Somerset
The Championship is on its way Durham at Durham
By Grockle et al
April 11 2016
It has been a decade since we dragged ourselves out of the second division of the County Championshi[ and established our credentials with the top sides in English domestic cricket. After watching 'Death of a Gentleman' last week, one wonders whether we will get to hold the CC1 trophy before it cease to exist!!
V DURHAM CC1 @ Chester le Street Sunday 10 April 2016
It has been a decade since we dragged ourselves out of the second division of the CC and established our credentials with the top sides in English domestic cricket. After watching 'Death of a Gentleman' last week, one wonders whether we will get to hold the CC1 trophy before it ceases to exist. But 2016 is upon us and we start the campaign again in the freezing cold of the North East against Durham - not opposition you would choose for your first outing as they usually have a bunch of frustrated bowlers who have not toured with England over the winter and want to establish their position as international contenders very early in the season.
With a new captain in Aussie Chris Rogers taking the boys out on to the pitch there is a bit of zip in the step of our players. Marcus Trescothick is still opening with his skipper coming in at 3. Banger's opening partner is Tom Abell who has now established himself in that slot and is looking ofrward to a long and illustrious career in that position. We are looking for a lot from that front three - we've been struggling to get an established one the last 3 or 4 years and it now feels a little more stable than it has since Arul Suppiah called it a day due to injury.
One feels that Marcus may have another season in his 40 year old body but not more than that. It isn't that he is struggling with the batting aspect but the physical demands of a season of professional cricket will take its toll in other ways. He's surprised us up until now so that assessment may be totally incorrect. There is a man called Adam Hose waiting in the wings for one of these spots and he may be knocking on the door before the end of September one imagines.
It isn't in the batting that we have worries this season. Our bowling resources have not really been strengthened during the off season and we have lost a talisman in Alfonso Thomas who will be plying his trade with Devon it seems during the 2016 summer. Our only real additions during the break have been in the slower department and not necessarily to be involved int he longer format. Reolof van der Merwe is her for his second stint and his canny bowling may be an asset to the longer game but he is here to bolster our middle order in the short formats as well. Yasir Arafat has been employed specifically for that format and other than those two the new additions are expected to come from the younger end of the rosta, either through from the Academy or from players contracted last year and extended for this.
Josh Davey, the Scottish seamer may very well get his chance early to show what he can do in his four day debut. We expect him to play against Durham as both the Overton twins are unavailable. Craig was penalised for being daft at the end of last season and will miss this game while his brother Jamie has sustained an injury and is unavailable. Josh will therefore join the old guard of Tim Goenewald plus the younger Lewis Gregory in the new ball attack while veterans Peter Trego and Jim Allenby provide backup. We are also missing our spin option as Jack Leach, our championship 'go to' spinner now sustained an injury in the friendlies and can't play. This is something he seems to do to often. He gets himself in a postion to extend his career and then gets injured and we have to hold fire on the rise fo the Leach.
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Discussion started by Grockles.com , 11/04/2016 12:51
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11/04/2016 12:51
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:16:09:19:15 by Grockle.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:16:09:19:15 by Grockle.
Durham Sunday, what do we know.
Cove + Jove confirmed absent through bans/injury.
Not aware of any other unavailability other than Jacks back maybe?
We know Stokes unavailable for them, not sure how much Colly has practices over last month or so sat in the England T20 dugout. Would expect Wood, Rushworth, Onions sadly.
I'm going for the following 11, really cant see any other realistic alternative personally.....
Tres, Tom, Chris, James, RVDM, Jim, Pete, Ryan, Lewis, Josh, Tim
Only 3 more days to wait.....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:09:06:58:38 by Grockle.
Cove + Jove confirmed absent through bans/injury.
Not aware of any other unavailability other than Jacks back maybe?
We know Stokes unavailable for them, not sure how much Colly has practices over last month or so sat in the England T20 dugout. Would expect Wood, Rushworth, Onions sadly.
I'm going for the following 11, really cant see any other realistic alternative personally.....
Tres, Tom, Chris, James, RVDM, Jim, Pete, Ryan, Lewis, Josh, Tim
Only 3 more days to wait.....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:09:06:58:38 by Grockle.
Not a good thing when an XI is considered to almost pick itself, really.
That said, I hope that Mr Maynard is not going to stick with Allenby all season again if he 'performs,' like he did last season. I'd hope that a Hose or a Bartlett would be given a chance instead if Allenby looks no nearer to proving himself in Div One over the first handful of CC games this season. I'd give him no more than five games to do so (which would mean he'd been given 21 CC1 games in total - more than enough rope, IMO. And, no a pre-season ton against a CC2 team proves nothing - we already knew he was a proven player at CC2 level.
Do we know what the nature of Jamie's injury is and how long he is likely to be out?
That said, I hope that Mr Maynard is not going to stick with Allenby all season again if he 'performs,' like he did last season. I'd hope that a Hose or a Bartlett would be given a chance instead if Allenby looks no nearer to proving himself in Div One over the first handful of CC games this season. I'd give him no more than five games to do so (which would mean he'd been given 21 CC1 games in total - more than enough rope, IMO. And, no a pre-season ton against a CC2 team proves nothing - we already knew he was a proven player at CC2 level.
Do we know what the nature of Jamie's injury is and how long he is likely to be out?
Let's not write off the DoC even before the season starts!
Injuries are frustrating. But more so for the players concerned.
As for me I have my usual pre-season rush of quite optimism that a change of captain, a stronger batting line-up and some bowlers due to step up will mean a good season .
Injuries are frustrating. But more so for the players concerned.
As for me I have my usual pre-season rush of quite optimism that a change of captain, a stronger batting line-up and some bowlers due to step up will mean a good season .
We need a wicket taker to open with the new ball, Peter Trego (PT) only took 28 first class wickets last season @ average of 37.
TG and LG have generally opened the bowling in recent friendlies, haven't they, incl Lancs this week - can't see why we'd do anything other than continue with that?
There could be an argument re: accuracy in terms of the new ball bowling on what is liable to be a very helpful track for seamers of all hues. Accuracy is not really a strong-point for LG and TG has less accuracy, IMO, than one would hope for from a bowler of his modest pace.
But if we want our most accurate seamer to have the new ball, that would mean giving it to Allenby, rather than Trego.
I do think that accuracy is absolutely paramount up at CLS. Mr Maynard has already said as much. It's likely to be a low-scoring game and so we cannot be giving anything away. This is why I don't think that Jamie Overton is actually any kind of a miss at all for a trip to CLS.
Allenby apart, we don't really have anybody to compare with Onions and Rushworth in terms of accuracy (and, of course Allenby is much more modest in pace than either of those two).
On paper, we do have the stronger batting line-up of the two sides and we shall have to hope that this strength makes it onto grass...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:07:12:08:13 by AG on apple.
But if we want our most accurate seamer to have the new ball, that would mean giving it to Allenby, rather than Trego.
I do think that accuracy is absolutely paramount up at CLS. Mr Maynard has already said as much. It's likely to be a low-scoring game and so we cannot be giving anything away. This is why I don't think that Jamie Overton is actually any kind of a miss at all for a trip to CLS.
Allenby apart, we don't really have anybody to compare with Onions and Rushworth in terms of accuracy (and, of course Allenby is much more modest in pace than either of those two).
On paper, we do have the stronger batting line-up of the two sides and we shall have to hope that this strength makes it onto grass...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:07:12:08:13 by AG on apple.
I think we all knew that our bowling was weak, especially in the absence of C.Overton but as the days tick down reality iS hitting home.
That being said I have a sneaky feeling that Tim G is going to go well up there and the new toss rule will hopefully swing things our way.
Crucial that Tom Abell goes well early on and he established himseLf. It really looks like a top class Batting Line Up right down to a decent number 11
That being said I have a sneaky feeling that Tim G is going to go well up there and the new toss rule will hopefully swing things our way.
Crucial that Tom Abell goes well early on and he established himseLf. It really looks like a top class Batting Line Up right down to a decent number 11
I think the toss rule is liable to be marginal (in its effect) at CLS - Durham are unlikely to deliberately start the pitch off knee deep in grass and damp, IMO, in part because of the new rule.
But it's April, and not even quite Mid-April at that - the water-table is likely to be high enough that the pitch will probably do a considerable amount throughout the game.
Where being able to bowl first really figures to make a big difference is when either early damp or overhead conditions make batting on day one very much more difficult than batting on subsequent days. I just think batting will be tough every day at CLS.
