M.C.C. Facing Stiff Task

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30978, 7 February 1966, Page 3

M.C.C. Facing Stiff Task

[From W. J. O’REILLY, N.Z.P.A. Special Correspondent ! SYDNEY. The fast bowler, D. Renneberg, has set the M.C.C. team a stiff task in reaching New South Wales’ first innings’ score of 488.

On Saturday Renneberg dismissed both test openers, G. Boycott and R. W. Barber, before they could set their team safely on the way.

At the close, after the loss of 80 minutes’ play because of bad light, the M.C.C. was 84 for two.

I have not seen any fast bowler in Australia this season approach the pace that the young Sydney bowler produced. Chance For Tour

I am certain he will be given thoughtful consideration when the team for the South African tour is being chosen in a few weeks time. Bad light and cool weather were factors which added importantly to Renneberg’s prospects. I certainly was not surprised when Barber appealed soon after his partner. Boycott, had been caught in the covers. He was fully entitled to do so. During the 40 minutes of play that followed the first interruption Barber was dismissed. Barber, in among a lot of highly attractive shots powerfully executed, gave many instances of thrills that he can provide for behind-the-wicket fieldsmen. Perils Of Attack When the big left-hander gets cracking straight into the pitch of the ball he does not take full pains to use the middle of the bat. One must expect such adventurous methods as his will meet with plenty of set-backs if edged shots go to hand. One edged shot bounced out of the wicket-keeper’s left glove, several others flew safely away on the on-side and it looked that Barber’s luck had got him through the preliminary danger stage and that he was set for a big score. Finally, he was caught at the wicket for 49. E. W. Russell played very well. { He timed the ball beautiully and positioned his shots

Important Acquisition

well. England has been most unlucky that an early injury in Brisbane has prevented Russell from playing an important part on this tour. 1 consider him one of the best set-up batsmen in the M.C.C. party.

G. Davies, latest youthful recruit in the New South Wales side, looks likely to be an important acquisition. His innings was not highlighted with any attempts at spectacular stroke-making—he was more inclined to reply solely on defence.

But he impressed me as a boy who has an important future once he has settled down to the job. Martin turned his stock offspinner so far that he seems set up for successful business during the remaining days of this match.

J. H. Edrich has found it difficult to spot the one that he straightens up, a fact that will make him approach his task this ihorning with deep interest.