        care
  33.2 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, just short of a length and outside
        the off, left alone to the keeper
  33.3 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, just short of a good length and on
        the stumps, defended to the off side
  33.4 Gillespie to Vaughan, (noball) no run, just short of a length and
        slanting in to the right-handed batsman, defended to off
  33.4 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, fullish and just outside the off,
        left alone to the keeper
  33.5 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, just short of a driving length and on
        the off, Vaughan dutifully defends
  33.6 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, fullish but a bit too wide to tempt
        Vaughan to play at it, left alone

End of over 34 (1 run) England 171/3
JN Gillespie 10-2-37-0 (1nb) - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 0* (0b) MP Vaughan 18* (31b 3x4)

       Kasprowicz is pretty much the best mediumpacer you could ask for on
        a flat deck. He bowls his heart out at all times. Have to see what
        more he has in him.
  34.1 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, (noball) FOUR, full and down the leg side,
        Pietersen walks across his stumps and flicks for four!
  34.1 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, one run, another leg-stump half-volley,
        this time clipped towards midwicket
  34.2 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, (noball) FOUR, Another no-ball, this time
        outside the off and Vaughan drives beautifully through cover
  34.2 Kasprowicz to Vaughan, one run, just short of a length and on the
        stumps, tucked away to the leg side
  34.3 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, no run, short of a length and a bit of
        width ouitside off, Pietersen cuts to point
  34.4 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, no run, fuller and on the off, worked to
        the on side to mid-on
  34.5 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, no run, just short of a length and outside
        the off, left alone to the keeper
  34.6 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, no run, just short of a length and on the
        off, punched to cover off the back foot

End of over 35 (12 runs) England 183/3
MS Kasprowicz 11-3-63-2 (7nb) - City End
MP Vaughan 23* (33b 4x4) KP Pietersen 5* (6b 1x4)

       The complexion of the game has changed slightly here with those
        wickets. Do write in with all your comments at http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html
       Warne back in the attack
  35.1 Warne to Vaughan, no run, full and on the pads, kicked away
  35.2 Warne to Vaughan, one run, flat and down the leg side, swept well
        down to fine-leg
  35.3 Warne to Pietersen, one run, full and on the leg stump, Pietersen
        jabs at it and the ball goes off the inside edge just past the man
        at short-leg
  35.4 Warne to Vaughan, no run, tossed up and on the pad, awkward
        defense, the ball goes off the pad to the leg side
  35.5 Warne to Vaughan, no run, fuller and on the off this time, not much
        turn, defended
  35.6 Warne to Vaughan, no run, once again it's flat and on the pads,
        once again it's defended

End of over 36 (2 runs) England 185/3
SK Warne 8-1-42-1 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 6* (7b 1x4) MP Vaughan 24* (38b 4x4)

  36.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, (noball) no run, full and outside the off,
        a hint of away swing, left alone
  36.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, just short of a driving length and
        on the off, thick inside edge off an attempted drive sends the
        ball to the on side
  36.2 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, fuller and straighter, driven well
        but hit straight to mid-on
  36.3 Gillespie to Pietersen, one run, full and on the off, driven just
        wide of mid-off for a quick single
  36.4 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, fuller and slightly wide outside the
        off, left alone to the keeper
  36.5 Gillespie to Vaughan, no run, just short of a length and on the
        stumps, driven watchfully to mid-on
  36.6 Gillespie to Vaughan, OUT: short ball banged in, Vaughan takes the
        bait and goes for the pull, the top edge goes very very high in
        the air, you can barely see that. Lee watches it perfectly and
        takes an outstanding catch at fine-leg!

       England 187/4, Partnership of 17
       MP Vaughan  c Lee b Gillespie  24 (41b 4x4 0x6)

End of over 37 (2 runs) England 187/4
JN Gillespie 11-2-39-1 (2nb) - City End
KP Pietersen 7* (11b 1x4) 

       That is the end of Michael Vaughan and you have to say it's not the
        smartest thing to have done
  37.1 Warne to Flintoff, no run, flat and on the stumps, padded away
  37.2 Warne to Flintoff, no run, fullish and on the stumps, defensive
        shot played, off the pad to the leg side
  37.3 Warne to Flintoff, no run, fuller and just outside the off,
        Flintoff watches carefully and leaves it alone
  37.4 Warne to Flintoff, FOUR, tossed up a great deal and outside the
        off, Flintoff drives inside out and very unconvincingly,
        Kasprowicz at mid-off throws himself up in the air but the ball
        goes over him
  37.5 Warne to Flintoff, no run, quicker, flatter and on the pad, kicked
        away
  37.6 Warne to Flintoff, no run, full and on the pad, floating in, bat
        and pad close together, loud shout from the bowler and support
        fielders, turned down

End of over 38 (4 runs) England 191/4
SK Warne 9-1-46-1 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 7* (11b 1x4) A Flintoff 4* (6b 1x4)

  38.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, just short of a good length and
        outside the off, left well alone
  38.2 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, once again outside the off, short
        of a length, left alone
  38.3 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, fuller and a bit quicker too from
        Gillespie, wide of the stumps, watched carefully and left alone
  38.4 Gillespie to Pietersen, two runs, clipped away backward of square
        for a couple of runs
  38.5 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, just short of a driving length and
        on the off, driven on the up to mid-off
  38.6 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, slower ball - very well bowled - on
        the stumps and fullish, Pietersen defends with great care

End of over 39 (2 runs) England 193/4
JN Gillespie 12-2-41-1 (2nb) - City End
A Flintoff 4* (6b 1x4) KP Pietersen 9* (17b 1x4)

  39.1 Warne to Flintoff, no run, tossed up and on middle and leg, half
        shout as the ball is padded away
  39.2 Warne to Flintoff, no run, flat and on the stumps, defended to the
        on side
  39.3 Warne to Flintoff, no run, quicker one on the stumps, defended to
        the leg side with hard hands, dangerous that
  39.4 Warne to Flintoff, two runs, tossed up and outside the leg stump,
        the ball spins in and its the bat and runs down to fine-leg
  39.5 Warne to Flintoff, one run, slightly short this time and Flintoff
        has time to go back and punch the ball wide of midwicket for a
        single
  39.6 Warne to Pietersen, one run, full and outside the off, driven wide
        of mid-off for a single

End of over 40 (4 runs) England 197/4
SK Warne 10-1-50-1 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 10* (18b 1x4) A Flintoff 7* (11b 1x4)

       Drinks are on the field and it's time for a quick break

Match State: Drinks

  40.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, short of a good length delivery
        outside the off stump and Pietersen plays off the back-foot to the
        cover region
  40.2 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, angling in from outside the off
        stump but not enough to make Pietersen at it
       two slips and a gully in position
  40.3 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, short of a good length delivery,
        again angling in from outside the off stump, Pietersen leaves it
        for the keeper
  40.4 Gillespie to Pietersen, FOUR, take that! short and Pietersen pulls
        it away handsomely to the square leg boundary, 200 comes up for
        England
  40.5 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, defended down to mid-on
  40.6 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, good delivery to end the over,
        Pietersen reads it well and leaves it for the keeper

End of over 41 (4 runs) England 201/4
JN Gillespie 13-2-45-1 (2nb) - City End
A Flintoff 7* (11b 1x4) KP Pietersen 14* (24b 2x4)

       Warne to continue - slips, silly point and a short leg in place
  41.1 Warne to Flintoff, no run, lovely delivery, pitched in line and
        turning away from the right-hander, Flintoff watchfully leaves it
        for the keeper
  41.2 Warne to Flintoff, no run, drifting down the leg side
  41.3 Warne to Flintoff, no run, defended on the front-foot, ball rolls
        down to the mid-on region
  41.4 Warne to Flintoff, FOUR, fulltoss on the pads and Flintoff punches
        it away in the air through midwicket, safe shot that
  41.5 Warne to Flintoff, no run
  41.6 Warne to Flintoff, SIX, Flintoff's contribution to the hole in the
        ozone layer, tossed up and Freddy lofts it over the long-on fence,
        massive hit

End of over 42 (10 runs) England 211/4
SK Warne 11-1-60-1 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 14* (24b 2x4) A Flintoff 17* (17b 2x4 1x6)

  42.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, FOUR, full and outside the off, timed well
        through cover
  42.2 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, fuller and on the off, driven back
        to the bowler
  42.3 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, full again and on the off, driven
        to mid-off
  42.4 Gillespie to Pietersen, two runs, back of a length and outside the
        off, driven off the back foot through cover-point
  42.5 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, back of a length and outside the
        off once more, punched off the back foot to cover
  42.6 Gillespie to Pietersen, FOUR, audacious shot from Pietersen picking
        the ball from outside the off and flicking it past mid-on for a
        boundary

End of over 43 (10 runs) England 221/4
JN Gillespie 14-2-55-1 (2nb) - City End
A Flintoff 17* (17b 2x4 1x6) KP Pietersen 24* (30b 4x4)

  43.1 Warne to Flintoff, no run, well flighted and on the stumps,
        defended carefully
  43.2 Warne to Flintoff, no run, outside the leg stump and spinning in to
        flintoff, off the pad to the leg side
  43.3 Warne to Flintoff, no run, fuller again and on the stumps, Warne
        drawing Flintoff forward well, defended
  43.4 Warne to Flintoff, SIX, full and on the pads, Flintoff plants his
        foot forward and flicks magnificently over midwicket. Such power!
  43.5 Warne to Flintoff, no run, outside the off this time and spinning
        away, defended carefully
  43.6 Warne to Flintoff, no run, straighter one on the stumps, punched
        off the back foot towards mid-off

End of over 44 (6 runs) England 227/4
SK Warne 12-1-66-1 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 24* (30b 4x4) A Flintoff 23* (23b 2x4 2x6)

  44.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, just short of a good length and
        outside the off, left alone to the keeper
  44.2 Gillespie to Pietersen, FOUR, short and a bit of width and
        Pietersen frees his arms and pounds that to the point fence in
        front of square
  44.3 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, fuller and outside the off, shaping
        away, left alone to the keeper
  44.4 Gillespie to Pietersen, one run, back of a length and outside the
        off, punched towards mid-off for a single
  44.5 Gillespie to Flintoff, no run, just short of a good length and on
        the off, driven off the back foot to the bowler
  44.6 Gillespie to Flintoff, FOUR, short ball and Flintoff climbs into
        it, pulling with good power through midwicket

