As England supporters we experience a rollercoaster of emotions – from the highs of 2005 to the horrors of 2006-7, from the most joyous of victories to the kind of gut-wrenching defeat which almost entirely breaks our spirit.
Above all, we expect the worst, whatever the match situation.
In the 1980s we assumed defeat in any series against the West Indies. In the 1990s the Ashes meant only despair and embarrassment.
Against Pakistan and India we know that a collapse or a bowling meltdown may at all times be only overs away. Versus South Africa, we are rarely confident.
But after Sunday’s play at Lord’s, we must now come to terms with a brand new experience, and one which may well be repeated.
We could lose to Bangladesh.
Maxie Allen
