The day after taking two wickets and scoring 41 runs in England's second defeat at the hands of the Australians, Somerset all rounder Ian Blackwell reflected on the situation in the VB one day series.

He told me: "What a formidable side the Aussies are, they are world class and will be very hard to beat. We knew things would be tough, especially with the young squad we have. We spoke before the tournament and we all agreed that Sri Lanka would be our ticket into the finals. We now have two massive games against them tomorrow and on Thursday."

Regarding his own form he told me: "I am very pleased with the way that I am bowling and batting at the moment. I have come on in very difficult situations in each of the games and have performed amicably in both which has given me confidence in playing at the higher level."

He continued: " Sometimes you can't do much when you get a first baller, maybe a few nerves creep in and you don't execute the shot quite as you would if you had been in for a little while.But these things happen in cricket which is why we play the game."

`Blackie' concluded: " I have learned a lot playing in these conditions and against the best players in the world. Things will be hard from here on in, the challenge has been laid down and I'm keen to take it up."

© SOMERSET