But it's April, and not even quite Mid-April at that - the water-table is likely to be high enough that the pitch will probably do a considerable amount throughout the game.
Where being able to bowl first really figures to make a big difference is when either early damp or overhead conditions make batting on day one very much more difficult than batting on subsequent days. I just think batting will be tough every day at CLS.
You may criticise Allenby's ton against the opposition but it is more than others did so in our present line-up it means something.
If he's on form let him play against the Div 1 'elite' bowling and see what he can do. You can only score runs against the people they put in front of you. If practice matches mean nothing there would be no point at all playing the games in the first place.
I like the faith but I think Peter is not going to show all that much this year. We've asked him to step up for many seasons. Our bowling is a worry even WITH the Overtons and will be until the men with the ball show us something different.
If he's on form let him play against the Div 1 'elite' bowling and see what he can do. You can only score runs against the people they put in front of you. If practice matches mean nothing there would be no point at all playing the games in the first place.
I like the faith but I think Peter is not going to show all that much this year. We've asked him to step up for many seasons. Our bowling is a worry even WITH the Overtons and will be until the men with the ball show us something different.
If you can't take wickets at The Riverside in April you will be in serious difficulties.
I'm sure we'll take wickets, Chunky, and - rain permitting - 20 of them, to be precise.
The question is whether we can avoid losing 20 wickets prior to reaching whatever target Durham ultimately end up setting us.*
The worry is that Durham may end up getting, say, 450 for the loss of 20 wickets and SCCC prove capable, vs Onions and Rushworth (and maybe Wood, if fit) of scoring fewer than 450 runs for the loss of 20 wickets.
The question is whether we can avoid losing 20 wickets prior to reaching whatever target Durham ultimately end up setting us.*
The worry is that Durham may end up getting, say, 450 for the loss of 20 wickets and SCCC prove capable, vs Onions and Rushworth (and maybe Wood, if fit) of scoring fewer than 450 runs for the loss of 20 wickets.
I suspect that we will need to hold Durham down to fewer than 400 runs in the match to have much chance of prevailing.
!2 named for trip to Durham listed in Steve Cotton's piece (link on the News thread)
M Trescothick,
T Abell,
C Rogers (capt),
J Hildreth,
J Allenby,
R van der Merwe,
P Trego,
R Davies (capt),
T Groenewald,
L Gregory,
J Davey,
B Green.
M Trescothick,
T Abell,
C Rogers (capt),
J Hildreth,
J Allenby,
R van der Merwe,
P Trego,
R Davies (capt),
T Groenewald,
L Gregory,
J Davey,
B Green.
Ha yes Mike I've just noticed that! Copied and pasted from the Post article. I've just messaged Steve to congratulate him on fast tracking the teenager to the top job! I was going to edit the post now or everyone will wonder what we were going on about.
Does anyone know if Gerry Stickley is still scorer, as I couldn't see him in team photo. Hope the journey up was better than that of Weymouth FC who took 7 hours to their overnight at Peterborough
I think I heard when I was at Taunton Vale last month he will do home games but not away, but I don't know how accurate this information is Botham
The forecast for Sunday and Monday is dry but overcast -not warm. Tuesday and Wednesday could have a few showers. The thermals are ready. Mrs GM wonders how much one has to bribe the fixture setters to get us at Durham when it isn't April or September. I t hink the key will not be the speed of the bowling but nagging accuracy so TG LG and JD might be very useful. A win would be helpful.
JD is not known for his 'nagging accuracy' Geordie. Although he might have been working on that over the winter. The nagging accuracy is sitting this one out because he couldn't keep his comments to himself.
Neither are LG or TG really. In LG's case then he will hopefully realise that - for this one - it is worth sacrificing pace for accuracy.
Having said that both JD and TG (but not LG) did seem to have accurate outings vs Lancs.
Having said that both JD and TG (but not LG) did seem to have accurate outings vs Lancs.
Quote:Bagpuss
I think I heard when I was at Taunton Vale last month he will do home games but not away, but I don't know how accurate this information is Botham
Thanks Bagpuss.
The Durham squad is as announced below. They are expecting to bat first reckoning that the ball will do a bit early. I take all the points made and agree . I think I was trying to encourage nagging accuracy as being the key and hoping that the bowlers realised it.
Stoneman
Jennings
Borthwick
Collingwood (Capt)
Richardson (WK)
Burnham
Muchall
Pringle
Arshad
Carse
Rushworth
Onions
Stoneman
Jennings
Borthwick
Collingwood (Capt)
Richardson (WK)
Burnham
Muchall
Pringle
Arshad
Carse
Rushworth
Onions
Indeed, GM.
I think Mr Maynard (to judge by his comments on the website) will be absolutely trying to drill that point home. However, no bowler is ever intentionally inaccurate (although some may consciously place a greater emphasis on pace or movement or what have you than on trying to keep it tight) so telling them is one thing and doing it..
I do think that actually Mr Allenby might be important for this one because he is naturally extremely accurate. For the first 3 months or so of last season, Mr Allenby was (if I remember correctly) by some distance the most accurate (as judged by economy rate) bowler in CC1.
I know nothing of Carse or Burnham. Pringle is an off-spinner. Maybe Durham will go with Shane Warne's oft-repeated dictum "If there's seam, there will be turn"?
I saw Arshad play at Northampton the season before last and he looked a thoroughly useful cricketer to me. He and Pringle can both bat a bit but, nevertheless, unless Burnham/Carse are good with the bat, then I am glad that we don't have a tail of the sort of length that Durham look to have for this one.
I think Mr Maynard (to judge by his comments on the website) will be absolutely trying to drill that point home. However, no bowler is ever intentionally inaccurate (although some may consciously place a greater emphasis on pace or movement or what have you than on trying to keep it tight) so telling them is one thing and doing it..
I do think that actually Mr Allenby might be important for this one because he is naturally extremely accurate. For the first 3 months or so of last season, Mr Allenby was (if I remember correctly) by some distance the most accurate (as judged by economy rate) bowler in CC1.
I know nothing of Carse or Burnham. Pringle is an off-spinner. Maybe Durham will go with Shane Warne's oft-repeated dictum "If there's seam, there will be turn"?
I saw Arshad play at Northampton the season before last and he looked a thoroughly useful cricketer to me. He and Pringle can both bat a bit but, nevertheless, unless Burnham/Carse are good with the bat, then I am glad that we don't have a tail of the sort of length that Durham look to have for this one.
Excited about the new season. If we bowl first at CLS, which i suppose we will unless we're barmy, I think everything will hinge on the first innings. If we let them off the hook or just don't show up, Onions and Rushworth will not make the same mistake. Spring has sprung. Roll on the cricket.
A possibility could be that when playing one day cricket for Scotland Josh Davey is aware of the need to 'mix it up a bit' so batsmen don't get used to one line and length (but doesn't always get it right). Playing 4 day cricket were accuracy is the name of the game (he's only about 80 mph) you might get a pleasant surprise.
He's not that young anymore, so it's high time to play him, and find out whether or not he's good enough.
He's not that young anymore, so it's high time to play him, and find out whether or not he's good enough.
Yes, indeed, Chunky.
13 overs for 18 vs Lancs last week on what did not exactly sound like a minefield - that seemed somewhat promising.
13 overs for 18 vs Lancs last week on what did not exactly sound like a minefield - that seemed somewhat promising.
ITS HERE!
Happy New Season everyone. Enjoy the ride even if it does get bumpy at times.
Happy New Season everyone. Enjoy the ride even if it does get bumpy at times.
Some overnight rain...the sun is peeping through the clouds.There is nothing like the anticipation of the first ball of a new season. Riverside here I come.
Yes AG. The weather is perfect and the ground should have been well covered. Just off.
Thanks, GM. May and you and Mrs GM will the boys to a highly productive first day of the new season!
I'd imagine that the old adage re: "too cold to swing," is liable to apply throughout this match.
I think most batsmen would agree that it's better to bat vs seam alone rather than vs both seam and swing.... so if it doesn't swing then I'd think that conditions for batting will be merely 'rather difficult,' as opposed to bordering on impossible.
I'd imagine that the old adage re: "too cold to swing," is liable to apply throughout this match.
I think most batsmen would agree that it's better to bat vs seam alone rather than vs both seam and swing.... so if it doesn't swing then I'd think that conditions for batting will be merely 'rather difficult,' as opposed to bordering on impossible.
