Somerset
Return of the Long Stuff - Kent
No Big Man
By Grockle
July 16 2008
Caddick does not play against the Kentish crew and we pack the side with seamers and leave the spin to Blackie. It's an important 4 dayer but may not last that long given the forecast. Kent win the toss and put us in! (Strange decision) We come out of the traps like greyhounds and smash over 100 before we lose both openers. I blame this one day stuff!
v Kent LVCC1 @ Taunton Wednesday 16 July 2008
It was 2002 when we last faced Kent in the Championship at Taunton. Jamie Cox was captain and some bloke called Wood and some bloke called Blackwell starred for us. Different side, different game today but important in the general scheme of things
We go in "seam heavy" without Caddick once again but Langer has compensated by picking nearly everyone else who bowls;
Trescothick, Langer, de Bruyn, Hildreth, Trego, Blackwell, Kieswetter, Phillips, Jones, Thomas and Willoughby
are the men on the field today but the bowlers will have to wait after Kent in explicably put us in!
Marcus and Justin say thanks very much and prompt Kent to change their bowlers 5 times in the first 12 overs as they smash their way to the first hundred in about that amount of balls. Trescothick reaches 58 off 78 before he goes to Saggers wth the score on 109. His skipper is a little less certain but hits his half ton off less balls (57) before he pops back to the dressing room at 113 courtesy of Joseph.
de Bruyn is at number 3 at the expense of Neil Edwards who has been benched for this game and after his ton at Chester-le-Street he is expected to set up at one end while Hildreth pushes the score on at the other. Doesn't go to plan though because James continues his poor spell going cheaply to Saggers caught behind for a mere 4.
It's 136 at lunch with Peter Trego coming in further up the order than we have seen him before and in front of Blackwell. They seem to be happy with their lot though as by the 34th over the pair have moved the score on to 170 with Trigger playing the 'shotmaker' role. This prompts the arrival of Tredwell at the OP end for the 38th as Kent revert to spin, nothing else seems to be worrying anyone.
Peter takes a shine to Mr Tredwell, depositing hi twice into the OP for 6 as he moves towards an aggressive 50 off 54 balls. Zander is doing what he does very effecti vely at the other end sending Saggers and Joseph scurrying after perfectly timed shots to the graveyard for 4 and hitting beautifully clean drives straight back past the bowler. The 200 comes and goes as the two of them start to motor once again, large amounts of runs coming off every bowler with no-one standing out as a possible wicket taker.
Eventually, Trego hits one slightly in from the boundary and the fielder coming in just gets his hands under it...or doesn't in the opinion of the batsman. Pete stands there for what seems like a hell of a long time before he walks as the unpire confirms that he thought the ball carried. 244 for 4 and a slighter Ian Blackwell strides out to take his place. de Bruyn is in very good form and continues to accumulate while IB gets his eye in and they put 50 on before Zander tries to drop his hands to one from Saggers that rearsa a bit and he is caught behind for a very good 81 off 128 balls with 10 fours and a six. he seems to have got this English domestic cricket sussed and he scored quickly as well.
By Tea we have 314 having started the session on 136. They belted along a bit. kent must be wondering whether the decision to field was actualy the best one they could have made...or just sheer lunacy!! Craig Kieswetter and Blackwell will be out after Tea and hopefully the Kentish nightmare will continue.
It's a little darker and more overcast in the third session but it doesn't stop the Somerset men continuing to put the runs on. At 369, Ian becomes another passing 50 off 69 balls with 6 fours and a six..it is looking a little more worrying for Key and the Kentmen because he is starting to put bat to ball with alarming regularity and some not too shabby power. Meanwhile his wicketkeeper partner is playing the solid role but has moved to 33 despite that.
However, not for the first time, Ian's heart rules his head and when he is in a position to create carnage among the opposition he puts one straight up in the air and is caught between the infield and the boundary with 55 to his name and 381 on the total board. Daft, daft, daft. Just didn't think for that split second when you really needed him to and another promising innings doesn't develo into that major classy score you know he has in him.
Ben Phillips replaces Ian and it will now be interesting to see if Craig now takes up the leading role or allows the big hitting bowler to do it instead. There are 21 overs to go and at least 425 should be facinf Kent by the end of play today. But daftness seems to be catching as Kieswetter flips a nothing ball to Key standing at mid-on for just that eventuality and wanders away as if he's been batting for hours and it was just inevitable. Talk about giving your wicket away. He goes for 35 at 389 for 7 and out comes Steffan Jones to do battle.
It's 5:12 when the crowd welcome the 400th run and the fifth batting point courtesy of Ben Phillips' bat. 14 overs to go and Van Jaarsfeld and Tredwell on to try and stem the score. The Somerset boys seem quite happy to stun the spin and sit on their total altough occasionally Ben might have a bash at getting one past the infield - the rate is down to one an over.
As I type that of course both batsmen lay into Van Jaarsfeld and while Phillips deposits him to the OP boundary, Steff goes one better and puts him into the 'shop' car park without bouncing the ball. That prompts Key to take the new ball and Mclaren returns at the River with 416 up to see what fast/medium pace can do. Well the answer is that it will do for Jones as he snicks one to first slip and goes for 16 at 421.
At this rate we may get a look at the Kent openers for a coupl of overs. Alfonso is no mean batsman but we could lose two wickets quickly as Joseph returns at the OP. Phillips mistimes the first and up in the air it goes before landing in Joseph's rather large hands...out C&B for 22 at 421. It's all gone a bit at the end. We were on, at one time, for a 450+ score but we'll probably get about 425 (IF Charl can get off strike) - he nearly dies trying with the first ball he faces!! Joseph is after him and he's keen to take him on. The Kent man is bowling no balls and our man is stepping outside leg to try and smear them somewhere....could be a long over but it's got us to the 425 target. We are all here saying "if only he could bowl one straight" while Joseph keeps slinging them outside off and Charl keeps half timing them or missing completely.
Meanwhile Thomas plays the conventional shots and the rain starts to come down. He finally snicks a wide one to second slip and we are all out for 427 with 8 overs to go. Will Kent face 6? Well the weather may intervene but it looks that way.
A strange day where we have scored very quickly but not created the big winning lead. Because we've only got just over 400 BUT in one day, we've not got them exactly where we would like them. Kent have enough time to put this start right because the score isn't 600-ish and it hasn't taken a third of the match to get it. The score is less than 500 and there's 75% of the match to play. It owuld have been better to produce a longer innings with a score that probably let us have a go at them twice before having to bat again. It's now down to the bowlers to get among them early to stop this being a drawn match where there isn't enough time for the last innings. Kent gave away 36 runs from no balls in that innings Joseph contributed 12 of them.
The Kent Reply
Kay and Denly come out to face a minimum of 5 overs in damp and dark conditions... they must be really happy about this. It's the opener's "no win" situation. Charl opens at the OP and has Denley with his second shout for LBW - fourth ball. The third was going down legside but the next was as plum as plum can be. Saggers is the replacement and the first goes straight through him and over middle and leg. He flips the next for 4 and we look to Steffan to do some of the same from the River end.
It's 10 for 1 after two thanks to some very sharp fielding from Trego close in and a few that Key doesn't have to play at from our Welshman. Willough is spearning them across the Kent skipper but Key is well aware of where his stumps are and is leaving everything he doesn't need to get near to. 12 for 1 at the end of three. Then we have an interesting over from Jonah. A single to Key brings Saggers down, four go into the slip cordon and Jones bowls 2 well outside off stump and has a long discussion about where people should be. He then comprehensively beats Saggers with the next, spears in an LBW possible which is just going down the leg and then produces a beautiful inswinger which cleans the nightwatchman up completely.
Then Charl produces a peach to worry the Kent captain before having him caught behind for 8 (on Craig's second attempt) two balls into the 5th.
Kent are 13 for 3 at the end of play - something to have a ponder about overnight then. Now that is really really interesting. Well done the boys with the ball!!
Day 2
If we get into them early will the effect cause a collapse? Well we got into them early and the answer is not clear yet. Van Jaarsveld and Tredwell put up the defensive barriers from ball one and the scoring in the morning has not exactly been speedy but the got the score to 41 before that man Willoughby got into the action again and had VJ caught behind. At the 25 over mark they were tootling along at 3 an over and Charl had gone off for something (he's back on now) so Phillips and Thomas were keeping them in check and it was Alfonso who got one to nip back in to Tredwell...which unfortunatly he missed. Thump.....75 for 5 Tredwell gone for 23.
It's still 3 an over as we reach 30 overs....a good afternoon could put us well in charge. Hopefully Cricinfo will be back in some type of touch by the end of the lunch break! But before then there's still a bit of excitement as Walker misjudges a Thomas ball andfinds himself in front. Another one down at 90. That's it up until lunch. They go in for food in deep trouble after 35 overs. 105 for 6 on the second day after inserting the home team wasn't probably Robert Key's predicted position. 322 runs adrift still...we do need to make them pay this afternoon.
After lunch it all gets a bit bogged down. Phillips opens from the OP and Jones has the ball at the River but the two newboys cope with the attack quite adequately. Jonah has to get his line sorted - too many balls away from the stumps without a third slip to clean up and Ben is plugging away but getting nothing through. Then he has a chat with his captain and three balls later, Jones' defence is breached by the tall man, Kieswetter holds the ball and its 134 for 7.
Just after that we should have been 143 for 8 when Kemp bottom ends one straight back to Phillips who doesn't hold on to it in his midriff. But it doesn't make much difference because Arafat smashes one to gully while the big man is there and he plucks an absolutely screamer out of the air as if it is gently lobbed to him!! 145 for 8 and "Game On" once more.
When Kemp goes for a big drive and doesn't get it quite right, Mr Langer (just returned from a 'comfort break') is there to take a first slip catch and it's 159 for 9...Jonah is on a roll!!
But they reach 208 before McLaren snicks one to the skipper and we all wait to see if Justin will enforce the follow on. No he won't, he tells Frosty which roller he wants immmediately and jogs off to prepare to face. So....doesn't want to face spin on the last day? probably he doesn't see much in the pitch today and therefore would like 500 on the board before he asks the visitors to take another turn. Best not to give them the filip of a good second spell at the wicket.
So Marcus joins his boss in the middle with 43 overs of the day available. The quest to get to 300 as soon as possible (within reason) begins. But MT isn't involved for too long because his skipper runs him out going for a 'quick' single and he's off to the dressing room for 8 at 20 for 1. Zander is the replacement but he doesn't spend any more time than Marcus at the crease before he is caught by Van Jaarsfeld for 1 at 22. James Hildreth comes out with his county needing a decent innings from a man in no form at all and every local in the ground is starting to question the skipper's decision to go in again.
The 50 goes up in the 18th and it's all very very slow. It's not that light but at least it is dry. Neither James or Justin are looking in command but they keep pushing the score along and we should be looking at a lead of over 300 for tomorrow morning....the question is - for how many wickets? We don't want to lose any more if possible.
But it isn't possible as James steers a huge wide one from McLaren off the middle of his bat straight to Tredwell (he really isn't in touch at all). It was a simple catching practice stroke to a man who was there to catch it. Oh dear! Trego is next in and at 71 for 3 Justin must be hoping that he curbs his natural desire to get on with it and lasts until the close of play tonight - we could do with these two still being there tomorrow morning. If any more go down tonight we could compare our position at the start of Day 3 to Key's position at the start of today. How many is a gettable target with 2 days to go?
The 300 ahead is achieved in the 28th over at 81 for 3. Saggers and McLaren are working manfully to make the Somerset men take chances but they aren't going to oblige (please God!) - at which statement Trego pulls mightily to the "organworks" boundary!! Just after that he misjudges a slow ball from Saggers and nearly loses his life to a desperate dive from Denly in the middle as the ball is popped up invitingly. Keep your keyboard quiet Grockle!!
The next phase of this game occurs in the 32nd over as the bowling of James Tredwell introduces spin to the proceedings for the first time this innings but we finally stagger into a three figure total courtesy of a mishooked four from Trego off the pace of Saggers at the other end. But this game is far from over because Trego then pushes away from his body and snicks to the keeper. 102 for 4 and more twists and turns in this game than a Cornish backroad.
Ian Blackwell to the crease, interesting times at the old ground! Not helped by a chip back to Tredwell the first time he faces him! C&B 103 for 5 - that was just a joke I'm afraid and probably hasn't endeared him to his captain at all. Now we need some kind of steady hand because we could panic and give Kent a horizon to aim for and a smell of a victory they should never have got near.
Craig Kieswetter comes out to complete the last 'batting' partnership and finds his first job is to congratulate his skipper on a 50 off 84 balls with 5 fours. Thanks heavens there is some application to the job at hand somewhere on the pitch in a Somerset shirt.
