3rd Ashes Test: Old Trafford, 11-15 August: Day One

[The Phantom Ram]

Originally Posted by Ernest

Up to now, Lee looked the better bowler between himself and McGrath.

Still a solid start for England though - 67-1. Only following the ball-by-ball updates on BBC sport though, so no expert!

[monotonetuba]

dare i say it mr vaughan's looking good....(touching wood and everything crossed)!

[Six & Out]

Vaughan has played very positively. I think this wicket being pacy and true will suit him. He just needs to stick around now and compile a nice big knock. He has a start (41).

I think if England can post over 400 here (preferably closer to 500), then this wicket will suit Harmison and Flintoff far more than the Australian bowlers.

[The Phantom Ram]

Trescothick's scoring has slowed down, is he struggling or just playing the anchor role?

[Six & Out]

He hasn't had much of the strike to be honest.

[Occasional Fan]

No indication in the radio commentary that either batsman is having trouble. I guess they are now looking ahead to lunch which is only an over away, and wanting to be sure to stay there.

[The Phantom Ram]

I'm surprised they haven't given Warne an over before lunch?

[Six & Out]

Me too. But then I don't really rate Ponting as a Captain.

[English_Al]

Originally Posted by Six & Out

Vaughan has played very positively. I think this wicket being pacy and true will suit him. He just needs to stick around now and compile a nice big knock. He has a start (41).

I think if England can post over 400 here (preferably closer to 500), then this wicket will suit Harmison and Flintoff far more than the Australian bowlers.

I agree, thinking about it of course as we know from MV's last tour to Australia, he enjoys this kind of pitch, and it also it helps his other getting bowled problem as the ball bounces so much higher here. The thing he needs to watch is that he doesn't get out playing too attacking shots. I think that's why he often gets out when he reaches 20, he works hard, but then starts to let himself go and nicks one to the keeper or gets caught hooking.

I reckon Tresco is playing a bit of an anchor role, he seems to be waiting for the bad ball, which I like to see at this stage.

Thats lunch. A very good morning for England, they've played well. From Aus's point of view, a touch unlucky not to have got one or two more wickets.

[Six & Out]

Well, Gilchrist should have caught Trescothick. I'd like to see Tres get a big score because that'll then eat away ALL match at Gilchrist who hasn't been in the best of form with the bat yet (and long may it stay that way!). Yes, good morning session for England but no less than should be expected with them winning the toss and batting. They need to kick on after lunch and make sure they bat ALL day today and hopefully most of tomorrow.