Somerset
Hampshire Four Day - Ashes Alternative?
Good Time Mr H?
By Grockle
July 9 2009
No official info on the state of play before this game so we are slightly in the dark. The spin option is open but Is Max Waller fit or is this the first game we will see Mike Munday in? The weather probably suggests no.... Caddick? Not sure until 11:00. The big man plays but James Hildreth takes the honours with 150 in the first half of the game.
v Hampshire LVCC1 @ Taunton Friday 9 July 2009
Suggestions from the official site are that it will be an unchanged line-up for this fixture with Max Waller still injured and therefore Arul Suppiah operating in the dual role of opener and spin option.
And that's the way it is at the start of the first day as Hampshire win the toss and put us in to bat......obviously don't want us chasing on the last day. The forecast is supposed to be a calm for the first day and then a little troubled on days 2 and 3.
Day 1 starts quite well but it isn't particularly solid as we lose Banger before the 50 is up caught behind by reserve keeper Crawley off Mascarenhas. So it is left to the other (surely we can use the term now after the excellent innings against yorkshire) opener Suppiah to act as general and rally the troops, especially after his skipper goes for 30 before the 100 is up to a 50/50 LBW off Tomlinson.
In comes James Hildreth who shold also have taken confidence from his knock in that mighty run chase. He didn't score a lot but his job was to keep the strike ticking over and get the big hitters for the day on strike and he did that very well. He starts slowly here, helping Arul take us past 100 but he accumulating runs at a fair lick and after his partner goes for 52 at 147, he develops partnerships with ZdB (35), a storming one with Kieswetter (100), a quick one with Trigger (76 of which PT scored 50 off 52 balls) and he has 155 to his name off 232 balls and his county have 445 for 8 to their name.
But the tail isn't finished yet as Stiff hits 25 off 29 with 2 fours and a six and the phenomenal Thomas hits a mighty career best as a Somerset player with 70 off 147 balls with 10 fours. with 3 for Caddick none for Charl and 36 extras from 15 no balls courtesy of Hampshire, we finish on a big 510 half way through Day 2.
The best dismissal of the day? Craig Kieswetter coming up the wicket to drive Tahir, snicks the ball to Crawley who belts forward to take the bails, looks at the square leg umpire for the finger only to see our wicket-keeper walking past him having accepted he hit it. The Hampshire team then all crowd around but aren't sure who to congratulate because no-one knows who got the wicket.
So Hampshire take the field in the form of opening partners Carberry and Adams with a little session before Tea and then the whole of a session to face. They get 15 overs, in which time Carberry takes a real liking to Caddick and hits a lot of boundaries to move to 49 and Adams adds another 30. They go in at Tea at 83, the rain comes down, the covers come on and they never return!! Probably a good thing because it gives the home side a chance to re-assess their strategy for the morning.
Day 3
Starts on time with Hampshire on 83 and Carberry a run from a very quick 50. Charl opens from the OP and thinks he's got Adams caught behind second ball, the whole team went up but the umpire was not convinced and kept his finger firmly in his pocket. Thomas took the River end first up and Carberry quite rightly took his score to a very creditable 47 ball 50 off the second ball of the over. It's windier and fresher than it has been and there are smatterings of blue sky and most of the cloud is white but there are dark patches and one hopes they won't build.
That is especially true as Adams takes an almighty flash at a ball from Willoughby, bottom edges it as is caught sharply (good catch to a quickly rising ball) at second slip by Marcus Trescothick 89 for 1 courtesy of some tight bowling.
The 100 arrives in the 25th and Carberry then murders an over from Willoughby to take the score to 122 before Suppiah pouches a long hop 'flip' from Lumb off Thomas at point to send him back at 122. Crawley arrives with the bowlers on a high and there is great excitement as he almost gloves one down the legside into the keeper's gloves....no touch though. Somerset in the ascendancy and the Hampshire pair having to reset their innings.
Unfortunately we don't let them as Crawley scratches around for half an hour for 2 before swatting one to second slip for the VC to take in his huge hands off Stiff (what is it with this man and this ground?). Dawson comes in and then goes out, to the same man caught by a wider fielder doing the same shot (Zander pops it up and then catches it on the second attempt). 157 for 3 becomes 157 for 4..... but Carberry is up the other end putting 3 figures on the board at around a run a ball... his first century for 2 seasons...why against us?
It gets better though as Ervine drops one to Hildreth off the River end bowling of Suppiah. 185 for 5. But Stiff isn't finished as he gets Mascarenhas to do the same as two of his compatriots, swish at one going away and it produces a similar result as Trescothick takes the rising ball at second slip. Lunch arrives with Hampshire at 186 for 6 with only Carberry really giving any kind of resistance on an excellent 121 off 129 balls.
The sun is out, the sky is blue and we have our hands around the throats of the visitors! Suppiah and Stiff open after the break from the River and OP ends resepectively and Carberry is joined by Pothas.... a very fragile Pothas who has Adams as his runner and can hardly move it seems and after making 15 and getting his side past 200 he absolutely middles one to short cover....which Hildreth holds onto as it tries very hard to go right through him. 204 for 7 inn comes Tremlett and nearly goes leg glancing a very fast one from Stiffy which Kieswetter dives to take acrobatically.
After keeping Carberry away from the Stiff end he gets down to give him some welly and in the 49th after bowling a wide and a no ball and one that just rolled along the ground David gets his first five-fer when Carberry tries to sky one and gets a leading edge which spirals to Willoughby and the man menace to our intentions goes for 123 at 208 for 8.
There is something strange about this guy. He bowls all kinds of things but occasionally one moves or goea through or the batsmen just treats him with contempt and it's working for us. He's gone for 63 off 10 overs but he has figures of 5 for less that 70 so who the hell cares how he does it.
He doesn't get the next one though because Arul has been tying them down at the other end and a frustrated Tremlett loses his patience and smacks the first one with a little width and height to mid-wicket where Marcus says "thank you very much" 216 for 9 in the 53rd.
Caddy is back on at the OP to finish the innings but the tailendeers have other ideas and they move the score on from 241 to 264 off the bowling of Suppiah and ARC before Langer brings on Thomas who gets Tahir to sky one which is caught by the keeper. 264 all out off 61.3 overs and the follow on has been enforced with 46 overs to go in the day.
Carberry continues where he left off, hitting from the start but Willoughby and Thomas offer a tighter option in this second innings and they only have 20 odd after 14 overs this time. Caddy is introduced at the OP and he is also a much more aggressive option for Carberry this time around. He and Suppiah hold them back even though they do move on to 50 by the 20th. But Caddick is very determined to get a wicket and he is belting in and causing both batsmen as bit of trouble. Then it comes...Lumb gets one on his toes, he doesn't hit is, the finger goes up and Andy is swamped by his team mates as he stands with both arms raised to the sky. Who says this doesn't mean a lot to the man?
In comes Lumb and Caddick nearly gets him as well although the umpires finger going up is for a no ball rather than the fall of a wicket. Hampshire are under the cosh and after 28 overs they have only amassed 58. This is now a war of attrition and an entirely different game to the one that restarted at 11:00 this morning.
However, it's Suppiah who is doing the job as he gets Lumb playing back to a ball which spins into him and catches him plumb. 68 for 2 and then the vital wicket of Carberry. The Hampshire man goes to 50 at 87 off 105 balls with one six and nine fours but is C&B to the Somerset spinner almost the next ball and sent packing with only 87 on the board. There are 11 overs to go after the present one and Hampshire are really in trouble.
Dawson and Crawley re-establish some semblence of calm in the Hampshire camp as Langer moves his bowlers around bringing Thomas on to replace Suppiah (no idea why that was a sensible move) and Stiff to provide some 'umphh' at the OP. However the Hampshire pair bring up the 100 without further problems. They end a good Somerset day with 122 for 3 on the board with Crawley on 14 and Dawson on 21. Good day for us and hopefully a better one to come tomorrow. They need 124 more runs to make us bat again and we need 7 wickets to take the points.
Day 4
Dawns with a rain shower just before play but we start on time in breezy sunshine. The first five overs take the visitors over the 150 mark as Charl and Alfonso go to all corners from Dawson especially. He celebrates at 156 with a 50 off 72 balls with 8 fours and the feeling around the ground is that it is going to be a looooooooooong day with the possibility of being cut short by showers predicted for this afternoon.
Stiff is introduced at the River in the 59th but there is no sign of the other hero from day 3 - Arul Suppiah - if the plan is to introduce him early it is going to fall foul of the new ball being available in 21 overs and it is Peter Trego who comes on at the OP at the end of Alfonso's opening spell and the 59th over. 156 for 3 after the first hour. Yesterday Peter had one over for 12 runs but it seems that was due to a back niggle but this morning he is up for it and he takes the first wicket of the day when he has dawson LBW for 69 at 185. It seemed to mean a lot ot him which was also good to see. At the othe end Andy Caddick takes over from Stiff and has variable results. Some are wide, some are dead on and occasionally one rises to surprise the batsman...but no wickets. Hampshire pass 200 halfway through th 72nd over and we await the new ball which should come just after lunch.
It's 213 for 4 at lunch. Crawley seems to be set to bat the day out, the seamers haven't had a whole lot of good stuff this morning and Suppiah is sporting a bandage on one hand and didn't turn his arm over at all during the session. Need some fireworks before Tea for the weather or boredom to send this to a drawn result.
We're back after the interval to a little light drizzle and Zander de Bruyn at the OP and Arul Suppiah at the River End. The score is 226 by the time the new ball is ready but Justin doesn't seem to want it as the medium pacer and the spinner continues. Crawley has kept to his name and 'crawled' to 40 while his new partner Ervine is scoring at a much better rate with 24 to his name as Hampshire roll to only 19 behind.
As we near the 250, at the end of the 84th over, JL takes the new ball and puts Alfonso and Charl on to use it. At 247 they reauire uas to bat again and are effectively 1 for 4. Ervine has nearly passed his partner and may even get to 50 first at this rate (a little scary when Crawley was on 20+ when Ervine came in. But it is all crawling along to be honest. It needs someone to take it by the scruff and give it a good shake.
250 up in the 88th and a fifty for Ervine off 57 balls and 10 fours while "Creepy" is becalmed on 42. He's scored 2 while his partner has put on 29!
Using the pacemen gets us nowhere for about an hour as Crawley finally gets his 50 off 170 balls with 5 fours and it isn't until the captain re-introduces Arul at the River that we get a result as he catches Ervine in front on 58 with his second ball! 273 for 5 in the 94th. Still like pulling teeth but at least the spinner is proving his value. In fact he's so valuable that two overs after he takes a wicket he is replaced by Trigger at the River. 280 for 5 at 3:00 in the afternoon with a first possible cut off time of 5:00.