With the last over to come, some 40 minutes after the closing time for this day we arte 123 for 5. Langer faces Walker before he faces a bit of time thinking about the day and whether he took the correct actions. He nearly wasn't there to face at 11:00 as he sacks a long hop to the close fielder, who doesn't hold it.
We finish 348 ahead without losing any more. 100 - 150 tomorrow boys please. ....Ohhh and ten Kent wickets if it's not too much trouble.
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StumbleuponReturn of the Long Stuff - Kent
Discussion started by Grockles.com , 16/07/2008 14:05
Kent, who have notched up wins in their last two championship matches against Surrey and Yorkshire, have one or two injury problems for Taunton tomorrow.
Azhar Mahmood, who took six wickets in the first innings against Yorkshire, is definitely out and will be replaced by Ryan McLaren, who has also been carrying a knock recently.
And Darren Stevens faces a fitness test in the morning, with Matt Walker standing by. There is talk also at Canterbury of one or two possible further changes.
Azhar Mahmood, who took six wickets in the first innings against Yorkshire, is definitely out and will be replaced by Ryan McLaren, who has also been carrying a knock recently.
And Darren Stevens faces a fitness test in the morning, with Matt Walker standing by. There is talk also at Canterbury of one or two possible further changes.
Kent look very strong at the mo - shame there aren't also injuries to Key, Denly, van Jaarsveld, Kemp, Jones, Maclaren, Arafat and a few others!
Shall we send BJ round with the dogs?
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Come on people we should beat anybody if given four day's to do it.
We have just come from playing Durham who we would have beaten if we had the full four day's play.
The link to my Photos on Photobucket - [s1152.photobucket.com]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:15:19:07:07 by Mike BOS.
We have just come from playing Durham who we would have beaten if we had the full four day's play.
The link to my Photos on Photobucket - [s1152.photobucket.com]Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:15:19:07:07 by Mike BOS.
Watch Van the man , he's a bit tasty from what I have seen of him this season , likes a nice flat track too .
I'm not worried,we'll send them back to hop land with their tails between their legs.
A beautiful county Kent,I've spent many happy hours there.
Let's hope for four dry days.
And much,much cooler nights.
A beautiful county Kent,I've spent many happy hours there.
Let's hope for four dry days.
And much,much cooler nights.
Ben Phillips, Andy Caddick and Michael Munday have been added to the Somerset XI who played at Chester-le-Street, with final decisions depending on the wicket and a late fitness test for Andy C.
We'd better bat and get 250+ by tea then, while BJ send the bad weather over to Wales.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Yep, forecast is unpromising. And not only for today. In that context, it would possibly make sense to not bother with Caddy's fitness test because the fact that he needs a test, by definition suggests some continuing doubt about his fitness (I'm assuming that the fitness test is on his side strain.) In that case, probably better to save him for the next away game as we will probably have more chance of forcing a victory in the away game anyway.
It's sunny at the moment 2 miles from the ground and we beat the predictions yesterday but four days of continuous cricket looks unlikely.
I'm always nervous of playing people who have fitness tests the morning of the start of a game. If they are fit you surely know when you are planning the strategy. If they aren't ready then, they aren't ready period.
Anyone else starting to think that this may be the last hurrah of young Andy?
This injury seems far more serious on a long term basis than we were led to believe in early May and his failure to manage to recover from it probably tells us all that the mighty man is getting old and the body isn't doing what it is told any more.
I'm always nervous of playing people who have fitness tests the morning of the start of a game. If they are fit you surely know when you are planning the strategy. If they aren't ready then, they aren't ready period.
Anyone else starting to think that this may be the last hurrah of young Andy?
This injury seems far more serious on a long term basis than we were led to believe in early May and his failure to manage to recover from it probably tells us all that the mighty man is getting old and the body isn't doing what it is told any more.
I fear you may be right, Grockle, and fervently hope you are not. Whatever happens, let's hope we can retain the good man to be an inspirational coach to our aspiring young fast bowlers.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Interesting selection. I certainly didn't see it coming (so much so that I transferred Edwards in to my fantasy team yesterday! Doh!). But looking at it it seems obvious.
I like the fact that Jones is down to bat below Thomas and Phillips - that should bring out the best in him!
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
With Trego and Phillips only recently back from injury, I think this is advisable. And is it perhaps a typically Australian-style piece of motivation to say "The top four didn't do enough last time out, so one has to go, and I'm going to step up a place and lead from the front?"
You say it's tough on Edwards, but he is only averaging 27 in the Championship with only two fifties.
You say it's tough on Edwards, but he is only averaging 27 in the Championship with only two fifties.
Well fRed, the attack does look a little "samey". Once the choice had been made to select an extra bowler, I would have thought Michael Munday would have been the more obvious choice.
But Munday really struggled in his last outing against the batting South Africans in what should have been helpful conditions. He looked well below Arul Suppiah in the spinning stakes.
I can't fathom the Kent choice either and we seem to be making the most of it at the present time with 6 per over off the first 10!!
I can't fathom the Kent choice either and we seem to be making the most of it at the present time with 6 per over off the first 10!!
Good points about Munday, maybe we should have gone with Arul or Wes. Anyway, great start.
So because he struggled against the SA's he shouldn't get a chance again? However, I wouldn't have had an issue with Arul being the extra bowling option, especially if he's looking a more likely wicket-taker than Michael.
The team just looks a little overloaded with seam bowlers to me.
The team just looks a little overloaded with seam bowlers to me.
From the one day's play I saw live, I'd be tempted to dispute the description as "samey", Murph.
There's swing from both hands, a more "hit the deck" style from Steff and Big Ben, and skiddy hustle from Thomas.
There are much more "samey" attacks around than ours.
In fact, Kent's looks no more varied than ours.
There's swing from both hands, a more "hit the deck" style from Steff and Big Ben, and skiddy hustle from Thomas.
There are much more "samey" attacks around than ours.
In fact, Kent's looks no more varied than ours.
"Anyone else starting to think that this may be the last hurrah of young Andy?
This injury seems far more serious on a long term basis than we were led to believe in early May and his failure to manage to recover from it probably tells us all that the mighty man is getting old and the body isn't doing what it is told any more."
Well, Grockle, your analysis is certainly a possibility.
However, it's also true that AC has never been one of those guys that's constantly in and out of teams with one niggle after the other. Rather, he's been someone who either plays pretty much every game in a season, or he's been someone who has had a major struggle with some particular major injury in a particular season. The shin splints were the most obvious example. But there was also the original back injury a few years ago, too. It might be the case that this season will be a write-off but that he will be back next season at something approaching the level at which he bowled last season.
This injury seems far more serious on a long term basis than we were led to believe in early May and his failure to manage to recover from it probably tells us all that the mighty man is getting old and the body isn't doing what it is told any more."
Well, Grockle, your analysis is certainly a possibility.
However, it's also true that AC has never been one of those guys that's constantly in and out of teams with one niggle after the other. Rather, he's been someone who either plays pretty much every game in a season, or he's been someone who has had a major struggle with some particular major injury in a particular season. The shin splints were the most obvious example. But there was also the original back injury a few years ago, too. It might be the case that this season will be a write-off but that he will be back next season at something approaching the level at which he bowled last season.
"You say it's tough on Edwards, but he is only averaging 27 in the Championship with only two fifties."
The man's ability level is frightening, quite frankly. He seems to have a knack of being fluent enough to start plenty of innings with a flurry of boundaries. But I fear that he's become a bit too carried away with the team concept of aggressive batting, to the extent that he's placing more value in giving the team a 'positive,' start, than he is on building an innings. If he's to be sent to the second XI, I'd like to see Mr Rose send him there with a specific message that he must focus on trying to build substantial innings.
The man's ability level is frightening, quite frankly. He seems to have a knack of being fluent enough to start plenty of innings with a flurry of boundaries. But I fear that he's become a bit too carried away with the team concept of aggressive batting, to the extent that he's placing more value in giving the team a 'positive,' start, than he is on building an innings. If he's to be sent to the second XI, I'd like to see Mr Rose send him there with a specific message that he must focus on trying to build substantial innings.
As for Kent fielding first, perhaps they read the same comments from Mr Rose about the track that we did. Perhaps they thought there'd be something huge in it? Or perhaps they looked at what happened in the Hants game where we deliberately started the pitch damp and thought that we'd try the same thing again?
Perhaps they were right and the pitch really is damp and their guys have got carried away with themselves?
Perhaps they were right and the pitch really is damp and their guys have got carried away with themselves?
I'm afraid the Mike looked so out of touch against the SA's that I'd be loathed to risk him in an important Championship match at Taunton.
I know it's then a problem because how can you get him back in touch without playing him - not got a solution I'm afraid? But they don't seem to think spin will be an issue in this one or they surely would have considered Arul as a second option.
Langer tends to hope to do it with the seamers more often than not rather than 'risk' two spinners. Not enough faith in our slows perhaps?
I know it's then a problem because how can you get him back in touch without playing him - not got a solution I'm afraid? But they don't seem to think spin will be an issue in this one or they surely would have considered Arul as a second option.
Langer tends to hope to do it with the seamers more often than not rather than 'risk' two spinners. Not enough faith in our slows perhaps?
To be fair, I think the prospects for most spinners on our track are grim. I tend to think that the surface is too firm, to provide a great amount of turn. If you're the kind of spinner who can bowl on anything, such as Murali or Warne? Fine.
Otherwise? You won't take vast numbers of wickets unless the batsmen are hugely complicit in their own downfall. An obvious example is the Durham game vs Gareth Breese a few years ago, where Ian said afterwards that we "played ridiculous shots."
Otherwise? You won't take vast numbers of wickets unless the batsmen are hugely complicit in their own downfall. An obvious example is the Durham game vs Gareth Breese a few years ago, where Ian said afterwards that we "played ridiculous shots."
Well they've bought one wicket.
If we sell the other 9 at least as dearly, we'll be in the box seats in this one.
Come on my babbies!
If we sell the other 9 at least as dearly, we'll be in the box seats in this one.
Come on my babbies!
103-0 after 20 overs.....
Is this a 20/20 match?
No, I think it's a 153/72/58 match ;-)
Is this a 20/20 match?
No, I think it's a 153/72/58 match ;-)
As to the debate over the 'balance,' or otherwise of our team, I'd suggest the the "5th bowler," which - in a sense - is Ben Phillips in that he is the guy that has been added to this team is there primarily as a defensive option. He offers JL the option of bottling up an end, in much the same manner as Ian does.
By contrast, Pete is a very attacking bowler whose strike rate is usually going to be more impressive than his economy rate. And Alphonso seems to be an almost old-fashioned kind of bowler in that he seeks to bowl a very full length indeed to give the ball maximum chance to swing. If that goes even slighly awry, then he will be bowling non-swinging half-volleys, and he was noticeably expensive at Chester LS.
I think FE's point about fitness is also a valid one. Pete did not bowl many overs in the last game and Ben didn't play at all, so....
It is, of course, somewhat dissappointing, though, that Mark Turner was not in good enough form to be seriously considered for this game. It's also somewhat dissappointing that, with Neil missing out, the chance was not taken to give Wesley Durston a shot at staking a regular place.
On the plus side, this game should represent a very considerable opporunity for Peter Trego. It is my view that his best chance of getting into the England team is to be seen as a better option than Collingwood against teams where we do not want to trust Flintoff at six. But - in order to get that thought in the selectors minds, he should regularly be getting good runs at the no.6 position.
By contrast, Pete is a very attacking bowler whose strike rate is usually going to be more impressive than his economy rate. And Alphonso seems to be an almost old-fashioned kind of bowler in that he seeks to bowl a very full length indeed to give the ball maximum chance to swing. If that goes even slighly awry, then he will be bowling non-swinging half-volleys, and he was noticeably expensive at Chester LS.
I think FE's point about fitness is also a valid one. Pete did not bowl many overs in the last game and Ben didn't play at all, so....
It is, of course, somewhat dissappointing, though, that Mark Turner was not in good enough form to be seriously considered for this game. It's also somewhat dissappointing that, with Neil missing out, the chance was not taken to give Wesley Durston a shot at staking a regular place.
On the plus side, this game should represent a very considerable opporunity for Peter Trego. It is my view that his best chance of getting into the England team is to be seen as a better option than Collingwood against teams where we do not want to trust Flintoff at six. But - in order to get that thought in the selectors minds, he should regularly be getting good runs at the no.6 position.
I wonder if we're already forcing the issue because of the forecast time that is likely to be taken out of this game?
Personally, I think I'd be more inclined to set the paramount aim of taking all five batting points with my view being that a 12 point draw would certainly not be disastrous, by any manner of means. I also think we simply have not scored enough batting points at Taunton this season.
