" The Ashes " glory.

Yesterday the Australian cricket team delivered a stunning result when they won the fifth test to deliver England a crushing 5-0 whitewash in this series. It was a timely reply to Ian Botham's taunt that the Australian team was " Dad's Army " and unlikely to regain " the Ashes ".
Now a new issue has arisen. " The Ashes " - that tiny urn said to contain the ashes of the bails from the stumps of the first matches between Australia and England over a century ago- traditionally remain in England rather than remain in the hands of the country that wins each series. This runs contrary to all usual criteria for trophies - and most people - including British millionaire Richard Branson - are calling for a change.
It is said that " winners are grinners " and most Australians delight in the defeat of " the old enemy " but retaining supremacy in the next series will have to include some new talent in the Australian team.
Three icons of Australian cricket have announced that this fifth test was their final before retirement. Glen McGrath, Justin Langer and Shayne Warne were cricketing giants and heros to cricketing fans - but age is a determining factor in sport and all three decided that now was the time to bow out - at the height of their careers.
This brings in an exciting time for younger players aspiring to wear that famous baggy green cap and join the elite team of cricket. New blood will invigorate our national team and probably bring despair to our opponents. We look forward to inspiring play in grade cricket as hopefulls try to catch the eye of the selectors.