 |
|
|
|
|
|
Justin Langer's Postcards |
|
|
|
|
MONDAY 13 March 2000
Day three first Test, Eden Park, Auckland
'Warney' is now only one wicket away from breaking the Australian
wicket-taking record but more importantly for the Aussie way, we are
five wickets away from winning this first Test match. The only barrier
to this potentially perfect story is that the Kiwis only need 130 runs
to steal an unlikely victory on this challenging Eden Park pitch.
To his credit, New Zealand's middle-order batsman Craig McMillan played
courageously this afternoon to give our opponents a sniff of victory. He
wasn't perturbed about hitting our spin twins back over their heads and
although he took some chances, his calculated risk-taking has left this
game in the balance. In another day of drama in which Daniel Vettori
became the youngest spinner in the history of the game to take 100 Test
wickets, this match looks likely to be a nail-biter tomorrow.
From our point of view an early wicket in the morning will be crucial.
There has been enough happening in the past three days to suggest the
opportunities to wrap up this game are sure to arise and if our bowlers
can put enough balls in the right areas that batting will remain a tough
challenge. After Gilly's superb batting this morning the target of 281
was one we were comfortable with, but as is its way, the game of cricket
should never be taken for granted. As far as both teams are concerned
this game is alive and kicking and while I still believe we are in the
box seat we will have to be at our best tomorrow.
The first half-hour will be tension plus but in the end of the day that
is what Test cricket is all about. The team who panics last will win
this Test and with our experience and talent I will back us in any day.
From Auckland, JL
|
|
|
