Haddin Shows England What They Lack: A First Class Wicketkeeper

Over the course of the first Ashes Test Match in Cardiff, we have been treated to a fantastic exhibition of wicket keeping and batting. Both by Brad Haddin, the New South Welshman that is now wearing the gloves for Australia and so far, truly impressing the English and Aussie crowds.

On the other hand, we English have Matt Prior.

This issue I'm sure has been raised many times, but this Test match reiterated a major flaw in the English cause—a decent wicket keeper batsman.

"Oh, but Prior hit a 50 in the first innings" I hear you cry. Well, this was a 50 strayed with edges, nicks and unnecessary rash shots, which culminated with Prior's off peg being knocked back by the fiery Peter Siddle.

The second innings effort from Prior was far worse, and this time his debacle was rounded off with an inexplicable cut shot against the gentle off breaks of Nathan Hauritz—a great catch at slip from Michael Clarke, by the way.

Prior's keeping in the Test match wasn't, in fairness, that bad. However, I feel he lacks any authority behind the stumps. Haddin to the contrary, bounces around behind the stumps, and is thoroughly enthusiastic about his position.

Indeed, Haddin's batting innings was exemplary. Quite briskly paced for Test match cricket, but always maintaining control, having him bat at seven for Australia can only relax Ricky Ponting, the captain.

Okay, so to put the blame entirely on Prior for the poor showing by England is indeed ludicrous. However, I am not doing this, merely saying that until we get a true wicket keeper behind the stumps, combined with a keeper who is a confident batsman, England's batting and fielding will stay lethargic.

James Foster? In the England squad? Yes please!