Onions Heroics Saves England
Graeme Onions helped England to salvage an unlikely draw in the third test against South Africa. Onions appeared at the crease with 17 balls to go after Morne Morkel finally removed Ian Bell for 78. Bell produced a innings full of patience and resolve as he refused to yield under pressure from the South African bowlers. The Warwickshire batsman faced 238 balls for his composed 78 as his defence proved equal to the task. His four hour partnership with Paul Collingwood (40) looked to have secured England the draw however a late flurry of wickets provided a tense finish.
Matt Prior (4) fell cheaply to JP Duminy as he was caught by AB De Villiers at short leg. The following over brought more drama as Stuart Broad survived a close referral for another close in catch. Thankfully for the vocal England support the fast bowler was allowed to stay. However this lifeline was soon wasted by Broad as he gloved one to De Villiers of the bowling of Paul Harris. Although Broad failed to score, he survived a precious 22 balls under intense pressure from the South African fielders.
With Bell at the other end England still looked like frustrating South Africa. When Bell was finally removed the South Africans sensed victory and threw everything at Swann and Onions.
Swann endured a hostile penultimate over off Dale Steyn before it was left to Onions to face the last six balls of what has been an excellent test match full of drama, tension and exceptional cricket.
The final over provided even more drama as Morkel thought he had Onions caught behind by Mark Boucher. In one final desperate effort the South Africans used up their last referral in the hope it had nicked part of a glove. The decision went England’s way and it was left to Onions to leave the last ball handing the tourists the draw.
Graeme Onions used Woodworm Pro Series Bat. He uses the Pro Series range available from Woodworm.Tv. The Pro Series range has been extremely popular throughout the 2009 season however watch this space for the new 2010 range!