It's down to the wire. The most exciting and closely watched Ashes series for twenty or more years. The older, more experienced Australians versus the young firebrands of England. Australia need to win to retain the Ashes, the English need only a draw.
Commentators have been hedging their bets. Would the English aim for a draw? Thus cheating the sold out crowds of what could be a monumental struggle? Or would they go for the kill and win 3-1?
The Aussies are confident and laid back about their chances; they've been there before and triumphed. The English have already booked Trafalgar Square for the victory celebrations.
Should the Poms beat Australia, will the Captain, Michael Vaughan, and the Coach, be rewarded with Honours ala Sir Clive Woodward and Jonny Wilkinson? Geez, I hope not. As good as the English Rugby Team isn't, on the day they won the World Cup, it came down to luck, to refereeing, to holding the Wallabies and one last gasp in overtime. A win of opportunity. Not the sort of game that should have had Queen's Honours.
None the less, the English won that day, ergo, they were the better team. The cricket, on the other hand, has held the nation's attention. To go for a draw would be criminal and I know the English have more courage than that.
Whatever the outcome of the fifth test - it begins tonight - this series has been spectacular for it's skill, lack of skill, dropped catches, wiley bowling, run chases, near escapes and sheer entertainment.
Good luck to either side, may the best team win.
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