The reports of the devastation caused by the October 8 earthquake are very distressing, and we may not yet know the full extent of the tragedy. At this stage at least 54000 people have died in Pakistan and 1400 in Indian-administered Kashmir. But there is a monumental humanitarian crisis unfolding, with about three million people homeless, many in remote locations, and winter approaching rapidly.

"It really is a heavy book. It'll break your shoulder."

- Margaret Throsby on "Out Of My Comfort Zone" by Steve Waugh, ABC Classic FM, 25.10.05

Christmas is coming, and that means another book from Steve Waugh. Retirement from the game may well mean no more diaries, so this year we get his autobiography. That, of course, means hitting the media trail. Two interviews that he gave to ABC Radio this morning are both online.

Today would have been Day Six of the "Super Test" at the Sydney Cricket Ground. It seems an eternity since the game actually ended.

Meanwhile, in real cricket, Tasmania are following on against Queensland while Victoria have taken first innings points over WA.

I haven't had much to say about the unfortunately-named Super Series which ended two and a half days early yesterday. And I still don't.