Ashes: Exciting first session goes Australia's way

The first session just ended and the one thing that stood out for me was Flintoff's fiery exuberance after getting Hayden's wicket. That just serves to complement my beliefs that playing Australia in the Ashes really brings out the best in him. I say that because he was quite dull in Pakistan.

As for Harmison, I don't think he should have been taking off so early, after just 2 overs. Langer was playing streaky shots off him initially and Flintoff was perhaps hasty in his decision. Certainly won't help the chief strikers confidence if your captain takes you off at the first sign of trouble. He should have been given some time to settle into his stride. His second spell was a lot smoother.

Langer, on the other hand, is on a personal mission. He is batting superbly. His aggressive batting is similar to Lara's batting intent yesterday.

Just as I finish this, Langer gets caught! Flintoff strikes! Its swung England's way again! Here comes Martyn....