End of over 45 (9 runs) England 236/4
JN Gillespie 15-2-64-1 (2nb) - City End
KP Pietersen 29* (34b 5x4) A Flintoff 27* (25b 3x4 2x6)

  45.1 Warne to Pietersen, no run, tossed up and on the middle and leg,
        defended to the on side
  45.2 Warne to Pietersen, one run, full and on the pads, and a single to
        the on-side brings up the 50 partnership in 50 balls!
  45.3 Warne to Flintoff, one run, down the leg side and full, flicked
        down towards fine-leg
  45.4 Warne to Pietersen, one run, legbreak outside the leg stump,
        spinning in, dabbed away to the on side
  45.5 Warne to Flintoff, no run, full and down the leg side, sweep played
        and missed
  45.6 Warne to Flintoff, one run, tossed up and on the pads, clipped to
        midwicket

End of over 46 (4 runs) England 240/4
SK Warne 13-1-70-1 - Pavilion End
A Flintoff 29* (28b 3x4 2x6) KP Pietersen 31* (37b 5x4)

       Lee is back in the attack. He's the only one not to pick up a
        wicket so far.
  46.1 Lee to Flintoff, no run, back of a length and on the off, driven to
        cover
  46.2 Lee to Flintoff, no run, fullish and outside the off, driven hard
        to cover
  46.3 Lee to Flintoff, one run, quick and just outside the off, driven
        at, the ball goes off the inside edge and runs down to fine-leg
  46.4 Lee to Pietersen, no run, another quick one on the stumps, driven
        back to Lee who fields in his followthrough
  46.5 Lee to Pietersen, no run, full and outside the off, driven to mid-
        off
  46.6 Lee to Pietersen, one run, just short of a length and alnting in to
        the batsman, worked off the hips to midwicket

End of over 47 (2 runs) England 242/4
B Lee 8-1-45-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
KP Pietersen 32* (40b 5x4) A Flintoff 30* (31b 3x4 2x6)

  47.1 Warne to Pietersen, no run, flat and on the leg stump, defended
  47.2 Warne to Pietersen, no run, outside the off and tossed up a bit
        more, Pietersen looks to cut and misses
  47.3 Warne to Pietersen, no run, on the stumps this time and pushed in,
        defended back down the pitch
  47.4 Warne to Pietersen, one run, drifting into the pads, full, a bit of
        spin, clipped to midwicket
  47.5 Warne to Flintoff, no run, driven to mid-on
  47.6 Warne to Flintoff, one run, once again tossed up, Flintoff heaves
        unconvincingly through the leg side

End of over 48 (2 runs) England 244/4
SK Warne 14-1-72-1 - Pavilion End
A Flintoff 31* (33b 3x4 2x6) KP Pietersen 33* (44b 5x4)

  48.1 Lee to Flintoff, two runs, just short of a length and outside the
        off, eased through cover-point
  48.2 Lee to Flintoff, two runs, short ball banged in, great effort ball
        from Lee, Flintoff pulls and gets the top edge, the ball flies
        down towards fine-leg but Kasprowicz can't get there in time
  48.3 Lee to Flintoff, SIX, another bouncer banged in! Flintoff plays a
        half pull half hook almost with his eyes closed andthe ball sails
        over the fence at square-leg!
  48.4 Lee to Flintoff, no run, punched to point
  48.5 Lee to Flintoff, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        driven to cover
  48.6 Lee to Flintoff, one run, punched to point and a quick single
        stolen even as Clarke throws down the stumps with a powerful and
        accurate fling

End of over 49 (11 runs) England 255/4
B Lee 9-1-56-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
A Flintoff 42* (39b 3x4 3x6) KP Pietersen 33* (44b 5x4)

       Do remember to send in all your thoughts on our coverage to
        http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html
  49.1 Warne to Flintoff, one run, flighted and on the pads, heaved down
        to fine-leg
  49.2 Warne to Pietersen, one run, again on the pads, Pietersen sweeps
        and sweeps well, Lee cleans up on the fence
  49.3 Warne to Flintoff, no run, tossed up and on the off, a bit of turn,
        Flintoff pokes at it, tries to defend and is beaten
  49.4 Warne to Flintoff, no run, punched powerfully to mid-on
  49.5 Warne to Flintoff, SIX, tossed up a touch more and outside the off
        and Flintoff just lofts it over long-off, effortless almost! Big
        hitting from Freddie here!
  49.6 Warne to Flintoff, no run, flat and quick, pulled to midwicket

End of over 50 (8 runs) England 263/4
SK Warne 15-1-80-1 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 34* (45b 5x4) A Flintoff 49* (44b 3x4 4x6)

  50.1 Lee to Pietersen, no run, fullish and on the stumps, defended
        firmly to mid-on
  50.2 Lee to Pietersen, one run, full and on the stumps, eased down to
        midwicket for a single
  50.3 Lee to Flintoff, no run, driven to mid off
  50.4 Lee to Flintoff, no run, driven carefully to cover
  50.5 Lee to Flintoff, one run, short ball, pulled well, Langer throws
        himself on the ropes and saves brilliantly
  50.6 Lee to Pietersen, no run, fullish and on the stumps, edged back
        onto the pads

End of over 51 (2 runs) England 265/4
B Lee 10-1-58-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
A Flintoff 49* (47b 3x4 4x6) KP Pietersen 35* (48b 5x4)

  51.1 Warne to Flintoff, FOUR, crashed through cover to give Andrew
        Flintoff his half-century! the crowd love it and roar in
        appreciation
  51.2 Warne to Flintoff, one run, angled down past slip to third man
  51.3 Warne to Pietersen, FOUR, well flighted and on the pads, Pietersen
        gives himself room and drives inside out through cover! What a
        shot!
  51.4 Warne to Pietersen, no run, big pull played and missed, hit opn the
        body
  51.5 Warne to Pietersen, no run, fullish and on the stumps, driven back
        to the bowler
  51.6 Warne to Pietersen, no run, tossed up and on the off, defended, the
        ball goes off the edge and falls just in front of slip

End of over 52 (9 runs) England 274/4
SK Warne 16-1-88-1 - Pavilion End
A Flintoff 54* (49b 4x4 4x6) KP Pietersen 39* (52b 6x4)

  52.1 Lee to Flintoff, SIX, short ball banged in, Flintoff is happy to
        hook, and why not, if you can hit it back into the stands like
        that! What a shot!
  52.2 Lee to Flintoff, FOUR, full and on the off, driven at with hard
        hands, the ball races off the edge to the vacant third-man region
  52.3 Lee to Flintoff, no run, fullish and on the off, defended carefully
  52.4 Lee to Flintoff, no run, just short of a length and on the off,
        driven to cover
  52.5 Lee to Flintoff, no run, full and on the off, driven hard but
        Clarke at cover is good enough to stop the ball
  52.6 Lee to Flintoff, FOUR, full and outside the off, flashed hard at,
        the ball beats a diving gully fielder and the 100 partnership
        comes off just 96 balls!

End of over 53 (14 runs) England 288/4
B Lee 11-1-72-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
KP Pietersen 39* (52b 6x4) A Flintoff 68* (55b 6x4 5x6)

  53.1 Warne to Pietersen, one run, down the leg side and easily lapped to
        fine-leg
  53.2 Warne to Flintoff, no run, full and down the leg side, swept to
        fine-leg
  53.3 Warne to Flintoff, no run, full and down the leg side, kicked away
  53.4 Warne to Flintoff, no run, big legbreak bowled into the rough,
        kicked away
  53.5 Warne to Flintoff, no run, flatter, faster and on the pads, once
        again kicked away
  53.6 Warne to Flintoff, no run, full and on the pads, defended away to
        end a great session for England

End of over 54 (1 run) England 289/4
SK Warne 17-1-89-1 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 40* (53b 6x4) A Flintoff 68* (60b 6x4 5x6)

       Australia came back into the game through Michael Kasprowicz but
        England counterattacked magnificently through Pietersen and
        Flintoff

Match State: Tea - Day 1

       We'll be back in about 15 minutes for the post-tea session, at 1430
        GMT
       Till then this is Anand Vasu, your commentator, signing off,
        inviting you to send in feedback about our coverage at http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html
       The players are back on the field, welcome back to our coverage of
        the final session of the day
       This is Anand Vasu saying what a day it has been! Stay tuned.
       It's Gillespiee to start things off
  54.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, one run, fullish and outside the off,
        driven on the up towards cover
  54.2 Gillespie to Flintoff, no run, full and on the off, defended back
        down the pitch
  54.3 Gillespie to Flintoff, OUT: just short of a length and outside the
        off, Flintoff flashes and gets the edge! Gilchrist moves across
        well and takes a smart catch

       England 290/5, Partnership of 103
       A Flintoff  c Gilchrist b Gillespie  68 (62b 6x4 5x6)
       KP Pietersen 41* (54b 6x4) JN Gillespie 15.3-2-65-2 (2nb)

       And Australia certainly would have talked about doing just this in
        the interval
       If they can pick up a few more wickets today it may not even matter
        that England have scored quickly
       After all Australia score just as fast. If anything it could be
        against England that they have not eaten up enough time
  54.4 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, back of a length and outside the
        off, left alone to the keeper
  54.5 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, fullish and outside the off stump,
        left alone to the keeper
  54.6 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, back of a length and on the off,
        defended carefully

End of over 55 (1 run) England 290/5
JN Gillespie 16-2-65-2 (2nb) - City End
KP Pietersen 41* (54b 6x4) GO Jones 0* (3b)

       Kasprowicz comes into the attack
  55.1 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, one run, full and on the off, driven hard
        to the bowler who half stops it
  55.2 Kasprowicz to GO Jones, no run, just short of a length and on the
        off, coming in with the arm, defended to the off side
  55.3 Kasprowicz to GO Jones, no run, coming in with the arm and just a
        hint of away swing, defended towards point
  55.4 Kasprowicz to GO Jones, one run, fullish and on the pads, just
        slanting into the pads, clipped wide of mid-on
  55.5 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, no run, full and outside the off, driven
        fluently but straight to mid-off
  55.6 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, no run, pushed to mid-on

