One of Henry Lawson’s funniest works is that of the loaded dog. The “loaded dog” has of course become a well used metaphor and most of us know to avoid one, not because the poor mutt has any inherent flaws. The “load” however is a danger to itself and those around the poor blighter and the natural reaction, which is often the best one in this context, is to avoid it and have nothing to do with it. The mutt in Lawson’s piece often thought it was doing no harm by approaching others, including its mates. The problem of course is that anyone who approaches it to diffuse the load, runs the danger of being blown up. Avoid the loaded dog and do all you can to ensure it stays away from you – that is my mantra in dealing with this issue.

What a turnaround. A few months ago, I decided the Boxing Day test in MCG would not be worth the trouble if the Aussies didn’t seem keen on winning. The Adelaide test sort of confirmed this for me. Suddenly the Boxing Day test is beginning to look like a saliva inducing match. Should I or should I not scramble for tickets… or is it simply too late? Whether or not I am part of the excitement at the G, the Ashes has certainly become a whole lot more exciting for everyone.