Records galore, but still a draw.

As the curtain fell on the first Ashes test in the Gabba on Monday, we were all left to reflect on what had been quite a remarkable game of test match cricket.

Everyone has their own opinion on cricket and it appears in particular that the 5-day form of the game is particularly Marmite-like in its appreciation. However, anyone who saw the action from Brisbane, whether at home on TV or at the Gabba itself, and denies they enjoyed it is lying.

One question I heard asked recently was: "What's the point in cricket when they play for five days and still draw?" - Many may think this person has a point.

But let me ask you this - why do you watch sport? I would imagine most people would answer like myself something along the lines of "to be entertained".

Well, judging by the fact that my friend who has no prior experience or interest in cricket, and was probably one of the people questioning the point in it described her day at the Gabba as "fab", I would say even she was entertained.

And yet while I harp on about what a magnificent achievement it was for England and what a spectacle it was for the game, there are in fact several things that bothered me about the match.

England have very clearly entered into this series with one aim and one aim only - to retain that little urn. However, unfortunately that appears to have turned them into robots on the pitch and in interviews. I have lost count of the number of times the players have churned out clichés such as "we have to turn that preparation into results" or "it's not about me, it's a team performance".

The latter particularly applies to one Alastair Cook, who, after breaking records left, right and centre, including Sir Donald Bradman's highest total at the Gabba, struggled to show an ounce of emotion about the feat. In fact in general, his reaction to just about anything is pretty impassive.

It would be unfair to pick on Cook alone though. The whole team lacks a bit of personality which would make for more of an entertaining affair between the two sides and perhaps create a few more personal rivalries rather than the mundane Pietersen vs. The World affair that takes centre stage at the moment.
  
Still, I suppose we shouldn't complain. If the team is turning in results then we should be happy....Oh wait, we didn't win.

On to Adelaide though, and as I write this, things are looking good for England, very good in fact.

Of course, they can't afford to become complacent. They will have to leave it all out there on the pitch and give it 110%. The need to really have their game face.... damn, this cliché thing is catchy.