Ian Chappell on the 4th Ashes Test, 3rd Day (29 December 1998)

29 December 1998

Ian Chappell on the 4th Ashes Test, 3rd Day

Ian Chappell

STEVE WAUGH not only has exquisite timing while batting, his appreciation of the right moment to prod an opponent is immaculate. He chose the perfect time to launch an assault on a rampant Darren Gough and so flummoxed the England captain, that Australia are now leading in a match where they could so easily be trailing.

The elder Waugh twin took a calculated gamble when he began to play as though he was in the final stages of a limited-overs match. This is a role he experienced regularly in his younger days and his timing and tactical know-how revealed that there is nothing wrong with his memory.

A combination of crashing cover drives and calculated cross-bat shots sent Stewart into a dither as he got lost somewhere in no-man's land between attacking and defending.

As the captain lost control, English shoulders slumped and the heads dropped, while Waugh and Stuart MacGill's spirits soared, happy in the knowledge that Australia had wrested the initiative. This was a classic case of how Waugh has so often helped Australia on the field, but that's not the only area where his presence is appreciated.

Recently, Justin Langer was saying how Waugh's confidence in the dressing room and at tactical discussions rubs off on the less experienced members of the team. He explained how hearing Steve's summation of a situation gives a clear picture of how to go forward and that this helps to erase any doubts and produces a feeling of invincibility against England.

The fact that Waugh then has the ability to march confidently out on to the field and put all the theories into practice only adds to his glowing reputation in the Australian dressing room.

In an illustrious career, Waugh has often made the difference against England; his twin centuries at Old Trafford in 1997 being an outstanding example. However, his form at the MCG was not far behind his form on that occasion and his tactical appreciation was so good that he allowed himself the luxury of an on-field century celebration.

This is most unusual from a man who shows very little emotion on the field and prefers to save his more demonstrative moments purely for the eyes and ears of team-mates.

Well, his wonderful innings has paved the way for yet another dressing-room celebration as victory is now within the Australians' grasp.

Source :: Electronic Telegraph (https://www.telegraph.co.uk)