Hmm...

So we lost. Not just a little bit, but big time. A comprehensive, sound, solid drubbing. It didn't seem possible after the first day and well into the second - I went to sleep comfortable in the knowledge that we'd bowled the Aussie's out for a meagre 268 and were on 71-0 and looking pretty peachy. I woke up six and a half hours later to Australia batting which was not a good sign. A woeful England batting display and an inspired Mitchell Johnson meant Australia were still in the lead as they entered their second innings. 81 runs ahead to be specific. The Aussie's then reached a pretty respectable but not unattainable score of 309, leaving England needing 401 runs to win. England's second batting attempt, however, was woefully rubbish as they were dismissed for a pathetic 123.

Australia have levelled the Test at 1-1 with two Tests to go. It's not the end of the world, we still have a better chance than Australia of retaining the Ashes. We have, however, made it a little more difficult for ourselves; a little more tense. The Aussie's will now have the momentum and will be feeling pretty good at the next Test. We need to make a good start on Boxing Day. We need to get our mojo back. We need to remember how to bat again.

I have noticed some Straussisms that amuse me:

- 'sub-par' (an expression often used to describe their batting)

- 'brand of cricket'

More to come if and when I notice them.

I'll keep you blogged...