Why Monty looks so happy?

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Monty Panesar, England’s wonder boy, suffered at the hands of former England coach Duncan Fletcher last year, missing some important opportunities, but good times are about to roll in for him. He has coach Peter Moores’ confidence ahead of their three-match Test encounter with Sri Lanka.

As soon Monty heard he’s Coach’s fave, his hypothalamus is activated (actually, he’s trying to do just that here in the above pic), and it sends signals across the body and his adrenaline is send gushing through it. See how profusely he sets himself to practice.

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England vs. Sri Lanka

Actually, this is a time in England’s cricketing history when players are actually competing hard to get in. That Steve Harmison was flown in to join the squad meant bad news for the other pace battery prospects. Ryan Sidebottom is one who looks good, and his impressive runs in the recent past will stand him in good stead. They might want to wait on Broad, though (my left brain complies with the idea, but right brain kicks it hard in the rear). James Anderson looks bad, and worse, he’s faced with fitness issues, which, if not resolved, will ensure Broad’s Test debut. (right brain neurons firing at abnormal speed).

I’ll bet on Alastair Cook as far as the batting side of things is concerned.(Hey, Betfair guys, whadya say?)

England would definitely have an edge over the SL side, since they beat the Lankans in the ODI series, and we aren’t sure how much Jayawardhane’s boys have learned from their Australian debacle. Plus, England’s pace line-up looks darn strong, and Monty’s ready to spin them around.

Photo Credit: BBC