Lots and lots of cricket today.
Sri Lanka versus Australia, test match, 1st day: The Aussie test renaissance continues at Pallekele as they bowled out Sri Lanka for 174 and then tacked on 60 without loss before stumps.
Australia’s attack was balanced and relentless, but just what is wrong with Sri Lanka? I realize that their strength lies in the one-dayers, but getting shellacked like this on home soil is an embarrassment, no matter the format. Sri Lanka and India, the two World Cup finalists not six months ago, are both in dire need of a dissection, cricket wise.
Personally, I am just bummed that I am unable to watch any of this test.
Zimbabwe versus Pakistan, 1st ODI: The hosts chose to field and held Pakistan to 247. Zimbabwe are now 30 overs into their chase and require another 125 to win the first match of the series. It would be a great win for the minnows.
This match is taking place at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Here is the ground in 1961:
Ireland versus Namibia, four day match: The visitors lead on day three by 122 runs with four wickets in hand. Despite all the rain delays, there is a good chance we might see a result from this game.
A couple standout performances to note: Andrew White hit an unbeaten century for Ireland in the first innings, pulling his country out of the fire for sure (poor metaphor, considering the rain, but oh well). And two bowlers have taken five wickets each: George Dockrell for Ireland in the first innings (22-5-71-5) (He also bowled almost twice as many overs as the next closest Irish bowler) and Christi Viljoen for Namibia, also in the first innings (23.5-4-87-5).
From what I can tell, it has been a wonderful few days of cricket at Belfast.
Netherlands versus Kenya, four day: Two days washed out by rain. Not a single ball has been bowled. Who knew it rained so much in Holland?
Okay, I am off to follow some cricket and, well, do some work. Until tomorrow.
Limited Overs 