Reference on commentary of four Somerset players getting their 'caps'
I assume they don't really mean 'county caps' just 'debuts'
Durham are one of those clubs that no longer award county caps- so effectively every Durham debutant gets their cap. Have Somerset gone the same way?
I hope not- because a 'county cap' should be earned after a number og good performances.
I assume they don't really mean 'county caps' just 'debuts'
Durham are one of those clubs that no longer award county caps- so effectively every Durham debutant gets their cap. Have Somerset gone the same way?
I hope not- because a 'county cap' should be earned after a number og good performances.
So off we go - and by a brilliant feat of arithmetic I have calculated we need only 320 more wickets and the championship is in the bag.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
..whereas I have similarly applied my mathematical mind and concluded that we must both hope to take 320 wickets, and out-score the opposition in every match.
If we do that, then we will indeed win the CC.
If we do that, then we will indeed win the CC.
IMO, Durham's two most dangerous batsmen are now back in the hutch.
However, there is also no disguising the fact that the run-rate conceded is not all that it might be.
Need to tighten it up from here, and start to apply some pressure by restricting runs, IMO.
However, there is also no disguising the fact that the run-rate conceded is not all that it might be.
Need to tighten it up from here, and start to apply some pressure by restricting runs, IMO.
Sounds like Trego has bowled well and been unfortunate.
Unless the track is a great deal better for batting than I expected, then I think Durham will be the happier side at lunch, though, as things stand with 9 minutes or so to go.
Unless the track is a great deal better for batting than I expected, then I think Durham will be the happier side at lunch, though, as things stand with 9 minutes or so to go.
Looks like a solid start from Josh Davey, who does not seem to have given much away.
Allenby has been very disappointing by the sounds of it.
Allenby has been very disappointing by the sounds of it.
We seem to have a very strong batting line-up.
Nice to see a pleasant young man, Josh Davey getting a chance.
Nice to see a pleasant young man, Josh Davey getting a chance.
But that's rather more like it as LG fires out LoL's erstwhile hero for 2 in 2 balls. At the very least we look back on track for our bowling points now.
He is definitely my hero today!
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Much better session all round.Probably about even money now. Need to keep them down to 250 in my opinion.
A ton, for Jennings, that one suspects would be worth many more in more benign conditions (he says ruefully).
Well done to him though.
Well done to him though.
But I suspect that they already have the sort of score that means we will either need to bat really well in our first dig, or bowl uncommonly well in their second innings, in order to give us a decent chance, batting last.
Well, off we go then. AGod has 14 posts already since the start of play. Wonder how many by close-of-play.
Well at this rate we'll be finding out how we go on this pitch very soon.
So, apparently, they can shove the lights on, if needed.
So we may have 11 or 12 overs to navigate, assuming we can wrap this up in the next 3-4 overs or so.
So we may have 11 or 12 overs to navigate, assuming we can wrap this up in the next 3-4 overs or so.
Well, that's that.
The seventh wicket partnership of 72 looks rather meaty in the context of the rest of their innings. One ton, two other guys made 30 ish, 24 extras given away not great, especially as half of them were no-balls.
We're going to need to graft really hard tonight and then for much of tomorrow, I would think.
The seventh wicket partnership of 72 looks rather meaty in the context of the rest of their innings. One ton, two other guys made 30 ish, 24 extras given away not great, especially as half of them were no-balls.
We're going to need to graft really hard tonight and then for much of tomorrow, I would think.
Excellent end to the Durham innings and young Davies on debut conceded no byes.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Do anybody else find this situation of facing 12? overs at the end of day a 
time?
time?
It sounded to me that the "young pretender was batting rather more convincingly than the old one.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
And AG has used 'first dig' for the first time....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:10:17:58:00 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:10:17:58:00 by Grockle.
Quite so, LoL.
They said that the one that got TA was the only one that beat him.
Unfortunately, one is all it takes sometimes, but still..
They said that the one that got TA was the only one that beat him.
Unfortunately, one is all it takes sometimes, but still..
Well, we usually bat ineffectively vs:
a) The moving ball
and
b) At the start of the season, full stop.
So this does not exactly count as a surprise.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:10:18:02:47 by AGod.
a) The moving ball
and
b) At the start of the season, full stop.
So this does not exactly count as a surprise.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:10:18:02:47 by AGod.
Hands up all those who thought AG would be surprised? Hands up all those who would like to face Onions on the first day of the season?
James in - never sure about the nightwatchman concept unless it's like 3 balls to face or something like that.
You are a batsman.... go and do your job.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:10:18:05:27 by Grockle.
James in - never sure about the nightwatchman concept unless it's like 3 balls to face or something like that.
You are a batsman.... go and do your job.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:10:18:05:27 by Grockle.
It's a little disconcerting when the notification of a wicket going down on the mobile is ahead of the commentary telling you that its happened. Got about a 45 second time lag presently.
Well, it's all over for today.
Rogers and Hildreth will need to put on a lot tomorrow to keep us afloat, one suspects, because - other than perhaps something bright and breezy from Trego - I would not anticipate too much else from the others up at CLS early season.
It will be a big ask for VDM in his first innings in CC cricket in England to deal with Onions and Rushworth in conditions where there is something in it for them. Ditto, a big ask for Davies in his first ever CC1 innings.
Allenby did nothing, last season, to suggest that he has the ability to deal with very good CC1 bowlers in conditions that help them and these sort of conditions are not usually ones in which a tail is particularly likely to prosper.
Rogers and Hildreth will need to put on a lot tomorrow to keep us afloat, one suspects, because - other than perhaps something bright and breezy from Trego - I would not anticipate too much else from the others up at CLS early season.
It will be a big ask for VDM in his first innings in CC cricket in England to deal with Onions and Rushworth in conditions where there is something in it for them. Ditto, a big ask for Davies in his first ever CC1 innings.
Allenby did nothing, last season, to suggest that he has the ability to deal with very good CC1 bowlers in conditions that help them and these sort of conditions are not usually ones in which a tail is particularly likely to prosper.
Clearly we are already doomed, though it's comforting to know we only need to take 310 more wickets this season.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Yes well RvdM has never been in a difficult situation before I am sure. You don't become a cricketer others want in their side unless you've coped before and possibly even gone further. But let's expect him to fail if he gets called in too early...after all that's what we signed him for isn't it?
Is this just Somerset being useless at the start of the season 'as usual' or being more useless because they have Rushworth and Onions to face as well. Day One of four. Day One of 6 months. International captain and best batsman of last season in for us... but let's not put anything on our side of the scales at all eh?
Soooooo good to be back in active service. I'm ready for Day 2.... seems to be 'game on' as far as I can see.
Is this just Somerset being useless at the start of the season 'as usual' or being more useless because they have Rushworth and Onions to face as well. Day One of four. Day One of 6 months. International captain and best batsman of last season in for us... but let's not put anything on our side of the scales at all eh?
Soooooo good to be back in active service. I'm ready for Day 2.... seems to be 'game on' as far as I can see.
A sad end to the last session but at Durham early season not a surprise neither was reading back through the usual posts, which could have been list from the last two season.
Still, onto the Golf until tomorrow's battle.
Still, onto the Golf until tomorrow's battle.
"Is this just Somerset being useless at the start of the season 'as usual' or being more useless because they have Rushworth and Onions to face as well."
Recently we always seem to play Durham right at the start of the season.
But in recent seasons, we've proven ineffectual versus teams other than Durham in the first few games (see, for example, the pathetic performance at New Road early last season).
Recently we always seem to play Durham right at the start of the season.
But in recent seasons, we've proven ineffectual versus teams other than Durham in the first few games (see, for example, the pathetic performance at New Road early last season).
I have arrived home and am attempting to thaw it, because it was cold. I was glad I was not fielding and our lads did pretty well in the field. I was worried when they had taken 5 an over from the first 16, but 21 from the next 15 was a very tight spell of bowling thanks to Davey and Trego. The problem- from where I was sitting side on seemed to be variable bounce which is why there were so many Bowled and LBW. I thought that 250 was under par and we did well. Only Jennings and Arshad looked at all comfortable. DAvies kep beautifully,
Pity we lost wickets... the morning session will be interesting as there was a bright blue sky today but still overcast forecast for tomorrow. The outfield was still damp-and causing a few slips-but I think no rain is forecast overnight. I was fairly happy-happier still if we hadn't lost MArcus/
Pity we lost wickets... the morning session will be interesting as there was a bright blue sky today but still overcast forecast for tomorrow. The outfield was still damp-and causing a few slips-but I think no rain is forecast overnight. I was fairly happy-happier still if we hadn't lost MArcus/
Quote:Nailsea_Fizz
A sad end to the last session but at Durham early season not a surprise neither was reading back through the usual posts, which could have been list from the last two season.
