1st Test: India v England at Rajkot

Stands EMPTY!!!  Fans don't give rats behind about even a high profile series like this!!  No one but mamas boys, church ladies, 40 OC and homophobes  cares about Jurassic  ::dead:: ::dead:: ::dead::

I liked his poise. He is certainly mature beyond his years and didn't look phased or out of place to me. He did get himself squared up, nicking one to Vijay, though survived thanks to some very poor slip catching. It was an encouraging debut. In fact, Cook at the other end looked like the debutante. He was all at sea for most of his brief stay at the crease. I still can't believe he didn't review his decision. He needs to have a word with Shane Watson

***

England's batting depth was again on display today. Stokes led the way, ably backed up by the in-form Bairstow. Batting became much harder after tea with the old ball and England's aggressiveness was stifled. All told, this was a very good performance, although this pitch looks very good for batting on. Yes, there has been some reverse swing, and the odd ball has hit a crack and spun or kept low, but unless this pitch really starts to deteriorate quickly, it is hard to envision England taking 20 wickets to win this Test.

I was very impressed with Hameed. He looked solid in defence and played some majestic shots and was a bit peeved when he got out.

For me, best of Chef's 11 opening partners to date, seems to have the right temperament.

What poor advice to Cooky though.

Pre lunch session today is crucial if this games is to not peter out into a draw.

England need to bat better with the last 5 wickets falling for around 95 runs.

Who the hell's watching??? STANDS EMPTY!!!!  Jurassic RIP    :'( :'( :'(

Millions watching on TV I suspect, but yes India used to have packed stadia.

The commentators discussed this during the broadcast. It was suggested that the fact that the ground is on the outskirts of the city may have played some role in the suppressed attendance. I am not sure how true this theory is as I believe attendances here during the IPL were 20,000 or so.

Fewer fans at this match than LGBTs at G'yana homophobe rally   :'( > ::

Hameed's technique looks perfect for Test cricket. He plays the ball late, with soft hands & stays classically side on.

Stands continue to be EMPTY!!!  Matches at Rajkot:


For Jurassic:  9 mamas boys, 17 church ladies, 46 40YOVs, 76 homophobes (recruited by KKKsauros and
bused in by Westoro church).


For Rockabilly:  20K screaming, ecstatic, fans of ALL backgrounds!!!

Brilliant from Hameed today. That could have been a tricky session after tea, but he and Cook stood tall. Hameed really looks the part. Very composed. Unflappable even. What a talent.

You'd have to have a heart of stone not to be moved by his dad tearing up with pride as Hameed raised his bat to celebrate his fifty.