Personally, I think I'd be more inclined to set the paramount aim of taking all five batting points with my view being that a 12 point draw would certainly not be disastrous, by any manner of means. I also think we simply have not scored enough batting points at Taunton this season.
Looks like you might be right AG, I imagine they both had license to go for it, and now they're both gone.
dissappointing. I'd rather be 80/0 at lunch!
btw.. on the team balance front, I notice that Surrey who are playing a game on a pitch that they would have thought likely to be a road, have also picked five guys who are mainly bowlers in their team.
btw.. on the team balance front, I notice that Surrey who are playing a game on a pitch that they would have thought likely to be a road, have also picked five guys who are mainly bowlers in their team.
Let's hope Mr Rose somehow got his wish and there's plenty in this (and that it will stay there.)
The main reason I say this is that I doubt if Key and Van Jaarsveld will be so generous as to both get to 50 and then both get out.
The main reason I say this is that I doubt if Key and Van Jaarsveld will be so generous as to both get to 50 and then both get out.
Well you have one of the things you've often asked for AG: an opportunity for Peter Trego to demonstrate what he can do up the order.
Anyone have a forecast for Saturday to hand? I'm thinking of gracing the place with my presence. Will be the first time for weeks, so hoping there will be the prospect of seeing us win the game.
"Well you have one of the things you've often asked for AG: an opportunity for Peter Trego to demonstrate what he can do up the order."
And Ian, too.
And Ian, too.
or not... I assumed that Ian would bat five and Pete six, but apparently not...
136 for 3 at lunch and it seems they used 5 bowlers in the first 12 overs. Our lot seem to have got themselves out and Justin never seems to have got himself in - lots of edges in his total.
I'll let you know how things are going on the front page if anything interesting happens. Working at the ground this afternoon so I may be sidetracked from the important stuff for a while.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:16:14:12:11 by Grockle.
I'll let you know how things are going on the front page if anything interesting happens. Working at the ground this afternoon so I may be sidetracked from the important stuff for a while.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:16:14:12:11 by Grockle.
Did you see the morning session, Grockle? Or was it the local radio or something that said that JL was edging the ball around?
If so, then that might suggest there's actually something in the track. I just hope it's not a repeat of the Hants game where there's only something in it because we've started it damp, otherwise the rest of the batting will be easy again.
p.s. Cricinfo is not having a good day, and anyone that wants to keep up-to-date might be better with the Beeb today, which does at least seem to have things up-to-date.
If so, then that might suggest there's actually something in the track. I just hope it's not a repeat of the Hants game where there's only something in it because we've started it damp, otherwise the rest of the batting will be easy again.
p.s. Cricinfo is not having a good day, and anyone that wants to keep up-to-date might be better with the Beeb today, which does at least seem to have things up-to-date.
Interesting, though, that they bowled as many as four overs of spin before lunch?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:16:14:27:45 by AGod.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:16:14:27:45 by AGod.
Nope all my comments about the first phase of this game are gleaned from those who were here. I was working (and still am). JL seemed a bit jittery it seems and JH got himself out. They did not impress with the ball to put the final shine on it all.
Grockle - would you, perhaps, be able to tell us whether or not Yasir Arafat has broken down?
Only four overs for their main strike bowler sounds curious?
Only four overs for their main strike bowler sounds curious?
Well, FE, Pete's first foray at number five was certainly not dull. Nor was it unproductive.
I've no idea whether we will play the five pace bowlers in the next game but, should we decide to add one extra batsman, I would still like to see Pete bat no lower than number six.
I've no idea whether we will play the five pace bowlers in the next game but, should we decide to add one extra batsman, I would still like to see Pete bat no lower than number six.
We are rocketing along, 400 by the end of the day, with only 4 or 5 wickets down would be great, meaning we can build on it tommorrow with Craig and the wagging tail.
Is it my imagination, or are Kent rotating their bowlers faster than a rat on a wheel? Every time I click on, there seems to be two different bowlers on.
Thanks for the info, Grockle. I suspected he was hors de combat. That's a grievous blow for Kent.
Annoying to have just lost Zander right before tea.
Four batsmen to 50, three of them rapid, but none to a ton.
I suppose that if this turns out to, effectively, be a three day game, then that might be something like what the doctor ordered. If the forecasts are wrong, though, and we get most of the game in, I fear we'll be short of the big total that we'd need.
Four batsmen to 50, three of them rapid, but none to a ton.
I suppose that if this turns out to, effectively, be a three day game, then that might be something like what the doctor ordered. If the forecasts are wrong, though, and we get most of the game in, I fear we'll be short of the big total that we'd need.
Let's not forget they put us in. Maximum batting points, even if for eight, nine or ten down, on a day when they thought bowling was the option.................MAGIC!!!!!!!!!!!
I wonder if three wickets for Saggers indicates that conditions may be conducive to swing bowling?
If that is the case, then I guess that Mr Langer might consider gettting out before the close and seeing what Charl and Alphonso can do in such conditions? That's assuming it does not rain first.
If that is the case, then I guess that Mr Langer might consider gettting out before the close and seeing what Charl and Alphonso can do in such conditions? That's assuming it does not rain first.
I was about to amend my last to say
Quote:. Having a dart ourselves before the close would be an equally sound motive.even if for eight or nine down, deny them a bowling point
Nope...presently little shows that the conditions are conducive to any type of bowling.
The Kent decision will be vindicated or not by our performance with the ball tomorrow hopefully. If we have the same problems then it made little difference.
If, however we get amongst them.............well
The Kent decision will be vindicated or not by our performance with the ball tomorrow hopefully. If we have the same problems then it made little difference.
If, however we get amongst them.............well
Yes, Grockle, any comment on the significance of the fact that they inserted us, needs the caveat that they may have been very much uncertain of what to do, as opposed to convinced that bowling was the right thing to do. Of course, the other caveat maybe that they totally mis-read conditions.
JL batted at Chester LS but Mr Rose said afterward that it was a "50:50," call.
Kent may have fielded purely on the off-chance that there might be some dampness in the wicket. And there may not have been any.
The lastest met office forecast seems to suggest that Thursday afternoon will be the only period of organised rain in the game, but blustery showers are forecast for Friday and Saturday too.
JL batted at Chester LS but Mr Rose said afterward that it was a "50:50," call.
Kent may have fielded purely on the off-chance that there might be some dampness in the wicket. And there may not have been any.
The lastest met office forecast seems to suggest that Thursday afternoon will be the only period of organised rain in the game, but blustery showers are forecast for Friday and Saturday too.
Many people watching, Grockle?
Seems Taunton has been deprived of cricket recently, may go down tomorrow morning if the weather is ok.
Seems Taunton has been deprived of cricket recently, may go down tomorrow morning if the weather is ok.
In light of the earlier comments about Munday's exclusion, I note that Tredwell has 13 overs for plenty against his name.
Quote:AGod
Kent may have fielded purely on the off-chance that there might be some dampness in the wicket. And there may not have been any.
If they were basing their decisions on off-chances of dampness, they need to learn how to read a wicket!
Surely it's more likely that they expected it to swing about, and it didn't?
But my point about the insertion was more about the psychological effect of racking up 400 at their invitation.
Entirely possible, FE. But based on the reports from the ground by Grockle it seems that whatever their calculations were, they got them wrong.
But yes, I take your point about the psychology of it all.
Kent are also a side who have been playing non-stop for some considerable time, now. They may well be physically and mentally tired which might make opting to field and then getting carted into something that is doubly dispiriting.
But yes, I take your point about the psychology of it all.
Kent are also a side who have been playing non-stop for some considerable time, now. They may well be physically and mentally tired which might make opting to field and then getting carted into something that is doubly dispiriting.
The supporting public are unanimous in their surprise that Kent made the decision and if a bunch of watching punters are that clear on what shouyld have happened then it tends to suggest that the Kent boys got it wrong. Having said that, it';s overcast now and Saggers is getting much more swing than at any time during this game.
It's a fair crowd WW. Lots of people in lots of places. About 3K in perhaps?
It's a fair crowd WW. Lots of people in lots of places. About 3K in perhaps?
I would say we need to ensure we get to 400 - I'd be comfortable with us slowing up a bit to make sure we do so...
"Having said that, it';s overcast now and Saggers is getting much more swing than at any time during this game."
Should we consider declaring as soon as we hit 400 and letting Charl loose in those conditions? Or is it dark enough that they'd head off for the light?
Should we consider declaring as soon as we hit 400 and letting Charl loose in those conditions? Or is it dark enough that they'd head off for the light?
Idiot. What was I thinking of?
Still, I suspect that JL might like to bowl tonight...
Still, I suspect that JL might like to bowl tonight...
Two wickets for Tredwell all of a sudden. It would nice to think he was turning it a mile, but...
It seems to have been an entertaining day,plenty of runs and wickets.
Anything over 400 will do.
Clouding up very badly from the West.
Anything over 400 will do.
Clouding up very badly from the West.
Craig has gone,
Once we get to 400 i'll be satisfied, declare and have over an hour at them tonight. No point having the tail nudging the score along when we could be having ago at their openers.
Once we get to 400 i'll be satisfied, declare and have over an hour at them tonight. No point having the tail nudging the score along when we could be having ago at their openers.
Quote:Sloop John B
AG does a David LLoyd!!
At least Lloyd had the good sense to leave it till the man was on 199!
I don't JL would have allowed Ian to get to 199 though, FE.
Indeed, it almost seems as if our batsmen have been placed under strict orders to score rapid 50s and then let someone else have a go!
Indeed, it almost seems as if our batsmen have been placed under strict orders to score rapid 50s and then let someone else have a go!
416 and on we go. I guess we're going to have a dip with the remainder of the day's overs.
Jonah gone now, so might as well declare unless the light is too bad for them to have to go out there? But even if that is the case, there would be little to be gained by having Charl bat in bad light!
Does anyone fiel we've missed out here a little or am i being a little harsh
I think it depends, almost entirely, on how much play there is in the game. If the forecast rain materialises then I think events will show that we batted in 3-day mode and did so to good effect. If it's a full 4-day game, we will probably find ourselves wishing that at least a couple of our five 50s were converted into tons i.e 650 after two days would probably be better than 430 after one.
It also depends whether there are ten or twenty minutes left and we can nip one or two out!
Or three even!! Excellent spells from Willow and Jonah. Got the big man and we need 3 more early tomorrow!!
Sensational: and a fresh (and presumably pumped-up) attack to unleash in the morning.
Stunning,superb,brilliant.
Missed out on what NF?
Seems like the perfect day to me.
Well done boys.
Real cricket,played at its best.
Missed out on what NF?
Seems like the perfect day to me.
Well done boys.
Real cricket,played at its best.
I don't think that there should be any complaints about scoring over 400 in less than a day's play. And no-one would dream of complaining about taking three wickets for next to nothing. It is particularly pleasing that virtually everyone contributed. Great stuff - and more of the same tomorrow, please!
Shades of Edgbaston 2005 - Ponting puts England in, England rattle up 400 in the day with no centuries and then roar into the Aussies in their first innings.
Wonderful stuff from our boys, what a day. Kent have some class players to come, van Jaarsveld and Kemp can be very dangerous on their day and VJ is in prime form. Nip them out quickly and we could take the weather out of the equation.
Pleased to see Trego thriving (again) with the increased responsibility. His batting continues to greatly impress.
BVI Grockle
Wonderful stuff from our boys, what a day. Kent have some class players to come, van Jaarsveld and Kemp can be very dangerous on their day and VJ is in prime form. Nip them out quickly and we could take the weather out of the equation.
Pleased to see Trego thriving (again) with the increased responsibility. His batting continues to greatly impress.
BVI Grockle
Yes, a great day - we could carp (and somebody probably will) about nobody getting to 100, not declaring with 8 down (we gained 6 runs and Kent a bowling point) and maybe not getting more runs overall...but, as a whole, better than all could reasonably have hoped for - except maybe LoL in his most optimistic mode.
Press it home tomorrow, boys!
Press it home tomorrow, boys!
Looking forward to being made to look foolish (again), by all 4 seamers getting in the wickets tomorrow. If they could manage 17, that's all I ask.
All ten of Somerset's wickets fell to catches - not unheard of, I know, but pretty unusual.
Sounds like yet another very fine day of team work; all who there are to be much envied. Now I want everybody to concentrate very hard on our getting maximum points from this one, as for the next fortnight it will be a case of LOLAWOL on a mission to Eastern Europe, about which I can say no more.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I went down for the last two sessions today. I thought Key's captaincy was a bit random and experimental.
Anyway I think our attacking policy has paid off big time, maybe the weather helped us at the end of the day, but on today's evidence I think we might be in the mix for the CC championship.