Still, onto the Golf until tomorrow's battle.
So could the way this game is going . So is it any wonder you think ?
The pitch looked decent to me - hard to score fluently when the bowling is accurate but once the batsmen were settled it seemed OK. I don't know what Colly would have done but my hunch is that he'd have batted first but he said last week that he's happy for the other captain to make the decision because it's rarely obvious whether batting or bowling is the right decision at CLS.
Good luck to you all for the season!
Good luck to you all for the season!
Good to hear about Davies's glove-work.
Less re-assuring to hear about uneven bounce as that is not usually something that improves as a match wears on.
Less re-assuring to hear about uneven bounce as that is not usually something that improves as a match wears on.
Quote:AGod
"Is this just Somerset being useless at the start of the season 'as usual' or being more useless because they have Rushworth and Onions to face as well."
Recently we always seem to play Durham right at the start of the season.
But in recent seasons, we've proven ineffectual versus teams other than Durham in the first few games (see, for example, the pathetic performance at New Road early last season).
Does that lot mean 'no'?
Sounds like an absorbing, if chilly day at CLS.
I would think we would happily have settled for 250 odd for Durham & all of the bowling figures look respectable. Good to hear that Davies kept well also, (perhaps those critical of MM for signing him, might wish to hold off judgement for a little longer!).
Shame about being three down. Really wonder what the point is of the night watchman ploy. What percentage of the time does it work ? Must be minimal I would think.
Anyone, tomorrow should be interesting. Let's hope we get a decent score on the board and can put them under pressure.
Grizzzly
I would think we would happily have settled for 250 odd for Durham & all of the bowling figures look respectable. Good to hear that Davies kept well also, (perhaps those critical of MM for signing him, might wish to hold off judgement for a little longer!).
Shame about being three down. Really wonder what the point is of the night watchman ploy. What percentage of the time does it work ? Must be minimal I would think.
Anyone, tomorrow should be interesting. Let's hope we get a decent score on the board and can put them under pressure.
Grizzzly
Night watchman is fine if the conditions are fairly benign for batting. In that circumstance a good ball could come along to account for the specialist batsman if he went in, but the lower-order player has a good chance of making it through to the close.
CLS in April vs Onions and Rushworth?
That demands a level of technique that many specialist batsmen are not equipped with, let alone lower-order players.
Daft.
CLS in April vs Onions and Rushworth?
That demands a level of technique that many specialist batsmen are not equipped with, let alone lower-order players.
Daft.
No, Grockle, it does not mean "no," because you did not ask a "yes/no," question, apart from anything else.
Bottom line: It's obviously not a great position to be in overnight and we will have to bat extremely well tomorrow if we are going to make a contest of this match. Realistically, we cannot afford to total fewer than 200 in our first innings, IMO.
If we do score less than 200 in our first knock, then they would be favourites even if we managed to shoot them out for 150, second time around.
Bottom line: It's obviously not a great position to be in overnight and we will have to bat extremely well tomorrow if we are going to make a contest of this match. Realistically, we cannot afford to total fewer than 200 in our first innings, IMO.
If we do score less than 200 in our first knock, then they would be favourites even if we managed to shoot them out for 150, second time around.
Especially Somerset batsmen at the start of the season against the moving ball (is there any other type if ball they face?)
I am just thankful that there are only a maximum of 63 days of CC cricket left this season.
Quote:AGod
No, Grockle, it does not mean "no," because you did not ask a "yes/no," question, apart from anything else.
Bottom line: It's obviously not a great position to be in overnight and we will have to bat extremely well tomorrow if we are going to make a contest of this match. Realistically, we cannot afford to total fewer than 200 in our first innings, IMO.
If we do score less than 200 in our first knock, then they would be favourites even if we managed to shoot them out for 150, second time around.
So the 'bottom line' is yes or no? If I didn't ask a question...then why did you feel the need to answer it?
Not sure where the cold people were today. Glorious first day of the season. I was sat at the Lumley end in the sun (I have caught the sun) and soon realised I had overclubbed with my fleece-lined walking trousers. First ice cream of the season at tea. The last bout got chilly and there was some hazy cloud.
Fingers crossed Somerset can get somewhere near Durham's total. Last season in 5/8 matches the team batting first at CLS achieved a first innings lead; in a sixth the deficit was just a handful of runs. However only two out of those six teams managed to win. In the worst case Somerset need to be close to Durham to put pressure on them in their second innings.
Fingers crossed Somerset can get somewhere near Durham's total. Last season in 5/8 matches the team batting first at CLS achieved a first innings lead; in a sixth the deficit was just a handful of runs. However only two out of those six teams managed to win. In the worst case Somerset need to be close to Durham to put pressure on them in their second innings.
Lots of cloud forecast today and then, if the Met Office soothsayers are to be believed, it is likely to rain for most of Tuesday and Wednesday.
If they are actually right than our task may be no more demanding than making sure we avoid the follow-on in the first part of the day. Having said that, with cloud cover to aid them, Durham may feel they have a real shot at taking 7 for 75 or so in order to be able to enforce it.
If they are actually right than our task may be no more demanding than making sure we avoid the follow-on in the first part of the day. Having said that, with cloud cover to aid them, Durham may feel they have a real shot at taking 7 for 75 or so in order to be able to enforce it.
You are right Bagpuss it was a beautiful day, but (sat on the member's balcony) I couldn't feel my feet by close of play-and Mrs GM said she was still thawing out at 9.00!!
Another drop of rain overnight, but the cloud cover is what was forecast yesterday. I think we shall do well to get 250 but we need to be steady . I take AG's point about the follow on. That is obviously the prime target in the circumstances.Ihave to leave at tea today and hope we shall just about be there by then
Another drop of rain overnight, but the cloud cover is what was forecast yesterday. I think we shall do well to get 250 but we need to be steady . I take AG's point about the follow on. That is obviously the prime target in the circumstances.Ihave to leave at tea today and hope we shall just about be there by then
Morning all
Belated Happy Season - been away for a while.
For those that went yesterday, any word on how Ryan Davies kept?
Thanks
Byronbay
Belated Happy Season - been away for a while.
For those that went yesterday, any word on how Ryan Davies kept?
Thanks
Byronbay
I said before the game that we could not afford to let Durham score more than 400 runs in the match, which was another way of saying I did not like our chances of scoring more than 400 in the match.
179 in the end - about what I would expect from us at CLS, to be honest.
The usual shambles in the middle, with (as per the Beeb reporters) away from the body wafts from Hildreth and VDM and a Trego 'red-bull run," accounting for the Captain.
But good to see Gregory get some runs.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:11:14:36:21 by AG on apple.
179 in the end - about what I would expect from us at CLS, to be honest.
The usual shambles in the middle, with (as per the Beeb reporters) away from the body wafts from Hildreth and VDM and a Trego 'red-bull run," accounting for the Captain.
But good to see Gregory get some runs.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:11:14:36:21 by AG on apple.
said it was a good day for a bat yesterday! this you cant bat first stuff is nonsense esp when sun is out
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:11:14:31:51 by Goonie goo goo.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:11:14:31:51 by Goonie goo goo.
Goonie- You can have the toss if you want (which then gives you a 50% chance of winning toss, and batting if you want).
Reports of our pre lunch generosity yesterday, suggest that we're either going to need help from the weather or an inspired performance by at least one of our batters.
Well, Chunky, I was expecting not a lot from JA and that's what we got. But then again anybody can get a first-baller.
What grates is Somerset's constant inability to knuckle down with the bat when conditions are difficult.
The fact that the entire innings lasted only 48 overs is typical, I'm afraid, of our innings in tough conditions.
This County will never, ever win the County Championship until they develop the habit of forcing the opposing bowlers to work for their wickets... Guys like Onions and Rushworth are good enough without our guys throwing wickets away by wafting outside off-stick.
That middle part of the innings was extremely redolent of last season's debacle at Worcester, by the sounds of it.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:11:14:41:22 by AG on apple.
What grates is Somerset's constant inability to knuckle down with the bat when conditions are difficult.
The fact that the entire innings lasted only 48 overs is typical, I'm afraid, of our innings in tough conditions.
