NOTES ON THE PLAY

Evening Star, Issue 20537, 16 July 1930, Page 12

NOTES ON THE PLAY

[By Substitute.]

England had what luck was going in the first test, and once again the third test found the fortunes of the game definitely with the Mother Country. Faced by a tremendous task to avoid defeat in what was considered to be tho vita! test of the series, England was saved by the rain, and when play was resumed on the third day a draw seemed inevitable, and so it proved. The wicket was lifeless, and although the bowlers were lacking in sting, that does not detract from the fine performance of Hammond in scoring 113. His was not an, innings without blemish, but looked at from the broad aspect his welcome' return to form is likely to lend still greater interest to the remaining tests, for it cannot be gainsaid that he is one of the finest batsmen in England to-day, and he certainly demonstrated his ability when last he was in Australia. Duckworth made a grim and plucky stand, and his 33 was an invaluable effort. • He is a better batsman then he is sometimes given credit for, and last year for Lancashire scored 402 _ runs with an average of 18.27, his highest score being 75. His big’ st score in tho test series in Australia was 39 not out. Chapman is recognised as a remarkably fine captain, and in the games to date he has also proved of considerable strength to the side in batting. The concluding stages of play cal! for little comment, but those who are against tho limitation of tests to four days will have an argument in their favour after this match, the result of which was so much affected by the weather conditions. The remaining tests are likely to be fought with the greatest grimness, and on recent showings England will have to fight extremely hard if she wishes to retain tho ashes.