Willo is a god.
Anyway I think our attacking policy has paid off big time, maybe the weather helped us at the end of the day, but on today's evidence I think we might be in the mix for the CC championship.
Willo is a god.
Very impressive first-day performance.
Van Jaarsveld is the key now. He tends to be a zero or ton batsman. If he gets in, he won't often suddenly get himself out for 50. But he is a particularly nervous starter and can be got early...
.... and must be got early.
Van Jaarsveld is the key now. He tends to be a zero or ton batsman. If he gets in, he won't often suddenly get himself out for 50. But he is a particularly nervous starter and can be got early...
.... and must be got early.
VJ is already away from the danger territory for him. We'd better get Tredwell quickly and concentrate on regulaly eliminating those at the other end.
It will be interesting to see who bowls next.
In the discussion we were having about the balance of the team, I think we all assumed that Pete is fit to bowl, since we haven't heard otherwise. But it's not impossible that that is not the case. And Pete batting at five might suggest he was played solely as a batsman.
If it's swinging for Willow, then I'd like to Pete (if fit to bowl) and Alphonso up next.
In the discussion we were having about the balance of the team, I think we all assumed that Pete is fit to bowl, since we haven't heard otherwise. But it's not impossible that that is not the case. And Pete batting at five might suggest he was played solely as a batsman.
If it's swinging for Willow, then I'd like to Pete (if fit to bowl) and Alphonso up next.
I'm pretty sure we've been explicitly told he's fit to bowl, AG.
Didn't he take some wickets in a Second XI game?
Didn't he take some wickets in a Second XI game?
Yes, but that was before the Durham game where he played and took wickets, but did not bowl very many overs.
They're starting to show real resistance...
They're starting to show real resistance...
I thought he'd bowled at Durham, too, but assumed I must have been imagining things. So you are merely speculating that he might not be fit to bowl?
Alfie's done for Treadwell, so I would normally say we're into the tail: but all these boys can bat a bit can't they!
26th over. Thomas has just got one to nip back and got Tredwell LBW for 23 at 75. Five down boys and girls!
Great stuff - well done, Alphonso!!!
Yep, FE, just saying that it's possible that Pete might not be fit to bowl, hence the apparently slightly lop-sided team with tons of bowlers in it. i.e. if Pete's in as a specialist batsman then the balance of the side would actually have been the same as for Durham.
Yep, FE, just saying that it's possible that Pete might not be fit to bowl, hence the apparently slightly lop-sided team with tons of bowlers in it. i.e. if Pete's in as a specialist batsman then the balance of the side would actually have been the same as for Durham.
Don't speak too soon, Jim, it does tend to get flatter as the game moves along...
Speaking too soon is my middle name AG.
Just looks like good bolwing and maybe some sloppy batting.
If you put the work in it pays dividends.
Let's continue with the work.
Just looks like good bolwing and maybe some sloppy batting.
If you put the work in it pays dividends.
Let's continue with the work.
One of my best friends recently named his son Alfie Thomas. What a great name!
6 down, and somehow we still have two good batsmen at the crease.
At any rate, I have penned a letter:
Dear ECB,
would it be ok if we played Kent every week from now on?
Bloke
At any rate, I have penned a letter:
Dear ECB,
would it be ok if we played Kent every week from now on?
Bloke
Dear bloke
Thanks for the request.
We'll see what we can do.
Your good friend Giles
Thanks for the request.
We'll see what we can do.
Your good friend Giles
Except in the short stuff, Bloke. I wouldn't want that at all.
How's the weather down there, Jim?
I wouldn't be surprised - and Grockle will be able to confirm this - if there wasn't some overhead help in terms of swing etc for our bowlers?
How's the weather down there, Jim?
I wouldn't be surprised - and Grockle will be able to confirm this - if there wasn't some overhead help in terms of swing etc for our bowlers?
A little cloud cover,though it is very high.
Breezy and generally excellent for cricket.
Unless Mr Frost has been out with his hosepipe and trowel overnight I'd suggest we're bowling very,very well.
Breezy and generally excellent for cricket.
Unless Mr Frost has been out with his hosepipe and trowel overnight I'd suggest we're bowling very,very well.
Well, I guess a strong breeze could also help swing. Perhaps that's not it, perhaps we're just bowling very accurately and Kent are making mistakes..
Two incredibly long batting line-ups in this game: AT batting 10 for us with 2 first class tons, and one of Bill McLaren or Palestine's finest coming in at 10 for them. Still, with the follow-on cut-off another 170 runs away, we'd hope to have them in again before stumps tonight.
Curious re: Trigger and not bowling. I agree with the posts above, wickets for Willo (the legend) and AT imply it's swinging around a bit. Perhaps he isn't fit after all.
Only downer - Jonah seems to be going for a few: let's hope they're all through streaky edges and chinese cuts for four. Although with his style you'd think it's because he's pitching it up inviting the drive.
BVI Grockle
Curious re: Trigger and not bowling. I agree with the posts above, wickets for Willo (the legend) and AT imply it's swinging around a bit. Perhaps he isn't fit after all.
Only downer - Jonah seems to be going for a few: let's hope they're all through streaky edges and chinese cuts for four. Although with his style you'd think it's because he's pitching it up inviting the drive.
BVI Grockle
Weather wise it's warm but overcast...quite a breeze as well. Rain looks possible but we could get away with it as well so we may get a full day and Key won't like that! Charl is just awesome, Alfonso is a handful and Ben is having problems chosing ends. He seems happier at the River to be honest. Kent don't look happy against any of them.
PT has often been used as a partnership-breaker this year; so the fact that he is just back from injury coupled with the fact that none of their partnerships have really established themselves to the point of becoming annoying could explain why Langer hasn't felt the need to use him yet.
Why would you risk setting back your secret weapon unless you need to?
Why would you risk setting back your secret weapon unless you need to?
Having not had the luxury of seeing them all in the flesh, which of our pace attack seems to carry the most pace?
BVI Grockle
BVI Grockle
Well Turner when he plays. But of the present game attack? Much of a muchness really. No-one stands out as significantly quicker.
Well, Grockle, hopefull that decent breeze should ensure that any wet stuff that does come our way pays a fairly fleeting visit?
If Pete does not bowl at all in this innings, then I will indeed begin to suspect that he is not deemed 100% fit to bowl.
If Pete does not bowl at all in this innings, then I will indeed begin to suspect that he is not deemed 100% fit to bowl.
Well if he is fit he may be on soon because Phillips and Jones are making no headway after lunch. langer may turn to his other partnership breaker...the mighty Hilders....instead though.
Thanks Grockle.
Can I just be the first to say that this partnership currently looks inpenetrable, neither of these players look remotely like getting out any time soon...
BVI Grockle
Can I just be the first to say that this partnership currently looks inpenetrable, neither of these players look remotely like getting out any time soon...
BVI Grockle
I hope he doesn't turn to Hildreth!
I would think Pete will be up next, if fit.
Otherwise, I expect we'll see Zander after he took a couple of wickets at Chester LS.
I would think Pete will be up next, if fit.
Otherwise, I expect we'll see Zander after he took a couple of wickets at Chester LS.
Well done Murph!!! Great reverse hex. Grockle too for saying that Phillips was not getting anywhere..
Arafat gone now, too. Phillips and Jones combining to make headway!
All our reverse-hexxing is coming off today!
All our reverse-hexxing is coming off today!
That's the end of the hexing though, McLaren is extremely unlikely to hand his wicket over.
Just me feeling a little bit sorry for Kent and their rather large captain?
Its like taking Candy from a baby,
Everytime i refresh the beeb page, they are another wicket down.
Its like taking Candy from a baby,
Everytime i refresh the beeb page, they are another wicket down.
Yep Phillips had a chat with the boss, got one to move away to Geraint, dropped a sitter of a C&B chance and then pulled an absolute blinder out of the air from Jonah in the gully - all in the space of 15 mins...whata guy!!
Jonah has been so expensive, though, that one imagines that we might have seen Pete by now, if he's fit to bowl.. no?
171-9, currently 256 behind - follow-on decision could be tricky, depending on weather conditions, bowler stamina, likelihood of pitch changing over next two days...?
Well Willow is back on to do just that one hopes 181 in the 53rd and a lot of cricket still to play today....
I don't think 4-and-a-half (overall) is a disaster for a bowler of Jonah's style, AG. Admittedly the last few overs have been the expensive ones, but isn't that often the way against competent tail-enders? Are these last two just having a dip and being lucky so far? It's impossible to know from the scorecard alone.
Also, if we do put them straight back in, the fact that Trego and Zander are both more than competent with the ball and as-yet-unused, and Willo hasn't bowled for a while may prove pivotal.
Also, if we do put them straight back in, the fact that Trego and Zander are both more than competent with the ball and as-yet-unused, and Willo hasn't bowled for a while may prove pivotal.
Four and a half an over is nothing at Taunton when they're having a go late on.
He's taken three wickets,good work Jonah.
He's taken three wickets,good work Jonah.
"171-9, currently 256 behind - follow-on decision could be tricky, depending on weather conditions, bowler stamina, likelihood of pitch changing over next two days...?"
The formbook says the pitch often eases as time passes. I'd say we should certainly enforce the follow-on.
FE's point about Pete and Zander being fresh (assuming the former is fit) is also a good one.
The formbook says the pitch often eases as time passes. I'd say we should certainly enforce the follow-on.
FE's point about Pete and Zander being fresh (assuming the former is fit) is also a good one.
Taking a bow for the jinxing!
We have a lot of bowlers - get them straight back in for some more pain.
BVI Grockle
We have a lot of bowlers - get them straight back in for some more pain.
BVI Grockle
Great work,though I hate last wickets stands.
Get them back in please,continue their agony.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:15:21:02 by Big Jim.
Get them back in please,continue their agony.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:15:21:02 by Big Jim.
Looks like the boys will be enjoying their sandwiches... what a performance so far. Let's hope it swings as much after tea tonight as it appears to have last night. I would be happy with 2 down at stumps tonight (although haven't seen the forecast for tomorrow), but on this performance I wouldn't be surprised if 4 fell.
BVI Grockle
BVI Grockle
Highest partnership in their innings and McLaren their top scorer.
Is this the Lord's South Africa scenario? Can they bat as poorly again? Is another couple of sessions out of the game and giving them 400+ in four sessions the way to go?
Is this the Lord's South Africa scenario? Can they bat as poorly again? Is another couple of sessions out of the game and giving them 400+ in four sessions the way to go?
Seeing Jim's forecast link, if the next two days are potentially stop-start days, that might also lean towards having an bat now.
Great effort to date in this game.
I incline to batting again, scoring 250 odd quickly & demoralising them, before getting them back in & finishing things off.
Gives the bowlers a rest as well.
On their necks & all that !
Grizzzly
I incline to batting again, scoring 250 odd quickly & demoralising them, before getting them back in & finishing things off.
Gives the bowlers a rest as well.
On their necks & all that !
Grizzzly
No, I'm absolutely sure that we should make them follow-on. And that we will.
What's the worst case scenario?
They make 450?
We'd still only need 230 on what will probably still be a flat-track!
The priority for this follow-on is to remove Key and Van Jaarsveld before the deficit has been cleared.
What's the worst case scenario?
They make 450?
We'd still only need 230 on what will probably still be a flat-track!
The priority for this follow-on is to remove Key and Van Jaarsveld before the deficit has been cleared.
Quote:AGod
No, I'm absolutely sure that we should make them follow-on. And that we will
Justin disagrees.
And not just to reinforce something I hinted at earlier, I think the fact that the last pair rallied to the extent that JL felt compelled to bring Willo back is significant. Had we turned them over 30 runs earlier with CW not having bolwed since lunch, I think we may have seen a different decision. And perhaps even PT sharing the new ball.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:15:42:56 by Frome Exile.
We're batting again (according to Cricinfo) - I'm happy with that, though it was a difficult one.
very puzzling, quite frankly.
Our pitch almost never deteriorates. They don't have a top-line spinner, anyway. Charl would, presumably, have his tail up...
.... Perhaps Grockle could tell us whether the light is poor enough that Kent would be likely to not have to bat in it?
Our pitch almost never deteriorates. They don't have a top-line spinner, anyway. Charl would, presumably, have his tail up...
.... Perhaps Grockle could tell us whether the light is poor enough that Kent would be likely to not have to bat in it?
Well the theory is that the wicket they are playing on tends to take spin, his bowlers are all oldish and the work would stillbe hard and they scored about 50 too many for it to be a forgone conclusion.
It will be interesting to see how we fare for the rest of the day and it keeps you guessing you have to admit.