As the 300 looms, Thomas comes on to fire the side up from the OP and Arul returns to the River in a last gasp before Tea. Pothas is in and not particularly mobile, but then again he isn't looking for runs just to partner "Creepy" (57) to the end . 300 arrives in the 102nd over to a slight clap of recognition. It's all a bit flat and without wickets it will whimper into oblivion before the official end.
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StumbleuponHampshire Four Day - Ashes Alternative?
Discussion started by Grockles.com , 09/07/2009 22:42
Grockles.com
09/07/2009 22:42
09/07/2009 22:42
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:16:11:39:44 by Grockle.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:16:11:39:44 by Grockle.
A few changes in the Hampshire team for tomorrow.
John Crawley is in the team and Dominic Cork is rested.
The big question is should Andy Caddick play or Phillips?
Tell me I didn’t dream that I watched the best all rounder in the country last week!
A quote from the article.
Somerset will be looking to build on their sensational win at Headingley Carnegie, in which they chased a massive 476 to beat Yorkshire in a last-day thriller. [www.ecb.co.uk]
John Crawley is in the team and Dominic Cork is rested.
The big question is should Andy Caddick play or Phillips?
Tell me I didn’t dream that I watched the best all rounder in the country last week!
A quote from the article.
Somerset will be looking to build on their sensational win at Headingley Carnegie, in which they chased a massive 476 to beat Yorkshire in a last-day thriller. [www.ecb.co.uk]
If we had hit that score to win at Headingley then it would indeed have been a 'miracle' Mike!
Interesting that Hampshire are going in tomorrow with only one genuine quickie, James Tomlinson, They are replacing Dominic Cork with slow left-armer Liam Dawson, have a leg-spinner in Imran Tahir, and two medium pacers in Mascarenhas and Ervine.
Do they know something about the Taunton wicket that we don`t?
Do they know something about the Taunton wicket that we don`t?
From the club site.
With Max Waller still on the injured list, Suppiah is again likely to be given the spinner's role against Hampshire in what could be an unchanged side.
Somerset (probable) M.Trescothick, A.Suppiah, J.Langer (capt), J.Hildreth, Z.de Bruyn, C.Kieswetter (wkt), P.Trego, A.Thomas, D.Stiff, A.Caddick, C.Willoughby.
With Max Waller still on the injured list, Suppiah is again likely to be given the spinner's role against Hampshire in what could be an unchanged side.
Somerset (probable) M.Trescothick, A.Suppiah, J.Langer (capt), J.Hildreth, Z.de Bruyn, C.Kieswetter (wkt), P.Trego, A.Thomas, D.Stiff, A.Caddick, C.Willoughby.
Disappointing that there is still no room for a genuine spinner.
Munday doesn't seem to have done enough to gain JL's confidence.
Munday doesn't seem to have done enough to gain JL's confidence.
Unsurprising decision by Hants, I think.
Tomorrow's forecast is most unpromising, though.
So I'd like to think we'd bat normally (but well) until tea and then press the accelerator in pursuit of bonus points from there as the forecast suggests this game will be about bonus points only.
A bit poor that it took the club until this morning to put any team news on the other site.
Tomorrow's forecast is most unpromising, though.
So I'd like to think we'd bat normally (but well) until tea and then press the accelerator in pursuit of bonus points from there as the forecast suggests this game will be about bonus points only.
A bit poor that it took the club until this morning to put any team news on the other site.
Interesting that we are playing one spinner (and not a front-line one), while Hants are playing two proper spinners - then they put us in!
And almost picked up Langer first ball in similar fashion - dropped at slip.
Perhaps that's the break the captain needs. He really MUST capitalise on the let-off and make a proper score to help us to a nice haul of batting points.
Maybe no county will ever want Somerset to bat fourth at Taunton ever again.
Well, I think Langer said that no county will "ever again declare at Taunton," or something like that.
And, now, quite a lot of responsibility on Arul in this one.
Were you listening to our game, FE?
Did it sound like Langer was getting into any real nick after his early alarm - or was it another struggle?
Were you listening to our game, FE?
Did it sound like Langer was getting into any real nick after his early alarm - or was it another struggle?
Is the Somerset ground feed better this game people? I'm going in this afternoon and will report any problems if you let me know what they are.
"I've been switching feeds"
Come on FE: make up your mind - are you a vegetarian or not?
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Come on FE: make up your mind - are you a vegetarian or not?
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I've now made up my mind................to go home for the weekend and take next week off!
The guy commentating at the moment is not very impressive. He;s just admitted that he doesn't watch a lot of four-day cricket. That's his loss and ours too, it seems.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
NO, it's not Botham and I don't want to get too personal about the bloke, but it's good that the cavalry has now arrived in the person of Grockle.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Neither Langer nor De Bruyn have been scoring many first-innings runs at all in the CC this season. I strongly suspect that both average less than 20 in the first dig this season.
Should we consider some kind of reshuffle?
On current CC form, should they be five and six, or something and should we give James and Craig more responsible roles?
This could be seen as a development for the future as well.
Now that Arul has started to perform, there's no longer an apparent case for bringing Neil Edwards in to the team and possibly batting Arul at three. Nor for Langer to move up and open. And it seems that Wes is, sadly, surplus to requirements.
Should we consider some kind of reshuffle?
On current CC form, should they be five and six, or something and should we give James and Craig more responsible roles?
This could be seen as a development for the future as well.
Now that Arul has started to perform, there's no longer an apparent case for bringing Neil Edwards in to the team and possibly batting Arul at three. Nor for Langer to move up and open. And it seems that Wes is, sadly, surplus to requirements.
I'd still like to see Wes in there, in the top six, and still naively believe this can happen in the next few weeks.
I've switched off for a while,squeaky is getting on my wick.
Grockle tells a nice story and gets interrupted by a microphone hogger.
Give him the elbow,Grock.
Grockle tells a nice story and gets interrupted by a microphone hogger.
Give him the elbow,Grock.
Met Office forecast seems to suggest we might get one session (the first one) in tomorrow?
If that's the case, I wonder if it might be worth our while declaring overnight on well, whatever we get really, and having a bowl tomorrow under steadily thickening cloud. Sunday's forecast is good. Monday's not bad.
If we could end on say 350 for whatever and then, maybe knock out half their side under heavy cloud cover in the morning for, say, 100 runs, then maybe we could put them under some pressure on Sunday and Monday?
If that's the case, I wonder if it might be worth our while declaring overnight on well, whatever we get really, and having a bowl tomorrow under steadily thickening cloud. Sunday's forecast is good. Monday's not bad.
If we could end on say 350 for whatever and then, maybe knock out half their side under heavy cloud cover in the morning for, say, 100 runs, then maybe we could put them under some pressure on Sunday and Monday?
Haggett is the name you're looking for, Grockle.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
The Emperor Rules Again. Long Live the Emperor.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Well played, James.
Now show those recalcitrant England players what it is to go on!
Now show those recalcitrant England players what it is to go on!
Hildreth ends the day one shy of 700 Championship runs, with half of the CC season, plus an innings, still to go. Top stuff.
And to answer (albeit too late) your on-air question, Wikipedia gives Charles Giles Clarke.
Again I have to agree with Langer's comments about Taunton. Scoring 479 was a fantastic victory and a wonderful effort, especially by the ever underrated Peter Trego.
As JL points out though, it could cost us long term in that no side will now declare in the hope they can take 20 wickets to win a game.
It's just another sign of how out of kilter the game has become at Taunton, a ground which no longer gives an even balance between bat and ball.
Some of the problems are part of wider trends in the game evident everywhere including the Cardiff test, flatter piutches, springier bats, faster outfields, shorter boundaries. The game's authorities have it within their power to tackle all of these, but won't.
It reminds me of the problems Golf has had with the top players making mincemeat out of venerable courses.
So the club can't find solutions by itself. However balanced pitches and playing more games at outgrounds would help. Cheap runs are no fun.
As JL points out though, it could cost us long term in that no side will now declare in the hope they can take 20 wickets to win a game.
It's just another sign of how out of kilter the game has become at Taunton, a ground which no longer gives an even balance between bat and ball.
Some of the problems are part of wider trends in the game evident everywhere including the Cardiff test, flatter piutches, springier bats, faster outfields, shorter boundaries. The game's authorities have it within their power to tackle all of these, but won't.
It reminds me of the problems Golf has had with the top players making mincemeat out of venerable courses.
So the club can't find solutions by itself. However balanced pitches and playing more games at outgrounds would help. Cheap runs are no fun.
BORING!
Looking at the 3 division 1 scorecards today, which represents proper pitches?
Old Trafford, 291 runs for 18 wickets (if they dont get points deducted for that pitch they may as well get rid of pitch inspectors alltogether).
Headingley, 242 runs for 11 wickets.
Taunton, 368-6.
I know which one i would chose... any one else?
Looking at the 3 division 1 scorecards today, which represents proper pitches?
Old Trafford, 291 runs for 18 wickets (if they dont get points deducted for that pitch they may as well get rid of pitch inspectors alltogether).
Headingley, 242 runs for 11 wickets.
Taunton, 368-6.
I know which one i would chose... any one else?
Boring is the call that Taunton is killing cricket again, that's all.
Todays cricket was anything but boring, plenty of runs, regular wickets, good stuff
Todays cricket was anything but boring, plenty of runs, regular wickets, good stuff
Warm congratulations to James.
I think that makes him the leader in the clubhouse in terms of SCCC tons this season (in all comps) with four? Or does Craig also have four? Pretty sure Banger has three.
It looks like the pattern of his career; up-down-up-down-up-down is being maintained which, in the case of this season, is a good thing. Hopefully this is going to be the last season in which the pattern obtains. I think he's still only 24?
He and Craig have easily outperformed two of our three senior batsmen in the CC this season and that must be very encouraging for our future.
As for the rest of this season, one hopes that not only will these two young guns keep going, but that Langer and Zander will come around as well.
I think that makes him the leader in the clubhouse in terms of SCCC tons this season (in all comps) with four? Or does Craig also have four? Pretty sure Banger has three.
It looks like the pattern of his career; up-down-up-down-up-down is being maintained which, in the case of this season, is a good thing. Hopefully this is going to be the last season in which the pattern obtains. I think he's still only 24?
He and Craig have easily outperformed two of our three senior batsmen in the CC this season and that must be very encouraging for our future.
As for the rest of this season, one hopes that not only will these two young guns keep going, but that Langer and Zander will come around as well.
Alas I don't get to come on here as much as I would like, but it seems every time I do there is some identikit whinge from KT on the same old subjects. Please change the record as it just puts me off reading and posting.
Why not just say something positive without the inevitable "but" which always seems to follow?
3 wins on the bounce and a scorecard of 368-6 at Taunton in 1 day. It clearly did something today and they put us in to bat. We just have an excellent batting side.
