Reflections On Day 4 of Third Test

After Pakistan's second innings England's bolwers can reflect on the following idiom: the journey to perfection is neverending; just like a death march. England find themselves going into the last day of the Third Test 222 runs behind with 8 wickets left. Their predicament highlights the dependency the team has on Simon Jones. Since his injury, half through the Trent Bridge Test, England have struggled to bowl sides out. His return for the series in India is excellent news. I suspect that Udal will only be allowed to continue his Test career if Giles fails to recover from his hip operation.

The good news for England is the performances of both Ian Bell and Paul Collingwood, suggesting that the batting has the depth to cope with the injuries that are inevitable to all sides.

In the race for excuses to explain why, after winning six series in a row, England have lost this one, it should not be forgotten that Pakistan have played outstandingly and deserve their win.