Don't get this kind of thinking when you've got to be finished by 20 to 8 after a 5:30 start do you? I wonder if these kind of problems will come when the 50 over version inevitably goes to 25/25 x 2
It will be interesting to see how we fare for the rest of the day and it keeps you guessing you have to admit.
Don't get this kind of thinking when you've got to be finished by 20 to 8 after a 5:30 start do you? I wonder if these kind of problems will come when the 50 over version inevitably goes to 25/25 x 2
I have total faith in Mr Langer.
This is obviously the right thing to do.
The fact I would have done the opposite is neither here nor there.
This is obviously the right thing to do.
The fact I would have done the opposite is neither here nor there.
Complete change of new-ball pairing for them, too.
Is Saggers on the field? Is Arafat? Saggers obviously didn't bat today, and Arafat didn't bat for long.
Did JL know something we don't?
I wish we had radio coverage!
Is Saggers on the field? Is Arafat? Saggers obviously didn't bat today, and Arafat didn't bat for long.
Did JL know something we don't?
I wish we had radio coverage!
Not sure about the follow on, I suppose all our bowlers are over 30. This suits me anyway, wouldn't want the game dead and burried for tomorrow, doing the wicket today.
Does anyone know if you can still pick up wireless internet at Taunton? Do you have to sit in a certain stand, or can you get it anywhere?
Does anyone know if you can still pick up wireless internet at Taunton? Do you have to sit in a certain stand, or can you get it anywhere?
Arafat is on the pitch.
You can pick up wireless in the CA for sure. The press box coverage is OK but a bit low although I'd assume it should be OK in that area because of the scorers.
I think the EBC has it although you'd have to ask other posters for info there. The more 'outside' stands I would expect are sans WiFi
You can pick up wireless in the CA for sure. The press box coverage is OK but a bit low although I'd assume it should be OK in that area because of the scorers.
I think the EBC has it although you'd have to ask other posters for info there. The more 'outside' stands I would expect are sans WiFi
Quote:Me
I wish we had radio coverage!
Next best thing is a speedy answer to a direct question.
Cheers, Grockle!
Run out?! What happened Grockle?
Worst case scenario: we get skittled and give them hope. We need to bat as positively as we did in the first innings and set up a crushing win.
Come on the boys!
BVI Grockle
Worst case scenario: we get skittled and give them hope. We need to bat as positively as we did in the first innings and set up a crushing win.
Come on the boys!
BVI Grockle
Also, it was an early tea, so I guess the remaining session today will be quite long for their bowlers / fielders, and that we're more likely to stay out in dodgy light than they would be...?
Anyway, as BJ says, I'm absolutely certain that Justin knows more about it than I do, so whatever he did was right by me - esp if we win!
Anyway, as BJ says, I'm absolutely certain that Justin knows more about it than I do, so whatever he did was right by me - esp if we win!
It's going to get worse because Zander has gone as well.
The run out was a quick single called by the boss which pitched Marcus getting to the other end against Denly picking up a ball and throwing down the stumps. The fielder won.
Zander's was much more orthodox. If you hit the ball in the air to a fielder they tend to catch it most of the time!
Need something solid from Young James to get his skipper out of the brown smelly stuff.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:16:17:57 by Grockle.
The run out was a quick single called by the boss which pitched Marcus getting to the other end against Denly picking up a ball and throwing down the stumps. The fielder won.
Zander's was much more orthodox. If you hit the ball in the air to a fielder they tend to catch it most of the time!
Need something solid from Young James to get his skipper out of the brown smelly stuff.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:16:17:57 by Grockle.
Many reasons why we are batting again. The light and weather is a compelling one, we don't want them to frustrate us for the next day by coming off whenever the light's offered - this way we get to keep the game moving forward as much as possible and set up a massive winning position for when we do get at them.
BVI Grockle
BVI Grockle
As I hinted, I didn't think we would enforce the follow-on with more than half of the game-time left, unless we were fairly sure the next two days would be seriously truncated. A 400 lead with four to five stop-start sessions left will give them a really tough time saving this one. It's Buzz's "scoreboard pressure" again AG.
EDIT: Although it's obviously not quite going to plan at the moment!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:16:22:14 by Frome Exile.
EDIT: Although it's obviously not quite going to plan at the moment!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:16:22:14 by Frome Exile.
Except that we're batting again in the same conditions (I assume) in which they struggled and are 26 for 2, now!
It doesn't sound from Grockle's description of either wicket that we've been undone by conditions, AG.
As to the weather, I'm not sure that we can be very certain of what the weather will do, FE?
Seems to be a sunshine and showers kind of forecast, in which case one always has to wonder what the balance between the two will be... in other words, the game may yet be markedly truncated?
Seems to be a sunshine and showers kind of forecast, in which case one always has to wonder what the balance between the two will be... in other words, the game may yet be markedly truncated?
Except as someone has just reminded me we aren't 26 for 2 we are 245 for 2 and that is a much better position.
You'd still take it if we go at 4 an over and set them 500 to win in 5 sessions...
BVI Grockle
BVI Grockle
You're right, FE, that conditions may not have 'taken,' the wickets but the run-rate is hardly redolent of our first innings one, either. Obviously the two wickets down are likely to be a big part of that but still...
They're off for rain. It's not massive amounts but it's 42 for 2 with 29 overs left.
The BBC forecast is "scattered showers". They'd only have to be scattered either side of the ground, and they have 150 overs of batting in which to set up a situation where it could be us facing 200 in two sessions to win rather than them facing 400 in 4.
I think the latter option gives us the better chance of winning, and the lesser chance of losing.
It simply has to have been the right call under the circumstances.
I think the latter option gives us the better chance of winning, and the lesser chance of losing.
It simply has to have been the right call under the circumstances.
I think it might well give us less of a chance of losing but I'd much rather take us to get 200 in two sesssions at Taunton to win than us having to take ten wickets in only four sessions.
Rain only lasted about 4 minutes 3 miles from the ground, surely they must be on again shortly.
Yep, they are back in the room! No overs lost. There was the quite funny picture of a bloke sitting under an umbrella slow hand clapping the players as they left the field!
Quote:AGod
I think it might well give us less of a chance of losing but I'd much rather take us to get 200 in two sesssions at Taunton to win than us having to take ten wickets in only four sessions.
But we've taken ten in 57.5 overs when they were under scoreboard pressure. That's the situation we have to put them in again.
But I think they would have been under scoreboard pressure following on 200+ in arrears. It's not just the fact of being 200 behind, it's the "imagination," of how many runs we'd get with our 10 wickets. In other words, they'd almost certainly imagine themselves to be at least 400 runs behind, anyway.
We've already, I think, had two failures to take ten wickets in four sessions at home this season - vs Hants and Sussex, hence why I say I'd rather take our chances with the bat...
We've already, I think, had two failures to take ten wickets in four sessions at home this season - vs Hants and Sussex, hence why I say I'd rather take our chances with the bat...
Do real runs cause more 'scoreboard pressure' than potential, hypothetical runs, I wonder.
That run thing works both ways though. It's dispiriting if you find it hard to knock the 200 off but it is a real boost to morale if you start to motor towards the 200 total at the end of the second day of a four day game. Maybe that 'momentum' was in JL's mind as well - although the weather forecast does suggest we won't get the full four day allocation.
It depends, I think, on how optimistic, or otherwise, they are!? If they're feeling really optimistic, I suppose they might think our 10 wickets are only worth 150. But I'd argue that if they are being realistic, they'd value them at a minimum of 200 runs. After all, I think the Hants debacle was the only time this season that we made fewer than 200 runs, was it not?
Well we'll see.
Personally it was all too "Lord's-esque" for my liking. Whilst I would have enforced the follow-on at Lord's, as the game was further progressed, I really couldn't see players of the quality of Smith and McKenzie folding up as easily a second time in quick succession.
I feel the same way about Key and Denly: it's better to let them watch the task getting stiffer for a while and making Key in particular think about anything other than his batting for a while.
Personally it was all too "Lord's-esque" for my liking. Whilst I would have enforced the follow-on at Lord's, as the game was further progressed, I really couldn't see players of the quality of Smith and McKenzie folding up as easily a second time in quick succession.
I feel the same way about Key and Denly: it's better to let them watch the task getting stiffer for a while and making Key in particular think about anything other than his batting for a while.
There's an opposite of scoreboard pressure, too, though (?scoreboard incentive?). If Soms fall over for a total that leaves Kent a target that's in any way achievable, they have a focus which may help them to concentrate their efforts, rather than just batting blindly in the hope that any lead they'd mustered would've turned out to be enough.
That is a good point Exeoid,we have to ensure we put this one to bed and leave them absolutely no chance of winning.
What do the gathered masses consider a winning score?
I'd say anything over 450 and we're safe.
What do the gathered masses consider a winning score?
I'd say anything over 450 and we're safe.
Surely we have to give them some notional target, otherwise they may just shut up the shop a la RSA
450 minimum lead -preferably 500 ;them in by tea on Friday at the latest
It's never just about the runs in these situations. Time and overs are key as well.
I said two hours ago - 400+ in four sessions and we win, and I'm sticking to that!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:17:20:59 by Frome Exile.
I said two hours ago - 400+ in four sessions and we win, and I'm sticking to that!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:17:20:59 by Frome Exile.
Quote:You know that, on some Kent forum somewhere, a nervous fan is typing, "They've probably got enough already, and there's no way we can chase more than 350."geordie moonraker
450 minimum lead -preferably 500 ;them in by tea on Friday at the latest
Happy to trust JL - his captaincy can hardly be faulted since his arrival.
BVI Grockle
BVI Grockle
"It's never just about the runs in these situations. Time and overs are key as well."
Quite so, FE. My pre-occupation is mainly with getting far enough ahead quickly enough. I do not want to "only," have 4 sessions. I would like at least 4.5. Ideally, I want 5. If it's going to be 4.5 sessions, then I'd think we want to be 450 on.
Quite so, FE. My pre-occupation is mainly with getting far enough ahead quickly enough. I do not want to "only," have 4 sessions. I would like at least 4.5. Ideally, I want 5. If it's going to be 4.5 sessions, then I'd think we want to be 450 on.
Bold statement there BVI - not sure I'd agree with it completely.
It has been better than last year across the board - still not sure about his short game myself and some of his 20/20 stuff was rather baffling.
Then again what the hell do I know?
It has been better than last year across the board - still not sure about his short game myself and some of his 20/20 stuff was rather baffling.
Then again what the hell do I know?
Much of the T20 stuff was baffling, not least to Mr Rose to judge by some of his comments on our efforts.
I do wonder whether BVI was referring purely to the CC, though, in which case it would be difficult to disagree?
I do wonder whether BVI was referring purely to the CC, though, in which case it would be difficult to disagree?
I see Justin as far more of a leader than a strategist but no argument about the CC work.
Trigger has just misjudged a slow ball and nearly perished as Kemp nearly got a hand to the popped up result.
Trigger has just misjudged a slow ball and nearly perished as Kemp nearly got a hand to the popped up result.
What is your take on things from what you've seen today Grockle?
Good bowling?
Poor batting?
Pitch offering the bowlers plenty?
Weather effecting the play?
It looks an intriguing match offering fantastic entertainmnet.
You can't beat the CC.
Good bowling?
Poor batting?
Pitch offering the bowlers plenty?
Weather effecting the play?
It looks an intriguing match offering fantastic entertainmnet.
You can't beat the CC.
Impossible to disagree with you BVIG,I think he's been the key component in our transformation.
Long may he reign.
Long may he reign.
And it is now going pear shaped as Blackie pops one straight back to Tredwewll with only one more added!! Last two batsmen in and a gettable target in front of Kent
Quite so Grockle.
It's looking like AG might get at least the 5 sessions he wants to bowl them out.
Sadly that also means they'll have potentially 200 overs to get 350 runs.
We need to take some time out of this game.
It's looking like AG might get at least the 5 sessions he wants to bowl them out.
Sadly that also means they'll have potentially 200 overs to get 350 runs.
We need to take some time out of this game.
Wheels off falling.
Get the round things back on the car ................quick !
Grizzzly
Get the round things back on the car ................quick !
Grizzzly
View on things?
I'd have enforced I have to say but I understand why he didn't. It was then setup for exactly this scenario. We falter and they come through. It's a lead of 322 at the moment with the last two recognised batsmen at the crease.
Marcus was unfortunate
Zander was one of those things
James wasn't ever really in but how he got out was daft as a brush
Trigger snicked but should have had more sense
Blackie - lackadayzical shot
So no bowler ripping through this lot just daft shots and low levels of concentration related to putting this one out of sight at the end of the second day.
Poor batting focus.
The first half was good, they got a few more than we would have liked but we kept at them and didn't let them settle and it paid off on a pitch that wasn't offering a lot, although the ball was moving.