BVI Grockle
Why not just say something positive without the inevitable "but" which always seems to follow?
3 wins on the bounce and a scorecard of 368-6 at Taunton in 1 day. It clearly did something today and they put us in to bat. We just have an excellent batting side.
BVI Grockle
It is also, of course, the case that Hildreth must have a far better record at his age of 24 in county cricket than Banger had at the same point in his career.
Of course, some of that may be down to the fact that Mr Rose has, no doubt, managed Hildreth far, far better than Mr reverse-sweep Reeve ever managed Banger.
But, still, it's a fact which is there and might it possibly bode well for James?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:10:20:13:55 by AGod.
Of course, some of that may be down to the fact that Mr Rose has, no doubt, managed Hildreth far, far better than Mr reverse-sweep Reeve ever managed Banger.
But, still, it's a fact which is there and might it possibly bode well for James?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:10:20:13:55 by AGod.
Hants lost both Erivine and Pothas to injury. That could compromise their batting, quite badly.
I have had an epiphany.....Taunton could be killing cricket, It came to me in a flash of light and a voice from above.
Can I refer you back to a comment about KT using the Langer quote quite soon? Not only have I seen the light but I'm smoe klind of prophet.
Can I refer you back to a comment about KT using the Langer quote quite soon? Not only have I seen the light but I'm smoe klind of prophet.
Well,you said it would be quoted soon,Grockle.
But did you think it would be this soon?
It's like watching desperate passengers fighting for lifejackets on a sinking ship,clinging on to anything just to keep their head above water.
KT is desperate to prove his point,even though that old devil Mr Frost and the players are doing everything to prove him wrong.
Should we now say that KT is killing cricket?
Or making reading about it very boring?
He makes Botham's FTM argument seem like compulsive reading.
But did you think it would be this soon?
It's like watching desperate passengers fighting for lifejackets on a sinking ship,clinging on to anything just to keep their head above water.
KT is desperate to prove his point,even though that old devil Mr Frost and the players are doing everything to prove him wrong.
Should we now say that KT is killing cricket?
Or making reading about it very boring?
He makes Botham's FTM argument seem like compulsive reading.
Everyone who was at Taunton today witnessed an exellent TEAM batting performance by Somerset, invited to bat in difficult overcast conditions, with both new balls swinging appreciably on a wicket that was twice freshened up by light rain.
No-one scored less than 22, apart from Alfonso coming in right at the end; one batsman got a gritty, hard-working hundred laced with some marvellous stroke-making; two players scored highly contrasting 50s; the skipper benefitted from a second-ball slip catch let-off to steer his side through the trickiest batting conditions of the day; and our Kolpak batter looked the most stylish player on view until the first lot of rains came.
Yet still we have posters complaining about this, that and the other, even suggesting that it might be an idea to change our batting order. And all this when we are close to maximum batting points with 32 overs in hand.
What do they want, for goodness sake?
No-one scored less than 22, apart from Alfonso coming in right at the end; one batsman got a gritty, hard-working hundred laced with some marvellous stroke-making; two players scored highly contrasting 50s; the skipper benefitted from a second-ball slip catch let-off to steer his side through the trickiest batting conditions of the day; and our Kolpak batter looked the most stylish player on view until the first lot of rains came.
Yet still we have posters complaining about this, that and the other, even suggesting that it might be an idea to change our batting order. And all this when we are close to maximum batting points with 32 overs in hand.
What do they want, for goodness sake?
Abject failure whilst languishing at the bottom of CC Division 2.
Haven't you learnt anything yet,CjM?
Haven't you learnt anything yet,CjM?
Well, CJM, like it or not the bonus point system is biased in favour of the first innings and two of the senior players - Langer and De Bruyn are scoring negligible first innings runs.
If we are to win the CC then our most probable route to success presumably involves a handful of victories - maybe five or six, a number of high scoring (points wise) draws and very few defeats.
We're on course for five or six victories. And we are on course for very few defeats. But the draws part of it is not working out as well as would have been hoped because we've been squandering too many batting points. On this occasion, we might get all the points. But, generally, it's been a struggle to do so. I don't think I'm alone in this. Andy Hurry has been demanding 400+ in the first innings, too.
I don't know if changing the batting order would help to kick-start Langer and De Bruyn in the first innings, but I do know they need to start scoring more runs.
If we are to win the CC then our most probable route to success presumably involves a handful of victories - maybe five or six, a number of high scoring (points wise) draws and very few defeats.
We're on course for five or six victories. And we are on course for very few defeats. But the draws part of it is not working out as well as would have been hoped because we've been squandering too many batting points. On this occasion, we might get all the points. But, generally, it's been a struggle to do so. I don't think I'm alone in this. Andy Hurry has been demanding 400+ in the first innings, too.
I don't know if changing the batting order would help to kick-start Langer and De Bruyn in the first innings, but I do know they need to start scoring more runs.
Photos day 1
Craig Kieswetter played his usual assortment of shots, this gave him four runs.
James Hildreth timed the ball from the very first he received, this gave him his hundred.
Another good shot from James Hildreth.
Justin Langer didn’t look in good touch today he wasn’t timing the ball at all well, he had so many lbw turned down against him I said he was going to be out lbw, and he was.
This was one of the lbw’s that was turned down against Justin Langer much to the disbelief of Tomlinson.
I will have to be careful how I word this.
I have not got any photos of balls being caught in pockets, but this hit Zander de Bruyn near his.
Craig Kieswetter played his usual assortment of shots, this gave him four runs.
James Hildreth timed the ball from the very first he received, this gave him his hundred.
Another good shot from James Hildreth.
Justin Langer didn’t look in good touch today he wasn’t timing the ball at all well, he had so many lbw turned down against him I said he was going to be out lbw, and he was.
This was one of the lbw’s that was turned down against Justin Langer much to the disbelief of Tomlinson.
I will have to be careful how I word this.
I have not got any photos of balls being caught in pockets, but this hit Zander de Bruyn near his.
Our top 7's batting averages with tons after first 7 games.
(pre start of Hampshire match)
Tres - 815 runs @ 67.91 with 3 tons
Hildy - 573 runs @ 52.09 with 1 ton (2 after today)
Craig - 519 runs @ 47.18 with 2 tons
Langer - 392 runs @ 40.00 with 1 ton
Arul - 422 runs @ 35.16 with 1 ton
Trego - 281 runs @ 35.12 with 1 ton
Zander - 318 runs @ 31.80 with 1 ton
Have not got the split of home and away or between 1st and 2nd innings but interesting all the same...
(pre start of Hampshire match)
Tres - 815 runs @ 67.91 with 3 tons
Hildy - 573 runs @ 52.09 with 1 ton (2 after today)
Craig - 519 runs @ 47.18 with 2 tons
Langer - 392 runs @ 40.00 with 1 ton
Arul - 422 runs @ 35.16 with 1 ton
Trego - 281 runs @ 35.12 with 1 ton
Zander - 318 runs @ 31.80 with 1 ton
Have not got the split of home and away or between 1st and 2nd innings but interesting all the same...
Superb stuff,Mike.
Are you being sponsored by Monkton Elm garden centre this year by any chance?
Are you being sponsored by Monkton Elm garden centre this year by any chance?
The wicket looks a little green in those pictures. Did it look green with the naked eye, Mike?
No our Lord Grockle is in that shed (media centre) somewhere.
He was looking very smart today in his Sunday best.
BR your Bridgwater friend missed you today.
He was looking very smart today in his Sunday best.
BR your Bridgwater friend missed you today.
I did not noticed it AG from the Gimblett Hill, it does look that way on the photos.
That would be Mr Frost working to instructions as he always does.
That would be Mr Frost working to instructions as he always does.
WSM - prior to today the first innings numbers were as follows;
Langer =- scores of 76, 35 not out, 11, 2, 0, 4 and 4. 132 runs from 7 innings, 6 of them completed. Those last five scores were his last five first-innings scores prior to today, when he was also dropped on 0.
From what Mike says it certainly doesn't sound as though today's 30 represented a glorious return to form.
De Bruyn - 31, 50, 0, 7, 64, 0, 4. I think that makes 156 runs from 7 completed innings.
The above numbers are why I wonder whether we should try to do something, such as re-jig the order a bit to try and get to the magic 400 more often in our first dig.
Langer =- scores of 76, 35 not out, 11, 2, 0, 4 and 4. 132 runs from 7 innings, 6 of them completed. Those last five scores were his last five first-innings scores prior to today, when he was also dropped on 0.
From what Mike says it certainly doesn't sound as though today's 30 represented a glorious return to form.
De Bruyn - 31, 50, 0, 7, 64, 0, 4. I think that makes 156 runs from 7 completed innings.
The above numbers are why I wonder whether we should try to do something, such as re-jig the order a bit to try and get to the magic 400 more often in our first dig.
n.b. overall, I think that means both guys are averaging 22 in the first-innings of CC games this season. Or were, before today. Today's happenings will not have made much difference, though.
It will click given time.
Arul seems to be settling into the opener spot.
Dont think any discussion needed re Tres.
Hildy has been at 4 all his career and now doing well.
Craig and Pete seem perfectly suited to number 6+7 so not sure what rejigging options would work...
Arul seems to be settling into the opener spot.
Dont think any discussion needed re Tres.
Hildy has been at 4 all his career and now doing well.
Craig and Pete seem perfectly suited to number 6+7 so not sure what rejigging options would work...
It's no more than a hunch, but I think that Brian Rose would probably like to bat Craig higher up the order.
I would not be surprised to see Craig and Zander swap places.
I don't suppose Langer will move unless he, himself, wants to. But he really needs some scores soon, otherwise his bid for a new contract will have to trade, almost entirely on his captaincy.
Personally, I'd also love to see Pete given more responsibility in the batting order as well. But, clearly, there are only six top six spots available.
I would not be surprised to see Craig and Zander swap places.
I don't suppose Langer will move unless he, himself, wants to. But he really needs some scores soon, otherwise his bid for a new contract will have to trade, almost entirely on his captaincy.
Personally, I'd also love to see Pete given more responsibility in the batting order as well. But, clearly, there are only six top six spots available.
I wouldnt be against Zander at 6 craig at 5.
Be a good idea to split up our middle order stroke makers of Hildy, Craig and Pete.
On the other hand at 6 and 7 i think Craig and Pete are our best 2 players for batting with the tail
Be a good idea to split up our middle order stroke makers of Hildy, Craig and Pete.
On the other hand at 6 and 7 i think Craig and Pete are our best 2 players for batting with the tail
Great to see James back in top form. Whatever the result in this game, I really hope he can kick on from here & get a big score away from Taunton.
I'm sure it would do him the absolute power of good & also add value to his England aspirations.
