THE SECOND TEST.

Waikato Times, Volume 104, Issue 17586, 15 December 1928, Page 6

THE SECOND TEST.

The Second Test between the English and Australian cricket elevens is in progress at Sydney, and "the eyes of the cricketing world" are upon the deeds that will be accomplished with bat and ball at this historic convincing ground. After their complete rout in the First Test at Brisbane, the morale of the home side and its supporters had cause to waver to some extent, but it has not been.broken by any means. While giving the Englishmen the fullest measure of credit for their merited victory, Australia has no need to be downhearted. That country of great cricketers has long since learned the manner in which to take defeat as well as to enjoy the fruits of victory. To be beaten by a better team is no disgrace. England has also smilingly taken her long run of outs in Test cricket with the best of grace, and has come back in the persevering spirit that has eventually enabled- her to win through and once again be in possession of The Ashes. That the Australian players can, and will, do better than their showing in the match at Brisbane indicated, is voiced by many leading authorities on the game in both countries. The measure of this improvement will depend on the ability of the home batsmen to master the bowling of Larwood and Tate, who are in the very top flight. Australia has no bowlers quite the equal of this English pair, but she has batsmen, who are infinitely more capable than their form at Brisbane indicated. That can be stated without underestimating the prolific rungetting ability of the English side, when its members are also at their best. The Second Test happenings are evoking profound interest, and from whatever side prominence in the game is paraded, the cricketing world will be following the deeds of batsmen and bowlers with unflagging attention.