This County will never, ever win the County Championship until they develop the habit of forcing the opposing bowlers to work for their wickets... Guys like Onions and Rushworth are good enough without our guys throwing wickets away by wafting outside off-stick.
That middle part of the innings was extremely redolent of last season's debacle at Worcester, by the sounds of it.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:11:14:41:22 by AG on apple.
Durham cruising at the start of their knock by the sounds of it with some really, really poor bowling.
I guess heads have gone down already.
I guess heads have gone down already.
Quote:chunkyinargyll
Goonie- You can have the toss if you want (which then gives you a 50% chance of winning toss, and batting if you want).
yes but we didn't though which is the point is it not- automatically assumed "oh you must bat second at CLS".
Having said that it wouldn't have mattered they are a better team than us, we have fallen so badly in CC cricket since BR left, and are so far off its unreal.
We certainly look all but nailed-on to maintain our record of having won only about one out of the last 25 season-opening CC games or whatever the ridiculous statistic is.
If it's the one sunny day of the year at Chester-le-street you should bat first.
Buck Rogers of all people should know that.
Middlesex captained by Rogers, won the toss in 2014 and asked Durham to bat first.
Not the greatest ever decision (because you know it will be cloudy the rest of the match)
[cricketarchive.co.uk]
Buck Rogers of all people should know that.
Middlesex captained by Rogers, won the toss in 2014 and asked Durham to bat first.
Not the greatest ever decision (because you know it will be cloudy the rest of the match)
[cricketarchive.co.uk]
If 'heads' have dropped on the second day of the season we are in for a Looooooong 6 months. As long as it hasn't come from Mr Gibson, has someone else at the BBC given you that perception AG or is it perceived from your intensive audio analysis?
Anyone there seen this lack of impetus and commitment please?
Anyone there seen this lack of impetus and commitment please?
I can't listen to a commentator who isn't there, Grockle, I'm afraid.
Bottom-line, I can see the scorecard - which is one that would might expect at Taunton on a sunny day in August - and I can hear the description of bowling both sides of the wicket, and I can see - as we all can - that we had an opening bowler summarily removed from the attack after one over... which presumably tells you what Mr Rogers thinks.
And, as Martin Emmerson just said "Another awful ball. Just sat up and asked for smacking."
Bottom-line, I can see the scorecard - which is one that would might expect at Taunton on a sunny day in August - and I can hear the description of bowling both sides of the wicket, and I can see - as we all can - that we had an opening bowler summarily removed from the attack after one over... which presumably tells you what Mr Rogers thinks.
And, as Martin Emmerson just said "Another awful ball. Just sat up and asked for smacking."
He was there yesterday.
I don't need the justification for what is your perception AG. All I need is an eye witness to confirm it.
Until there is it gets filed along with a lot of other stuff perceived from the scorecard.
I don't need the justification for what is your perception AG. All I need is an eye witness to confirm it.
Until there is it gets filed along with a lot of other stuff perceived from the scorecard.
Someone should tell Durham T20 doesn't start for at least another month.
So, what you are really saying, Grockle, is that the commentary doesn't count unless it is confirmed by somebody at the game.. Do you listen to the commentaries yourself? If so, why bother if you don't really believe them?
No I'm saying 'heads dropping' has to be seen and reported.
Poor play does not confirm it and you saying it based on what you think you see on the score sheet is not nearly enough to make it real.
I listen to commentaries to get a feel of a game and to hear what others see. I certainly don't get that feel from your interpretations of the same game.
Do you think that just because YOU listen to a game that the only interpretation that can be made is the one YOU make?
Poor play does not confirm it and you saying it based on what you think you see on the score sheet is not nearly enough to make it real.
I listen to commentaries to get a feel of a game and to hear what others see. I certainly don't get that feel from your interpretations of the same game.
Do you think that just because YOU listen to a game that the only interpretation that can be made is the one YOU make?
So you think that heads will be up and the side buzzing around in the field as they go around the park for seven an over having already conceded what (in the context of an early season game at CLS) was a large first-innings deficit?
Commentators said SCCC were looking fed-up, a little woe-begone etc and I have no reason to doubt that, given the situation and the rate at which we were getting creamed around the park.
Plus, we've all seen this sessions a little too often over the past few seasons........ the ones where, instead of one or two bowlers having an off-session, they all rock up and purvey pies.......
Commentators said SCCC were looking fed-up, a little woe-begone etc and I have no reason to doubt that, given the situation and the rate at which we were getting creamed around the park.
Plus, we've all seen this sessions a little too often over the past few seasons........ the ones where, instead of one or two bowlers having an off-session, they all rock up and purvey pies.......
Mr Rogers as captain should be in their earholes if that's the case. Probably wondering what he's doing accepting the position.
I don't imagine he'll be in the best of moods tonight, Ggg, between this bowling performance and him getting run out.
Hopefully, all first team players will be expected to play in the next match (some sort of University game) or, if not to play, to have long practice sessions with the coaches etc, rather than being allowed to go off and play golf, or what have you.
Hopefully, all first team players will be expected to play in the next match (some sort of University game) or, if not to play, to have long practice sessions with the coaches etc, rather than being allowed to go off and play golf, or what have you.
Of course because he'll never have been here before in his career will he?
The more things change the more they stay the same - for you on the pitch, for others... on these pages.
Going for 7 would confuse a side.... getting their house in order and sorting it out would be what a side would be expected to do... unless as seems here, they are a bunch of poor professionals with no confidence after 24 hours of a season with a captain who is regretting ever taking the job. Afternoon Goonie
It's funny to read but not all that serious.
The cricket however needs Rogers to get a hold along with a couple of bowlers by the sound of it.
Never mind better days.....The world will not end on Wednesday despite the AG post of the same date to the contrary I would assume.
The more things change the more they stay the same - for you on the pitch, for others... on these pages.
Going for 7 would confuse a side.... getting their house in order and sorting it out would be what a side would be expected to do... unless as seems here, they are a bunch of poor professionals with no confidence after 24 hours of a season with a captain who is regretting ever taking the job. Afternoon Goonie
It's funny to read but not all that serious.
The cricket however needs Rogers to get a hold along with a couple of bowlers by the sound of it.
Never mind better days.....The world will not end on Wednesday despite the AG post of the same date to the contrary I would assume.
Nah, Grockle, the world is unlikely to end on Wednesday.
And, in the cricket at CLS, if the forecast is right, we may even be bailed out by the weather.
But if the forecast is comprehensively wrong and it does not rain tomorrow, then I doubt this match will make it as far as Wednesday.
One University game and then on to the Oval for a game against a team that is likely to be down amongst the dead-men this season............ if we don't want to be down there with them, then we will need to be beating teams like Surrey.
And, in the cricket at CLS, if the forecast is right, we may even be bailed out by the weather.
But if the forecast is comprehensively wrong and it does not rain tomorrow, then I doubt this match will make it as far as Wednesday.
One University game and then on to the Oval for a game against a team that is likely to be down amongst the dead-men this season............ if we don't want to be down there with them, then we will need to be beating teams like Surrey.
Afternoon!! so Rogers needs to get a hold does he? on day 2 too who would have thought it.
Well, our new man from Down Under will certainly, by now, be aware that there is a lot of work to do to try to make this group of men into a team that is consistently competitive.
Good God - halfway through the first game and so many of our true!!!! supporters have already written off the captain, half the team, and more. I will hold my opinion until we have played half the season - my original forecast of a successful season may be proved right or wrong. I still believe that MT, CR and JH could be the highest rungetters in the 4-day games among all counties and if we get every one fit then JL and the young bowlers could come through.
Cricket is ALL about opinions if nothing else!!
Old Boy!!
Cricket is ALL about opinions if nothing else!!
Old Boy!!
Well he'll be in good company. Justin Langer managed it so it isn't impossible.
A captain has to get hold of his side any time they start to slide doesn't he Goonie? Day 1, 2, 3 or 4. First game or last. Isn't that what he's there for?
If you want to be a captain of note then you should relish a challenge.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:11:17:34:49 by Grockle.
A captain has to get hold of his side any time they start to slide doesn't he Goonie? Day 1, 2, 3 or 4. First game or last. Isn't that what he's there for?
If you want to be a captain of note then you should relish a challenge.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:11:17:34:49 by Grockle.
he will be up for a fight no doubt. Probably with Allenby and Trego after today most likely.
