BRADMAN AND HIS VICE.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue 139, 15 June 1938, Page 6

BRADMAN AND HIS VICE.

Having lasted for four days, under equal conditions so far as is possible in the game, the opening game of the criebet Test match series between England and Australia has ended with honours even. It may, however, be considered that by the enterprising and resourceful manner in which the batsmen of England attacked the Australian bowling and pressed their initial advantage of first innings on a good wicket to such purpose as to force what was considered an invincible Australian side to heroic feats of defence in playing for time, the honours were with England. At any rate, England's performance was a harbinger of good things in the remaining games. It was a batsmen's match, with the Australian attack definitely under suspicion. The remark that "Bradman's vice is making a great score" might quite justifiably have been used as a pleasantry by the spectators on the third day. For then McCabe, as vice-captain, cavalierly seized the opportunity to steal his captain's thunder and provide the highlight of the game with an innings of 232 runs which has been described as "equal to or even better than Bradman at his best." And what of Bradman ? He gave McCabe a Roland for his Oliver by appearing in a new light as defensive batsman, and staying for a wßol-» (lav at the wicket to carry the side to saf.'i after McCabe had brought the sanctn: ry in sight. Bradman and his vice certainlv saved the game, with able assistance from Brown and Fmgleton. The young Australian batsmen were eclipsed as run-getters by their wicketkeeper and bowlers.