The Ashes

9th September 2005

On Radio Five Live yesterday, the commentary team tried to stir a debate on whether England are now the best (cricket) team in the world.

It was Mathew Bannister (I think) who answered their own question most aptly in my view; he offered a refrain of the old proverb: one swallow does not a summer make.

Australia have been dominant for a period of many years; they have beaten everyone home and away; they have snatched defeat from the jaws of victory many times; and only a couple of months ago, having started poorly in the one-day series, they came good at the end and beat England in the final.

For England to claim the Australians' crown of being the best team in the world, I think we have to:

• win the Ashes
  
  
• retain them in Australia in two years time
  
  
• claim and hold the no 1 test slot
  
  
• win the world cup

Then we will be able to lay full claim to the Australians Crown

Background

BBC News:

"The Queen and Tony Blair have sent congratulations to the Ashes-winning England cricket team..."