Collingwood double century strengthens English grip

Second Test, Adelaide (Day 2 - Stumps)
England 551-6 dec. v Australia 28-1

By Chris O'Keefe

If Marcus Trescothick hadn't suffered a recurrence of the stress related illness that prematurely ended his tour, the chances are that Paul Collingwood would not feature in the English batting order. As it is, he has made the greatest impact with the bat as England start to test the Australian juggernaut.

Only the juggernaut didn't really fire. Warne was bowling outside leg stump to Kevin Pietersen, who played patiently, as did Collingwood. In terms of being an eye-catching innings, it wasn't. However, Collingwood was assured, barely a sloppy shot throughout his knock and more importantly the Aussie's were scratching their heads as to how to get him out.

The cheer when Collingwood strode down the pitch to smash Michael Clarke down the pitch to reach 200 was immense. The travelling support was far more concentrated and more noticeable with it. Collingwood deserved the adulation and his place in the side averaging around 60 in 2006, remarkable for someone struggling to be selected.

Meanwhile at the other end, Pietersen scores another century (his sixth in 15 months) but more importantly made the great Shane Warne change his tactics, bowling outside leg stump. A defensive from the world's leading wicket-taker? Surely not. Well actually it probably an attempt to get Pietersen bowled around his pads, something KP didn't fall for that.

In the end it took a run-out after tea and Pietersen searching for a quick single, falling to a fantastic piece of fielding from Ricky Ponting. By then England were in command and looking to declare before having a go Australia's openers. Captain Flintoff and Ashley Giles took England to 551 before leaving nine overs of bowling.

Steve Harmison was overlooked for the new ball, the captain himself opening and make a great decision, removing Justin Langer (4) from a Pietersen catch. The response from the travelling support had echoes of Edgbaston in it as England fought back and left Australia chasing a huge total.

Admittedly two issues come to mind: the favourable batting conditions and England questionable ability to take 20 wickets. However, the mind changes proceedings. Flintoff and his men appear more confident and look like wanting to prove a point. They gave Australia a start in Brisbane before making in-roads, but this time getting Langer and 28-1 overnight, the hosts are on the back foot. If Harmison and Anderson can improve (a big if, till proven otherwise) then England will definitely be back in the larger contest with a vengeance!