A great Ashes series has come to an end with Australia retaining the urn. I think overall they deserved the plaudits, with number one ranked batsman and bowler in their ranks. It’s not by accident that Cummins is number one. As for Smith, as much as he has been booed up and down the country along with Warner, he has been outstanding. I for one thought their bans should have been longer, but you cannot argue with his figures!
For England, Ben Stokes has been our real shining light. His batting in the World Cup was exciting to watch and he brought that form into the ashes. His athleticism in the field is as good as anyone in world cricket. He has caught some amazing catches he had no devine right to get to let alone take them. He also has improved on his bowling! Burns has improved tremendously at the top of the order, Jofra Archer will take time to get used to test cricket but had a great Ashes nevertheless.
I think we now need to add a splash of youth to the New Zealand squad next Month. I would like to see Olly Stone, Dominic Sibley & Ollie Pope to the squad – I look forward to the announcement.
We have had an amazing time, catching up with so many friends up and down the country for drinks and dinner. It’s been lovely seeing so many of you from several different tours.
Next year will be a little more subdued, but we have the West Indies, so hopefully we will continue to catch up with some of you where they are playing! WE are planning a group booking at Surrey So if you are interested in joining us let me know.
Hope you’ve all enjoyed a fantastic Summer of Cricket, I look forward to seeing many of you over the coming months in New Zealand & South Africa!
All the best
Gary
