THE AUSTRALIAN CRICKETERS

Hastings Standard, Volume IV, Issue 13, 11 May 1899, Page 2

THE AUSTRALIAN CRICKETERS

When the Australian cricketers sailed for England the authorities on the " other side " were left bewailing the fact that stronger bowling talent had not been included. The match now in progress, however, does not indicate any weakness in the department in, question. To dispose of a team such as they have pitted against them at Crystal Palace for under 250 runs on a perfect wicket is a remarkable performance. Gregory, who was looked upon as a probable failure, comes up smiling with a century the first time of asking. Howell, who replaced M'Kibbin in the team, is not included in the eleven at present playing, but no doubt when opportunity occurs he will prove to be the right man in the right place. Laver, another of the " weak " ones, was stumped before he had a chance of scoring, but we shall not be surprised if he should prove himself the best all-round man next to Noble in the team, taking the tour as a whole. The people of the colonies should feel gratified at the good account which the Australians are giving of themselves, and, taking our cue from the success which our cricketers have attained against what is virtually an All England team, we opine that they should have no difficulty in upholding the honors which they gained in their own country in 1897.