England 184 for4 at tea on the first day of the final Test. A fine innings by Zac Crawley, who goes to the break on the verge of a maiden Test century.
Nearing the 200 partnership for the 5th wicket..... 322/4.......Pakistan almost batted out of this game on first day....
Fantastic innings by Crawley, well backed by Buttler. When Stokes comes back in, I'd like to see Crawley opening, with Pope moving up to number three.
Brilliant from Crawley and excellent from Buttler who is looking more and more like a test player now. Shame Burns failed again, I quite like him. Root doesn't look the player he did before he was made captain.
This opening partnership isn't good enough in my opinion. Both of them have weird techniques which limit their shot-making. In contrast, Crawley and Pope are more natural, classical players and both will be in the Test team for a long time I reckon. As I said earlier, I'd have Crawley opening - probably with Burns of the current two. It might be time to make Stokes or Buttler captain in the hope that Root regains his best batting form.
Yep, Crawley opening with Burns for me too, although Sibley has just made a huge hundred. I've always questioned the practice of making our best player captain, as their form always seems to dip dramatically. Maybe Strauss was an exception. I wouldn't want the same to happen to Stokes. Maybe, as you say, Buttler.
Sensational from Crawley. Currently on 252 not out. Buttler on 133 not out. Could be entertaining stuff up to the declaration.
Giving archer 3 overs releasing the hand brake.....already around 90mph..... Jimmy is just pure class....
3 down at the close all to Jimmy......anyone would think he's in a hurry to get to 600 test wickets.....
