“Since the Test will finish by lunchtime, why not schedule two 40-over games for Saturday and Sunday?” says Tim Venner. “The players want to play; the spectators want to see some cricket; the ECB would save thousands of pounds in refunds. It’s a win-win situation. Alas, it won’t happen – far too sensible an idea.”
I don’t know for certain but I’m fairly sure the issues are logistical rather than commonsensical. And knowing Bazball-era England, they may also be golfical.
This, from someone who knows, is rather sweet
"I've seen him smile more today than I have done for the last 20 odd years" 🤣
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 12, 2024
Stuart Broad on the emotions that James Anderson will be feeling ahead of his retirement 🏴 pic.twitter.com/Pq0beri75F
With the possible exception of Jimmy Anderson there’s nobody better to write about the great man’s farewell than another publicity-shy master of his craft, Andrew Bull.
Weather permitting – it has actually been raining in north London, that wasn’t just an excuse to link to a topical comedy – West Indies will resume on 79 for six, needing too many to make England bat again.
It might happen, we all remember Headingley 81, right, but the likeliest scenario is that England will wrap up an innings victory before lunch, and Jamie Anderson will a former England player. Are you ready for this? I’m not sure I’m ready for this.
Today is the first day of the rest of your life. It’s also the last day of James* Anderson’s Test career, and there’s rain in the air at Lord’s.
* Or is it Jimmy? How can we not know after 21 years?