Anyway it looks like the heads might be moving back towards the upright and our new skipper might not have given up completely on his charges during a morning of poor cricket after a fairly decent day yesterday.
All seems not to be lost people... More than the weather may save us from ignominious defeat...well maybe.
All seems not to be lost people... More than the weather may save us from ignominious defeat...well maybe.
Less than 2 days of a long season gone, but we have already seen what is in store for the remainder.
Put frankly this squad is simply not good enough. Old Boys Trego and Trescothick hanging on with no real pressure on their places; Allenby who has been found lacking in Div 1; batters who are anything but consistent and have been so for years; no reserve in spin bowling and too many young [hurl it halfway down the wicket to be clobbered] pace men who have already been found out on the arduous county circuit.
Lots of promising young players? Name me some other than Craig Overton.
There is a hell of a lot of rebuilding of this side to be done. Frankly a few years in Div 2 to achieve this would be no bad thing.
Maybe we have found a solution to the wicketkeeper problem, but the rest of it is lacking in all quarters to mount a challenge for a high finishing position in the Championship.
The club officials have set their stall on achieving things in the one-day and T20 stuff, but have ignored the needs of the Championship although they would argue otherwise.
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
Put frankly this squad is simply not good enough. Old Boys Trego and Trescothick hanging on with no real pressure on their places; Allenby who has been found lacking in Div 1; batters who are anything but consistent and have been so for years; no reserve in spin bowling and too many young [hurl it halfway down the wicket to be clobbered] pace men who have already been found out on the arduous county circuit.
Lots of promising young players? Name me some other than Craig Overton.
There is a hell of a lot of rebuilding of this side to be done. Frankly a few years in Div 2 to achieve this would be no bad thing.
Maybe we have found a solution to the wicketkeeper problem, but the rest of it is lacking in all quarters to mount a challenge for a high finishing position in the Championship.
The club officials have set their stall on achieving things in the one-day and T20 stuff, but have ignored the needs of the Championship although they would argue otherwise.
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
A gloomy prediction and analysis there, Tom, but I do not think that it is necessarily all wrong.
Sadly Tom and Clarence I feel you are likely correct but I will retain a little optimism for a few weeks yet.
So much data to base all that on. You've outdone yourselves! (Even for some of you guys)
Do the decent thing now lads... don't go through the pain. Burn the memberships, leave the country, cancel your sports packages and put the radio on the Archers channel.
There is nothing else to do
Well except give some of us a smile.... welcome back to the Dead Zone chaps!!
I will stop laughing when you act as though this is not a kid's site.
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
Well the child in me relates directly to your level of reality Tom so we have a bit of a problem.
Hope it gets better for you then I won't find your level of despondency so funny and we'll both be in a better place.
However I can tell you that you have won the award for the most depressing early season post of all time I think.
Other than that. Hold on sir.... seems it is going to be a bumpy ride for a few weeks.
Remember however.... it IS only a game.
Hope it gets better for you then I won't find your level of despondency so funny and we'll both be in a better place.
However I can tell you that you have won the award for the most depressing early season post of all time I think.
Other than that. Hold on sir.... seems it is going to be a bumpy ride for a few weeks.
Remember however.... it IS only a game.
Well, Tom re; your question about promising youngsters:
a) I would say that, when he is fit (which he isn't, really, yet), then Lewis Gregory fits the bill. The guy has a strike-rate of 48 in CC1 cricket - meaning that he is a genuine strike bowler.
b) I think Tom Abell is already a very good player and will become an excellent one.
c) Personally, I really like Jack Leach - think he is really canny. I accept that, in his case (in common with most spinners in England) the case for him remains to be proven.
a) I would say that, when he is fit (which he isn't, really, yet), then Lewis Gregory fits the bill. The guy has a strike-rate of 48 in CC1 cricket - meaning that he is a genuine strike bowler.
b) I think Tom Abell is already a very good player and will become an excellent one.
c) Personally, I really like Jack Leach - think he is really canny. I accept that, in his case (in common with most spinners in England) the case for him remains to be proven.
Not "we have a bit of a problem", Grockle. I most certainly do not apart from with your postings.
But there ya go.
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
But there ya go.
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
I find it best to be philosophical and think of my next holiday, cos the cricket is usually a great disappointment.
I'm sure the T20 will be a source of great revenue, but our bowling attack in this CC match didn't fill me with any optimism. Many keep saying we need to sign a strike bowler, like Mr Caddick, but we do seem to be concentrating on T20, so as Grockle posted earlier it could be alooooooong season.
I'm sure the T20 will be a source of great revenue, but our bowling attack in this CC match didn't fill me with any optimism. Many keep saying we need to sign a strike bowler, like Mr Caddick, but we do seem to be concentrating on T20, so as Grockle posted earlier it could be alooooooong season.
Speaking of younger players:
Perhaps Mr Maynard's excuse for picking Mr Allenby for every CC1 game last season, in spite of non-performance would have been "There wasn't anybody else."
Personally, I believe that if Allenby does not start scoring runs then we shoudl look to start the CC1 careers of Adam Hose, George Bartlett or Eddie Byrom. I'd like to see those three battling it out in the seconds for the chance to be the first cab off the rank.
I know some will bang the drum (yet again) for Alex Barrow but, in my view, he has had enough chances and we would be better advised trying to develop the others.
Perhaps Mr Maynard's excuse for picking Mr Allenby for every CC1 game last season, in spite of non-performance would have been "There wasn't anybody else."
Personally, I believe that if Allenby does not start scoring runs then we shoudl look to start the CC1 careers of Adam Hose, George Bartlett or Eddie Byrom. I'd like to see those three battling it out in the seconds for the chance to be the first cab off the rank.
I know some will bang the drum (yet again) for Alex Barrow but, in my view, he has had enough chances and we would be better advised trying to develop the others.
Calm down chaps, it's only day two !
A bad day for sure, but I don't think we can pass judgement just yet.
I just wish the season started in August as we usually hit our straps by then.
For whatever reason, we really don't seem to get on well with the early season stuff. Unless it is my imagination, I can only seem to recall one season in the last decade or so, when we came out of the gates well.
Still, it's a little early for the fat lady to start singing.
Grizzzly
A bad day for sure, but I don't think we can pass judgement just yet.
I just wish the season started in August as we usually hit our straps by then.
For whatever reason, we really don't seem to get on well with the early season stuff. Unless it is my imagination, I can only seem to recall one season in the last decade or so, when we came out of the gates well.
Still, it's a little early for the fat lady to start singing.
Grizzzly
Ahh well Tom I'm sure you'll cope.
Via the wonders of Disney a question for you - You have two wolves. One represents doom and despair and the other represents light and hope. Which one survives?
Very true AG. All is not bare. My only disappointment was the lack of Jack for this game I too think he is a great player to watch.
Mr Davies may be of value as well. Josh? Green? They may be the solution to our bowling, they may not.
Lewis' four wickets were a good start - like Jack we just have to find a way of keeping him fit.
The Overton's are to come - they may be the right thing. I personally think Craig is if he can control himself. Jamie? Well one can hope
Tom is the real deal.
It's early days...
Oh Tom.... the answer is - whichever wolf you feed. A bientot
Via the wonders of Disney a question for you - You have two wolves. One represents doom and despair and the other represents light and hope. Which one survives?
Very true AG. All is not bare. My only disappointment was the lack of Jack for this game I too think he is a great player to watch.
Mr Davies may be of value as well. Josh? Green? They may be the solution to our bowling, they may not.
Lewis' four wickets were a good start - like Jack we just have to find a way of keeping him fit.
The Overton's are to come - they may be the right thing. I personally think Craig is if he can control himself. Jamie? Well one can hope
Tom is the real deal.
It's early days...
Oh Tom.... the answer is - whichever wolf you feed. A bientot
We beat Middx a few years ago, courtesy mainly (from a bowling stand-point) of Vernon Philander and George Dockrell. That was at Taunton in early May one year.
Other than that I don't think we've won either of the opening two games since 1995 or something stupid like that.
Other than that I don't think we've won either of the opening two games since 1995 or something stupid like that.
If the weather holds at CLS, then this game is past saving IMO.
Another dreary start which beggars the question as to the worthiness of a pre - season training camp in Spain. Last year we returned from there not looking sharp enough for even the friendlies, and our CC form at the start was woeful.
Are we in for a repeat this year?
Another dreary start which beggars the question as to the worthiness of a pre - season training camp in Spain. Last year we returned from there not looking sharp enough for even the friendlies, and our CC form at the start was woeful.