Grizzzly
I'm sure it would do him the absolute power of good & also add value to his England aspirations.
Grizzzly
Pete appears to be playing with a joyful freedom right now, which is perfect at 7, and could be stifled higher up.
If the premise of the conversation is that ZdB and JL aren't making enough individual runs, it should be remembered that the game is essentially one where the collective score is all that counts, and that on that level, it "don't look too broke" right now.
Also, an earlier poster has suggested that Justin's 30, whilst not the most significant contribution numerically, was a period of intense consolidation during the trickiest batting conditions of the day: it certainly sounded like Dimi had his dander up!
So perhaps we should just leave a successful unit well alone.
If the premise of the conversation is that ZdB and JL aren't making enough individual runs, it should be remembered that the game is essentially one where the collective score is all that counts, and that on that level, it "don't look too broke" right now.
Also, an earlier poster has suggested that Justin's 30, whilst not the most significant contribution numerically, was a period of intense consolidation during the trickiest batting conditions of the day: it certainly sounded like Dimi had his dander up!
So perhaps we should just leave a successful unit well alone.
A cheeky thought. If we do lose significant time to rain today and end up having t try to manufacture a result, say Hampshire declaring their first innings 250 behind, how many would we be happy setting them to chase in a day on day 4 ?
Is there a sort of reverse psychology of our last win ? Would we be happy setting them 400 in a day ??
Is there a sort of reverse psychology of our last win ? Would we be happy setting them 400 in a day ??
Andy Hurry said during the last game that we would have declared before the close on day three.
Of course, that may have been some form of kidology to try to induce a Yorks' declaration.
Or it may have reflected his genuine view that to have had a chance of taking 10 wickets, we would need a full day and a bit to do it, i.e. the guiding criterion may have been the positive one of 'what do we need to do to have a chance of winning,' not 'how can we avoid defeat.'
One wonders what effect, if any, the delay in the Yorks' declaration may have had on their bowlers. i.e. would some of them have felt that McGrath was effectively saying 'I don't trust you lot?'
Of course, that may have been some form of kidology to try to induce a Yorks' declaration.
Or it may have reflected his genuine view that to have had a chance of taking 10 wickets, we would need a full day and a bit to do it, i.e. the guiding criterion may have been the positive one of 'what do we need to do to have a chance of winning,' not 'how can we avoid defeat.'
One wonders what effect, if any, the delay in the Yorks' declaration may have had on their bowlers. i.e. would some of them have felt that McGrath was effectively saying 'I don't trust you lot?'
Lovely weather for swing bowling in Watchet.
They'll be sweating like a hippo in a power shower out there today.
Not nice.
They'll be sweating like a hippo in a power shower out there today.
Not nice.
I'd quite like to declare and let Willow avail himself of the conditions, Jim.
Give them twenty minutes to get that fifth batting point and then declare.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
This is exactly the problem; sides will no longer even bother to try and manufacture results at Taunton, hence more draws. And in my book, draws are boring.
Test matches are boring when flat pitches and short boundaries lead to an uneven contest, though admittedly England's poor bowling doesn't help.
Anybody like to hazard when we last took 20 wickets at Taunton to win a game?
Test matches are boring when flat pitches and short boundaries lead to an uneven contest, though admittedly England's poor bowling doesn't help.
Anybody like to hazard when we last took 20 wickets at Taunton to win a game?
Anyone still awake? zzzzz...
PS Scorecard stopped moving - rain in Taunton?
PS Scorecard stopped moving - rain in Taunton?
Prospects of play do not sound hugely promising.
What do folks think about this idea that the commentators are promoting of insisting that players wear these new-fangled 'light-enhancing glasses,' rather than the umpires taking folks off for bad-light?
What do folks think about this idea that the commentators are promoting of insisting that players wear these new-fangled 'light-enhancing glasses,' rather than the umpires taking folks off for bad-light?
Sounding better now, SP. Mr Frost has put the stumps back, just a moment or two ago and it looks like we might get an hour in before lunch.
I still think I would like to declare.
I still think I would like to declare.
I suspect KT is going to say that the answer to his question is 2007, since Rob Key went off to a maternity ward so we could not take his wicket in the win over Kent last year.
But, to all intents and purposes the answer to the question when did we last bowl out a team twice to win is Kent last year. We also bowled Yorkshire out twice last season, but then managed to lose that one, chasing.
It should also be said that most 2008 home games were badly disrupted by rain.
But, to all intents and purposes the answer to the question when did we last bowl out a team twice to win is Kent last year. We also bowled Yorkshire out twice last season, but then managed to lose that one, chasing.
It should also be said that most 2008 home games were badly disrupted by rain.
It's dry here at Bicknoller Towers but it says rain has stopped play in Taunton. The Test is still on though.
Back on now...commentators seem to think there'll be a decent period of play now.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:11:12:30:18 by Grockle.
Back on now...commentators seem to think there'll be a decent period of play now.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:11:12:30:18 by Grockle.
Rain has emphatically NOT stopped play, Grockle. James has just played a delightful on-drive.
A series of poor bouncers from Mascharenas at Thomas.
A player of his pace should not be bowling a stream of bouncers. He sounds rattled.
Wrist-spin on, now.
A player of his pace should not be bowling a stream of bouncers. He sounds rattled.
Wrist-spin on, now.
Cricinfo is indicating further evidence of the brilliance of Hildreth, who continues to score regular runs despite rain having stopped play. Perhaps they are indeed not playing, but working.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Full points have now been secured.
Please let Charl and Alfonso have a bowl, now.
Please let Charl and Alfonso have a bowl, now.
Grockle - might it be an idea to have a lap-top in the box with our commentary team?
They're wondering what the latest is from Leeds. A lap-top linked up with cricinfo would avail them of the info they are looking for.
p.s. sounds like the HAMMER has now been dropped on the Hants bowlers - max aggression from Alfonso.
They're wondering what the latest is from Leeds. A lap-top linked up with cricinfo would avail them of the info they are looking for.
p.s. sounds like the HAMMER has now been dropped on the Hants bowlers - max aggression from Alfonso.
They do have AG but only when I'm there. Not sure some of the guys would know what to do with the box if we put it in there.
I'll be in at Tea so the box will go with me.
I'll be in at Tea so the box will go with me.
I guess, maybe, the Langer/Rose view is that we seek to bat only once in this match.
I am sorry to say that this afternoon's commentator is simply not up to the job: he is not well-informed, has a very limited vocabulary, for which he seeks to compensate by uttering ludicrous giggles that mean nothing to people not actually watching the action, and he pauses so often, presumably thinking of something significant to say, that I keep thinking I have lost the connection. Benaud's judicious use of silence is world famous - but what works for television certainly does not work for radio.
From what he has said, he is actually a professional broadcaster. Give me the amateur Grockle any time.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:11:15:01:13 by Loyal of Lhasa..
From what he has said, he is actually a professional broadcaster. Give me the amateur Grockle any time.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:11:15:01:13 by Loyal of Lhasa..
Have to agree LoL. I gave up after three balls & switched to Victor on TMS !
Grizzzly
Grizzzly
I had the impression he was a little distracted, more than anything.
Perhaps he had a spread bet on England to wrap the Aussies up for less than 350 or something...
Perhaps he had a spread bet on England to wrap the Aussies up for less than 350 or something...
James Adams sounds like he's in prime nick.
p.s not sure how you can bear to listen to that 8 millon for nothing fest in Cardiff, Grizzly!
p.s not sure how you can bear to listen to that 8 millon for nothing fest in Cardiff, Grizzly!
and now our friend is asking for comments on his commentating style and I haven't the heart...
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
A bit of painful tap for Caddy now.
I'm sure all he needs is the one wicket. Even the best need a fillip, once in a while.
I'm sure all he needs is the one wicket. Even the best need a fillip, once in a while.
I didn't know that one of the Daleks had survived & had a job commentating at Taunton.
Maybe Grockle will arrive soon & exterminate him !
Grizzzly
Maybe Grockle will arrive soon & exterminate him !
Grizzzly
You must leave the commentary box, or you will be exterminated - please !
Grizzzly
Grizzzly
"Even the best need a fillip, once in a while."
Try telling that to our beloved Queen.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Try telling that to our beloved Queen.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
respec Mr Caddick, Mr Umpire.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I'm in after the break. Hampshire are mashing our attack at the moment and Carberry is having a loverly time.
Mercifully, I have lost the Somerset commentary now and it is raining in Cardiff.
I am going to watch the WIndies for a while.
I am going to watch the WIndies for a while.
Can someone post the score. The pillocks running the latest score on the Beeb keep indicating that the game hasn't even started.
It's raining here and the covers are on although it's quite light and the light's quite fine. Not sure how much we're getting.
4:25 - all the covers on now and steady 'big' rain so I'm not sure we'll see any more today.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:11:16:36:22 by Grockle.
4:25 - all the covers on now and steady 'big' rain so I'm not sure we'll see any more today.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:11:16:36:22 by Grockle.
Comparison between himself and Arlott?
Right,that's it.
I'm on my way.
The only comparison between those two is that Arlott is a better commentator than him even though he's dead.
He can't be saying that.
Right,that's it.
I'm on my way.
The only comparison between those two is that Arlott is a better commentator than him even though he's dead.
He can't be saying that.
Basingstoke Bias strikes again...
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
The score is 83 for 0 with Carberry on 49 and Adams on 30 off 15 overs. They murdered Caddy and we took off Willoughby who was looking better. Stiffy has had a couple of decent chances and Trigger was just on to bowl when the waterworks started.
As they are pegging down the covers I think that is it for the day. Though no-one has officially said it yet
As they are pegging down the covers I think that is it for the day. Though no-one has officially said it yet
To be fair, I think Langer may have got this one right.
Willow may have looked more likely than Caddy. However, I don't think Caddy is in the team because of how he is currently bowling, so much as for how we think he will still be able to bowl, once he's had the requisite volume of work. Even when fully fit, he's never been at his best until he's had a stack of work and, with rain imminent anyway, I think Langer was right to decide that we might as well get Caddy as much bowling as possible.
That's not to say that I necessarily think it was right to take Willow off, just that I think it was right to keep Caddy on.
I think the exact same rationale was why Andrew took the new ball, rather than Alfonso who had been doing a good job with it.
And if Hants save the follow on and the game looks all but certain to end in a draw, then I expect to see a very heavy dose of ARC indeed.
Willow may have looked more likely than Caddy. However, I don't think Caddy is in the team because of how he is currently bowling, so much as for how we think he will still be able to bowl, once he's had the requisite volume of work. Even when fully fit, he's never been at his best until he's had a stack of work and, with rain imminent anyway, I think Langer was right to decide that we might as well get Caddy as much bowling as possible.
That's not to say that I necessarily think it was right to take Willow off, just that I think it was right to keep Caddy on.
