Passing selection thoughts...

So, the Australians have finally made a decision. Hauritz has been summarily disposed of and sent back to grade cricket - almost the Aussie equivalent of having to turn out for Keymer & Hassocks 2nd XI. They have instead placed their spinning hopes on a chap called Xaviera Hollander (or somesuch - See pic). The notion being that the Tasmanian left arm spinner with a first class bowling average of near 50 should be enough to deal with England's sometimes sloppy middle order. He may well prove to be but the funk & fuss that the Aussie selectors have had to go through to get to a final XIII shows real panic in the heart of the previously invulnerable Aussie machine.

Meanwhile, England cruise on serenely to Brisbane and the (supposedly) crucial first ball. No Harmison to blast it to second slip or as has been often forgotten to rattle Langer in another more successful series. The only question is whether Tremlett did enough in Hobart to warrant a serious discussion in place of Finn.

The Jardine Report:

England; Mr Straussy (Capt), Cooky, Trotty, KP, Colly, Belly, Matty, Broady, Swanny, Jimmy, Finny.

Australia; Katich, Watto, Punter, Pup, Mr Cricket (!), Northo, Haddin, Johnson, Siddle, Hifenhaus, Miss Xaviera Hollander.