Atherton gets 'ball of the century' mark II

Shane Warne's delivery which bowled Michael Atherton in the fifth Ashes test on Friday reminded his England opening partner Marcus Trescothick of the Australian leg-spinner's "ball of the century".

Warne had produced a similar delivery with his first ball in Ashes cricket in 1993 at Old Trafford to dismiss a flabbergasted Mike Gatting.

That ball, spinning from outside the leg stump to clip the off bail, turned a little more than the delivery to Atherton but Trescothick said: "It was pretty useful.

"When I saw it on the replay it reminded me of the ball that got Gatting out.

"I wasn't surprised by the amount of spin Warne was getting. The wicket is going to churn up in the next two days."

England closed the second day on 80 for one after Australia amassed 641 for four.

Trescothick, who ended on 55 not out, added that he hoped Atherton, who is expected to give a decision on his international future on Sunday, would not give up.

"He's a good player. If he keeps going, it would be great for us."

Mail Cricket Editor