England have started well and, as ever, there are a couple of selection issues. For example, Michael Vaughan or Graeme Hick? Personally, I would be happy with either of them. Then there is Ashley Giles's injury and the reported possible call-up for a certain PCR Tufnell.
Obviously, I wish no harm to Ashley, but due to an early pre-season start at Middlesex, I am mentally and physically ready if I get the call. Oh, to play on those dry, turning 'bunsens'.
Sri Lanka have found some form and gave the Kiwis a good hiding in the one-day games. Sanath Jayasuriya looks to be getting back to somewhere near his best and he, like Goughie, is the team's talisman. The battles between these two at the start of the innings should be fascinating, as well as being crucial to the outcome of the First Test and indeed the series.
I have even amazed myself by getting this far without mentioning 'that spinner' of theirs. But I can assure you Muttiah Muralitharan will not be quiet for too long and our guys really will have to concentrate hard to keep him out, as well as coping with the constantly chuntering and appealing close fielders.
The basis for a successful First Test will be to somehow keep cool under the constant, almost fanatical pressure.
But let's give as good as we get. After all, players like Goughie, White and Mike Atherton need that extra competitive edge to bring out the best in them.