I think the exact same rationale was why Andrew took the new ball, rather than Alfonso who had been doing a good job with it.
And if Hants save the follow on and the game looks all but certain to end in a draw, then I expect to see a very heavy dose of ARC indeed.
Yep correct decision.
He didnt bowl too well towards the end to his spell though, too much leg side which isnt him.
He needs a big match i feel as if Max is fit for the Worcs game on 21st one seamer has to go...
He didnt bowl too well towards the end to his spell though, too much leg side which isnt him.
He needs a big match i feel as if Max is fit for the Worcs game on 21st one seamer has to go...
correct.
need good weather as the way worcs are playing this season it should be a good chance of a 20+ point win
need good weather as the way worcs are playing this season it should be a good chance of a 20+ point win
Well the plan is to start on time, the covers are off and the weather is bright but its dark about the place so who the hell knows how long we'll get before the first intervention today.....
Pietersen gone already. That will please some (but not me).
Edited:
Sorry: wrong thread.
Adams gone already. That will please everybody in the world.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:12:11:21:19 by Loyal of Lhasa..
Edited:
Sorry: wrong thread.
Adams gone already. That will please everybody in the world.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:12:11:21:19 by Loyal of Lhasa..
Good old Stiffie, gets Carberry to claim a 5-fer! Well done lad. Another one for Arul sees them 9 down!
Great day so far!
Great day so far!
Judging by the scorecard, the bowlers have done very well. A number of us have been saying that, while Stiff is still raw, he does have the happy knack of taking wickets.
I am delighted that JL has taken the attacking option of inviting Hampshire to follow on.
I am delighted that JL has taken the attacking option of inviting Hampshire to follow on.
Wow - great effort to bowl Hants out so cheaply.
Where is everyone today ?!
Stiff's effort looks especially praiseworthy & nice to see AC get off the mark by taking ine in the second innings.
If we could pull a victory off here, we would be well set indeed.
Come on Somerset !
Grizzzly
(Can't get any commentary - get an error message ?)
Where is everyone today ?!
Stiff's effort looks especially praiseworthy & nice to see AC get off the mark by taking ine in the second innings.
If we could pull a victory off here, we would be well set indeed.
Come on Somerset !
Grizzzly
(Can't get any commentary - get an error message ?)
The commentary is unavailable today I'm afraid. Should be back on tomorrow all being well.
Excellent perfromance today, another wicket this evening would be good.
The bowlers should finish them off tomorrow after a rest.
The bowlers should finish them off tomorrow after a rest.
If you are wondering where everyone is today, Grizzly, some are occupied in a series of posts, picking over the bones of the `dirty deeds` perpetuated by our hated management against a phalanx of former and current players, on the thread titled `Jonah`.
As one of them so revealing says, today`s splendid performance is totally irrelevant. You couldn`t put it on the stage.
As one of them so revealing says, today`s splendid performance is totally irrelevant. You couldn`t put it on the stage.
Close.
Great day for us today.
Even better if we can get seven wickets tomorrow !
What's the weather forecast ?
Grizzzly
Great day for us today.
Even better if we can get seven wickets tomorrow !
What's the weather forecast ?
Grizzzly
Job 65 percent done.
I think it'll still be a great effort to close the game out from here. Still have to get through Crawley, Ervine, Pothas and Mascharenhas.
Have to say I think this has been a better performance than at home to Yorkshire, even if we don't, ultimately, manage to close it out.
I'd like to see Langer give Caddy another long bowl tomorrow. And give Pete some action, too - he must be chomping at the bit.
I think it'll still be a great effort to close the game out from here. Still have to get through Crawley, Ervine, Pothas and Mascharenhas.
Have to say I think this has been a better performance than at home to Yorkshire, even if we don't, ultimately, manage to close it out.
I'd like to see Langer give Caddy another long bowl tomorrow. And give Pete some action, too - he must be chomping at the bit.
Stunning performance,superb from everyone.
Weather is fine for tomorrow.
Get in.
Weather is fine for tomorrow.
Get in.
Could Grockle or someone that was there tell us whether the ball was turning out there today?
Without being rude, I assume from the fact that Arul took four for not very many that it was?
Without being rude, I assume from the fact that Arul took four for not very many that it was?
Great day, good bowling all day i thought.
Couipled with some shambolic Hamps batting.
Carberry aside i thought the rest were hopeless, no application whatsoever.
7 wickets tomorrow and a Yorkshire in would complete a great 4 days
Couipled with some shambolic Hamps batting.
Carberry aside i thought the rest were hopeless, no application whatsoever.
7 wickets tomorrow and a Yorkshire in would complete a great 4 days
Forecast for tomorrow is for showers to pep up - so unlikely to get an unbroken day's play.
But they should fade later (possibly after the end of play).
But they should fade later (possibly after the end of play).
Oh dear - not good news about the forecast.
Whatever happens, an excellent performance in the field following Hildreth's great effort with the bat.
Whatever happens, an excellent performance in the field following Hildreth's great effort with the bat.
Ball did appear to be doing something yes, hard to tell from my angle but there were a fair few play and misses and lbw shouts from Arul.
3 of Aruls wickets however were caught in front of the wicket, cover, short mid on and by the bowler so fault of attacking shots by the batsmen too.
Take nothing away from Arul though, bowled very few bad balls and kept pressure on well, in tandem with Stiffy 1st inns and Caddy 2nd inns.
Good to see him used for long spell rather than just odd token over.
Whilst Max is out it seems he's our only spin option with MM out of favour and Omari banned
3 of Aruls wickets however were caught in front of the wicket, cover, short mid on and by the bowler so fault of attacking shots by the batsmen too.
Take nothing away from Arul though, bowled very few bad balls and kept pressure on well, in tandem with Stiffy 1st inns and Caddy 2nd inns.
Good to see him used for long spell rather than just odd token over.
Whilst Max is out it seems he's our only spin option with MM out of favour and Omari banned
I don't think Omari's ban is much of a factor in his absence from this team.
I think and hope that Langer has decided that Banks 'is not taking it seriously,' in which case we won't see him again.
I think and hope that Langer has decided that Banks 'is not taking it seriously,' in which case we won't see him again.
I agree, think thats the last we'll see of Omari.
Although Rose quoted as matter is dealt with and he still has a future.
Re tomorrow think we need them out asap, IF a full day then i guess all out by tea would still set us no more than 100 off 30, quickr the better though
Although Rose quoted as matter is dealt with and he still has a future.
Re tomorrow think we need them out asap, IF a full day then i guess all out by tea would still set us no more than 100 off 30, quickr the better though
Arul did get one wicket when he got one to turn in so there must have been something. He was mostly one to keep Carberry in check because he seemed to be the only one who could.
Yes Arul was very tight, if given the chance i think he could do the Blacky job on occasions where we dont play a specialist spinner.
As with Blacky never going to run through a side or take 50 wickets a season but a tight left arm option who could pick up 20-25 hopefully
As with Blacky never going to run through a side or take 50 wickets a season but a tight left arm option who could pick up 20-25 hopefully
And I have to say it's wonderful to see Arul progressing very nicely.
Well done,lad.
Very impressive.
Well done,lad.
Very impressive.
And seems to have the confidence of his captain now...something all our spinners have suffered from.
Yes JL seems to give home the ball more readily currently.
Shame same can't be said for Pete but i guess with 5 seamers picked plus Arul he realy is 5th choice option when it comes to the seamers, and as they did so well today there was no need for him to bowl, maybe he'll get his chance tomorrow but not unless we struggle for the first session i'd suggest will he get a go
Shame same can't be said for Pete but i guess with 5 seamers picked plus Arul he realy is 5th choice option when it comes to the seamers, and as they did so well today there was no need for him to bowl, maybe he'll get his chance tomorrow but not unless we struggle for the first session i'd suggest will he get a go
Photos day 3
Andy Caddick bowled better today you only need to ask Adams.
Andrew Caddick first wicket of the season trapping J Adams lbw on the toe.
This is an odd looking shot by Dawson getting out ct de Bruyn bld Stiff
M Carberry c & b Suppiah, he looks a bit off balance playing the shot.
Arul Suppiah shout for lbw turned down against M Lumb.
Andy Caddick bowled better today you only need to ask Adams.
Andrew Caddick first wicket of the season trapping J Adams lbw on the toe.
This is an odd looking shot by Dawson getting out ct de Bruyn bld Stiff
M Carberry c & b Suppiah, he looks a bit off balance playing the shot.
Arul Suppiah shout for lbw turned down against M Lumb.
Well Pete did go for 12 off his one and only over - admitedly at the peak of Carberry going mad. Maybe he thought he'd got enough with the others...seems to have worked.
Hopefully Pete will get a chance tomorrow morning.
Hopefully Pete will get a chance tomorrow morning.
maybe it'll be a good sign if he doesnt as it will mean charl, alfie, caddy and stiff have mopped them up...
I've been out since midday and return to find that our men have behaved themselves extraordinarily well today on yet another cricket-killing pitch at Taunton. And it's very good to see Caddick bowling as meanly of old in the second innings and taking his first wicket of the season.
Let's have all seven by lunch tomorrow, please, in case it rains later.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Let's have all seven by lunch tomorrow, please, in case it rains later.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Yes, LoL. Met Office suggests heavy showers by 4pm, if not slightly sooner. Lighter showers earlier in the piece.
I think we will be hard-pressed if the forecast is right.
But I'll be taking no guff from KT. In an uninterrupted game (and, remember, we already lost one whole session) we would surely win.
I think we will be hard-pressed if the forecast is right.
But I'll be taking no guff from KT. In an uninterrupted game (and, remember, we already lost one whole session) we would surely win.
Had our first heavy shower about 30 mins ago. Now it is bright, cloudy but dry (10:25am)
Looks like there were ten runs in Willoughby's first over - can't be doing with that.
Nor can we be doing with a heroic rearguard action that grips the nation like yesterday's events at Cardiff, given that only three old men in Southampton and a dog in Fareham don't want Somerset to win. Hampshire forfeited respect throughout the world by inserting Somerset on Friday...
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Nor can we be doing with a heroic rearguard action that grips the nation like yesterday's events at Cardiff, given that only three old men in Southampton and a dog in Fareham don't want Somerset to win. Hampshire forfeited respect throughout the world by inserting Somerset on Friday...
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
NO commentary yet - where's the man with the screwdriver?
At present progress Hampshire's attempt to deny Somerset the chance to bat in the fourth innings could be thwarted.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
At present progress Hampshire's attempt to deny Somerset the chance to bat in the fourth innings could be thwarted.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
50 for Dawson versus an average for his career to date of 28. He looks like he's in the mood to be his team's Collingwood, albeit with a more aggressive modus operandi.