End of over 56 (2 runs) England 292/5
MS Kasprowicz 12-3-65-2 (7nb) - Pavilion End
GO Jones 1* (6b) KP Pietersen 42* (57b 6x4)

  56.1 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, overpitched and on the off, driven
        to mid-off
  56.2 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, short and a bit of width, cut played
        and missed
  56.3 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, fullish and outside the off, a hint
        of shape away, left alone to the keeper
  56.4 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, fullish and on the stumps, played
        back down the pitch to the bowler
  56.5 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, overpitched and on the pads, flicked
        well to square-leg
  56.6 Gillespie to GO Jones, no run, just short of a good length and
        outside the off, played down to the keeper awkwardly

End of over 57 (maiden) England 292/5
JN Gillespie 17-3-65-2 (2nb) - City End
KP Pietersen 42* (57b 6x4) GO Jones 1* (12b)

  57.1 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, one run, driven just wide of the man at
        mid-off for a quick single
  57.2 Kasprowicz to GO Jones, no run, punched to point
  57.3 Kasprowicz to GO Jones, no run, just short of a good length and on
        the off, Jones drives carefully towards point
  57.4 Kasprowicz to GO Jones, OUT: just a bit of extra bounce and outside
        the off, Jones goes fishing and edges to the keeper

       England 293/6, Partnership of 3
       GO Jones  c Gilchrist b Kasprowicz  1 (15b 0x4 0x6)
       KP Pietersen 43* (58b 6x4) MS Kasprowicz 12.4-3-66-3 (7nb)

       Australia striking back in style in this last session
  57.5 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, back of a length and on the stumps,
        defended to the off side
  57.6 Kasprowicz to Giles, FOUR, short and a bit of width outside the
        off, guided down to the third-man fence

End of over 58 (5 runs) England 297/6
MS Kasprowicz 13-3-70-3 (7nb) - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 43* (58b 6x4) AF Giles 4* (2b 1x4)

  58.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, no run, short of a length and outside the
        off, pulled to mid-on
  58.2 Gillespie to Pietersen, one run, full and on the off, driven to
        cover for a single
  58.3 Gillespie to Giles, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        off, defended towards point
  58.4 Gillespie to Giles, no run, full and on the off, driven back to the
        bowler
  58.5 Gillespie to Giles, no run, short of a length and outside the off,
        cut hard but straight to point
  58.6 Gillespie to Giles, one run, quick single stolen to cover and Giles
        keeps the strike

End of over 59 (2 runs) England 299/6
JN Gillespie 18-3-67-2 (2nb) - City End
AF Giles 5* (6b 1x4) KP Pietersen 44* (60b 6x4)

  59.1 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        off, defended back down the pitch
  59.2 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, full and just outside the off, driven
        to cover
  59.3 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, full and on the pads, clipped to the
        on side
  59.4 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, full again and on the off, Giles
        pushes to cover
  59.5 Kasprowicz to Giles, FOUR, lucky there from Giles, poking one past
        the slips cordon to the vacant third-man region to being up the
        England 300!
  59.6 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, back of a length and on the stumps,
        played back to the off side where the fielder at mid-off comes in
        and cleans up

End of over 60 (4 runs) England 303/6
MS Kasprowicz 14-3-74-3 (7nb) - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 44* (60b 6x4) AF Giles 9* (12b 2x4)

  60.1 Gillespie to Pietersen, one run, full and on the stumps, Pietersen
        uses quick feet and gets across his stumps to whip the ball
        through square-leg
  60.2 Gillespie to Giles, two runs, just short of a length and outside
        the off, driven past point where Clarke dives and half stops the
        ball
  60.3 Gillespie to Giles, no run, full and on the off, driven to the off
        side
  60.4 Gillespie to Giles, no run, short one, on the stumps, ducked well
        under
  60.5 Gillespie to Giles, FOUR, back of a length and outside the off,
        punched off the back foot and Giles has timed this well. All the
        way to the cover fence
  60.6 Gillespie to Giles, no run, full and on the off, slanted in to the
        batsman from wide of the crease, defended to the on-side with a
        straight bat

End of over 61 (7 runs) England 310/6
JN Gillespie 19-3-74-2 (2nb) - City End
KP Pietersen 45* (61b 6x4) AF Giles 15* (17b 3x4)

  61.1 Kasprowicz to Pietersen, (noball) one run, driven to long-on for an
        easy single
  61.1 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, good length ball outside the off,
        driven to cover
  61.2 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, full and outside the off, left well
        alone to the keeper
  61.3 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, full again and this time on the
        stumps, defended
  61.4 Kasprowicz to Giles, FOUR, timed beautifully through cover and
        Giles is pleasing his home crowd
  61.5 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, defended carefully this time
  61.6 Kasprowicz to Giles, no run, on the stumps and just short of a good
        length, defended back down the pitch

End of over 62 (6 runs) England 316/6
MS Kasprowicz 15-3-80-3 (8nb) - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 46* (62b 6x4) AF Giles 19* (23b 4x4)

  62.1 Lee to Pietersen, no run, just short of a length and on the off,
        driven to mid-on
  62.2 Lee to Pietersen, FOUR, slightly short and on the off, Pietersen
        smashes it wide of mid-on, his favourite spot, to pick up four and
        his third Test fifty in as many innings!
  62.3 Lee to Pietersen, no run, driven well but straight to cover
  62.4 Lee to Pietersen, FOUR, driven on the up in fine style! Such power
        and placement from Pietersen! No fielder has a chance there
  62.5 Lee to Pietersen, no run, defended to point
  62.6 Lee to Pietersen, FOUR, a bit of width and KP climbs into this one
        crashing it to the point fence

End of over 63 (12 runs) England 328/6
B Lee 12-1-84-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
AF Giles 19* (23b 4x4) KP Pietersen 58* (68b 9x4)

  63.1 Warne to Giles, no run, tossed up and on the pads, kicked away,
        stifled appeal for the lbw
  63.2 Warne to Giles, legbye: two runs, tossed up and just drifting onto
        the pad, sweep played and missed, loud shout for the lbw, turned
        down
  63.3 Warne to Giles, legbye: one run, another great shout! piytching leg
        stump, turning just enough to straighten, loud shout for the lbw,
        which looks pretty plumb in the replays! Billy Bowden says not out
  63.4 Warne to Pietersen, FOUR, full toss down leg side and Pietersen
        smashesit for four just backward of square
  63.5 Warne to Pietersen, no run, driven to mid-on
  63.6 Warne to Pietersen, one run, pushed just wide of cover for a quick
        single that allows Pietersen to keep the strike

End of over 64 (8 runs) England 336/6
SK Warne 18-1-94-1 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 63* (71b 10x4) AF Giles 19* (26b 4x4)

  64.1 Lee to Pietersen, one run, full and on the stumps, eased to long-on
  64.2 Lee to Giles, no run, short one on the stumps, Giles ducks under it
  64.3 Lee to Giles, three runs, short ball this times does not get up too
        much, Giles pulls and Kasprowicz runs around brilliantly and
        fields
  64.4 Lee to Pietersen, one run, driven well through midwicket
  64.5 Lee to Giles, one run
  64.6 Lee to Pietersen, no run

End of over 65 (6 runs) England 342/6
B Lee 13-1-90-0 (1w 2nb) - City End
AF Giles 23* (29b 4x4) KP Pietersen 65* (74b 10x4)

  65.1 Warne to Giles, OUT: full and on the off, Giles struck on the full
        and this time the loud shout for lbw is upheld and that's the end
        of Giles!

       England 342/7, Partnership of 49
       AF Giles  lbw b Warne  23 (30b 4x4 0x6)
       KP Pietersen 65* (74b 10x4) SK Warne 18.1-1-94-2

  65.2 Warne to Hoggard, no run, tossed up and just outside the off,
        pushed to point
  65.3 Warne to Hoggard, no run, squeezed through the off side
  65.4 Warne to Hoggard, no run, tossed up and outside the off, a bit of
        turn, left alone
  65.5 Warne to Hoggard, no run, full and outside the off, poked at and
        missed
  65.6 Warne to Hoggard, no run, straight one just on the stumps, Hoggard
        manages to keep it out

End of over 66 (maiden) England 342/7
SK Warne 19-2-94-2 - Pavilion End
KP Pietersen 65* (74b 10x4) MJ Hoggard 0* (5b)

  66.1 Lee to Pietersen, SIX, short ball on the stumps, Pietersen gets on
        the front foot and pulls magnificently in front of square for a
        big six!
  66.2 Lee to Pietersen, no run, full and on the pads, clipped to the on
        side
  66.3 Lee to Pietersen, OUT: just short of a good length and outside the
        off Pietersen goes for the pull and this time cannot clear the
        field and only finds Katich!

