Al the Tog’s Trip Down Under

Why they’re called the Barmy ArmyOriginally uploaded by Al the Tog.

Still cheering long after the game was over, the Barmy Army fans don’t seem to know the meaning of the word “defeat”.

That’s the word Aussies use when someone hits a 4. Well, Australia have now “tonked” England 4 - 0, with one more test to play.

Last night’s brief ray of hope when England had Australia reeling at 371 for 7 was as brief as the Melbourne sunshine has been all week. With Symonds out for 150-odd, Warne duly hit a quick 40 this morning, and then England had to bat again. Strauss and Cook survived a rather nervous start and were getting into their stride when Cook was out for 20, quickly followed by Bell and Pietersen. A quick flurry from Collingwood and an aggressive 25 from Flintoff only flattered to deceive. The best England performance of the day was Read’s 26 not out, and Monte Panesar’s 14.

I tell a lie - the best England performance was from the Barmy Army, singing their heads off long after the game was over, and out-singing the Australian fans throughout the game, despite the weather and the inevitable result. Hats off to the Barmy Army, then - if only the players could perform to the same standard!

Near the end of the day’s play, the sun did appear, and the cold wind dropped for the first time in 5 days. Until then it was a case of “Melbourne: nice city - shame about the weather”. Now it’s a very pleasant place to spend some time. More later.

Alex at the MCG

Barmy Army

Originally uploaded by Al the Tog.

Pic of Alex outside the MCG as the Barmy Army cheerleader was passing.

You’d never have thought England had just been “tonked” by Australia in less than 3 days.

Just a quick note to say we’re here in Melbourne, just when it is having its coldest Christmas for 101 years!

Still, we’re not here for the weather, are we? We’re here for the cricket. And it was like watching a match at Old Trafford on a cold and wet summer’s day. Sorry, didn’t mean to mention the weather again so soon! England are playing up to their usual standard - 159 all out, with Australia on 372 for 7 at the end of the second day!

Never mind, we’ve recovered from the 40-hour journey now, and enjoying seeing Melbourne, with its rich variety of ethnic restaurants and excellent integrated transport system. The hotel is very convenient, being about 15 minutes walk from the ground, and has good facilities, including a gym, pool, sauna and hot tub.

That’s all for now - hopefully more soon, and some pictures with any luck.