dougisdownunder: Day Five - Final Day of Ashes at SCG

Dad and I went our separate ways for the day with me heading off to the final day's play at the SCG between Australia and England and Dad meeting up with his pal Mike for some lunch at Watson's Bay. You'll have to ask him about that.

The ACB announced last night that the final day of play at the SCG would be free entry to all comers. Understandable move given that England needed just 3 wickets to secure a 3-1 series win (technically a whitewash because the Aussies have been so poor), as it would maximise income for the concession and merchandise stands. Anticipating an England win, it is a fair assumption that the Barmy Army followers would want to spend most of their last dollars on souvenir tat and VB. Assumption confirmed on arrival at the ground.

The ground was almost entirely open so you could wander as you pleased and sit where you wanted. Security was low-key and relaxed. English stewarding and policing could learn something from the way the Australian's run big events. They do it politely, efficiently and with a smile. Our lot are just hired goons. To see police happily accepting requests at the end from the Barmy Army to take their photos summed the day up really. All in good spirit.

Anyway, aside from the 20 minute rain delay, the cricket began on time and 10:03 and it was all over well before lunch. The sun stayed out from 11am and it was baking in the open stands. The Barmy Army took advantage of the early opening of the bars and amused themselves until Tremlett took the final wicket.

Collingwood got a personal salute, the side did a lap of honour with the Ashes urn (not the real one), and everyone dribbled away happy.