The Ashes, baby!

[Sweder]

Well done Monty & Ando, though lest we forget both proved miserable at their day jobs in this match. Add to the list of inglorious basterds the names of Pietersen and Flintoff. None should draw the ire quite like Strauss, who's only crumb of comfort comes from the knowledge that Punter Ponting will get roasted in the Aussie press for failing to kill off a badly wounded beast.

Both skippers proved inept, though for my money Little Ricky lead from the front with his gallant 150 whilst Strauss's own wicket walzes were dreadfully short affairs. Changes fir Lords then; look for Harmy and Onions to come in. The batting is harder to predict. I've no doubt there are a few county batsmen who'd love a crack at Johnson & co.

But well done boys. The series lives - for now ...