Reflection On Day 3 of Patron's XI (XIV?) V England

"Shambles", "Humiliation" and many other derogatory adjectives hog the back pages of the evening papers, as those under-worked over-paid media hacks wallow in schadenfreude as they joyously report what they saw as an inevitable England defeat. Tomorrow evening's reports should make interesting reading. The actual result of a practice match, which wasn't even a first class game, means so much to these people. I however, will take a more discerning approach.

It now appears inevitable that Bell will be dropped for the first Test in favour of Collingwood. Bell's last six innings for England have been 3, 3, 0, 0, 2 & 1. It is in everyone's best interests (apart from the opposition's) that he be dropped before more damage is done to his self-esteem. Collingwood's 34 in the second innings was impressive and his bowling will give Vaughn a useful option, especially if two spinners are selected.

Udal impressed with both the bat and the ball in this match and looks likely to make his Test debut at Multan, playing second fiddle to Ashley Giles. This would leave two places for the pace bowlers, which will surely be filled by Hoggard and Harmison. I salute Fletcher for discovering Liam Plunkett, his match figures of 7-57 indicate that his Test debut will be forthcoming, but it won't be on this tour.