       England 348/8, Partnership of 6
       KP Pietersen  c Katich b Lee  71 (76b 10x4 1x6)
       MJ Hoggard 0* (5b) B Lee 13.3-1-96-1 (1w 2nb)

       That's Pietersen gone after an entertaining knock. Buou can't help
        thinking Australia won't mind the runs too much if they can bowl
        England out

Match State: Drinks

  66.4 Lee to Hoggard, no run, defended to the on side
  66.5 Lee to Hoggard, no run, just short of a length and pacy outside the
        off, playued at and missed
  66.6 Lee to Hoggard, (noball) one run, single squeezed past point to
        bring up the 350
  66.6 Lee to Harmison, no run, full and on the off, angling in, defended
        back down the pitch

End of over 67 (8 runs) England 350/8
B Lee 14-1-98-1 (1w 3nb) - City End
MJ Hoggard 1* (8b) SJ Harmison 0* (1b)

  67.1 Warne to Hoggard, no run, sweep played and missed, Gilchrist whips
        the bails off
  67.2 Warne to Hoggard, no run, well down the leg side, played at and
        missed
  67.3 Warne to Hoggard, no run, on the stumps and slightly short, big
        turn as well, left alone to the keeper
  67.4 Warne to Hoggard, three runs, on the pads and full, this time
        Hoggard flicks through midwicket for three
  67.5 Warne to Harmison, two runs, full and down the leg side, lap swept
        for a couple
  67.6 Warne to Harmison, one run, swept from outside the off and that
        brings up Warne's 100 for the spell! Ironic cheers from the crowd

End of over 68 (6 runs) England 356/8
SK Warne 20-2-100-2 - Pavilion End
SJ Harmison 3* (3b) MJ Hoggard 4* (12b)

       Lee to continue
       three slips and a gully waiting
  68.1 Lee to Harmison, no run, short and Harmison pulls it away in front
        of square, not a well timed shot, leg-gully moves across and
        fields
  68.2 Lee to Harmison, SIX, Harmison adds himself to the list! another
        short delivery and Harmison goes for the hook, ball clips the top
        edge and sails over the man at fine leg
  68.3 Lee to Harmison, FOUR, four more! short ball, bounces only waist
        high and Harmison pulls it away through midwicket - crowd loves
        it! that's 108 runs of Lee so far!
  68.4 Lee to Harmison, no run, good comeback delivery, outside the off
        stump and this time Harmison is beaten trying to cut it away
  68.5 Lee to Harmison, no run, short of a good length outside the off
        stump, played straight to the fielder at point
  68.6 Lee to Harmison, no run, drifting down the leg side, Harmison has a
        dab at it but fails to make contact

End of over 69 (10 runs) England 366/8
B Lee 15-1-108-1 (1w 3nb) - City End
MJ Hoggard 4* (12b) SJ Harmison 13* (9b 1x4 1x6)

  69.1 Warne to Hoggard, legbye: FOUR, tossed up and drifting down the leg
        side, Hoggard sweeps and the ball runs down the hill to the fine
        leg boundary, looked like bit of glove involved there but the
        umpire signals leg-byes
  69.2 Warne to Hoggard, one run, swept away to the fine leg region, easy
        single
  69.3 Warne to Harmison, FOUR, Harmison! tossed up outside the off stump,
        Harmison comes down the track gets inside the line and lofts it
        away to the long-off boundary
  69.4 Warne to Harmison, OUT: Warne gets his revenge! fuller on the
        stumps and Harmison is caught in two minds, whether to sweep or
        cut, in the end plays a nothing shot and gets beaten, England nine
        down!

       England 375/9, Partnership of 27
       SJ Harmison  b Warne  17 (11b 2x4 1x6)
       MJ Hoggard 5* (14b) SK Warne 20.4-2-105-3

       Simon Jones is the last man in
  69.5 Warne to SP Jones, no run, hit on pad trying to play it away on the
        off side
  69.6 Warne to SP Jones, no run, beaten outside the off stump

End of over 70 (9 runs) England 375/9
SK Warne 21-2-105-3 - Pavilion End
MJ Hoggard 5* (14b) SP Jones 0* (2b)

  70.1 Lee to Hoggard, one run, fullish and outside the off, squirted down
        to third man
  70.2 Lee to SP Jones, no run, back of a length and outside the off, left
        well alone
  70.3 Lee to SP Jones, one run, back of a length and outside the off,
        driven through cover
  70.4 Lee to Hoggard, no run, just short of a length and on the stumps,
        knocked away to the on side
  70.5 Lee to Hoggard, no run, fullish and on the off, driven to mid-off,
        no chance of a run
  70.6 Lee to Hoggard, no run, full and on the stumps, defended awkwardly

End of over 71 (2 runs) England 377/9
B Lee 16-1-110-1 (1w 3nb) - City End
SP Jones 1* (4b) MJ Hoggard 6* (18b)

  71.1 Warne to SP Jones, no run, defended awkwardly
  71.2 Warne to SP Jones, two runs, slider outside the off, edged just
        past the slip fielder
  71.3 Warne to SP Jones, no run, tossed up and on the off, defended
        carefully
  71.4 Warne to SP Jones, FOUR, leg-stump full toss, Jones sees it and
        clouts it to the square-leg fence
  71.5 Warne to SP Jones, no run, outside the off, played at and missed
  71.6 Warne to SP Jones, no run, just outside the off, again the slider,
        again played at and missed

End of over 72 (6 runs) England 383/9
SK Warne 22-2-111-3 - Pavilion End
MJ Hoggard 6* (18b) SP Jones 7* (10b 1x4)

  72.1 Lee to Hoggard, no run, quick one outside the off, Hoggard plays a
        desperate shot and misses
  72.2 Lee to Hoggard, no run, driven to cover
  72.3 Lee to Hoggard, no run, slower one outside the off stump, Hoggard
        watches carefully and leaves the ball alone to the keeper
  72.4 Lee to Hoggard, one run, fast, fiery yorker, dug out, off the
        inside edge to fine-leg
  72.5 Lee to SP Jones, no run, full and outside the off, played at and
        missed, quite a bit of swinging happening here, and it's not the
        ball we're talking about
  72.6 Lee to SP Jones, no run, just short of a good length and outside
        the off, left alone to the keeper

End of over 73 (1 run) England 384/9
B Lee 17-1-111-1 (1w 3nb) - City End
MJ Hoggard 7* (22b) SP Jones 7* (12b 1x4)

  73.1 Warne to Hoggard, no run, tossed up and on the pads, flicked to
        midwicket
  73.2 Warne to Hoggard, no run, tossed up and outside the off, left alone
        to the keeper
  73.3 Warne to Hoggard, no run, flatter and on the off, defended back
        down the pitch
  73.4 Warne to Hoggard, no run, tossed up and just on the off, defended
        towards cover
  73.5 Warne to Hoggard, no run, slider, but badly directed and down the
        leg side, left alone
  73.6 Warne to Hoggard, no run, on the stumps and full, defended

End of over 74 (maiden) England 384/9
SK Warne 23-3-111-3 - Pavilion End
SP Jones 7* (12b 1x4) MJ Hoggard 7* (28b)

  74.1 Gillespie to SP Jones, one run, full and on the off, eased through
        cover for a single
  74.2 Gillespie to Hoggard, no run, just short of a length and outside
        the off, played down to the slip cordon
  74.3 Gillespie to Hoggard, no run, full and on the off, angling in,
        defended back to the bowler
  74.4 Gillespie to Hoggard, no run, full and far outside the off,
        defended down to point
  74.5 Gillespie to Hoggard, no run, back of a length and on the poff,
        played back down the pitch off the inside edge
  74.6 Gillespie to Hoggard, (noball) no run, back of a length and outside
        the off, driven to cover
  74.6 Gillespie to Hoggard, no run, played down to point to end the over

End of over 75 (2 runs) England 386/9
JN Gillespie 20-3-76-2 (3nb) - City End
SP Jones 8* (13b 1x4) MJ Hoggard 7* (34b)

  75.1 Warne to SP Jones, no run, tossed up and on the off, defended
        towards the off side
  75.2 Warne to SP Jones, no run, tossed up and drifting just outside the
        off, defended to the off side
  75.3 Warne to SP Jones, legbye: one run, off the pads and down to fine-
        leg for a run
  75.4 Warne to Hoggard, no run, well flighted and far outside the off,
        quite a bit of turn as well, left alone
  75.5 Warne to Hoggard, no run, a repeat of the last ball, big turn, left
        alone
  75.6 Warne to Hoggard, no run, flatter and on the pads, defended with
        utmost care

End of over 76 (1 run, maiden) England 387/9
SK Warne 24-4-111-3 - Pavilion End
SP Jones 8* (16b 1x4) MJ Hoggard 7* (37b)

  76.1 Gillespie to SP Jones, no run, back of a length, on the leg stump,
        slower ball, Jones does not pick it and misses it, the ball just
        misses leg stump
  76.2 Gillespie to SP Jones, one run, slower ball once more, defended to
        the off side for a quick single
  76.3 Gillespie to Hoggard, no run, just short of a length and on the
        off, defended carefully to the off side
  76.4 Gillespie to Hoggard, no run, just short of a length and on the
        stumps, defended to the off side
  76.5 Gillespie to Hoggard, no run, short of a good length and on the
        stumps, defended back down the pitch
  76.6 Gillespie to Hoggard, one run, full and outside the off stump,
        driven to the cover region

End of over 77 (2 runs) England 389/9
JN Gillespie 21-3-78-2 (3nb) - City End
MJ Hoggard 8* (41b) SP Jones 9* (18b 1x4)

  77.1 Warne to Hoggard, no run, full and outside the off, played at and
        missed
  77.2 Warne to Hoggard, no run, full and outside the off, drive played
        missed
  77.3 Warne to Hoggard, no run, full and on the stumps, defended towards
        the off side
  77.4 Warne to Hoggard, no run, down the leg side, sweep played down to
        fine-leg
  77.5 Warne to Hoggard, no run, full and on the stumps driven to cover
  77.6 Warne to Hoggard, FOUR, full and outside the off, driven through
        cover and this time the ball finds the fence

End of over 78 (4 runs) England 393/9
SK Warne 25-4-115-3 - Pavilion End
SP Jones 9* (18b 1x4) MJ Hoggard 12* (47b 1x4)

  78.1 Gillespie to SP Jones, SIX, just short of a length and outside the
        off, Jones goes for a scything drive and the all sails over long-
        off for six!
  78.2 Gillespie to SP Jones, no run, short and outside the off, left
        alone to the keeper
  78.3 Gillespie to SP Jones, no run, down the leg side, Jones shapes to
        flick but misses
  78.4 Gillespie to SP Jones, two runs, full and on the off, lofted over
        mid-off to bring up the 400! What a day this has been!
  78.5 Gillespie to SP Jones, one run, back of a length and on the pads,
        clipped down to square-leg for a single
  78.6 Gillespie to Hoggard, FOUR, back of a length and outside the off,
        Hoggard rocks back and punches well through cover! Such timing and
        placement from the tailender

End of over 79 (13 runs) England 406/9
JN Gillespie 22-3-91-2 (3nb) - City End
SP Jones 18* (23b 1x4 1x6) MJ Hoggard 16* (48b 2x4)

  79.1 Warne to SP Jones, one run, full and on the off, slogged down to
        long-on for a single
  79.2 Warne to Hoggard, OUT: Straight one on the stumps, Hoggard sweeps
        and misses, Warne hits! That is plumb in front!