Not that impressed at the end of the day...was happier at lunchtime.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:18:26:51 by Grockle.
I'd have enforced I have to say but I understand why he didn't. It was then setup for exactly this scenario. We falter and they come through. It's a lead of 322 at the moment with the last two recognised batsmen at the crease.
Marcus was unfortunate
Zander was one of those things
James wasn't ever really in but how he got out was daft as a brush
Trigger snicked but should have had more sense
Blackie - lackadayzical shot
So no bowler ripping through this lot just daft shots and low levels of concentration related to putting this one out of sight at the end of the second day.
Poor batting focus.
The first half was good, they got a few more than we would have liked but we kept at them and didn't let them settle and it paid off on a pitch that wasn't offering a lot, although the ball was moving.
Not that impressed at the end of the day...was happier at lunchtime.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:18:26:51 by Grockle.
How much play left tonight Grockle?
Looks to me like hang on for the close and reassess in the morning.
Looks to me like hang on for the close and reassess in the morning.
Cheers Grockle,it is indeed a poor ending to an otherwise excellent day.
Who'll be the first to say we should have put them back in?
Who'll be the first to say we should have put them back in?
Thanks, Grockle.
The time lag on CricInfo is pretty variable, and it doesn't indicate overs remaining, but I currently have 117 for 5 too.
The time lag on CricInfo is pretty variable, and it doesn't indicate overs remaining, but I currently have 117 for 5 too.
My plan now would be to get to the close, and for this pair to bat conventionally until one of them goes. The rest can then have their head.
129 at the close. No more losses - although JL had a smack at a long hop to try and get out
Don't know what a good score is. 450 SHOULD put this one out of sight but 2 days and a wrong weather forecast and it could still go strange.
Don't know what a good score is. 450 SHOULD put this one out of sight but 2 days and a wrong weather forecast and it could still go strange.
129-5 at close, which I reckon is a lead of 348.
Not quite to plan (to put it mildly), but overall I'd still rather be in our position than theirs.
Just a shame that we have lost the momentum somewhat & no doubt have sown seeds in Kent minds that they can win & that we are a bit flaky !
Get a good nights sleep all. Put on another 100 in the morning, declare before lunch & bowl them out by close of play.
Now that would be nice !
Grizzzly
Not quite to plan (to put it mildly), but overall I'd still rather be in our position than theirs.
Just a shame that we have lost the momentum somewhat & no doubt have sown seeds in Kent minds that they can win & that we are a bit flaky !
Get a good nights sleep all. Put on another 100 in the morning, declare before lunch & bowl them out by close of play.
Now that would be nice !
Grizzzly
Auntie Beeb describes our position as "extremely strong"!
Let's hope she's proven right some time in the next 48 hours.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:19:09:57 by Frome Exile.
Let's hope she's proven right some time in the next 48 hours.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:17:19:09:57 by Frome Exile.
All this speculation by those who were not at the match, on whether or not we should have enforced the follow-on, is mere shadow play.
What it ignores - for they cannot have known it - is that our best bowler, CW, has a slight niggle and had to go off for half-an-hour before lunch for treatment on the physio table.
He did bowl again when Kent were staging a last-wicket stand, but was plainly in some difficulty. By batting again, Langer has given our key man some of today, all of tonight, and some of tomorrow to recover.
What it ignores - for they cannot have known it - is that our best bowler, CW, has a slight niggle and had to go off for half-an-hour before lunch for treatment on the physio table.
He did bowl again when Kent were staging a last-wicket stand, but was plainly in some difficulty. By batting again, Langer has given our key man some of today, all of tonight, and some of tomorrow to recover.
Shadow play is good fun though isn't it?
It was as exciting as ever today,brilliant for those of us not able to get there.
Thanks for the information about Willoughby though Cjm,that does make sense.
It was as exciting as ever today,brilliant for those of us not able to get there.
Thanks for the information about Willoughby though Cjm,that does make sense.
I was there CJM and I missed the visual clues to his injury as well.
Plus the majority of wickets taken today were taken by the rest of the boys,expecially Thomas - we may have got them out earlier if CW was struggling but we still dismissed them all.
It might have been a consideration though.
Plus the majority of wickets taken today were taken by the rest of the boys,expecially Thomas - we may have got them out earlier if CW was struggling but we still dismissed them all.
It might have been a consideration though.
No mention of any injury on the club site. Steff simply says the bowlers needed to recharge their batteries.
They had bowled 50 odd overs so it isn't surprising they might have needed to recharge. The conditions were going to make the afternoon difficult for any bowlers and we gave away probably four of the five wickets to go down so the Kent attack wasn't causing forced errors particularly.
Justin just assessed the situation and did his job - he made a decision.
Justin just assessed the situation and did his job - he made a decision.
I can't really believe that 50 overs should be, in any way, too much for four seamers? Especially as Zander is, presumably, fit to bowl and even Pete might be (?)
The paper seems to suggest - as I had wondered - that Kent might very quickly have been offered the light had we put them back in. If that's the case, that's a very valid reason for us batting again.
Awful news about Willow if he's not fit. Dreadful in fact. On the other hand, in the context of this game, we could not complain too much, given that Arafat has only been fit to bowl four overs for them. Unless Willow's niggle is very minor, I can't really believe that two sessions of rest will make much of a good difference to it, though? Indeed, one imagines there's an equal chance of it stiffening up overnight?
It certainly sounds like it was a poor batting display by us yesterday, based on Grockle's comments spoiling a decent bowling effort. The paper suggests Kent's batting was very poor, too.
My understanding of the weather situation is that there is an area of low pressure which is situated over the north-east of England and is slowly moving off towards Scandinavia. That would tend to suggest two things;
a) we should be able to expect better weather than many other places in England today. But that doesn't mean that we might not still see some showers.
b) Tomorrow should, nevertheless, produce better weather than today (assuming no atlantic system comes in and none is forecast, to my knowledge.)
Given that tomorrow might very well be dry and sunny (easy for batting), then I think it's very important that we have two full sessions at them today. Of course, we might just get bundled out before lunch anyway. If not, I would declare at lunch, come hell or high water. Let's face it, if we last to lunch we're bound to be at least 400 on. If we can't defend 400, we don't deserve to win the CC.
I realise, of course, that there might be light issues today but that's a risk that we simply have to take. If it's sunny tomorrow, Kent might easily be able to bat through the day, especially if Willow is hors de combat. I think it imperative that we have them at least four down by the close of play, if we are to prevail. And that four needs to include Key and Van Jaarsveld.
The paper seems to suggest - as I had wondered - that Kent might very quickly have been offered the light had we put them back in. If that's the case, that's a very valid reason for us batting again.
Awful news about Willow if he's not fit. Dreadful in fact. On the other hand, in the context of this game, we could not complain too much, given that Arafat has only been fit to bowl four overs for them. Unless Willow's niggle is very minor, I can't really believe that two sessions of rest will make much of a good difference to it, though? Indeed, one imagines there's an equal chance of it stiffening up overnight?
It certainly sounds like it was a poor batting display by us yesterday, based on Grockle's comments spoiling a decent bowling effort. The paper suggests Kent's batting was very poor, too.
My understanding of the weather situation is that there is an area of low pressure which is situated over the north-east of England and is slowly moving off towards Scandinavia. That would tend to suggest two things;
a) we should be able to expect better weather than many other places in England today. But that doesn't mean that we might not still see some showers.
b) Tomorrow should, nevertheless, produce better weather than today (assuming no atlantic system comes in and none is forecast, to my knowledge.)
Given that tomorrow might very well be dry and sunny (easy for batting), then I think it's very important that we have two full sessions at them today. Of course, we might just get bundled out before lunch anyway. If not, I would declare at lunch, come hell or high water. Let's face it, if we last to lunch we're bound to be at least 400 on. If we can't defend 400, we don't deserve to win the CC.
I realise, of course, that there might be light issues today but that's a risk that we simply have to take. If it's sunny tomorrow, Kent might easily be able to bat through the day, especially if Willow is hors de combat. I think it imperative that we have them at least four down by the close of play, if we are to prevail. And that four needs to include Key and Van Jaarsveld.
In fact, I will go as far as to say that I hope we get bowled out on the stroke of lunch. I don't want JL to have the option of batting on afterwards as I'm desperate for those pivotal Key and Van Jaarsveld wickets today.
There are potentially 192 overs left in this game; 190 of the change of innings occurs other than at an interval. Unless one has very strong forecasts to the contrary, one should always base one's declaration decisions on the assumption that the majority of those overs will be bowled.
450 at lunch will take some getting, and even that would leave them potentially 158 overs to get them. If they can't make three an over at our place, they don't deserve to be leading the Championship! And if we can't bowl them out in four sessions, we aren't that much more likely to bowl them out in five.
450 at lunch will take some getting, and even that would leave them potentially 158 overs to get them. If they can't make three an over at our place, they don't deserve to be leading the Championship! And if we can't bowl them out in four sessions, we aren't that much more likely to bowl them out in five.
One other (perhaps somewhat semantic) point: batsmen are no longer "offered the light" in Championship matches. The Umpires are the sole arbiters of fitness of the light under the current playing conditions for CC matches.
Weather in Taunton at the moment is bright, but plenty of cloud too. Plenty of wind, and a good chance of rain.
In that case, FE, then I definitely think that failing to enforce the follow-on was a big mistake. That's assuming that what you are saying is that the umpires decide whether or not play can continue - i.e that if the light was bad we'd have had no choice other than to go off, if the umpires had said so? (sounds a ridiculous concept to me, but then..)
I'm saying that light would not, and should not, have been any part of Justin's decision, as it is something he cannot control or influence.
But are you saying that we'd have to go off if we were batting and the umpires decreed that the light was unsuitable?
The way I see it, FE is this;
If we leave them 400, Kent would probably need a big hundred and a couple of other guys to get 50s to get them home.
If we leave them 450, then the difference as to what is required for Kent might be nothing more than one extra guy getting a 50. With their long batting line-up, I’m not sure that difference will be decisive?
It is much more likely, in my opinion, that having an extra session would be more likely to make a difference to the outcome of the game.
If you look back at last year’s home games, there were a few occasions where a team that was shot out in its first innings, batted for some considerable while in their second dig. Even the Gloucesters managed to find enough fight to resist for a decent period of time in their 2nd innings at Taunton – even with Willow fit and Caddy out there too. From memory they made about 150 in 40 overs, followed by about 430 in more than 100 overs. We scored so quickly that we were still able to win the game by chasing down 170 or so, but the point here is that even Gloucestershire were able to bat for more than 100 overs. Needless to say, Kent’s batting is vastly superior to that of Gloucs.
Of course, you can counter that even Gloucestershire were able to score 430. But.. if we want to win the CC – as we all do – we surely to goodness have to risk defeat in order to seize victory? If it goes wrong, we lose four points. If it pays off, we gain, what, 12 is it at the moment? We’ve already failed to press home two “winning,” positions at home to Hants and Sussex and we absolutely MUST press this one home.
If we leave them 400, Kent would probably need a big hundred and a couple of other guys to get 50s to get them home.
If we leave them 450, then the difference as to what is required for Kent might be nothing more than one extra guy getting a 50. With their long batting line-up, I’m not sure that difference will be decisive?
It is much more likely, in my opinion, that having an extra session would be more likely to make a difference to the outcome of the game.
If you look back at last year’s home games, there were a few occasions where a team that was shot out in its first innings, batted for some considerable while in their second dig. Even the Gloucesters managed to find enough fight to resist for a decent period of time in their 2nd innings at Taunton – even with Willow fit and Caddy out there too. From memory they made about 150 in 40 overs, followed by about 430 in more than 100 overs. We scored so quickly that we were still able to win the game by chasing down 170 or so, but the point here is that even Gloucestershire were able to bat for more than 100 overs. Needless to say, Kent’s batting is vastly superior to that of Gloucs.
Of course, you can counter that even Gloucestershire were able to score 430. But.. if we want to win the CC – as we all do – we surely to goodness have to risk defeat in order to seize victory? If it goes wrong, we lose four points. If it pays off, we gain, what, 12 is it at the moment? We’ve already failed to press home two “winning,” positions at home to Hants and Sussex and we absolutely MUST press this one home.
Absolutely, we have to allow some risk of defeat in order to secure victory. But it has been shown season after season that the first priority in securing County Championships is "do not lose". I don't necessarily like it, but it's a fact.
