At the end of the fourth day’s play of the ICC Test Championship, billed ”The Ultimate Test’, India was 164-3. They need a further 280 runs on the final day, for them to be crowned 2nd ICC Cricket Test Champions, Likewise Australia must capture an additional 6 wickets to win US $1.6 million and the winner’s Trophy.  After 4 days the contest has lived up to expectations, the spectators are thrilled with the standard of play on both sides. At the wicket are two players who have each scored over 5000 test runs and have big tons on their way to achieve these landmarks. 

Earlier today Australia declared after losing the wickets of Cameron Green for 25, Starc for 41 and Cummins for 5, with the total on 270/8. Setting India 444 for victory. India lost Gill when he was controversially given out caught by Green, the DRS review TV Umpires with the help of the TV Cameras ruled the catch clean. To the naked eyes it appears as if Green had grassed the catch low down to his left. They thought otherwise.  Obviously, some of the spectators were unhappy. The fifth day promises to be another thriller. Earlier I wrote that Australia has the edge.  but don’t count out India. Let us await the outcome.

The ICC World Test Championship 2023 began today. 

Day one could be described as a magnificent day of test Cricket for Australia.

This red ball format of cricket Coming this soon after the recently completed white ball IPL series, and the sight of men in white and three slips and a gully, was a reminder of the glory days of test cricket.

The Oval at London usually presents the sight and historical memories of a green pitch with overcast and cloudy skies, creating extra swing and ball  movement.  Memories may have overly influenced India’s decision to invite the Australians to bat first. 

The early successes of the Indian seamers saw Australia, uncomfortably on 76 for 3 wickets. India at this stage must have felt quite confident and happy with the decision to take the field.  At close of play on day one, Steve Smith not out 96, and Travis Head 146 not out, were still at the crease with a 251-run partnership. When time was called on day one, India will have overnight to contemplate if they may have made an error to take the field first, and, perhaps, the decision to leave Ashwin on the bench may prove to be error number 2. Australia was 327/3 in command at the end of day one. 

Good cricket, large energetic crowd and the question hanging in the air is this, what will day 2 bring?

On behalf of The Cricket Show Inc. Board members, Panelists & contributors.

I am delighted for your achievements, 

Mr Patel has been a key board member of The Cricket Show USA, for over five years. Your  contribution to our organization is immense and The Cricket Show USA is  better, with your tireless contributions/support, knowledge, expertise, honesty and caring contributions that you have made over the years.

The Cricket Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award is prestigous, timely and well deserved.

Congratulations, Jatin Patel we are extremely delighted & privileged to have you serving with us over the years & being part of The Cricket Show.

Blessings, my brother, we are proud of all your accomplishments.

Leon B Francis
President
The Cricket Show Inc