It's always very frustrating to read that something was the second biggest/longest/highest etc., because the immediate question you want answering is what was the biggest/longest/highest? So what was the earliest first innings declaration ever and what were the circumstances?
Was it when Treacle Bumstead declared on 27 -5 due to their next five batters being small hens in their late forties and coincidentally part of an all fowl orchestra, performing at Dungy -on- the - Wold festival in 1910?
Quoting the Beeb: "Pakistan who reached 130-9 after 44.5 overs on a rain-hit opening day against England at Lord's in 1974".
Here it is. Very much rain affected so probably the reason. the current test has no rain forecast now so an incredible decision, one in fairness seems to have been right https://www.espncricinfo.com/series...and-vs-pakistan-2nd-test-63129/full-scorecard
Correct. A dachshund name Colin had taken 3-11 and was upset as he thought he might be in line for a Michelle!
England hold their nerve to beat India. NSB makes it interesting by a no ball and free hit but England home with 12 runs to spare.
A great documentary to brighten up your lunch. The dulcet tones of CMJ are much missed. Revisiting the infamous Bodyline series recalling Bradman, Larwood, Jardine and the other greats of the time Ponsford and company.
Lovely. England still smashing teams with days to spare whilst the Aussies are struggling into triple figures against a poor India. Roll on the summer.
Huge recovery since the start. Brook looks a hell of a player. EDIT - 807 Test runs in total, the most after nine innings for any player in history.
Surely he would come in for Crawley but would have to open? Or even for Foakes ? Presume he’d have to prove his form first anyway ?
Tricky. I don’t think they will revert to him as an opener. I guess he could be WK but Foakes hasn’t done much wrong. Move Pope up to open? But I don’t think Root will want to go back to 3. Perhaps Brook could be a #3 in time but seems silly to fiddle with his position when he has been so successful. Good problem to have, though!
Harry Brook must be breaking all kinds of records - outstanding stuff. And good to see Root get back on form.
Yes see above "807 Test runs in total, the most after nine innings for any player in history.". I believe I read that the record for getting to 1000 runs is 12 innings, may be all players or just English.
The way we England bat now I wouldn't be surprised if Bairstow opened or possibly Pope. Crawley is really the only weak link currently. Harry Brook is some player
Foakes is our best keeper by a mile, and I think he provides some balance to our gung-ho batting approach. Really hard to see him being left out at all. I think Bairstow as an opener makes the most sense (imagine saying that this time last year).
Yes I agree though there was some press speculation that Bairstow could take the gloves back. I would bring him in as opener.
