Ashes 3rd Test

[Mid Life Crisis Marathon Man]

Pretty exciting morning here, with the start of the third test just a few hours away now. The miracle news is of course the selection of Andrew Symonds, one of our best one-day heroes, but a paradoxical failure in the test arena. With 10 tests for a batting average of 19 and a bowling average of something over 40, everyone figured his test playing days were all behind him. But there you are - cricket's a funny game, and sometimes selectors make funny choices. But it'll be extremely interesting to see how he goes.

I'm hoping we might finally get to see Panesar this test. Although, from what we've seen of him in the minor games thus far, I really wonder if he can live up to all the Monty hype. Well no, of course not - no-one can ever exceed the expectations of the media of course, but it could be a very difficult assignment for him. The WACA pitch has softened up considerably in recent years, but it's still far from being a spinner's paradise.

Whatever, it'll be another entertaining match.

Happy happy.