Roy I agree with but look at Buttler before this series. He is a good batsman and shown he is capable at test level - I just think he suffered burnout after the high of the world cup. He said himself after winning the world cup that he could retire happy regardless of what happens.
I see that Rilee has agreed his renew his contract, but not for red ball cricket. And as a consequence, given that we have little to play for this month, won't be featuring in our final three matches this season. Presumably that's quite a big salary saving for us - effectively going down from three formats to one, assuming that he gets selected for the 100 - so hopefully we go out and sign a quality replacement this winter. (I haven't heard much about who is available this winter. Only Westley and Rashid come to mind.)
I think he is unbearable already Jasper. He comes across as a horrible, surly individual. What the honours panel were thinking god only knows, and the BBC for that matter.
Another politically motivated gong. Boycott on Brexit makes Farage look like a Remainer. Edit: may have something to do with the fact that it was a French court that found him guilty of wife-beating.
As expected with England. Both the loss and the 5th test selection. Suppose some things never change. Actually it might take him down a few notches. He might become more humble. He's hit the ceiling now.
Good stuff to ensure that the tail didn't wag this morning. A 40 run lead for Surrey could have been huge. As it is, a 13 run lead is neither here nor there. Unless we bat really well, there's a fair chance that this could be all over today - one way or another. 150 could be a winning lead.
Somerset heading for maximum bowling points to make up for not getting a single batting point. Yorks 98-6 atm.
Ridiculous hitting from Vince. This would be impressive for a t20 game. He's got very luck with two edges for 4, but the rest have been deliberate.
England team for fifth Ashes Test: Joe Root (c), Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Jack Leach, Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes Australia: David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Mitch Marsh, Matthew Wade, Tim Paine (c, wk), Pat Cummins, Peter Siddle, Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
Very good round for Somerset so far. You should win and very difficult to see Essex winning from their position. Cracking day for Hampshire as well.