Oval Test, Day 3, Lunch
Saturday, August 25, 2001

Glenn McGrath was excellent this morning. Nine overs for five runs - it was a joke really - and it was just what Australia needed. At the other end Warnie did what everyone expected of him. There was some concern that the pitch might have settled a bit overnight, as it can do when it's been swept and rolled, but he got it right straightaway, and he'll be gunning for his 400th Test wicket.

Australia have got to be careful though. Warnie tired towards the end of his spell and he mustn't be overbowled if Australia want to win this match. There's a lot of cricket left to be played.

For England though Nasser Hussain has played the perfect counterpunching innings. He's been patient, allowing the ball to go past, but he hasn't been afraid to cash in when it's been up there. A lot rests on this pair now, but Australia won't think the job's done if they can be separated. Certainly they'll be keen to have a dart at Afzaal, but Alec Stewart can hang around and is capable of a big innings.

But Australia have to keep one of England's two innings short, to allow themselves the time and energy to force the victory.

Ian Healy made a record 395 dismissals in 119 Tests for Australia, and was on the winning side in the last six Ashes series. His comments are appearing on Wisden.com at the end of every session of the Oval Test. He was talking to Andrew Miller.

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