Well they're sitting with headphones on BR but you are still getting the error as far as I can see. I'll report back if I get anything.
Langer's listening to you, AGod.
And it looks like Stiff has been bowling very meanly this morning. He'll be off to join England soon and we're all doomed.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
And it looks like Stiff has been bowling very meanly this morning. He'll be off to join England soon and we're all doomed.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Yes, LoL, it's a rare innings in which Willow is our most expensive bowler.
I'd guess we'll have Arul at one end and Pete and then Caddy at the other, before long, whilst we wait for the new ball.
I'd guess we'll have Arul at one end and Pete and then Caddy at the other, before long, whilst we wait for the new ball.
Get in the car at once FE and drive until we tell you to stop.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I'm desperate for three wickets before they level the scores.
Can anyone here report in from the ground? Any sign of even the first of those wickets?
Can anyone here report in from the ground? Any sign of even the first of those wickets?
Treeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeggggggggggggggggggooooooooooooo
I STILL say he is routinely under-bowled. And, yes, I know we've got lots of bowlers in this current team, but the point still stands. The guy has a consistently excellent strike-rate.
I STILL say he is routinely under-bowled. And, yes, I know we've got lots of bowlers in this current team, but the point still stands. The guy has a consistently excellent strike-rate.
If no Caddy breakthrough in next 10 balls or so, I'd try Arul vs Ervine on the basis that he seemed to trouble the southpaws yesterday.
Trego 1/12 in five overs - damn it, he'll be off to Lord's with Stiff now.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:13:12:37:31 by Loyal of Lhasa..
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:13:12:37:31 by Loyal of Lhasa..
Commentary working now. Thanks to all concerned.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Yes, LoL, BJ hinted at that yesterday.
We should have kept Jones with all these call-ups that look all but certain.
We should have kept Jones with all these call-ups that look all but certain.
... and Hildreth in for that slow coach Collingwood. Suppiah for Cook, and so it goes on.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Cook's 2nd innings shot was certainly one of the poorer shots (amongst considerable competition) played by the England batsmen.
One PARTICULAR reason to be glad that Colly and his protegé, Monty, managed to save the game is that we did not have to listen to Bob Willis telling us that the reason we lost was because county cricket is 'rubbish.' Nobody seems to have thought to tell Bob that the England players virtually never play county cricket, anyway, so any relationship between the fortunes of 'team England,' and the robustness of the modern CC is likely to be co-incidental.
One PARTICULAR reason to be glad that Colly and his protegé, Monty, managed to save the game is that we did not have to listen to Bob Willis telling us that the reason we lost was because county cricket is 'rubbish.' Nobody seems to have thought to tell Bob that the England players virtually never play county cricket, anyway, so any relationship between the fortunes of 'team England,' and the robustness of the modern CC is likely to be co-incidental.
Well we've had 76 and they are off for lunch at 213 for 4. Benign conditions, or benign bowling? I can't decide myself to be honest. The new ball will tell us something because there's not a lot happening with the old one and we don't have the spin options to do anything if it was. Arul has not been used which is a worry given the position.
The lack of use of Arul is a bit odd, given that we dismissed two left-handers yesterday and there is one in now, is it not?
Looks like Hants are going to escape, I'm afraid.
Boo.
Have to hope Yorks don't lose to Durham. Then, at least, we'll claw four or so points back vs Durham.
Boo.
Have to hope Yorks don't lose to Durham. Then, at least, we'll claw four or so points back vs Durham.
Don't panic: FE is reaching for his car keys at this very moment.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I think FE is on holiday somewhere, so we're just going to have to imagine that he is driving.
Do you suppose that that will be good enough?
Do you suppose that that will be good enough?
I'm sure there's a good reason why JL hasn't bowled Arul, when he did so well yesterday.
In the end, he had a very brief go before the new ball. Definitely seemed odd though, from this distance. I can't imagine that bowler's foot-marks etc suddenly became less pronounced over night.
Suppiah strikes, with his first ball I think. He'll be replacing Cook AND Monty at this rate.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
S M Ervine lbw b Suppiah.
I refer you to my earlier post about how we should try Arul early in Ervine's innings, bearing in mind his success against the likes of Lumb and Carberry (LHBs) the day before.
I refer you to my earlier post about how we should try Arul early in Ervine's innings, bearing in mind his success against the likes of Lumb and Carberry (LHBs) the day before.
Pete is being given a chance with a newish ball for the first time in a while..
Doesn't quite seem to be happening for us today. Crawley is doing a bit of a Collingwood job for them.
Seems odd to have been desperate for wickets not to have fallen yesterday and for them to fall today.
Seems odd to have been desperate for wickets not to have fallen yesterday and for them to fall today.
Just have to hope to God that Yorks can hold out. Otherwise, the Durham lead is going to be really rather substantial.
Hamposhire are blocking and JL is shifting things about in order to keep them thinking and unsettled....shame Max isn't fit.
Stiff being used in the 105th just before Tea.
Stiff being used in the 105th just before Tea.
Question to those a lot closer to the action than I am:
Has AC played his last Championship game for SCCC ?
Very difficult decision for JL/BR etc., but I do wonder if time has finally caught up with the big man. (I also wonder if we would have been better off with Steff in the team in this game & Andy going to Derbyshire on loan !).
Massive respect for AC who has achieved truckloads for us over the last decade & a half, but I do wonder whether the time has come.
What's the concensus over there ?
Grizzzly
Has AC played his last Championship game for SCCC ?
Very difficult decision for JL/BR etc., but I do wonder if time has finally caught up with the big man. (I also wonder if we would have been better off with Steff in the team in this game & Andy going to Derbyshire on loan !).
Massive respect for AC who has achieved truckloads for us over the last decade & a half, but I do wonder whether the time has come.
What's the concensus over there ?
Grizzzly
Strongly suspect that ARC would not have consented to going to Derbys!!!!!!
To be honest, if you look at the wickets taken in this particular game, Caddy does not look like he's been much more ineffective than Willow, for instance.
He's always needed a ton of bowling to get himself right. I would be surprised if they give up on him just yet. I think he'll get another couple of CC games and then, if it does not happen...
Having said that, I don't necessarily think they'll be the next couple of games. I suspect we'll continue to pick ARC at home, based on his historic knack of wicket-taking on Mr Frost's strips. Away from home, I think it's more likely that we'll go with one of the young wrist-spinners, instead.
To be honest, if you look at the wickets taken in this particular game, Caddy does not look like he's been much more ineffective than Willow, for instance.
He's always needed a ton of bowling to get himself right. I would be surprised if they give up on him just yet. I think he'll get another couple of CC games and then, if it does not happen...
Having said that, I don't necessarily think they'll be the next couple of games. I suspect we'll continue to pick ARC at home, based on his historic knack of wicket-taking on Mr Frost's strips. Away from home, I think it's more likely that we'll go with one of the young wrist-spinners, instead.
A very frustrating afternoon by the looks of it
Still here's hoping for worcester
Still here's hoping for worcester
Yep. Have that nasty, nagging thought at the back of my mind that Worcs have to win some time, though. And do not remember an abundance of SCCC wins at New Road.
Still, we're flying and they are struggling, so we should go there as big favourites.
Still, we're flying and they are struggling, so we should go there as big favourites.
If Max is to come back for Worcs game or Munday then which seamer gets the chop?
Top 7are set in stone injuries permitting.
Charl HAS to play, so then its one from Alfie, Stiff and Caddy, tough one but i'd guess Andy may have to give way?
Top 7are set in stone injuries permitting.
Charl HAS to play, so then its one from Alfie, Stiff and Caddy, tough one but i'd guess Andy may have to give way?
Just read Langer's official comments on the other site.
I said it at the time and I'll say it again - Langer made a major tactical error, IMO, by not bowling Suppiah at Sean Ervine almost as soon as he came in. I based my original comment on the fact that Arul had done well vs the left-handers yesterday. I could not see why conditions should have changed today.
And Langer's own comments on the other site, confirm that I had guessed. Langer himself said "Arul was most effective against the left-handers because of the rough outside off-stump."
In the end, Arul got Ervine soon enough. But, who knows, had we got Ervine early then maybe we could have got Pothas with the new ball and then we'd be into Mascharenas and the tail.
Perhaps I'm clutching at straws. Perhaps Justin "KT," Langer is right?
Although the facts are that in the 2008 season, almost every home game was disrupted by rain and in those that weren't severely disrupted we managed to twice get bowled out - by Yorks and Lancs and managed, ourselves, to bowl out Kent. In 2008, I don't think there was a home game in which significant time was not lost to the weather, in which there was not a result?
This game saw one session lost - would it have made the key difference? Who knows? What is the key difference between a day 3 and a day 4 Taunton pitch? Langer claims that even if we had Murali it would not have made a difference!
I said it at the time and I'll say it again - Langer made a major tactical error, IMO, by not bowling Suppiah at Sean Ervine almost as soon as he came in. I based my original comment on the fact that Arul had done well vs the left-handers yesterday. I could not see why conditions should have changed today.
And Langer's own comments on the other site, confirm that I had guessed. Langer himself said "Arul was most effective against the left-handers because of the rough outside off-stump."
In the end, Arul got Ervine soon enough. But, who knows, had we got Ervine early then maybe we could have got Pothas with the new ball and then we'd be into Mascharenas and the tail.
Perhaps I'm clutching at straws. Perhaps Justin "KT," Langer is right?
Although the facts are that in the 2008 season, almost every home game was disrupted by rain and in those that weren't severely disrupted we managed to twice get bowled out - by Yorks and Lancs and managed, ourselves, to bowl out Kent. In 2008, I don't think there was a home game in which significant time was not lost to the weather, in which there was not a result?
This game saw one session lost - would it have made the key difference? Who knows? What is the key difference between a day 3 and a day 4 Taunton pitch? Langer claims that even if we had Murali it would not have made a difference!
Just saw yesterday's highlights and, having seen them, it's no wonder we didn't win today.
After all, Hants totally threw their wickets away in slap-dash fashion and, one imagines, their batsmen would have been hung, drawn and quartered had they done that again.
Of all the dismissals, the closest to being an authentic one was, probably, Arul's first-innings dismissal of Sean Ervine, via a leading edge.
Stiff got seriously lucky - as he himself was big enough to concede on the other site. Each of his wickets - other than Carberry - was from a really wide ball, which was met with a wild slash or extravagant attempt at a drive. He seems to be a golden arm and more power to him but one imagines he will have to bowl a good deal straighter to sustain this kind of wicket-taking form.
After all, Hants totally threw their wickets away in slap-dash fashion and, one imagines, their batsmen would have been hung, drawn and quartered had they done that again.
Of all the dismissals, the closest to being an authentic one was, probably, Arul's first-innings dismissal of Sean Ervine, via a leading edge.