I'm simply saying 450 in five sessions is far too gettable, and that your maximum would be my minimum.
in terms of
I'm simply saying 450 in five sessions is far too gettable, and that your maximum would be my minimum.
in terms of
Quote:, then no. What I'm saying is that we shouldn't have allowed (and I don't believe we did allow) a fear that they could cravenly avoid batting in less-than-perfect light affect our decision. The decision to bat again, with more than two full days left was always the right one. They would have had no incentive to go for a win necessarily, and with their line-up would have every chance of batting us out of a winning position. Getting away with an away draw after putting us in and seeing us make 427 would have been a virtual victory.But are you saying that we'd have to go off if we were batting and the umpires decreed that the light was unsuitable?
The way I see it, if the light was not part of the thinking, then enforcing the follow-on can only be justified if subsequent events show that conditions for batting will be more difficult late on day three/on day four than they were for the post-tea session on day two. If conditions remain the same throughout the match, then we should surely have stamped on them when they were down? If conditions ease, then we should surely have wanted to bat last?
As things lie right now, we have clearly lost momentum following the decision to bat again.
As things lie right now, we have clearly lost momentum following the decision to bat again.
Quote:As things lie right now, we have clearly lost momentum following the decision to bat again.
Following the decision, but not because of it. We have lost momentum because everyone but the man who made the decision batted poorly.
Perhaps, FE, though one might also come back to the issue of 5 guys making 50 in the first dig and no-one making a big score. If we'd made 600, this whole debate would not be occurring...
It'll all be irrelevant when we wrap this up early tomorrow.
Come on boys,let's show them why we're going to be County Champions.
This is a mere blip.
Come on boys,let's show them why we're going to be County Champions.
This is a mere blip.
You'll get absolutely no argument from me on that last point, AG.
Even 500, with the bulk of another session having been used up, would have changed the dynamic of the game dramatically.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:18:11:33:55 by Frome Exile.
Even 500, with the bulk of another session having been used up, would have changed the dynamic of the game dramatically.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:18:11:33:55 by Frome Exile.
Well, I'll get my five sesssions of bowling, I just hope we still manage to scrap up to the 400 mark. Anything less would surely be a psychological boon to their guys.
Well done, Ben, great stuff in taking us through the 400 barrier.
I wouldn't be at all averse to a quick thrash and then getting them out there for a 3 overs or so before lunch, too. Make them start twice.
I wouldn't be at all averse to a quick thrash and then getting them out there for a 3 overs or so before lunch, too. Make them start twice.
Clouding over badly from the West and very windy.
Time to get after them and get those runs on the board.
Time to get after them and get those runs on the board.
Looks like that's exactly what the big fella's trying to do, Jim.
Did I imagine it, or did he just accelerate dramatically once he'd seen Ben get us to 400 lead?
And Ben's now pushing on too.
Did I imagine it, or did he just accelerate dramatically once he'd seen Ben get us to 400 lead?
And Ben's now pushing on too.
We're almost at the next significant psychological milestone, of course.
Three more runs and they'll be faced with making the largest score of the match in the final dig.
Three more runs and they'll be faced with making the largest score of the match in the final dig.
Yep, and I think we should quit with our 425 lead, based on Jim's description of the weather...
Met Office radar shows heavy rainfall over North-West and West Devon at 12:00pm.
Curiously, projections for later in the day seem, however, to feature only the odd shower over Cardiff, with Taunton clear.
Tought to call this weather...
Curiously, projections for later in the day seem, however, to feature only the odd shower over Cardiff, with Taunton clear.
Tought to call this weather...
Nothing significant with us here at the moment but as we're on the coast we often miss it.
Some horrible looking clouds on their way to Taunton and they're banked up too.
No sign of clearing yet.
Some horrible looking clouds on their way to Taunton and they're banked up too.
No sign of clearing yet.
Magnificent stuff from Ben Phillips. He has the lead up to quadruple nelson. One more meaty blow and we will have the 450 that I was ideally hoping for to defend over 5 sessions.
I agree,it has been brilliant from Big Ben.
If we can't defend this we have problems.
All over early tomorrow morning.
Victory by 225 runs.
I read it in my tea bags.
If we can't defend this we have problems.
All over early tomorrow morning.
Victory by 225 runs.
I read it in my tea bags.
Marvellous stuff BP, and justifies completely my assertions at the beginning of this match that, if we were going to drop a batsman for a bowler, it should be a seamer who can bat a bit.
When will my obvious cricketing nous be taken to the next level, I ask myself?
When will my obvious cricketing nous be taken to the next level, I ask myself?
Quote:AGod
One more meaty blow and we will have the 450 that I was ideally hoping for to defend over 5 sessions.
Once we made the wrong decision by batting again, of course.
Or has batting become easier?
Has the Taunton track died again?
I hope not.
I fear Taunton is killing cricket.
Or is that the ICC?
Has the Taunton track died again?
I hope not.
I fear Taunton is killing cricket.
Or is that the ICC?
We've decalred at lunch leaving them a few to get and five sessions to get them....it's overcast and a bit dark but it isn't raining and hasn't this morning.
I suppose it would be fatuous to say that the key is............well........Key, quite frankly!
AG's right though. I won't feel comfortable until both he and van Jaarsveld are behind us.
AG's right though. I won't feel comfortable until both he and van Jaarsveld are behind us.
Because they can't afford Key to go early. he light is also not wonderful and it might be that they are hoping the umpires will look on the quality a little differently if the player at one end isn't classified as a spcific recognised batsman
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:18:13:54:06 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:18:13:54:06 by Grockle.
And Key still not in.
I had assumed they just wanted someone to see off the new ball, but normally if that's the case and it doesn't work one would revert straight away to the recognised opener.
I had assumed they just wanted someone to see off the new ball, but normally if that's the case and it doesn't work one would revert straight away to the recognised opener.
Apparently, according to the Beeb, Rob Key is off atending the birth of his child and will be back to bat at 7 or so ...
VtF.
VtF.
Thanks Grockle and Vic. Did Langer know this when he batted again do you think? We wish Mrs K very well and all the best for the bairn, but a long labour wouldn't come amiss would it.
Crikey, does that mean Key is now in Kent? That's a long way away.
I bet they were doing everything they could to 'encourage' the labour - curries, long walks, um, and the other one - you all know what I'm talking about.
That said, I think Key has his priorities right and I pass - into the ether - my best wishes to the couple for the birth.
I bet they were doing everything they could to 'encourage' the labour - curries, long walks, um, and the other one - you all know what I'm talking about.
That said, I think Key has his priorities right and I pass - into the ether - my best wishes to the couple for the birth.
Well said, fellas!
And yes, bloke; we know what you mean.
Right. I've been saving my errands until we were bowling: off to start the car now; the wickets will come.
And yes, bloke; we know what you mean.
Right. I've been saving my errands until we were bowling: off to start the car now; the wickets will come.
Crafty stuff by Kent sending out Tredwell, who is not very good, as a kind of sacrificial lamb to try and blunt some of the new ball, rather than risk Key.
Great job by Ben Phillips.
Great job by Ben Phillips.
ah, I stand corrected. Do we know if Mrs Key is in Taunton hospital, or back in Kent?
Grockle - would you please be able to advise us as to Willow's apparent condition - is he moving freely etc?
met office map seems to suggest that it might rain for a couple of hours or so. Not good. Then again, it also suggests it might brighten up for the final hour or two and, if the pitch has sweated under the covers....
Forecast for tomorrow is good.
Forecast for tomorrow is good.
No idea guys...earning a crust today. Might get some info later though. He's gone for a few hasn't he? No rain at SCAT - 'tother end of town but the cloud is nearer dark grey than light!!
Good luck to the Key's,let's all hope the baby is beautiful,fit and healthy.
I've also got my fingers crossed for a long labour.
I've heard late Saturday evening is an excellent time to give birth.
Come on boys,let's wrap this one up tonight.
Very cloudy on the coast.
I've also got my fingers crossed for a long labour.
I've heard late Saturday evening is an excellent time to give birth.
Come on boys,let's wrap this one up tonight.
Very cloudy on the coast.
Denly is proving a pain in the neck again. At this rate, he is sure to score another 149....
I think we should introduce Alphonso in place of Jonah, soon, if for no other reason than (hopefully) to slow the run-rate and exert more pressure on that score.
Do we know if there's been any official word, yet, as to Pete's status (is he fit to bowl?)
It would be lovely to see him come on and wreck his former employers.
It would be lovely to see him come on and wreck his former employers.
I've reverse-hexed Denly out and got an extra wicket for Jonah by suggesting we put Thomas in his stead.
Van Jaarsveld is starting to get to the point where he normally makes a big score, again...
Van Jaarsveld is starting to get to the point where he normally makes a big score, again...
LoL would get him out in an instant.
Typical that he's on HMSS when you want him.
Typical that he's on HMSS when you want him.
Hmmmmmmm!I'm pretty glad you haven't been pulling the strings in this one, AG.
If they'd followed on, logic says the game might very well be all but over, by now.
As it is, I assume that it's raining as they've apparently gone to tea?
As it is, I assume that it's raining as they've apparently gone to tea?
Steffan could hardly have taken Denly's wicket if you'd replaced him though, could he.
Well, not sure what's going on but if you believe Crininfo tea was taken and now they're back on already, so there is a very long evening session to come (if it goes the distance.)
I said at the start I wanted them at least four down at stumps, including Van Jaarsveld and Key. Might not be possible to get the latter, so I'll have to settle for five down including both of the two currently at the crease. I'd be very content with that.
I said at the start I wanted them at least four down at stumps, including Van Jaarsveld and Key. Might not be possible to get the latter, so I'll have to settle for five down including both of the two currently at the crease. I'd be very content with that.
Alphonso really does seem to be an excellent find, in terms of his ability to bowl on our Taunton pitches. He was economical, as well as penetrative versus Yorks in the 2nd innings, and he seems to be repeating the trick in this game too.
I think JL's decision to bat again (following of course my recommendation at 15.33 yesterday !!!), has been wholly justified to date, notwithstanding the initial batting wobbles yesterday.
Would really like to see us get them 5 or 6 down tonight, just to tighten the noose.
Grizzzly
Would really like to see us get them 5 or 6 down tonight, just to tighten the noose.
Grizzzly
Yes Grizzzly: I did recall that you (and more importantly Justin) concurred with my suggestion of 15.25!!!
Blackwell chips in now. Kemp gone.
Their Chief Exec was moaning about their schedule the other day. Shall we give them tomorrow off?
Their Chief Exec was moaning about their schedule the other day. Shall we give them tomorrow off?
V-J now gone.
Better get Mr Key back from the maternity ward pdq !
Grizzzly
Better get Mr Key back from the maternity ward pdq !
Grizzzly
Magnificent news that Alphonso has accounted for Van Jaarsveld.
Whisper it quietly but Rob Key and the heavens are probably the only things that could realistically deny us now.
Whisper it quietly but Rob Key and the heavens are probably the only things that could realistically deny us now.
Phillips stopped bowling at 15.3 overs ?
Hope that's not bad news ?
Grizzzly
Hope that's not bad news ?
Grizzzly
Could just be a CricInfo spasm, Grizzly.
There have been more than a few of those lately!
There have been more than a few of those lately!
It's showing on the BBC scorecard FE. Also shows that Thpmas has bowled 1/2 an over - presumably finishing BP's ?
Grizzzly
Grizzzly
Not good. Especially, in the context of the rest of the season, with no sign of Pete bowling and worries over Caddy being fit to bowl this season.
It's entirely possible that the part over is correct, Grizzzly. But all the online scorecard providers get their data from the same source, and there have been misallocations of part overs in the recent past.
I hope that's the case again here, rather than an injury.
I hope that's the case again here, rather than an injury.
I was just about to add, as bloke now has, that the presence of a sub does suggest it is an injury, sadly.
So do I, FE.
Bloke's news suggests that it might be otherwise, though.
The rest of Bloke's news is excellent, though, and I would submit that we should try and claim the exta half-hour and wrap this up tonight, the more so if Key cannot get back in time..
Then I suggest we rest any and all bowlers of any CC importance for the trip to Arundel.
Get the likes of Andy Sutton in, give Mark Turner a game. Rest the walking wounded and those seam bowlers that will have to carry a big load whilst the walking wounded recover.
Bloke's news suggests that it might be otherwise, though.
The rest of Bloke's news is excellent, though, and I would submit that we should try and claim the exta half-hour and wrap this up tonight, the more so if Key cannot get back in time..
Then I suggest we rest any and all bowlers of any CC importance for the trip to Arundel.
Get the likes of Andy Sutton in, give Mark Turner a game. Rest the walking wounded and those seam bowlers that will have to carry a big load whilst the walking wounded recover.
Absolutely concur with every word of that AG!
Including those last two!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:18:17:07:53 by Frome Exile.
Including those last two!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:18:17:07:53 by Frome Exile.
The end of the session was a bit of a farce with the sides going on and off for rain more than once. The last 5 overs were intertesting, expecially as Blackwell nearly had Jones with the last ball of the day.