       England 407/10, Partnership of 32
       MJ Hoggard  lbw b Warne  16 (49b 2x4 0x6)
       SP Jones 19* (24b 1x4 1x6) SK Warne 25.2-4-116-4

       End of an incredible innings from England! 10 wickets gone and all
        out on the first day, but they have scored 407!
       There will be a short break for the change of innings
       We will be back soon with the action from Australia's reply
       Till then this is Anand Vasu signing off, inviting comments and
        feedback at http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html
       The players are back on the field
       Light is fading fast and there is a bit of a drizzle as well
       And just as they come out the rain gets hard enough for the umpires
        to call the covers on
       The players all troop back into the pavilion
       And we have news from Edgbaston and it is that play has been
        abandoned for the day
       It was a great day's cricket and we thoroughly enjoyed bringing it
        to you. We hope you enjoyed our coverage.
       This is Anand Vasu, your commentator, signing off, saying good
        night, see you at the start of play tomorrow
       Do remember to write in with all your comments at http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html

Match State: Stumps - Day 1

       Hello and welcome to the coverage of the second day's play
       I'm Anand Vasu, your commentator, welcoming you to the day's
        coverage
       It's going to be Steve Harmison to start off
   0.1 Harmison to Langer, no run, back of a length and on the stumps,
        defense played and missed, rapped on the pad
   0.2 Harmison to Langer, no run, back of a length and on the off, driven
        back down the pitch to the bowler
   0.3 Harmison to Langer, no run, banged in short and ouch! that hurt!
        Justin Langer cops that on the helmet! Nasty one that!
   0.4 Harmison to Langer, no run, left alone outside off
   0.5 Harmison to Langer, no run, very gingerly played back down the
        pitch
   0.6 Harmison to Langer, no run, good pace and bounce, left alone, end
        of a cracking over from Harmison

End of over 1 (maiden) Australia 0/0 (trail by 407 runs)
SJ Harmison 1-1-0-0 - City End
ML Hayden 0* (0b) JL Langer 0* (6b)

       Hoggard shares the new ball with Harmison
   1.1 Hoggard to Hayden, OUT: fullish and on the off, Hayden clips it
        straight to Strauss at short cover! What scenes here at Edgbaston!
        Australia in early trouble

       Australia 0/1, Partnership of 0
       ML Hayden  c Strauss b Hoggard  0 (1b 0x4 0x6)
       JL Langer 0* (6b) MJ Hoggard 0.1-0-0-1

   1.2 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, full and outside the off, played at and
        missed, Hoggard has it on the spot right away and Ponting is
        tentative
   1.3 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, back of a length and on the off, a
        suggestion of away swing, defended with an open face to point
   1.4 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, just short of a length and outside the
        off, left well alone to the keeper, that's the sensible option
        early on with the ball doing just a little bit
   1.5 Hoggard to Ponting, one run, defended down to the off side and a
        risky single stolen, Pietersen has a shy and misses, that was very
        risky, a direct hit would have had Ponting miles out
   1.6 Hoggard to Langer, no run, full and on the pads, swinging a bit,
        played at and missed

End of over 2 (1 run) Australia 1/1 (trail by 406 runs)
MJ Hoggard 1-0-1-1 - Pavilion End
RT Ponting 1* (4b) JL Langer 0* (7b)

   2.1 Harmison to Ponting, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        left alone
   2.2 Harmison to Ponting, one run, on the pads this time and turned down
        to fine-leg for a single
   2.3 Harmison to Langer, no run, full and on the pads, clipped to the on
        side
   2.4 Harmison to Langer, no run, full and on the off, Langer drives well
        off the front foot but finds the man at mid-off
   2.5 Harmison to Langer, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        left well alone
   2.6 Harmison to Langer, no run, once again left well alone and that
        ends the over

End of over 3 (5 runs) Australia 6/1 (trail by 401 runs)
SJ Harmison 2-1-1-0 - City End
RT Ponting 6* (6b) JL Langer 0* (11b)

   3.1 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, full and outside the off, Hoggard
        looking for swing here and pitching the ball up, Ponting is very
        watchful and shoulders arms, the ball carries nicely to Geraint
        Jones
   3.2 Hoggard to Ponting, FOUR, too full, too straight and on the pads,
        that is like offering Ponting a pint of lager, he licks his lips
        and clips the ball nonchalantly off his pads to the square-leg
        fence
   3.3 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, left well alone outside the off
   3.4 Hoggard to Ponting, (noball) no run, and a no-ball creeps in giving
        Australia an extra run, you don't want that from Hoggard if you're
        Michael Vaughan
   3.4 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, and back of a length this time and
        outside the off, left alone to the keeper
   3.5 Hoggard to Ponting, (noball) no run, and another no-ball, left
        alone to the keeper
   3.5 Hoggard to Ponting, FOUR, back of a length and outside the off,
        Ponting leans back, puts the meat of that sizeable Kookaburra bat
        on ball and it fairly races to the cover fence
   3.6 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, fullish and on the stumps, Ponting
        falls over slightly but works the ball to the on side

End of over 4 (10 runs) Australia 16/1 (trail by 391 runs)
MJ Hoggard 2-0-11-1 (2nb) - Pavilion End
JL Langer 0* (11b) RT Ponting 14* (14b 2x4)

   4.1 Harmison to Langer, no run, just short of a good length and outside
        the off, defended to the off side with an angled bat
   4.2 Harmison to Langer, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        left well alone
   4.3 Harmison to Langer, two runs, chopped past point for a brace
   4.4 Harmison to Langer, no run, another short one, another nasty blow
        for Langer. This one hits him smack in the midriff! A player
        brought up at the WACA is hopping around against an English
        bowler! How many years is it since that happened?
   4.5 Harmison to Langer, one run, back of a length and on the pads,
        tucked away to the on side, Langer must be happy to get off strike
   4.6 Harmison to Ponting, FOUR, too full and on the pads, easily smacked
        through square-leg for a four

End of over 5 (7 runs) Australia 23/1 (trail by 384 runs)
SJ Harmison 3-1-8-0 - City End
JL Langer 3* (16b) RT Ponting 18* (15b 3x4)

       Just to let you know, there were four overthrows that we missed
        earlier on. We have now checked with the official scorers and
        corrected that. Apologies for any confusion this might have caused
   5.1 Hoggard to Langer, FOUR, full and a bit of width, Langer goes after
        that and the ball flies over the slips cordon and runs down to the
        vacant third-man area
   5.2 Hoggard to Langer, no run, full and outside the off, punched to
        point
       We try to get it right as much as we can but occasionally there are
        lapses. Please do bear with us. There's just so much happening out
        there!
   5.3 Hoggard to Langer, no run, full and on the off, driven to cover
        with a straight bat
   5.4 Hoggard to Langer, no run, full again and on the off, pushed to the
        man at point, no chance of a run
   5.5 Hoggard to Langer, (noball) one run, full and on the pads, clipped
        through square-leg
   5.5 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, full and straight, played back to the
        bowler with a straight bat
   5.6 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, full and on the off, played down to
        point with an angled bat

End of over 6 (6 runs) Australia 29/1 (trail by 378 runs)
MJ Hoggard 3-0-21-1 (3nb) - Pavilion End
JL Langer 8* (21b 1x4) RT Ponting 18* (17b 3x4)

   6.1 Harmison to Langer, one run, back of a length and on the pads,
        tucked away for a single
   6.2 Harmison to Ponting, no run, short one outside the off, ducked well
        under, Harmison breathing fire on a docile wicket here. This is
        some speel we're watching
   6.3 Harmison to Ponting, no run, fuller and on the off, driven to
        cover, no chance of a run
   6.4 Harmison to Ponting, FOUR, short ball, not climbing enough on
        Ponting and he has time to swivel and play a tremendous pull
   6.5 Harmison to Ponting, (noball) no run, back of a length and outside
        the off, left well alone
   6.5 Harmison to Ponting, FOUR, again short, again not quick enough or
        high enough, Ponting gets on top of that and pulls
   6.6 Harmison to Ponting, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        left alone to the keeper

End of over 7 (10 runs) Australia 39/1 (trail by 368 runs)
SJ Harmison 4-1-18-0 (1nb) - City End
JL Langer 9* (22b 1x4) RT Ponting 26* (23b 5x4)

   7.1 Hoggard to Langer, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        driven to cover
   7.2 Hoggard to Langer, one run, on the pads and full, clipped down to
        fine-leg
   7.3 Hoggard to Ponting, no run, full and outside the off, Ponting plays
        at this one but not convincingly, the ball goes off the outside
        edge to point
   7.4 Hoggard to Ponting, (noball) three runs, on the pads again, no-ball
        again, worked through the gap for easy runs
   7.4 Hoggard to Langer, no run, better ball this time, fullish and on
        the stumps, played carefully
   7.5 Hoggard to Langer, no run, full and on the off, driven hard but
        straight to mid-off
   7.6 Hoggard to Langer, no run, just short of a good length and outside
        the off, played to point with an angled bat

End of over 8 (5 runs) Australia 44/1 (trail by 363 runs)
MJ Hoggard 4-0-26-1 (4nb) - Pavilion End
RT Ponting 29* (25b 5x4) JL Langer 10* (27b 1x4)

   8.1 Harmison to Ponting, no run, fu;llish and outside the off, very
        quick too, played at and missed
   8.2 Harmison to Ponting, no run, straighter and fuller, Ponting tries
        to work it to the leg side but misses and is hit on the pad
   8.3 Harmison to Ponting, (noball) one run, full and on the off, driven
        to cover
   8.3 Harmison to Langer, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        pads, defended to the leg side
   8.4 Harmison to Langer, FOUR, slightly short and Langer goes for the
        pull, not quite off the meat of the bat but enough on it to run
        down to the midwicket fence
   8.5 Harmison to Langer, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        played at and missed
   8.6 Harmison to Langer, no run, back of a length and on the stumps,
        played back to the bowler

