The teams were chosen only on their performance in the last ten years, so runs, wickets and dismissals before 2010 were discounted. So, on that basis, Bairstow and Bell were the "right" picks, even though Trott and Prior probably had better careers overall.
I'd prefer Trott over Bell as we have plenty of stroke makers in that side. The second opener is the real weak link in that side, Strauss in the 2010s was on the decline yet still was the best option!
121-1 at close, a much better performance than expected
this .. strange pitch has got easier when it was expected to get more difficult, although the spinner will certainly get some more joy as the match progresses
Time for him to prove to himself and everyone else that he can take his innings to the next level. You don't hit double figures in 14/16 innings against the bowling attacks of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa (average 33 and five 50s) without having something about you.
Just 50 runs scored in the first session- and two wickets lost. At this rate either we will be all out today or the Sky boys will have to cancel tomorrow's planned safari too!
205 runs to win with 7 wickets in hand. Root and Stokes at the crease
Comments
Bairstow over Prior?!
I'd also have gone Trott over Bell.
Planned Sky safari has now been cancelled!
Currently 157-2 and requiring another 219
Time for him to prove to himself and everyone else that he can take his innings to the next level. You don't hit double figures in 14/16 innings against the bowling attacks of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa (average 33 and five 50s) without having something about you.
205 runs to win with 7 wickets in hand. Root and Stokes at the crease
172 needed with 6 wickets in hand
154 required
Not sure I have ever seen a worse shot for a situation (probably a slight overreaction).
Spent 5 mins swearing at my tv.
england need a miracle