IF the weather lets us at them tomorrow morning then we have a real chance of this one. Ben Phillips probably won't bowl however because he went off half way through an over with a hamstring twinge. He was back on at the end but I doubt they'll risk him tomorrow.
Somerset did spend part of the last session with three subs on. Marcus was off for quite a long time but that allowed Neil on who took a blinder in the slips. Justin also had to have a couple of fingers taped up after stopping a particularly hard slash through the slips.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:19:01:55:07 by Grockle.
IF the weather lets us at them tomorrow morning then we have a real chance of this one. Ben Phillips probably won't bowl however because he went off half way through an over with a hamstring twinge. He was back on at the end but I doubt they'll risk him tomorrow.
Somerset did spend part of the last session with three subs on. Marcus was off for quite a long time but that allowed Neil on who took a blinder in the slips. Justin also had to have a couple of fingers taped up after stopping a particularly hard slash through the slips.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:19:01:55:07 by Grockle.
Thanks for the link G, I see the mistake but I am not sure that Ivo is responsible!
Sloppy work indeed.
Quite warm here with a high threat of rain.
Showers ahoy.
Quite warm here with a high threat of rain.
Showers ahoy.
Just said on Sky sports news, Key is back in Kent so will not be batting. Meaning one wicket to go!
Steffan's obviously had enough!! The threat of the demon Langer didn't seem to phase KEnt. I presume with Saggers coming in that Key is still absent so it's one more wicket to go.
Good old Cricinfo - Kent 216/9, Key not batting - 'match drawn'!
We know the truth - County Championship here we come!
PS 5 for Jonah - well bowled, youngster...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:19:11:49:45 by SheptonPaul.
We know the truth - County Championship here we come!
PS 5 for Jonah - well bowled, youngster...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:19:11:49:45 by SheptonPaul.
Sky text also says match drawn. I guess the computer sees the game has ended sees the sie batting has lost 9 wickets and is programmed to say "draw"- as of course it would be at close of play on final day. We know better..... well done lads (and Kent's innings still didn't add up to our first)
Absolutely fantastic result. Well done all concerned: declarers, non-declarers, hexxers, reverse-hexxers............oh.............and all the players!
Fascinating that Justin bowled himself. Can anyone at the match say why?
Was it a change-of-ends scenario for Jonah? If so, it certainly worked.
Was it a change-of-ends scenario for Jonah? If so, it certainly worked.
Good question, CJM. I've no idea whatsoever why JL bowled an over and was also looking to be enlightened.
I'm afraid I was hungover and did not wake up until Jonah had ended proceedings, which was a very nice thing indeed to wake up to.
When did JL bowl his over? Was it whilst Jones and McLaren were still together? Perhaps he was trying to buy a wicket?
Interesting that Pete bowled an over. If anyone was there, can they say whether it looked like a normal (healthy) Pete over, or did it have the appearence of an in-match fitness test?
I'm afraid I was hungover and did not wake up until Jonah had ended proceedings, which was a very nice thing indeed to wake up to.
When did JL bowl his over? Was it whilst Jones and McLaren were still together? Perhaps he was trying to buy a wicket?
Interesting that Pete bowled an over. If anyone was there, can they say whether it looked like a normal (healthy) Pete over, or did it have the appearence of an in-match fitness test?
Overall, we have to be extremely pleased both with this win and with the general CC form (including the Durham game) since the end of the pyjama rubbish.
I am exceptionally happy with the SCCC CC bowling this season. It really has been inspiring to behold. This is the second time that Jonah has "done," Kent this season and more power to his boots!
I will now, anxiously, await the injury news.
We have 11 days before our third CC out-ground game of the season at Horsham. We have a 100% record in such contests this season.
Hopefully, 11 days will be enough for Charl to recover from whatever ails him. I suggest he be wrapped in cotton wool until then. If Ben tore his hammy, he won't be fit. If it's a mere strain, he might be. And what of the big man? If he was really fit enough to have a genuine fitness test for this one, then might he finally be fit enough to return in 11 days time?
Michael Munday.
There's a name to ponder with. At Horsham last year, Paul Wiseman proved to be effective for Durham. This obviously suggests that it might be a turning track. I agree with Grockle that MKM looked less than impressive, overall, against SA and I'm desperately hoping that he's been able to show enough form in second XI stuff since then to be seriously considered for this one.
Of course, if either one of AC or MKM, let alone both, were to play, we'd have very tough decisions about who to leave out. One assumes that Jonah should have done enough to play, come hell or high water. Charl should always play, if fit. Ben's 50 was, potentially, valuable (had Kent made a real fist of their run chase.) Not only that, but if we're going with one fewer specialist batsman than usual, then Ben's batting also adds balance to the side. Nevertheless, I'd suggest that Ben would probably have to miss out to make way for the return of the big man if AC is finally fit to resume. Of course, one hopes that Pete may be able to play a fuller part with the ball at Horsham, too.
I am exceptionally happy with the SCCC CC bowling this season. It really has been inspiring to behold. This is the second time that Jonah has "done," Kent this season and more power to his boots!
I will now, anxiously, await the injury news.
We have 11 days before our third CC out-ground game of the season at Horsham. We have a 100% record in such contests this season.
Hopefully, 11 days will be enough for Charl to recover from whatever ails him. I suggest he be wrapped in cotton wool until then. If Ben tore his hammy, he won't be fit. If it's a mere strain, he might be. And what of the big man? If he was really fit enough to have a genuine fitness test for this one, then might he finally be fit enough to return in 11 days time?
Michael Munday.
There's a name to ponder with. At Horsham last year, Paul Wiseman proved to be effective for Durham. This obviously suggests that it might be a turning track. I agree with Grockle that MKM looked less than impressive, overall, against SA and I'm desperately hoping that he's been able to show enough form in second XI stuff since then to be seriously considered for this one.
Of course, if either one of AC or MKM, let alone both, were to play, we'd have very tough decisions about who to leave out. One assumes that Jonah should have done enough to play, come hell or high water. Charl should always play, if fit. Ben's 50 was, potentially, valuable (had Kent made a real fist of their run chase.) Not only that, but if we're going with one fewer specialist batsman than usual, then Ben's batting also adds balance to the side. Nevertheless, I'd suggest that Ben would probably have to miss out to make way for the return of the big man if AC is finally fit to resume. Of course, one hopes that Pete may be able to play a fuller part with the ball at Horsham, too.
Great table, though it looks as though Durham will overhaul us by one point later on today.
All this has been achieved without the great AC.
I wonder,perhaps time and the natural order of change has occured whilst we were all getting excited over another victory.
Maybe this is the end,or at least the start of it.
Quite sobering.
I wonder,perhaps time and the natural order of change has occured whilst we were all getting excited over another victory.
Maybe this is the end,or at least the start of it.
Quite sobering.
I think he's too bloody-minded to permit that to happen, thankfully. Indeed, one suspects that if we were to start a thread entitled 'thanks for everything, Caddy,' or some such, he would be alerted to its presence, read it, and come back with fire coming out of his nostrils and immediately mow down our next opponents.
I think that Mr Caddick is likely to be back next season, even if he cannot get himself right to play a huge part in this season.
I think that Mr Caddick is likely to be back next season, even if he cannot get himself right to play a huge part in this season.
Whispers to AG-(I was hoping the same)
Don't shout it out too loudly though.
Psychology you see.
Don't shout it out too loudly though.
Psychology you see.
Some comments from JL;
On the pitch;
"We left more live grass on it than usual and that gave our bowlers some assistance."
On the bowlers;
"They have been great all season long. Our bowlers hit the deck harder than theirs and that was a big difference in this game."
On Kent;
"They were negative throughout."
On our batting;
"We scored eight fifties in the match and I would rather that then one guy making a big ton."
I find this last one an interesting comment.
On the pitch;
"We left more live grass on it than usual and that gave our bowlers some assistance."
On the bowlers;
"They have been great all season long. Our bowlers hit the deck harder than theirs and that was a big difference in this game."
On Kent;
"They were negative throughout."
On our batting;
"We scored eight fifties in the match and I would rather that then one guy making a big ton."
I find this last one an interesting comment.
I agree with him.
Eight fifties will always add up to 400.
A big ton does not.
I think it makes a lot of sense.
Eight fifties will always add up to 400.
A big ton does not.
I think it makes a lot of sense.
That's true, Jim.
However, I still think that when guys get in you want them to really make the opposition pay, which means getting a really big score.
I wonder if Mr Rose or someone had, perhaps, made a similar point to the guys after our first innings and this was Justin's way of saying that he was extremely happy with the first innings?
However, I still think that when guys get in you want them to really make the opposition pay, which means getting a really big score.
I wonder if Mr Rose or someone had, perhaps, made a similar point to the guys after our first innings and this was Justin's way of saying that he was extremely happy with the first innings?
Maybe,though time at the crease can be just as demoralising for the bowling side with players getting fifties.
Of course somebody building a big ton and getting good support is ideal.
I'd not find fault with the way this was achieved though.
Of course somebody building a big ton and getting good support is ideal.
I'd not find fault with the way this was achieved though.
A very satisfying win, with everyone contributing.
Like Sage of Watchet (whose middle name is "of"), I am with JL on the 50s/100s issue (and, indeed, on almost everything else he does or says). I suspect that what JL meant was that he would prefer that a score of 400 was made up of several 50s, rather than one big hundred balanced by a few small scores. The former scenario means that several batsmen have shown form, which must help to give them confidence and useful practice for future matches. Of course, JL doesn't mean that he would prefer batsmen to get out before they reach three figures!
Like Sage of Watchet (whose middle name is "of"), I am with JL on the 50s/100s issue (and, indeed, on almost everything else he does or says). I suspect that what JL meant was that he would prefer that a score of 400 was made up of several 50s, rather than one big hundred balanced by a few small scores. The former scenario means that several batsmen have shown form, which must help to give them confidence and useful practice for future matches. Of course, JL doesn't mean that he would prefer batsmen to get out before they reach three figures!
Nope. It's possibly true that if one of our slower batsmen e.g. Zander had converted his 50 to a big ton then we may have run out of time at the end of the game.
When Surrey were 261 for 3 I had hopes of Durham having to settle for a draw bur it looks as thoought they will win abd be a point ahead of us.
yeah, durham need to thank the north-east weather, otherwise i think we would have beaten them.
Magnificent performance all round & all without AC.
Sometimes it's difficult to believe just how much progress we have made in the last 2-3 seasons !
Keep it going all & may all the bumps & bruises etc. be mended by the time of our next Championship foray.
Grizzzly
Sometimes it's difficult to believe just how much progress we have made in the last 2-3 seasons !
Keep it going all & may all the bumps & bruises etc. be mended by the time of our next Championship foray.
Grizzzly
Congratulations on a fine performance. I feel like Grizzly must, although i'm a lot nearer, I haven't managed to get to a game for ages. Hopefully tomorrow, then another month off!
Yes Wurzel - absent & pining for the County Ground !
Still, with a bit of luck, should be able to get over to Blighty in September, so hopefully will be able to get to at least one day of the Durham game, which looks like it might become rather an important one !!
Grizzzly
Still, with a bit of luck, should be able to get over to Blighty in September, so hopefully will be able to get to at least one day of the Durham game, which looks like it might become rather an important one !!
Grizzzly
Let us know if that's the case Grizz. The Lancs one is taking on momentous proportions at the moment.
A bit of a delay posting any photos from the Kent match, I was there for the four day’s but didn’t take many photos due to a problem.
So I am posting one from each day.
Day 1
Marcus playing a shot we all love to watch.
Day 2
This is what happens when you take a brilliant catch -- Arafat caught by Phillips bld S Jones.
Day 3
Nobody was hurt while taking this photo -- J Denly bld S Jones
Day 4
Jones second wicket of the morning – bowling Joseph first ball.
The link to my Photos on Photobucket - [s1152.photobucket.com]
So I am posting one from each day.
Day 1
Marcus playing a shot we all love to watch.
Day 2
This is what happens when you take a brilliant catch -- Arafat caught by Phillips bld S Jones.
Day 3
Nobody was hurt while taking this photo -- J Denly bld S Jones
Day 4
Jones second wicket of the morning – bowling Joseph first ball.
The link to my Photos on Photobucket - [s1152.photobucket.com]
Great stuff, Mike. Many thanks.
Denly looks in an awful pickle on his dismissal.
Denly looks in an awful pickle on his dismissal.
Great pictures of the cart-wheeling stump in each of the last two, Mike.
Thanks, as always.
Thanks, as always.
AG - Denly looked in very good nick until he missed Jonah's missile!
Nice shots again Mike.
Nice shots again Mike.
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