The stage is set.

Australia’s Peter Siddle is the latest victim to fall in the battle of the first Test of the Ashes series 2013 to another wonderful bowl by the irrepressible Jimmy Anderson. Having taken all three wickets today he has arguably single handedly torn the final few members of an Aussie team, on the ever quickening demise, to shreds.

Also take a bow Alastair Cook for a sublime catch to see Siddle away. How much longer is left in this encapsulating game of cricket? It would seem not even long enough for the tea and scones of the privileged ladies and gentlemen of the Radcliffe Road suites to be enjoyed comfortably.