Worth having a look at the Head to head analysis now that are 3 Tests in to see if our original comments are valid. Click one each one to see the original post:
Opening Bowlers
I think it would be reasonable to say that Harmison has matched McGrath so far. He has been threatening in nearly every innings and has added a few extra balls to his repertoire. He still lacks a bit of experience and McGrath showed plenty in the second innings at Old Trafford but it will come. The England openers seem to have finally come to terms with McGrath's style, especially to the left handers.
Hoggard and Gillespie have been the real disappointments for both teams and both are struggling to keep their places.
The Captains
I called this even but I think most people would be very impressed with Michael Vaughan's captaincy. Their batting is about even, both with big hundreds at Old Trafford. Ponting made a howler by installing England at Edgbaston.
The Openers
Funnily enough I got these the wrong way round, Trescothick looks superb as does Langer. Tres was out in freakish style in both innings at Old Trafford after looking in superb nick, he will definitely pile it on in the last two tests in my mind. Hayden and Strauss have struggled until Strauss's century yesterday. Ironically I gave this to the Aussies but you have to reverse that.
The Spinners
Warne has been man of the series so far for me along with Freddie - he has been a giant for Australia. Ashley has impressed with performances beyond expectation but will never be the player that Warne is.
The Quicks
Well, whyat can you say, these guys have both come to the party and showed everyone that they are both well worth their places in their respective teams. Lee has become a new ball bowler from being on the edge of the team and Simon Jones is now a specialist reverse swing bowler taking career best figures at old Trafford. You would have to call this one even but for more positive reasons than I said!
The All Rounders
Freddie - nuff said!
The Keepers
A certain irony here as both keepers have suffered at Old Trafford with Gilchrist performing terribly with the gloves. Ironically 'the best batsman in the world' (according to Luke) has only scored 5 more runs than Jones in the 6 innings so far.
The Middle Order
This was the key as far as Luke and I were concerned and according to stats so far that has been the case. I gave this to Australia initially but with all England's batsman weighing in with runs now this may neutralise itself.
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