Yes but in the context of a side who struggle to field batsmen with anything better, an average of 30 isn't that bad.
Over a long period of time and in a side that struggled when it first emerged, an average of 30 is quite good. That is what makes Hayden's new average in the mid-50s so impressive - three years ago it was 21.
Andy Flower really has been a bright luminary for Zimbabwe - his average is double that of most other batsmen in the side, and hence his loss accounts for the value of two or perhaps even three batsmen - he carried the innings for them, and his loss to his country will be felt for a few more series yet.
On the other hand, maybe Heath Streak should be batting at 3 - his 70 odd (not out) proved more than pestering for Australia - in fact the last four batsmen must have accounted for over 150 runs - a 70 odd run partnership between Streak and Price - quite a dogged achievement.
In other news:
Gillespie is ruled out of 2nd Test at SCG.
MacGill and Lehmann are in doubt.
Williams now favourite to take Gillespie's spot, with NSW pair Simon Katich and Nathan Bracken now in the Test squad of 14 - Brad Hogg also given a call-up.
Martin Love overlooked because it was felt Katich possessed better bowling credentials after a bumper year last year bowling his LH wrist spin.
The line up will probably look like this:
6) Katich
Bowlers:
Lee
Bichel
Hogg
Williams
if Lehmann and MacGill are injured.[/u]