End of over 9 (6 runs) Australia 50/1 (trail by 357 runs)
SJ Harmison 5-1-24-0 (2nb) - City End
RT Ponting 30* (28b 5x4) JL Langer 14* (31b 2x4)

   9.1 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, back of a length and on the off,
        driven well but straight to the man at cover-point
   9.2 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, just short of a length and on the
        stumps, clipped to the man at mid-on
   9.3 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, full and on the stumps, no sign of
        swing yet, defended to the off side
   9.4 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, full and on the off, driven back
        awkwardly yo the bowler
   9.5 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, full and outside the off, driven to
        point
   9.6 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, full and on the off, driven to cover,
        no chance of a run

End of over 10 (maiden) Australia 50/1 (trail by 357 runs)
SP Jones 1-1-0-0 - Pavilion End
JL Langer 14* (31b 2x4) RT Ponting 30* (34b 5x4)

  10.1 Harmison to Langer, no run, beaten outside the off stump trying to
        defend
  10.2 Harmison to Langer, no run, outside the off stump and Langer pushes
        it away to the point region
  10.3 Harmison to Langer, one run, short of a good length delivery on the
        middle and off stump line, Langer drops it in front of the stumps
        on the off side and calls, Ponting responds well and a single is
        added to the total
  10.4 Harmison to Ponting, no run, defended to silly mid-off, Harmison
        follows it up
  10.5 Harmison to Ponting, no run, opens up Ponting with a probing
        delivery outside the off stump, ball clips the outer half of the
        bat and rolls away towards point
  10.6 Harmison to Ponting, one run, drifting on to middle and leg,
        Ponting moves across a bit and works it away behind square on the
        leg side, easy single to end the over

End of over 11 (2 runs) Australia 52/1 (trail by 355 runs)
SJ Harmison 6-1-26-0 (2nb) - City End
RT Ponting 31* (37b 5x4) JL Langer 15* (34b 2x4)

  11.1 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, good length delivery close to the off
        stump line, Ponting forces it away straight to the cover fielder
       two slips and a gully waiting
  11.2 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, almost! short of a good length
        delivery, the one that goes straight on after pitching, Ponting
        plays for the swing and gets beaten - well bowled
  11.3 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, pitched up and Ponting drives down to
        mid-off
  11.4 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, good length delivery outside the off
        stump, Ponting leaves it for the keeper - quicker delivery of
        sorts
  11.5 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, fuller and angling in, Ponting pushes
        forward in defence and gets it on the middle, ball rolls away
        straight to the fielder at cover
  11.6 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, swinging away late and Ponting leaves
        it for the keeper, consecutive maidens for Jones

End of over 12 (maiden) Australia 52/1 (trail by 355 runs)
SP Jones 2-2-0-0 - Pavilion End
JL Langer 15* (34b 2x4) RT Ponting 31* (43b 5x4)

  12.1 Harmison to Langer, no run
  12.2 Harmison to Langer, one run, on the middle and off stump line,
        Lander drops it in front of the stumps on the off side and Ponting
        sprints across - excellent running between the wickets there
  12.3 Harmison to Ponting, FOUR, slightly short and Ponting pulls it away
        handsomely to the long-leg fence, solid hit that
  12.4 Harmison to Ponting, no run
  12.5 Harmison to Ponting, FOUR, fore more! pitched up and drifting onto
        the legs, Ponting quickly gets into a good position and drives it
        away through midwicket, once again the shot is timed to perfection
        - Australia moving along nicely now
  12.6 Harmison to Ponting, no run, left alone outside the off stump and
        the umpire calls for drinks

End of over 13 (9 runs) Australia 61/1 (trail by 346 runs)
SJ Harmison 7-1-35-0 (2nb) - City End
JL Langer 16* (36b 2x4) RT Ponting 39* (47b 7x4)

Match State: Drinks

  13.1 SP Jones to Langer, one run, turned away to the fine leg region,
        easy single
  13.2 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, fulltoss on the middle and leg stump
        line, was the attempted yorker, Ponting defends it down to the
        mid-on region
  13.3 SP Jones to Ponting, FOUR, Shot! in the slot outside the off stump
        and Ponting drives with a straight bat, ball races away to the
        long-off boundary, excellent timing
  13.4 SP Jones to Ponting, FOUR, shot again! half volley, angling in from
        outside the off stump, Ponting pushes forward and drives it down
        the track to the long-on boundary, another cracking four!
  13.5 SP Jones to Ponting, FOUR, make that three in a row! under pressure
        Jones slips in a fulltoss and Ponting hits through midwicket -
        that's fifty for Ponting! 50 in 51 balls - what an innings
  13.6 SP Jones to Ponting, no run, again pitched up, driven down to the
        mid-off region

End of over 14 (13 runs) Australia 74/1 (trail by 333 runs)
SP Jones 3-2-13-0 - Pavilion End
JL Langer 17* (37b 2x4) RT Ponting 51* (52b 10x4)

       Flintoff into the attack now
  14.1 Flintoff to Langer, one run, starts off with a delivery drifting
        down the leg side and Langer turns it away to the fine leg region
        for an easy single
       two slips and a gully in position
  14.2 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, short of a good length delivery
        outside the off stump, Ponting plays off the back-foot towards
        point
  14.3 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, good length delivery outside the off
        stump, Ponting gets well forwards and defends it watchfully
  14.4 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, angling in from outside the off stump,
        Ponting moves across to the off side and plays it back down the
        pitch, Flintoff fields on his follow through
  14.5 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, good length delivery outside the off
        stump and Ponting leaves it for the keeper
  14.6 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, wide outside the off stump and Jones
        is the only person interested

End of over 15 (1 run) Australia 75/1 (trail by 332 runs)
A Flintoff 1-0-1-0 - City End
JL Langer 18* (38b 2x4) RT Ponting 51* (57b 10x4)

       Jones is out of the attack - Giles on now
       Giles to bowl over the wicket to the left hander, slip - short leg
        and a short cover catching
  15.1 Giles to Langer, no run, on target right away and Langer turns it
        away towards midwicket
  15.2 Giles to Langer, no run, fuller outside the off stump, Langer
        defends watchfully
  15.3 Giles to Langer, no run, another good delivery, close to the off
        stump line and Langer defends it on the back-foot
  15.4 Giles to Langer, no run, drifting down the leg side, Langer goes
        for the sweep but fails to make contact
  15.5 Giles to Langer, one run, pushed away wide of the cover fielder,
        quick single taken, shy at the stumps from Vaughan misses the
        target and Langer makes it across safely
  15.6 Giles to Ponting, FOUR, down the leg side, Ponting goes down on one
        knee and slaps it away wide of the fielder at short fine leg -
        there is no protection in the deep and four more runs are added to
        the total

End of over 16 (5 runs) Australia 80/1 (trail by 327 runs)
AF Giles 1-0-5-0 - Pavilion End
JL Langer 19* (43b 2x4) RT Ponting 55* (58b 11x4)

  16.1 Flintoff to Langer, no run, full and on the off, defended
  16.2 Flintoff to Langer, no run, back of a length and on the pad,
        defended to the leg side
  16.3 Flintoff to Langer, one run, full and on the off, defended down for
        a single
  16.4 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, back of a length and on the stumps,
        played back down the pitch
  16.5 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, fullish and on the off, driven back fo
        the bowler
  16.6 Flintoff to Ponting, one run, tucked past mid-on for a quick single

End of over 17 (2 runs) Australia 82/1 (trail by 325 runs)
A Flintoff 2-0-3-0 - City End
RT Ponting 56* (61b 11x4) JL Langer 20* (46b 2x4)

  17.1 Giles to Ponting, no run, full and on the pads, played back to the
        bowler
  17.2 Giles to Ponting, no run, driven powerfully to mid-off
  17.3 Giles to Ponting, no run, full and outside off, pushed to cover
  17.4 Giles to Ponting, no run, on the pads and full, defended
  17.5 Giles to Ponting, FOUR, too full, a bit of width, driven
        magnificently through cover
  17.6 Giles to Ponting, one run, on the pads, single taken to retain
        strike

End of over 18 (5 runs) Australia 87/1 (trail by 320 runs)
AF Giles 2-0-10-0 - Pavilion End
RT Ponting 61* (67b 12x4) JL Langer 20* (46b 2x4)

  18.1 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        defensive shot played and missed, hit high on the pad, stifled
        appeal
  18.2 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, defended well towards point
  18.3 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        off, chopped to the off side
  18.4 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, just short of a good length and
        outside the off, left alone
  18.5 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, full and outside the off, left alone
        to the keeper
  18.6 Flintoff to Ponting, no run, quick one just outside the off,
        Ponting plays at it and misses, through to the keeper

End of over 19 (maiden) Australia 87/1 (trail by 320 runs)
A Flintoff 3-1-3-0 - City End
JL Langer 20* (46b 2x4) RT Ponting 61* (73b 12x4)

  19.1 Giles to Langer, no run, well flighted and on the off, defended
        carefully
  19.2 Giles to Langer, one run, pushed wide of the man at cover for a
        single
  19.3 Giles to Ponting, no run, flatter and on the stumps, played back
        down the pitch with surprisingly soft hands
  19.4 Giles to Ponting, no run, down the pitch and driven to mid-off
  19.5 Giles to Ponting, OUT: tossed up, on the pad, Ponting goes for the
        sweep and top edges straight to Michael Vaughan at short fine-leg.
        That is a tame, tame dismissal for a lion of a batsman who looked
        well set

       Australia 88/2, Partnership of 88
       RT Ponting  c Vaughan b Giles  61 (76b 12x4 0x6)
       JL Langer 21* (48b 2x4) AF Giles 2.5-0-11-1

       Ashley Giles has struck. He is understandably ecstatic. There's
        nothing quite as good as doing it in front of your home crowd!
  19.6 Giles to Martyn, no run, down the pitch, tucked to the on side

