nigelb wrote:Word has filtered across the pond to these Colonies that congratulations are in order! England won the ashes (finally.) Nigel²
You mean that the whole of the USA wasn't watching avidly
nigelb wrote:I would give you the score but I have to confess, it has been around 55 years since I picked up a cricket bat and I have forgotten how the game is scored
Nigel²
The most important aspect to grasp is
'Australia 60, all out'

. Whereas England were 391 for 9 Declared (first innings).
So, Australia lost 10 of their 11 batsmen for the accumulation of 60 runs. England achieved 391 runs for the loss of 9 batsman. In declaring, they decided that 331 (391-60) was a target Australia were unlikely to achieve in their second 'innings', therefore England chose not to play their last 2 batsmen, in order to put Australia back in to bat, so that England could (hopefully) get them all out again without having to bat for a second time themselves.
In England, we score by stating the number of runs for the number of batsmen, Australia. I believe state it the other way round.
Oh crikey, this is getting complicated and could take me all night.
Perhaps have a look at this -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqtpNkMvj5Y
or, for our American cousins -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oPLhskOH4o
Suffice to say, Cricket is by far and away the greatest game on the planet.
Only the most civilised countries play Cricket. No segregation of fans, breaks for lunch and tea and if you're doing it properly (check out any village Cricket match), the two teams (along with wives/girlfriends and each teams committees organisers etc) will share tea and sandwiches and possibly the odd beer, after the match (provided, by the hosting team).
nigelb wrote:I also recall "googley" which was in use long before Google stole it.
Nigel²
Sadly, this is becoming less used in England (though it remains a Cricketing term). I'm hearing far more 'thrown a curve ball' than 'bowled a googly', which essentially mean the same thing.
Finally, I'll also buy Mike a beer.
When the pendulum swings again (as it will) and Australia are on top, I'm pretty sure Mike would offer to buy me one. Anything else '
just wouldn't be cricket old chap'.
So, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to bowl a maiden over

.
Regards
Kevin