Point being is that if you look at the batting averages KP is the only one thats decent in this tournement. That batting has stunk. Yes colly is a good ODI player but we dont want to see him or KP until theres at least 50 on the board, preferably a damn sight more than that. And with a half decent run rate too. As it stands they are both coming in , and colly in particular, having to shore up and stop wickets falling before they can get on with scoring runs.

Like I said, papering over the cracks.

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Nothing says "Obey Me" like a bloody head on a fence post!

No, but I actually would like to see England win this match with Collingwood at the helm to prove to all those 'fans' that sometimes a solid home made product is far better and more reliable than a flashy grey import which might break down when you most need it.

This is very true; I fear your reservations over Loye's omission will prove to be prophetic. It will be interesting to see if the Loyes, Maddys, Browns of this world get a crack in 20-20 world cup later this year.

Fair comment Nostomo, but it's not just KP that has failed, Captain Vaughan has failed again, Bell fell down his 'well'.

You are right over Collingwood, but England are now relying on him - not KP.

There is hope for England while Strauss and Colly are at the wicket, they really should have batted second though.

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Ern

it seemed silly to me to break a wining side up, OK it was only the CB Trophy, but the side was on some king of a roll beating Australia in the final with ease.

Loye would have love the slower than Lee type bowlers on offer in the West Indies, England will have to change their side for the 20/20 WC to have any chance.

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Ern

Whatever happens, such Pietmania or even Flinmania is not good for the team spirit. I blame the media hype for this silly hero worship. I am used to it from watching Tendulkar's career. No one is infalliable and the whole chosen team is equally important on the day.

There are no mystery bowlers or spinners in the SA attack so it would be a good time for Flintoff to stick it up his critics and get some quick runs in the last 10 if these 2 can see us through till then.

Problem now is the slow run rate. 102/3 after 30 overs might not be good enough. Even if they double it at the end, that is less than 210. Yes, someone has to hit out.

Strauss out to kallis in the gully off Kallis, well Flintoff will get his chance now.

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Ern

Pietersen was caught by Smith immediatly after the first drinks interval, and now Strauss after the second. I smell a conspiracy here.....what was in those drinks?