Ashes Series Ensures That Cricket Makes New Friends But Keeps The Old

It was terrific to witness the surge in public support following the most exciting Ashes series in a generation. Perhaps now it will be easier for us long suffering cricket fans to justify our interest in a sport that can last for up to five days.

When my bemused Canadian wife caught me dancing round the living room following the dramatic conclusion of the Edgbaston Test, I tried to explain:
"Look, imagine it's not cricketball (as she calls it) but Ice Hockey, and rather than England vs. Australia it's USA vs. Canada and imagine that Canada haven't beaten the USA since 1987."

I think she started to understand. But to truly understand the momentous nature of this year's Ashes one must have suffered the misery of the continuous defeats. The optimism of the underdog that was continuously shattered by the Australian Juggernaut; the procession of victorious Australian captains who ruthlessly put down any semblance of an English rebellion.

Whenever an unfashionable sport becomes fleetingly popular there is a danger that the old guard will resent the new supporters and their naivety. "So how long does this game last" my sister-in-law asked as she incredulously noted the length of Pieterson's innings. I just quoted Meat Loaf: "It's like baseball on valium".

However, the advent of twenty-20 cricket ensures there is something to sustain the interest of the fair-weather fan, while the connoisseurs can enjoy the five day Tests. The Oval test was especially for us connoisseurs. A typical Test match draw, which can really only be enjoyed by those who have the knowledge to speculate on all the possible outcomes.

There was something for everyone this summer and for once I agree with Shane Warne. Cricket was the true winner.