England test World Cup credentials
England cricket supporters basking in some pleasant memories over the past 18 months have no time to slumber: the relentless international calendar now dishes up .
"What's this?" I hear many of you groan. "Seven one-day internationals!? Do we really need to play seven?"
Actually, yes. Reinforcing the point that the first match of the World Cup is pretty soon - 19 February since you ask - the trophy will be on display outside Gate 1 of the MCG for two hours leading up to the first Australia v England day-nighter in Melbourne.
And, loath though I am to quote directly from a press release, as the ICC's Haroon Lorgat correctly observes: "In recent months we have seen some truly great Test cricket around the world but now it's time for the one-day format to take centre stage."