Are we in for a repeat this year?
It's the 64 million dollar question, isn't it CP - why do we always seem to be slow out of the blocks?
The oddest thing about it all is that the problem has gone on for so long, pre-dating by some distance, the reign of your favourite Australian as Somerset Captain. In fact it was an issue back when we had our other Australian Captain, too. Of course, this means it also pre-dates (one assumes) a pre-season training camp in any particular country.
With the exception of the single win, under Trescothick, over Middx a few years ago, I think Chris Tavare might have been the last SCCC Captain to preside over a win in either of the first two games of a CC season.
Sure, some games have been rain-ruined, but we've managed to lose plenty of them in that span...
The oddest thing about it all is that the problem has gone on for so long, pre-dating by some distance, the reign of your favourite Australian as Somerset Captain. In fact it was an issue back when we had our other Australian Captain, too. Of course, this means it also pre-dates (one assumes) a pre-season training camp in any particular country.
With the exception of the single win, under Trescothick, over Middx a few years ago, I think Chris Tavare might have been the last SCCC Captain to preside over a win in either of the first two games of a CC season.
Sure, some games have been rain-ruined, but we've managed to lose plenty of them in that span...
My favourite Australian, Colin McCool, never captained Somerset, AGod.
Yes, indeed, I should probably have wrapped some inverted commas around the word 'favourite,' to show that what I really meant was your least favourite.
Enormously disappointing but I am trying to be realistic. Only one Durham batsman did much in the first innings- the other 10 made 140 so our bowling was not catastrophic. We were on the back foot to start this morning but Hildreth and Rogers looked like planting a solid foundation. Allenby's innings was identical to Collingwood's. Trego ran out the skipper but then with Gregory added 50. Not enough and probably the game was gone by then but Onions and Rushworth have done it before and will do it again.The first 8 overs of the Durham second innings sealed it. I think Durham decided to attack because the wily Collingwood wanted to force the issue because of the rain and it worked. The 10 an over finished it there and then, and Jennings carried on where he left off in the first innings. If I had to find an adjective to describe Somerset at this stage it would have been "Shell shocked". Unless there is considerable rain then the game is gone but considerable rain is forecast and the outfield is still soft and muddy.
We just have to do better next time.
We just have to do better next time.
Who'd want to play in Durham at this time of year? We could have them here, but no someone's dumped loads of sand on the outfield. The new drainage will turn our square into a dead wicket like Trent Bridge. Oh and what about the parking... 
It was 30C here at 6 this morning.... I suppose that isn't the weather you probably want this morning in the North East.
I'm always between two stools when you are on the back end of a game with 2 days to go. Part of me wants the side to get themselves out of this or accept the consequences and work with it to make the next one better while another part would rather draw than lose which tends to lessen the blow of playing poorly because the side got 'out of jail' semi free.
Good that we have a University match after this one and aren't straight into another CC1 game almost immediately. But they do need to get this sorted because it soon becomes "it's Sunday it must be the CC" for a number of weeks.
Have a goodish day if you are there come rain or shine
I'm always between two stools when you are on the back end of a game with 2 days to go. Part of me wants the side to get themselves out of this or accept the consequences and work with it to make the next one better while another part would rather draw than lose which tends to lessen the blow of playing poorly because the side got 'out of jail' semi free.
Good that we have a University match after this one and aren't straight into another CC1 game almost immediately. But they do need to get this sorted because it soon becomes "it's Sunday it must be the CC" for a number of weeks.
Have a goodish day if you are there come rain or shine
Personally,., I'd rather we were going directly on to the Oval than playing a University team.
I suppose the University game might serve the purpose of giving Craig Overton a work-out before he enters the CC fray and *might* serve as a fitness test for his twin.
But I think we'd probably be better off going directly on to the Oval because our opponents there are probably also "shell shocked," - and certainly would be if they had believed the ridiculous hype surrounding them. According to their own 'keeper, the track at Trent Bridge is "about a 280 track," so to go around the park at 5 an over for 450 (or 170 over par) will have been pretty sobering for them.
I haven't looked at the schedule but it's possible that Surrey (if they are scheduled to play in the next round) might get the chance to put up a more respectable performance in their next game. If they can do that, then they may be in a better frame of mind for the game versus us than we would be. Let's face it - for us - beating a University team would not do much to wash away the stain of the Durham game.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:12:09:33:13 by AG on apple.
I suppose the University game might serve the purpose of giving Craig Overton a work-out before he enters the CC fray and *might* serve as a fitness test for his twin.
But I think we'd probably be better off going directly on to the Oval because our opponents there are probably also "shell shocked," - and certainly would be if they had believed the ridiculous hype surrounding them. According to their own 'keeper, the track at Trent Bridge is "about a 280 track," so to go around the park at 5 an over for 450 (or 170 over par) will have been pretty sobering for them.
I haven't looked at the schedule but it's possible that Surrey (if they are scheduled to play in the next round) might get the chance to put up a more respectable performance in their next game. If they can do that, then they may be in a better frame of mind for the game versus us than we would be. Let's face it - for us - beating a University team would not do much to wash away the stain of the Durham game.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:12:09:33:13 by AG on apple.
As for the rest of this match?
As somebody who absolutely hates being denied a probable victory by the weather, I don't really want the weather alone to save us. Durham have earned the opportunity to press for the win - and our lot need time in the middle vs good bowling, rather than University fodder.
IF (big if, admittedly) our lot could fight really hard and bat for a long time to try to stave off defeat then (even if ultimately unsuccessful) that might do more for morale, IMO, than slinking off to the airport with our ill-gotten gains from a rain-ruined draw.
As somebody who absolutely hates being denied a probable victory by the weather, I don't really want the weather alone to save us. Durham have earned the opportunity to press for the win - and our lot need time in the middle vs good bowling, rather than University fodder.
IF (big if, admittedly) our lot could fight really hard and bat for a long time to try to stave off defeat then (even if ultimately unsuccessful) that might do more for morale, IMO, than slinking off to the airport with our ill-gotten gains from a rain-ruined draw.
Certainly the last sentence is a much more acceptable end to this. If you are going to lose make it hard and go down fighting.
Nope - bring in the rain I say 😊
Scrumper, if this had been Taunton, I don't think they'd have played as much as they have at ClS in any case.
And somebody mentioned earlier our batsmen's inconsistency - I'd love to know how, after just one innings of the season, they can be more (or less) consistent, or how anyone could tell.
Scrumper, if this had been Taunton, I don't think they'd have played as much as they have at ClS in any case.
And somebody mentioned earlier our batsmen's inconsistency - I'd love to know how, after just one innings of the season, they can be more (or less) consistent, or how anyone could tell.
For all but the new arrivals i.e Rogers, VDM, one can look at the body of evidence from previous seasons. I suspect that any comment was in that context.
However, I’m not even sure that ‘inconsistency,’ can be sustained as a charge.
Rather, I think the batting is infuriatingly consistent in that, when confronted with a ball that is moving around laterally, it very often tends to collapse in a heap.
It seems to me that we very often manage to bat for less time in such conditions, than do our opponents. The first innings here was an example of that – I think Durham grafted away for about 84 overs, we lasted for about 48, if memory serves.
Especially on tracks (common at Taunton and not rare elsewhere) that get flatter as games go on, there is a lot to be said for grafting and occupying the crease, in our first innings of a four day match.
Over the past few seasons, I can think of only two examples where we have deviated from this consistent pattern:
a) At Trent Bridge last season – with a big assist from some terrible Notts bowling – SCCC made a score that proved way, way over par.
b) At Hove two seasons ago, Trescothick, Compton and Petersen all batted very very well to help SCCC post a good score in very difficult conditions and ultimately win the game.
I would need at least half of the letters of the alphabet to list the instances in recent seasons where we’ve quickly subsided in such conditions.
Rather, I think the batting is infuriatingly consistent in that, when confronted with a ball that is moving around laterally, it very often tends to collapse in a heap.
It seems to me that we very often manage to bat for less time in such conditions, than do our opponents. The first innings here was an example of that – I think Durham grafted away for about 84 overs, we lasted for about 48, if memory serves.
Especially on tracks (common at Taunton and not rare elsewhere) that get flatter as games go on, there is a lot to be said for grafting and occupying the crease, in our first innings of a four day match.
