ENGLISH CRICKET.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 10 March 1925, Page 7

ENGLISH CRICKET.

HOPES FOR- RESTORATION. 8V CABLE—PRESS ASSOCIATION—COPYRIGHT. LONDON, March 8. The Observer, in drawing attention to the tests as an ordeal of endurance, advocates the gradual shortening of matches, as the nervous strain and physical fatigue of the exhausted players increased. The individual century in the last test was a lesson that should be a warning to those desiring to fight out tests to a finish in England in 1926. The writer expects; to see ;r complete restoration of English cricket, already ocmnienced. if she concentrates on building a team power like Australia now possesses. He praises tlie Australian policy of reducing the number of clubs in Sydney and Melbourne and grading them to enable the regular first-class cricket to lie played. Similar steps should be taken in England, where cricket is better, and where there are fewer counties on a more equal plane.—Sydney Sun Cable. HOMEIWARD BOUND TEAM FAR EWELL ED. SYDNEY. March 9. Members of the- Engiiish cricket- team received an enthusiastic send-off on their departure for Melbourne en route to England. Gilligan said that the team had q.ajoyed a really wonderful trip. Although some did not reproduce their English form, it was not- because- they were not. triers. The manager, Mr. Toone. said that they would have liked to win the ashes, but they bowed to the superior play of their opponents. He heartily congratulated the Austma!ia.ms on, their success. 'Chapman did-not accompany the team. He leaves for New Zealand during- the week, where he is to be married.