End of over 20 (1 run) Australia 88/2 (trail by 319 runs)
AF Giles 3-0-11-1 - Pavilion End
JL Langer 21* (48b 2x4) DR Martyn 0* (1b)

       Remember to tell us what you think of our coverage. Go to http://www.cricinfo.com/co
        mmentary.html
  20.1 Flintoff to Langer, one run, full and on the pads, worked towards
        midwicket for a single
  20.2 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, fullish and on the off, slanting in to
        Martyn, defended down to short-leg
  20.3 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, back of a length and on the off,
        punched to cover
  20.4 Flintoff to Martyn, two runs, whipped away through square-leg for
        an easy brace
  20.5 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, slightly fuller and outside the off,
        left well alone to the keeper
  20.6 Flintoff to Martyn, one run, risky single stolen to end the over
        and Martyn will keep the strike

End of over 21 (4 runs) Australia 92/2 (trail by 315 runs)
A Flintoff 4-1-7-0 - City End
DR Martyn 3* (6b) JL Langer 22* (49b 2x4)

  21.1 Giles to Martyn, one run, full and down the leg side, Martyn comes
        down the pitch and flicks
  21.2 Giles to Langer, no run, full and far outside the off, left well
        alone
  21.3 Giles to Langer, one run, outside the off, squeezed to third man
        for a couple, but one short signaled by the umpire
  21.4 Giles to Langer, no run, full and on the off, driven to mid-off
  21.5 Giles to Langer, one run
  21.6 Giles to Martyn, FOUR, smashed through covers to end the over,
        classive Martyn shot that

End of over 22 (7 runs) Australia 99/2 (trail by 308 runs)
AF Giles 4-0-18-1 - Pavilion End
JL Langer 24* (53b 2x4) DR Martyn 8* (8b 1x4)

  22.1 Flintoff to Langer, one run, full and on the pads, tucked away to
        the on side to bring up the 100 for Australia
  22.2 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, short one dug in, Martyn looks at it
        carefully and ducks under
  22.3 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, fullish and on the off, driven to mid-
        on
  22.4 Flintoff to Martyn, FOUR, full and outside the off, driven at, off
        the outside edge to the vacant third-man region past the slips
        cordon
  22.5 Flintoff to Martyn, FOUR, back of a length and just slipping down
        leg, Martyn shimmies across and clips that one past the diving
        keeper to the fine-leg fence
  22.6 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, full and a bit outside the off, pushed
        to cover

End of over 23 (9 runs) Australia 108/2 (trail by 299 runs)
A Flintoff 5-1-16-0 - City End
JL Langer 25* (54b 2x4) DR Martyn 16* (13b 3x4)

  23.1 Giles to Langer, no run, full and on the off, defended
  23.2 Giles to Langer, no run, flat and on the pads, worked to the leg
        side
  23.3 Giles to Langer, bye: FOUR, outside the off and into the rough,
        Langer drives, beats everyone and runs away for four byes
  23.4 Giles to Langer, two runs, eased down to third man for a couple of
        runs
  23.5 Giles to Langer, no run, played at and missed, half a shout for
        both the catch and the stumping
  23.6 Giles to Langer, no run, flat and on the pads, kicked away

End of over 24 (6 runs) Australia 114/2 (trail by 293 runs)
AF Giles 5-0-20-1 - Pavilion End
DR Martyn 16* (13b 3x4) JL Langer 27* (60b 2x4)

  24.1 Flintoff to Martyn, FOUR, short and a bit of width, Martyn plays
        that one well through point, he likes that area
  24.2 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, played in the same area but this time
        straight to Ian Bell at point
  24.3 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, another one with a bit of width, cut to
        point
  24.4 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        left well alone to the keeper
  24.5 Flintoff to Martyn, no run, RUN OUT! Tip and run goes awry again as
        Martyn plays this one towards Michael Vaughan and tries to scamper
        a single. Vaughan nails the stumps and Martyn's a goner

       Australia 118/3, Partnership of 30
       DR Martyn  run out (Vaughan)  20 (18b 4x4 0x6)

       And with that it is lunch on the second day
       Another action-packed session and again you have to say England
        have the best of it
       This is Anand Vasu, your commentator, saying bye for now. We'll be
        back in about 30 minutes, at 12.10 GMT

Match State: Lunch - Day 2

       Welcome back to our coverage of this Test match
       The players are back on the field for the post-lunch session
       This is Anand Vasu, your commentator, welcoming you back
  24.6 Flintoff to Langer, no run

End of over 25 (4 runs) Australia 118/3 (trail by 289 runs)
A Flintoff 6-1-20-0 - City End
MJ Clarke 0* (0b) JL Langer 27* (61b 2x4)

  25.1 SP Jones to Clarke, no run
  25.2 SP Jones to Clarke, two runs
  25.3 SP Jones to Clarke, no run
  25.4 SP Jones to Clarke, no run
  25.5 SP Jones to Clarke, FOUR, driven magnificently back past the bowler
        to the fence at long-off
  25.6 SP Jones to Clarke, FOUR, on the pads this time and clarke whips it
        away wristily through square-leg for a boundary

End of over 26 (10 runs) Australia 128/3 (trail by 279 runs)
SP Jones 4-2-23-0 - Pavilion End
JL Langer 27* (61b 2x4) MJ Clarke 10* (6b 2x4)

  26.1 Harmison to Langer, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        pads, Langer shapes to flick but misses
  26.2 Harmison to Langer, no run, full and outside the off, driven to
        point, no chance of a run there
  26.3 Harmison to Langer, no run, outside the off again and quite full,
        driven nicely to cover
  26.4 Harmison to Langer, no run, slightly wider this time and quite
        full, pushed to cover
  26.5 Harmison to Langer, one run, back of a length and angled onto the
        pads, worked to the on side for a single
  26.6 Harmison to Clarke, one run, on the pads this time and Clarke
        glances fine to keep the strike

End of over 27 (2 runs) Australia 130/3 (trail by 277 runs)
SJ Harmison 8-1-37-0 (2nb) - City End
MJ Clarke 11* (7b 2x4) JL Langer 28* (66b 2x4)

  27.1 SP Jones to Clarke, one run, full and outside the off, driven
        through cover
  27.2 SP Jones to Langer, FOUR, too full, outside the off, no swing at
        all, Langer watches it carefully and drives well through coiver
  27.3 SP Jones to Langer, no run, full and outside the off, crashed to
        point where Strauss dives and fields brilliantly
  27.4 SP Jones to Langer, no run, just short of a good length this time,
        driven back towards mid-off
  27.5 SP Jones to Langer, no run, fullish and on the off, defended with a
        dead straight bat
  27.6 SP Jones to Langer, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        stumps, defended awkwardly back down the pitch

End of over 28 (5 runs) Australia 135/3 (trail by 272 runs)
SP Jones 5-2-28-0 - Pavilion End
MJ Clarke 12* (8b 2x4) JL Langer 32* (71b 3x4)

  28.1 Harmison to Clarke, FOUR, short ball, clarke sees it very early and
        pulls ferociously in front of square
  28.2 Harmison to Clarke, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        defended carefully
  28.3 Harmison to Clarke, one run, worked through the on side for a quick
        single
  28.4 Harmison to Langer, no run, full and outside the off, left well
        alone to the keeper
  28.5 Harmison to Langer, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        off, pad first and then bat, half a shout for lbw, no way that was
        going to be given
  28.6 Harmison to Langer, one run, turned around the corner for a single

End of over 29 (6 runs) Australia 141/3 (trail by 266 runs)
SJ Harmison 9-1-42-0 (2nb) - City End
JL Langer 33* (74b 3x4) MJ Clarke 16* (11b 3x4)

  29.1 SP Jones to Langer, one run, on the leg side and slightly short,
        pulled down to fine-leg
  29.2 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, back of a length and outside the off,
        left alone
  29.3 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, just short of a length once more and
        outside the off stump, left alone to the keepetr
  29.4 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, once again left clean alone to the
        keeper
  29.5 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, and again it's well outside the off,
        once again it is easily left alone
  29.6 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, full and on the off, driven to mid-off

End of over 30 (1 run) Australia 142/3 (trail by 265 runs)
SP Jones 6-2-29-0 - Pavilion End
JL Langer 34* (75b 3x4) MJ Clarke 16* (16b 3x4)

  30.1 Harmison to Langer, one run, played down towards cover with soft
        hands, quick single stolen as the man runs in and tidies up
  30.2 Harmison to Clarke, no run, just short of a length and outside the
        off, defended with soft hands towards podint
  30.3 Harmison to Clarke, one run, just short of a good length and on the
        pads, Clarke tucks it away easily to square-leg and picks up a
        single
  30.4 Harmison to Langer, no run, banged in a bit short and Langer
        shoulders arms, the line is very good and the ball nearly comes
        back and hits his body
  30.5 Harmison to Langer, one run, on the pads this time and Langer can
        work it away for a single
  30.6 Harmison to Clarke, no run, just short of a driving length once
        more, outside the off, defended towards cover

End of over 31 (3 runs) Australia 145/3 (trail by 262 runs)
SJ Harmison 10-1-45-0 (2nb) - City End
JL Langer 36* (78b 3x4) MJ Clarke 17* (19b 3x4)

  31.1 SP Jones to Langer, wide: no run, full and far wide of the stumps,
        so far wide that the umpire calls it
  31.1 SP Jones to Langer, one run, fullish and on the off, worked through
        cover for a single
  31.2 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, full and very far wide of the stumps,
        this is an odd line from Jones, easily left alone
  31.3 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, full and wide again, this time Clarke
        drives but cannot pierce the field. Well stopped by point
  31.4 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, fullish and on the off, played back
        down the pitch towards mid-off
  31.5 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, just short of a good length and on the
        off, defended towards the off side
  31.6 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, full and far outside the off, left well
        alone

End of over 32 (2 runs) Australia 147/3 (trail by 260 runs)
SP Jones 7-2-31-0 (1w) - Pavilion End
JL Langer 37* (79b 3x4) MJ Clarke 17* (24b 3x4)

