THE TEST MATCH

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22608, 22 December 1936, Page 8

THE TEST MATCH

The second test cricket match yesterday produced a situation the suggestion of which a few weeks ago would have been considered ludicrous by those who forget the uncertainties of the game—a follow-on by Australia after a first innings in which only 80 runs were compiled in reply to a six-wicket total of 426. The' luck so far had been entirely with England. The advantage of winning the toss in a match that has no time limit is undeniable, and this England, thanks largely to the resolute Hammond, turned to good account. Sunday's rain was a second stroke of fortune giving the English captain the opportunity of sending Australia to bat on a treacherous wicket. The desired result was achieved ; there was a debacle. A second victory for England is now probable, although, with a good stand to-day and the likelihood of a crumbling wicket for the last innings, Australia may still have a fighting chance. There certainly will be thrills to-morrow evening for the millions who are closely following the game should Australia's fine start be followed by a day of high scoring. Such a recovery would in a measure compensate for the dullness of the English innings. While to many the destination . of the "ashes" is the all-important consideration a considerable body of cricket lovers the world over will feel regret that the lack of a time limit for the game had its inevitable effect. A four-day limit would have changed the character of the game in the earlier stages and introduced more of the true spirit of cricket. In making for dull batting the Australian rule to play out all the tests is second only to the blight of batting averages on English county cricket.