First Ashes Test. Edgbaston.

[Pies4shaw]

At the moment, ... Smith’s series average is 220.

I don't think so...

248, now, for the time being.

[K]

And he's added only 6 since lunch, so it must have been 242 before (if you are right at the second attempt ).

[Pies4shaw]

Yes, I thought he made 122 in the first dig. My point, detail aside, is that his series average is what used to be called “Bradman-like” and will soon be known as “Smith-like”.

[K]

Did Bradman have 50% of his series innings not outs?

I thought that was the Steve Waugh trick.

[K]

Broadcast predictions:

Oz 40%
England 22%
Draw 38%

Odds:

Oz 45%
England 21%
Draw 34%

[Pies4shaw]

Did Bradman have 50% of his series innings not outs?

I thought that was the Steve Waugh trick.

I don’t think it’s a trick if they can’t get you out.

[K]

Waugh's failure to protect the tail in a failed low run chase (was this vs. England at the MCG?) probably still makes Ian Chappell go berserk.

[K]

They appeal for LBW against Wade. He was fake playing a stroke. It was headed for the stumps.
...

Wade reverse sweeps Denly for 4.

[Pies4shaw]

4/281. Australia’s lead is 191. smith is 124* and Wade 39*.

[K]

There doesn't look like there's anything wrong with the pitch. I hope they are revising how much they think they need.

Meanwhile, Smith lobs a false shot, which falls safely to ground.

Later, Smith dives to make his ground.

[K]

Appeal for LBW. Moeen the bowler, Smith the batsman. Not out. Review. Still not out.

A win for umpire Joel.

Lloyd thinks that was a desperate review. Bairstow's eyes were bulging. "What was wrong with that?" he screeched.

[K]

Healy predicts Wade will get a century.

Todd Woodbridge still looks baby-faced, but he must be caked in make-up. His hair is a bit grey, though.

----------------------------

First things first: Wade brings up 50. He makes a rock-the-cradle gesture. Does he have a new baby??

Sangakkara: "He's taken some risks, but it's worked."

[Pies4shaw]

4/303.

[K]

Root is on and immediately makes Moeen Ali look very bad. He gets spin & bounce. They've been speculating that something's wrong with Moeen.

Maybe Lyon will be dangerous.

[Pies4shaw]

Smith 129*, Wade 55*. Make that Smith 131*.