I'm baffled by the international standard of cricket

Cricket has captured the imagination of the nation, this if fantastic, beyond a dream. When England players win at any sport, the fans are the best in the world.

Given the impoverished state of the counties, I realise the England and Wales Cricket Board faced a difficult decision,

From that moment on my relationship with Smith became very frosty,

Various ways have been suggested to counter him, ... such as batting out of the crease, standing on off stump, or even taking a chance by having a go at him. But attacking him is very difficult when he bowls as he did at Lord's. We have all worked very hard this week and there are various new plans, areas to work on and shots to play.

We can't go anywhere without people wishing us luck. It's great to know that the nation will be right behind us when we take on the Aussies.