  32.1 Harmison to Langer, one run, full and on the off, driven just past
        the man at mid-on for a single
  32.2 Harmison to Clarke, no run, just short of driving length and on the
        off, punched towards cover
  32.3 Harmison to Clarke, no run, just short of a good length and outside
        the off, left well alone to the keeper
  32.4 Harmison to Clarke, one run, too full, too straight, easily flicked
        down to fine-leg
  32.5 Harmison to Langer, one run, short one slipping down the leg side,
        Langer swats it down to fine-leg to bring up the 150
  32.6 Harmison to Clarke, no run, defended watchfully to end the over

End of over 33 (3 runs) Australia 150/3 (trail by 257 runs)
SJ Harmison 11-1-48-0 (2nb) - City End
JL Langer 39* (81b 3x4) MJ Clarke 18* (28b 3x4)

  33.1 SP Jones to Langer, one run
  33.2 SP Jones to Clarke, no run
  33.3 SP Jones to Clarke, FOUR, pulled well through midwicket
  33.4 SP Jones to Clarke, no run
  33.5 SP Jones to Clarke, no run
  33.6 SP Jones to Clarke, no run

End of over 34 (5 runs) Australia 155/3 (trail by 252 runs)
SP Jones 8-2-36-0 (1w) - Pavilion End
JL Langer 40* (82b 3x4) MJ Clarke 22* (33b 4x4)

  34.1 Giles to Langer, no run
  34.2 Giles to Langer, no run
  34.3 Giles to Langer, no run, padded away to the off side
  34.4 Giles to Langer, one run, full and on the off, defended with soft
        hands for a quick single
  34.5 Giles to Clarke, no run, flat and on the pads, defensive shot
        played, off the pad to the on side
  34.6 Giles to Clarke, no run, again on the pads, kicked away to the on
        side

End of over 35 (1 run) Australia 156/3 (trail by 251 runs)
AF Giles 6-0-21-1 - City End
JL Langer 41* (86b 3x4) MJ Clarke 22* (35b 4x4)

  35.1 SP Jones to Langer, FOUR, short one, again this sits up, Langer
        pulls very well in front of square, that is a cracking shot
  35.2 SP Jones to Langer, no run, just short of a good length and outside
        the off, punched to cover
  35.3 SP Jones to Langer, one run, full this time and on the stumps,
        eased back past the bowler for a single
  35.4 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, full and outside the off stump, not
        much movement at all, either off the pitch or in the air, left
        alone to the keeper
  35.5 SP Jones to Clarke, no run, overpitched and outside the off, driven
        to point
  35.6 SP Jones to Clarke, one run, pushed just past the man at cover for
        a single to end the over

End of over 36 (6 runs) Australia 162/3 (trail by 245 runs)
SP Jones 9-2-42-0 (1w) - Pavilion End
MJ Clarke 23* (38b 4x4) JL Langer 46* (89b 4x4)

  36.1 Giles to Clarke, no run, full and on the stumps, driven straight to
        short cover
  36.2 Giles to Clarke, one run, on the pads and full, flicked down to
        fine-leg
  36.3 Giles to Langer, two runs, tossed up and outside the off, driven
        well through cover for a couple of runs
  36.4 Giles to Langer, no run, punched to mid-off
  36.5 Giles to Langer, one run, placed down to the off side for a quick
        single
  36.6 Giles to Clarke, no run, down the pitch and defended

End of over 37 (4 runs) Australia 166/3 (trail by 241 runs)
AF Giles 7-0-25-1 - City End
JL Langer 49* (92b 4x4) MJ Clarke 24* (41b 4x4)

  37.1 Hoggard to Langer, two runs, overpitched and on the pads, Langer
        squeezes past Michael Vaughan at mid-on to bring up a very well-
        made half-century
  37.2 Hoggard to Langer, one run, outside the off this time and quite
        full, eased down to third man for a single
  37.3 Hoggard to Clarke, FOUR, overpitched and outside the off, just a
        hint of inswing, driven perfectly inside out and through cover.
        That is a classic shot
  37.4 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, full and outside the off stump, left
        well alone
  37.5 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, just outside the off and fullish,
        defended awkwardly
  37.6 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, fullish and on the off, driven to mid-
        off

End of over 38 (7 runs) Australia 173/3 (trail by 234 runs)
MJ Hoggard 5-0-33-1 (4nb) - Pavilion End
JL Langer 52* (94b 4x4) MJ Clarke 28* (45b 5x4)

  38.1 Giles to Langer, one run, swept square of the wicket for a single
  38.2 Giles to Clarke, no run, full and on the off, driven to mid-off
  38.3 Giles to Clarke, no run, flat and on the legs, kicked away to the
        on side
  38.4 Giles to Clarke, no run, on the off stump this time, defended
        towards silly mid-off
  38.5 Giles to Clarke, no run, tossed up just a bit more and Clarke comes
        down the pitch and drives to short cover
  38.6 Giles to Clarke, FOUR, short and a bit of width, Clarke cuts late
        and the ball flies just past the lone slip fielder to the third-
        man fence

End of over 39 (5 runs) Australia 178/3 (trail by 229 runs)
AF Giles 8-0-30-1 - City End
JL Langer 53* (95b 4x4) MJ Clarke 32* (50b 6x4)

Match State: Drinks

       And with the end of that over the players take drinks
       players are back, Hoggard to continue
  39.1 Hoggard to Langer, one run, swinging away and Lagers forces it away
        in front of point, easy single
  39.2 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, pitched up, driven down to mid-off
  39.3 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, good length delivery outside the off
        stump, Clarke gets forward and pushes it away to extra cover
  39.4 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, another good delivery outside the off
        stump, again defended to extra cover
  39.5 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, fuller in length, close to the off stump
        line and swinging in, driven straight back to the bowler
  39.6 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, bit wide outside the off stump, defended
        on the front-foot, ball rolls away to the cover region

End of over 40 (1 run) Australia 179/3 (trail by 228 runs)
MJ Hoggard 6-0-34-1 (4nb) - Pavilion End
JL Langer 54* (96b 4x4) MJ Clarke 32* (55b 6x4)

  40.1 Giles to Langer, no run, tossed up outside the off stump, Langer
        comes down the track and drives hard but fails to beat Harmison at
        mid-off
  40.2 Giles to Langer, no run, Langer once again comes down the track
        looking for the big one, gets to the pitch of the delivery but
        this time fails to beat the fielder at mid-on
  40.3 Giles to Langer, no run, and again, steps out of his crease but
        this time gets too close to the pitch of the delivery, defends it
        in the end but not cleanly, ball rolls back and Langer stops with
        his boot
  40.4 Giles to Langer, no run
  40.5 Giles to Langer, no run
  40.6 Giles to Langer, one run, inside edge and the ball rolls away to
        the short fine leg region

End of over 41 (1 run) Australia 180/3 (trail by 227 runs)
AF Giles 9-0-31-1 - City End
JL Langer 55* (102b 4x4) MJ Clarke 32* (55b 6x4)

  41.1 Hoggard to Langer, one run, fulltoss outside the off stump, Langer
        forces it away through cover point
  41.2 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, pitched up and angling in, driven
        straight to the fielder at mid-on
  41.3 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, good length delivery outside the off
        stump, Clarke drives on the front-foot, manages to beat the
        fielder moving in from cover but not the fielder at mid-off
  41.4 Hoggard to Clarke, no run
  41.5 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, driven back to the bowler on the bounce
  41.6 Hoggard to Clarke, one run, drifting onto the pads, played away
        through square leg, easy single to end the over

End of over 42 (2 runs) Australia 182/3 (trail by 225 runs)
MJ Hoggard 7-0-36-1 (4nb) - Pavilion End
MJ Clarke 33* (60b 6x4) JL Langer 56* (103b 4x4)

  42.1 Giles to Clarke, FOUR, comes down the track and drives it away wide
        of the diving fielder at midwicket, excellent placement
  42.2 Giles to Clarke, no run, defended on the fornt-foot
  42.3 Giles to Clarke, one run, driven down to the mid-off region, the
        fielder is at the edge of the circle and a quick single is added,
        well run
  42.4 Giles to Langer, one run, pushed away on the off side, bit upish
        but well wide of the fielder at silly point
  42.5 Giles to Clarke, no run, driven down to the mid-off region, fielder
        moves across quickly to his right and cuts off the single
  42.6 Giles to Clarke, one run, on the pads and Clarke turns it away to
        the fine leg region for a single

End of over 43 (7 runs) Australia 189/3 (trail by 218 runs)
AF Giles 10-0-38-1 - City End
MJ Clarke 39* (65b 7x4) JL Langer 57* (104b 4x4)

  43.1 Hoggard to Clarke, no run, full and on the off, a bit of reverse
        swing going now, the ball shapes in to Clarke, driven to cover
  43.2 Hoggard to Clarke, one run, overpitched and on the pads, flicked
        well down to square-leg
  43.3 Hoggard to Langer, no run, full and outside the off, Langer flashes
        at it and misses, streaky shot
  43.4 Hoggard to Langer, no run, full and angled wide outside the off,
        easily left alone
  43.5 Hoggard to Langer, FOUR, overpitched and outside the off, Langer
        laces this one through cover. That is a shot of a batsman well set
  43.6 Hoggard to Langer, no run, full and outside the off, left alone

End of over 44 (5 runs) Australia 194/3 (trail by 213 runs)
MJ Hoggard 8-0-41-1 (4nb) - Pavilion End
MJ Clarke 40* (67b 7x4) JL Langer 61* (108b 5x4)

  44.1 Giles to Clarke, no run, back of a length and on the pads, shot
        played and missed, hit on the pad
  44.2 Giles to Clarke, OUT: quick and flat outside the off, Clarke feels
        at that one and can only tickle it through to the keeper. Good
        catch that from Jones

       Australia 194/4, Partnership of 76
       MJ Clarke  c GO Jones b Giles  40 (69b 7x4 0x6)
       JL Langer 61* (108b 5x4) AF Giles 10.2-0-38-2

  44.3 Giles to Katich, no run, full and far outside the off, left alone
        to the keeper
  44.4 Giles to Katich, no run, tossed up and aimed into the rough,
        squeezed to point
  44.5 Giles to Katich, no run, flatter and on the off, defended carefully