Stiff got seriously lucky - as he himself was big enough to concede on the other site. Each of his wickets - other than Carberry - was from a really wide ball, which was met with a wild slash or extravagant attempt at a drive. He seems to be a golden arm and more power to him but one imagines he will have to bowl a good deal straighter to sustain this kind of wicket-taking form.
I think we were a spinner light. The injury to Max was a problem for us. Then again, had Max been available then Stiff would not have bowled because Caddick would have and we might have been inthe same position.
Omari wasn't avaiable and the powers seem to have lost all faith in Munday based on his seconds performances. There was Wes but they have even less faith in his bowling it seems.
Unfortunate really. But you are right AG Hampshire did through a few away.
Omari wasn't avaiable and the powers seem to have lost all faith in Munday based on his seconds performances. There was Wes but they have even less faith in his bowling it seems.
Unfortunate really. But you are right AG Hampshire did through a few away.
They've got Duncan Fletcher there at the moment, Grockle.
One can only imagine what he would have said in response to those first-innings shots!
One can only imagine what he would have said in response to those first-innings shots!
He was here day 1 and 2,,, don't think he stayed for three.
Crawley played well - very patient man.
Crawley played well - very patient man.
Twenty wickets at Taunton was always going to be a big ask.
Now teams will be wary on the declaration front it will only get tougher for us.
It seems a draw at home, win away strategy is the best we can hope for, pretty extraordinary when you think about it.
The problem is Taunton's pitches are too good, they don't disintegrate on the 3 and 4th days and the only help a boiwler gets if there's a little grass or moisture, otherwise it's a batters paradise.
Clearly we have a spinner issue. Suppiah filled in manfully, but he's not a matchwinner and we need a specialist. I'm troubled by the management's lack of confidence in Munday whose career is in trouble. Surely he's got to be worth a go at the expense of Caddick who's just not delivering.
Messrs Rose, Langer and Frost have to come up with a wicket taking strategy at Taunton. The old Weston festival would really have helped us on this situation, but the club prefers to play in a half empty stadium in an obscure county ground rather than take cricket to the people.
Now teams will be wary on the declaration front it will only get tougher for us.
It seems a draw at home, win away strategy is the best we can hope for, pretty extraordinary when you think about it.
The problem is Taunton's pitches are too good, they don't disintegrate on the 3 and 4th days and the only help a boiwler gets if there's a little grass or moisture, otherwise it's a batters paradise.
Clearly we have a spinner issue. Suppiah filled in manfully, but he's not a matchwinner and we need a specialist. I'm troubled by the management's lack of confidence in Munday whose career is in trouble. Surely he's got to be worth a go at the expense of Caddick who's just not delivering.
Messrs Rose, Langer and Frost have to come up with a wicket taking strategy at Taunton. The old Weston festival would really have helped us on this situation, but the club prefers to play in a half empty stadium in an obscure county ground rather than take cricket to the people.
Why did Mr Langer mention Muttiah Muralitheran (even if we had Muttiah Muralitheran in the side I don’t think it would have made any difference) was he afraid to mention Mushtaq Ahmed who took wickets on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd or forth days when he played here?
Why did he take Arul Suppiah off when he took a wicket with his first ball of a new spell?
Mr Langer if the Taunton pitches are so batter friendly how come you have only scored 58 runs in the last three innings there?
Edited to add the last bit.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:13:21:56:27 by Mike BOS.
Why did he take Arul Suppiah off when he took a wicket with his first ball of a new spell?
Mr Langer if the Taunton pitches are so batter friendly how come you have only scored 58 runs in the last three innings there?
Edited to add the last bit.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:13:21:56:27 by Mike BOS.
That's an excellent point Mike & one that I hadn't thought of.
Spent many a happy day watching Mushy get batsmen in all kinds of trouble at Taunton, whatever day of the game it was !
Maybe he was just that much better than any other slow bowler we've ever seen ?
Grizzzly
Spent many a happy day watching Mushy get batsmen in all kinds of trouble at Taunton, whatever day of the game it was !
Maybe he was just that much better than any other slow bowler we've ever seen ?
Grizzzly
Not for the first time our tactics have been found wanting. Pace was clearly not working so we needed variation and spin was just that. Arul proved in the first innings that he could change things, but maybe we were playing for a draw. Unlikely, but I can find no other explanation for such dozy tactics.
I think is not too keen on slow left armers!
Not the first time he's done that Mike.
Very puzzling.
Not the first time he's done that Mike.
Very puzzling.
Unfortunately the tactics were determined by the players available to do the job and pace worked yesterday so I suppose the hope was that it would do the same today. Before there are questions about the medium pace option. Langer did try it with ZdB and it gave us very very little. Hampshire were cannier in the second knock as well.
Apart from Stiff taking five wickets in the first innings Arul Suppiah was our most successful bowler in the match.
He took 2 for 27 off only 10 overs in the first innings.
In the second innings he took 3 for 58 off 24 overs, most of those overs were bowled on the third day; I wish I knew how many he bowled on the last day I don’t think it was many!
He took 2 for 27 off only 10 overs in the first innings.
In the second innings he took 3 for 58 off 24 overs, most of those overs were bowled on the third day; I wish I knew how many he bowled on the last day I don’t think it was many!
Well he bowled none in the first session Mike, bowled with the old ball for about three before the change at 84 overs and then did spells between the pace men during the afternoon. I doubt it was more than 10 in all.
We needed another man. It probably should have been spin from at least one end from very near to the beginning of the day.
Day 3 seems to have been the unusual day NOT Day 4
But please don't forget that this was a RAIN AFFECTED game. It was not a 4 day game.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:13:23:55:29 by Grockle.
We needed another man. It probably should have been spin from at least one end from very near to the beginning of the day.
Day 3 seems to have been the unusual day NOT Day 4
But please don't forget that this was a RAIN AFFECTED game. It was not a 4 day game.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:13:23:55:29 by Grockle.
I sat on Gimblett's Hill for an hour on Saturday morning and watched this game, regretting the fact that I had other jobs to do. As it turned out, I saw 5 wickets fall, and possibly the game's most exciting passage of play.
Three points:
- Carberry/Stiff were most entertaining to watch
- Gimblett's hill is a joy
- The font size used on the Andy Caddick pavilion/hub is a good deal smaller than that used on the Marcus Trescothick or Sir Ian Botham Stands. A good deal smaller.
Three points:
- Carberry/Stiff were most entertaining to watch
- Gimblett's hill is a joy
- The font size used on the Andy Caddick pavilion/hub is a good deal smaller than that used on the Marcus Trescothick or Sir Ian Botham Stands. A good deal smaller.
Quote:bloke
The font size used on the Andy Caddick pavilion/hub is a good deal smaller than that used on the Marcus Trescothick or Sir Ian Botham Stands. A good deal smaller.
Perhaps someone's in for a Baptism of fire.
It wasn’t all doom and gloom on the last day every day as its moments.
Day 4 photos.
Two of our bowlers tried the short ball with good effect but without any luck.
Thomas tried the short ball against J Crawley and had him in all sorts of trouble.
The next two was from Caddick against Ervine.
Ervine in particular didn’t like the short ball from Caddick.
What I would have like to have seen was a close fielder in for the short ball to catch any ball that popped up off the bat or glove.
J Crawley was lucky with an inside edge going between the stumps and the pads.
The one wicket we managed in the morning was Peter Trego trapping Dawson LBW.
Day 4 photos.
Two of our bowlers tried the short ball with good effect but without any luck.
Thomas tried the short ball against J Crawley and had him in all sorts of trouble.
The next two was from Caddick against Ervine.
Ervine in particular didn’t like the short ball from Caddick.
What I would have like to have seen was a close fielder in for the short ball to catch any ball that popped up off the bat or glove.
J Crawley was lucky with an inside edge going between the stumps and the pads.
The one wicket we managed in the morning was Peter Trego trapping Dawson LBW.
Well done Mike for capturing these balls...which must have been the only ones that did anything on the pitch that has been classified by those in the know as a 'graveyard'.
Graveyard?
I thought it was a motorway.
Maybe a motorway graveyard.
Or perhaps a graveyard motorway.
Maybe a motoryard?
Or possibly a graveway?
The choice is yours.
I thought it was a motorway.
Maybe a motorway graveyard.
Or perhaps a graveyard motorway.
Maybe a motoryard?
Or possibly a graveway?
The choice is yours.
Sounds like the churchyard has expanded rather than contracted this season - or they are playing on hard gravy.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
"Messrs Rose, Langer and Frost have to come up with a wicket taking strategy at Taunton."
I may be wrong about this, KT, but I suspect that 'wicket-taking strategy,' is not a term which exists on Mr Phil Frost's job description.
That part of the equation is - emphatically - the responsibility of Rose and Langer (plus, of course, all those that the duo pick to play for us.
I suspect that Langer's complaints might mean that we start our next CC game on a pitch that may have been used for, say, two Pro 40 games i.e. 160 overs. That MIGHT lead to sufficient turn on day four, if we're lucky..
I may be wrong about this, KT, but I suspect that 'wicket-taking strategy,' is not a term which exists on Mr Phil Frost's job description.
That part of the equation is - emphatically - the responsibility of Rose and Langer (plus, of course, all those that the duo pick to play for us.
I suspect that Langer's complaints might mean that we start our next CC game on a pitch that may have been used for, say, two Pro 40 games i.e. 160 overs. That MIGHT lead to sufficient turn on day four, if we're lucky..
And we have any spinners that can take advantage of it. The KT reference to Frosty is usually in relation to him manipulating the pitch in Somerset's favour according to the side picked by Mr Langer and Mr Rose.
A highly "commendable" way to attempt to win a game. But I suppose it's OK because "everyone else does it".
The problem usually is that you have to work out a way of fixing the toss as well and that hasn't been perfected yet (at least I hope not).
A highly "commendable" way to attempt to win a game. But I suppose it's OK because "everyone else does it".
The problem usually is that you have to work out a way of fixing the toss as well and that hasn't been perfected yet (at least I hope not).
Quite so, Grockle.
And that's where we tripped up last year, being inserted on damp tracks at home.
And that's where we tripped up last year, being inserted on damp tracks at home.
Quote:Big Jim
I knew I could rely on my Granddad to give us the definitive answer.
Why don't you just admit, BJ, that your real name is Little Litle LoL?
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I think the club is entitled to look to the groundsman to help.
Home advantage is not as pronounced in cricket as in other sports.
Yet it's a bit silly that we perform less well at home. Although it's the same for both sides, such a batting friendly pitch will disadvantage the team needing victories for their Championship push - in this case us.
I would love to hear Frosty's side to it, what he feels has changed in cricket and to what extent the science of pitch preparation has improved and much bigger bats are a factor.
