15 July 19:14

Marsh backs Pietersen

Former England Academey supremo Rod Marsh has today publically backed the selection of Kevin Pietersen for the coming test match.

Marsh was impressed with how Pietersen handled the sub continent when he toured with England A.

"I think Australia would rather have Thorpe in the side than Pietersen, that's for sure."

Typically former England selector Mike Gatting rues the decision and instead states that Thorpe should be in. Good job Gatt no longer picks the team then. Of course, he was once famoulsly quoted saying in a selection meeting:

'What exactly does Thorpe bring to the party?'

To which Nasser Hussain replied:

'Runs.'

Stick to pies Gatt.


Gatt gets the 'Ball from Hell'

Not so desparate?

Two years ago England tried despartely to get Darren Gough fit for the Ashes down under. This was something that was not lost on Steve Waugh. After the 4-1 series win Waugh had this to say about England selections:

"There is no doubt England were hit by injuries, most notably the loss of its main strike bowler and gee-up man Darren Gough, although I was surprised to see him picked to start with. To me, that sent out negative vibes - it was an act of desperation."

This time round England have all their key players fit and surely the state of their mental health has to be in better shape.




Thorpe Bounces Back

Graham Thorpe bounced back from the disspointment of missing out on the test team by hitting 60 off 53 balls against Hampshire today. Surrey scored 358 off their 50 overs only to see Hampshire chase them down on what must have been a total shirt fronter.