CRICKET TEST PROSPECTS

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Issue 178, 14 August 1937, Page 3

CRICKET TEST PROSPECTS

— Pres? Asan -

Oval Wicket as Hard as Concrete DRAW PREDICTED

(By Telegraph-

-Copyriebt.*

LONDON, Aug. 13. The New Zealanders returned to Loijdon to find the Oval wicket baked as hard as concrete following the prolonged period of sweltering sunshine. Groundsmen predicted that there would be some lively behaviour on the last day. Experienced critics have bcen saying the side that wins the toss will probably win the match. At about midnight, however, the whole prospect was altered by heavy rain, which is eontinuing- to-day with no sign of abating, There is every possibility that the now refreshed. pitch will be easy and even in pace, but f ortunes on the- field may easily be determined by vagaries of the weather. English opinion appears to be united in expecting a draw unless eccontricities develop on the pitch. The replacement of Farnes and Paynter by Goyer and Washbrook has hardly weakened England. The New Zealand team, following customary practice, will not be announced till the morning. Roberts is now almost certain of inclusion following his really fine bowl- • ing at Nottingham. 1 Cowie is faster and better than at ! any period on the tour. Dunning is as dependable and persistent as ever. The New Zealand attack is now stronger than for matches at Lords and Manchester. Nevertheless, England is so strong in batting that a big score is almost cejtain if the wicket is fast and true. Gallichan will find a place if the pitch is likely to assist his slows; oifierwise the left-hand bowling will be left to iVivian. Because of recent small scores, the position of Kerr is endangered. "VVeir is batting well and is a strong claimant. Carson is playing more certainly and successfully and fielding well also but he probably left his run too late to eonvinee the selectors. Except for Roberts and possibly Weir;. in fine weather the team will probably be the same as in the second Test.