Home advantage is not as pronounced in cricket as in other sports.
Yet it's a bit silly that we perform less well at home. Although it's the same for both sides, such a batting friendly pitch will disadvantage the team needing victories for their Championship push - in this case us.
I would love to hear Frosty's side to it, what he feels has changed in cricket and to what extent the science of pitch preparation has improved and much bigger bats are a factor.
I'm not sure you would KT after the criticism you've sent his way over the last couple of years.
I was having a laugh to myself Grockle and thinking I would like to be there when he told him who he was.
Why don't I meet Mr Frost, KT, and you meet Paul Collingwood?
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
There wouldn't be many words you could repeat if we heard from Frosty on this matter, think thats a safe bet...
I've never met Phil Frost, but I think it's entirely legitimate there should be debate about his role in the same way there is about the players.
We say what we think about the former, why not the latter.
I would greatly welcome Phil Frost's input as our knowledge of the situation is incomplete without it.
What challenges does he face? How has cricket changed? Is there any way to help the spinners?
The idea he's some sort of semi divine figure whose judgement can't be questioned is a little odd.
We say what we think about the former, why not the latter.
I would greatly welcome Phil Frost's input as our knowledge of the situation is incomplete without it.
What challenges does he face? How has cricket changed? Is there any way to help the spinners?
The idea he's some sort of semi divine figure whose judgement can't be questioned is a little odd.
You never see anybody else on here pick on one person and mention him in almost every post we make.
That is the difference.
That is the difference.
"The idea he's some sort of semi divine figure whose judgement can't be questioned is a little odd."
There is no evidence that his 'judgement,' is actually wrong. There is no evidence that HE has done something to our pitch to render it so flat.
It's more likely that Taunton has always been a good track, that it's naturally flattened out a bit over the years and that, as you suggest, all of the other changes to the game that have favoured the bat have made things increasinsly difficult.
Here's the question for you, KT;
If Mr Frost COULD make the pitch quicker and bouncier, do you not think he would do so? Or do you suppose he derives some kind of pleasure from denying Rose and Langer what they so obviously want?
{There are no ECB penalties for quick and bouncy pitches, only for excessively wet, dry or uneven ones}
There is no evidence that his 'judgement,' is actually wrong. There is no evidence that HE has done something to our pitch to render it so flat.
It's more likely that Taunton has always been a good track, that it's naturally flattened out a bit over the years and that, as you suggest, all of the other changes to the game that have favoured the bat have made things increasinsly difficult.
Here's the question for you, KT;
If Mr Frost COULD make the pitch quicker and bouncier, do you not think he would do so? Or do you suppose he derives some kind of pleasure from denying Rose and Langer what they so obviously want?
{There are no ECB penalties for quick and bouncy pitches, only for excessively wet, dry or uneven ones}
... and let us not forget that Taunton is a small ground (I'm getting as obsessed about this as fellow contributors are about their pet issues), particularly from north to south, which may well add thirty or forty runs a day (or about a thousand if Graeme Smith is batting) to the daily total that might be scored elsewhere.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
We've also been favouring wickets over to the Somerset Stand side of the ground giving one short and one long boundary.
A lot of the recent stuff here probably belongs to the TIKC thread, but I now acknowledge that Botham has been right all along. If we just posted a FTM permanently, the runs would dry up completely and we'd complain about slow scoring.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
There was an extremely strange field to Hildreth during the Hampshire match when Mascarenhas was bowling from the River end only.
Not one fielder was in the bowlers half of the pitch just Demitri...no-one else posted his side of mid-wicket. They were evenly spaced both sides but they obviously decided that DM's line would not offer James the opportunity to drive at all. It worked but I'm not surre how much of it was luck and how much judgement. Never seen it before.
Not one fielder was in the bowlers half of the pitch just Demitri...no-one else posted his side of mid-wicket. They were evenly spaced both sides but they obviously decided that DM's line would not offer James the opportunity to drive at all. It worked but I'm not surre how much of it was luck and how much judgement. Never seen it before.
... wouldn't have suited my hero, St Paul of Shotley Bridge.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Frosty is definitely not some kind of divine figure and I'm sure he would have a very good persepctive on the nature of the changes in cricket and the demands of a groundsman. As you say an analysis of the situation is impossible without his expert input.
That would be your main problem in a one on one conversation with him KT. For the past three years, without looking at the pitch situation day in and day out yourself or even seeing much cricket on it, you have been pontificating on what Frosty has been doing wrong as if you have the same expert eye for the problem as he has.
Your evidence has been at best second hand and quite often text based from match reports. Yet you have brooked no suggestion that your analysis might be even slightly wrong in all that time.
Now I know that Phil is well aware of what is posted on these threads while he does not really have the right of reply (even if he wanted to have).
I don't really see how a conversation with him would help you...unless any counter argument to your main thesis was going to be listened to when given by the man who works the pitch to much acclaim.
That hasn't worked with you when any other eye witness to a game has explained the flaws in your theory so I doubt Phil would be of much value unless he agreed with you wholeheartedly...which is highly unlikely to be the case I'm afraid.
Next time we're down we'll ask him what his view is and if it is repeatable I'll post it for you. Don't hold your breath though given past references including your monicker.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:15:13:08:54 by Grockle.
That would be your main problem in a one on one conversation with him KT. For the past three years, without looking at the pitch situation day in and day out yourself or even seeing much cricket on it, you have been pontificating on what Frosty has been doing wrong as if you have the same expert eye for the problem as he has.
Your evidence has been at best second hand and quite often text based from match reports. Yet you have brooked no suggestion that your analysis might be even slightly wrong in all that time.
Now I know that Phil is well aware of what is posted on these threads while he does not really have the right of reply (even if he wanted to have).
I don't really see how a conversation with him would help you...unless any counter argument to your main thesis was going to be listened to when given by the man who works the pitch to much acclaim.
That hasn't worked with you when any other eye witness to a game has explained the flaws in your theory so I doubt Phil would be of much value unless he agreed with you wholeheartedly...which is highly unlikely to be the case I'm afraid.
Next time we're down we'll ask him what his view is and if it is repeatable I'll post it for you. Don't hold your breath though given past references including your monicker.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:15:13:08:54 by Grockle.
"We've also been favouring wickets over to the Somerset Stand side of the ground giving one short and one long boundary."
Any idea why that might be, Grockle?
I wonder if - shock horror - Mr Frost picked them because they might actually be slightly less flat than some of the others? i.e doing his best to do his captain's bidding without lowering himself to attempting to produce an execrable wicket.
Any idea why that might be, Grockle?
I wonder if - shock horror - Mr Frost picked them because they might actually be slightly less flat than some of the others? i.e doing his best to do his captain's bidding without lowering himself to attempting to produce an execrable wicket.
And, yes, before the Pedants' league strikes, I should have said SCCC's captain and not 'his captain,' since Langer is not Frost's captain.
Not sure AG but the Yorkies especially were not pleased by the 50 yard boundary on the 'Caddyshack' side.
Most of Trego's boundaries came on that side but he hammered as many to the MT Stand.
The outfield is quite fast to the midwicket boundaries although the run to the River end was much slower in the last couple of games.
Most of Trego's boundaries came on that side but he hammered as many to the MT Stand.
The outfield is quite fast to the midwicket boundaries although the run to the River end was much slower in the last couple of games.
Interesting point that. AGod: presumably Mr Frost's captain is Mr Gould - or is it Mr Rose?
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Well he used to have run ins with Peter A in the old days so it suggests its Gouldy...but the cricket people must be involved in discussions
"Most of Trego's boundaries came on that side but he hammered as many to the MT Stand."
The Pedants' League won't have that, Grockle!!!!
The Pedants' League won't have that, Grockle!!!!
"I wonder if - shock horror - Mr Frost picked them because they might actually be slightly less flat than some of the others."
Indeed - this is another mystery of the pitch-preparation world that intrigues me. We all know that Banger, famously, got his international break after a great innings on what Duncan Fletcher described as a 'fast and bouncy pitch against Jacques Kallis, bowling at his fastest and armed with a new ball."
How was it that one pitch on the strip could be so much faster and bouncier than the others? (I don't recall a ton of comment in the media about other pitches being so fast and bouncy?)
Indeed - this is another mystery of the pitch-preparation world that intrigues me. We all know that Banger, famously, got his international break after a great innings on what Duncan Fletcher described as a 'fast and bouncy pitch against Jacques Kallis, bowling at his fastest and armed with a new ball."
How was it that one pitch on the strip could be so much faster and bouncier than the others? (I don't recall a ton of comment in the media about other pitches being so fast and bouncy?)
I note that MKM again bowled with great economy in the second team. One can only surmise that he must not be bowling many very bad balls because a long hop or full toss is a long hop or full toss at any level of the game?
Went for about two an over on day one vs Surrey, who made 300 for 8. Turner took 3, MKM 2, Big Ben 2.
Went for about two an over on day one vs Surrey, who made 300 for 8. Turner took 3, MKM 2, Big Ben 2.
The pedants will be bothered as to the spelling of Ms Tate's first name - but I couldn't possibly comment.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
There are only so many first class pitches available on the square that can be used through out the season, some will be in the middle of the square (TV matches) and others matches on the rest of the square, this will happen at all grounds the only difference being the bigger grounds may not have to use minimum 50 yard boundary’s.
At some time during the season all will be used because of so many matches throughout the season and most groundsmen do like using fresh pitches when possible.
.
At some time during the season all will be used because of so many matches throughout the season and most groundsmen do like using fresh pitches when possible.
.
Not this season Mike, Very very little has been used in the middle. It has nearly all been over to the Somerset side...even the TV matches.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:15:14:17:16 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:15:14:17:16 by Grockle.
'Twas Mike, rather than me.
But it makes me wonder if, maybe, Frosty is saving those pitches in the middle for potentially decisive games, later in the season. Maybe some of them having something a bit more spicy about them?
But it makes me wonder if, maybe, Frosty is saving those pitches in the middle for potentially decisive games, later in the season. Maybe some of them having something a bit more spicy about them?
My reference to TV matches was for flood-lit matches later on in the season, the middle pitches are the only ones wired for the stump mike.
edited to add a bit more.
with so many women's games played in such a short time it could be that the east side needs time to recover before using them later in the season.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:15:15:49:51 by Mike BOS.
edited to add a bit more.
with so many women's games played in such a short time it could be that the east side needs time to recover before using them later in the season.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:07:15:15:49:51 by Mike BOS.
All that sweeping and dusting after each match - you just can't stop 'em.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
"with so many women's games played in such a short time it could be that the east side needs time to recover before using them later in the season.
"
Yep, would seem to make sense, Mike.
"
Yep, would seem to make sense, Mike.
Good Point Mike - they would have used the stump mikes - that explains a lot. What a clever little photographer you are.
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