There were no prisoners yesterday, as the first weekend of the cricket World Cup 2007 claimed two high profile victims. First up was Pakistan versus Ireland, and on St. Patrick’s day of all days. And although the Irish rugby team narrowly missed out on the Six Nations crown, the Irish cricket team were on top form to embarass one of the teams tipped to win the World Cup. As was the norm for these “giants vs minnows” matches, the giants were batting first, but were humbled by some superb bowling and were bowled out cheaply for just 132. The innings …read more

They’re coming home, they’re coming home, they are coming….. Wait. Sorry. I was pre-empting the inevitable overreaction to todays remarkable events.
First things first, Australia were skittled in 71 overs for 244. The damage was done by Monty Panesar (5-92) and Steve Harmison (4-48). England were then 51/2 by the close of play, with Strauss not out 24 and Paul Collingwood not out 10. Far be it from me to point how extraordinary this was, as I saw posted on one forum “the debate over Giles and Panesar was decided in 7 balls this morning”. All eyes were on Monty Panesar. …read more