Over the past few seasons, I can think of only two examples where we have deviated from this consistent pattern:
a) At Trent Bridge last season – with a big assist from some terrible Notts bowling – SCCC made a score that proved way, way over par.
b) At Hove two seasons ago, Trescothick, Compton and Petersen all batted very very well to help SCCC post a good score in very difficult conditions and ultimately win the game.
I would need at least half of the letters of the alphabet to list the instances in recent seasons where we’ve quickly subsided in such conditions.
Quote:bunger
Excited about the new season. If we bowl first at CLS, which i suppose we will unless we're barmy, I think everything will hinge on the first innings. If we let them off the hook or just don't show up, Onions and Rushworth will not make the same mistake. Spring has sprung. Roll on the cricket.
this
Quote:AGod
Well, it's all over for today.
Rogers and Hildreth will need to put on a lot tomorrow to keep us afloat, one suspects, because - other than perhaps something bright and breezy from Trego - I would not anticipate too much else from the others up at CLS early season.
It will be a big ask for VDM in his first innings in CC cricket in England to deal with Onions and Rushworth in conditions where there is something in it for them. Ditto, a big ask for Davies in his first ever CC1 innings.
Allenby did nothing, last season, to suggest that he has the ability to deal with very good CC1 bowlers in conditions that help them and these sort of conditions are not usually ones in which a tail is particularly likely to prosper.
Mystic Meg
Lewis G did well to be fair.
There have been one or two flashes from him lately. There was a game last season - Sussex I think - where most of the middle-order folded and then he and Trego batted out the game. And he had that ton as he and Hildreth put on six million in the 50 over win vs Durham.
There have been one or two flashes from him lately. There was a game last season - Sussex I think - where most of the middle-order folded and then he and Trego batted out the game. And he had that ton as he and Hildreth put on six million in the 50 over win vs Durham.
Quote:rsGrizzzly
I just wish the season started in August as we usually hit our straps by then.
First, let me wish you a happy summer, Grizzzly. But you must be careful about what you wish for. Perhaps in three years from now the season (the real CC season) WILL start (and end) in August, with just four matches played, involving the five remaining sides, London, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester and Bristol/Cardiff...
There is certainly nothing to despair about yet. Gregory has made an excellent start to the season, Hildreth seems to have lost none of his touch (and one error of judgment is neither a crime nor a portent of things to come), Trego did his best to atone for that run-out, Rogers has shown resilience and our new wicket-keeper has yet to concede a bye.
Where were Leicester's football team after five matches?
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:12:12:00:02 by Loyal of Lhasa.
I don't know. But the proportional equivalent of five matches in the PL is 2 matches in CC1.
Thank you LoL. Your eternal eloquence is a joy to behold....
On the other hand, I wonder what Mr Rogers said to PT about the run out. Rather suspect 50p went in the swear box !
Grizzzly
On the other hand, I wonder what Mr Rogers said to PT about the run out. Rather suspect 50p went in the swear box !
Grizzzly
Long-time site follower and very, very occasional poster - going to try to post more this year.
Another depressing start to the season, when I'm left looking at the weather forecast for the fourth day of the first game. And then left with fingers crossed that it's accurate - rain forecast pretty much most of the day at the moment.
It is early days, but I feel this could be another depressing season of four-day cricket. I've followed Somerset since the early 70s (can remember Kerry o Keeffe for example), but my father has followed Somerset since the late 40s and wants to live to see them win the Championship. Don't think it'll be this year!
Another depressing start to the season, when I'm left looking at the weather forecast for the fourth day of the first game. And then left with fingers crossed that it's accurate - rain forecast pretty much most of the day at the moment.
It is early days, but I feel this could be another depressing season of four-day cricket. I've followed Somerset since the early 70s (can remember Kerry o Keeffe for example), but my father has followed Somerset since the late 40s and wants to live to see them win the Championship. Don't think it'll be this year!
It's certainly safe to say that a quantum improvement on this first outing would be required, on a regular basis, to have any chance of doing so.
Welcome sfwithers. I think you and your father will find more reasons to be cheerful as the season progresses.
By the way, are you my long lost son?
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
By the way, are you my long lost son?
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Nor unless my real father (Don Withers, from Bath, 82 and still going strong-ish) has been telling me porkies for 50-odd years.
Seems that a 'quantum improvement' doesn't have to be that big. Seems it depends on the frequency of the radiation it represents.
They do have to do better though - though they won't be facing Onions and Rushworth at the start of their season either so things might look up on both the application of our lot and the lack of real quality in the opposition.
They do have to do better though - though they won't be facing Onions and Rushworth at the start of their season either so things might look up on both the application of our lot and the lack of real quality in the opposition.
Well tell your dad to keep going, sfwithers, and all will come right in the end, though he may have to live another eighteen years.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Used to work with a Don Withers at Stothert and Pitt in Bath - any chance the same one as age is about right ?
I'm not totally sure the Championship will survive another 18 years LoL though I'm ever hopeful.
Yep, Don Withers formerly a steel buyer at Stothert and Pitt is indeed my dad. I mentioned the name as I thought somebody might know him. It's his fault I'm a Somerset fan - an often thankless inheritance (though he is still with us!) but I wouldn't have missed seeing Close, Burgess, Dredge, Botham, Garner, Rose, Lathwell, Trescothick, Jimmy Cook, Ian Blackwell, Peter Trego and Roland Lefebvre (!) for anything...
Well stwithers tell your Dad I worked in the same office around 1961/2 with Mike Spackman and the boss man was Norman Wilmot I think - I remember he lived just across the road from the office - he won't remember me I don't think but I was on Crane Spares with Dennis somebody - small world !!
Not a regular contributor but having watched the first two days at CLS thought I might share some of my thoughts (be prepared I am glass half full!)
A poor first session on day one with too many freebies was well pulled back in the afternoon session unfortunately too well in a way giving Onions and Rushworth two bites of the cherry with the new ball. Tres got a beauty and the thought of facing two of the best county bowlers near the close of play would be daunting for most players let alone a night watchman so no blame labelled at Davey. Yes Tom failed - it happens - but enjoy him whilst we can as I firmly believe he will be an England regular in time to come.
Day 2 saw a good start with Hildreth and Rogers looking relatively unbothered but the fall of Hildreth saw the entrance of Allenby - now here I struggle to remain positive - a first baller it can happen to anyone and I do, perhaps misguidedly,believe he will come good but I am beginning to even doubt this myself now. RVM looked completely at sea not playing a single convincing shot it was a matter of when not if onions would get him- hopefully as he settles into the season we will see the player of a few years ago. As for the others Rodgers looked unbothered - I think enough has been said on his dismissal- Trego looked good but did owe the team somewhat after running out Rodgers and Lewis looked calm and composed.
We once again we did bowl poorly with the new ball but hopefully rain will save the day here and the return of Jove and cove will add some bite to the attack.
Overall although not an ideal start (when do we ever start well) let's not get too down. Their opening attack was way superior to ours but we did have both our opening bowlers missing and with the overtones back supported by Lewis and Tregs plus Leach and RVM we will be more competitive.
Do feel though we are one batsman short a lot of all rounders (bodes well perhaps for 1 day teams) but would like to see Bartlett or Hose given a go at 5 instead of an all rounder.
One final comment did anyone actually see Rodgers say anything in the field perhaps too cold or still coming to terms with his dismissal?
A poor first session on day one with too many freebies was well pulled back in the afternoon session unfortunately too well in a way giving Onions and Rushworth two bites of the cherry with the new ball. Tres got a beauty and the thought of facing two of the best county bowlers near the close of play would be daunting for most players let alone a night watchman so no blame labelled at Davey. Yes Tom failed - it happens - but enjoy him whilst we can as I firmly believe he will be an England regular in time to come.
Day 2 saw a good start with Hildreth and Rogers looking relatively unbothered but the fall of Hildreth saw the entrance of Allenby - now here I struggle to remain positive - a first baller it can happen to anyone and I do, perhaps misguidedly,believe he will come good but I am beginning to even doubt this myself now. RVM looked completely at sea not playing a single convincing shot it was a matter of when not if onions would get him- hopefully as he settles into the season we will see the player of a few years ago. As for the others Rodgers looked unbothered - I think enough has been said on his dismissal- Trego looked good but did owe the team somewhat after running out Rodgers and Lewis looked calm and composed.
We once again we did bowl poorly with the new ball but hopefully rain will save the day here and the return of Jove and cove will add some bite to the attack.
Overall although not an ideal start (when do we ever start well) let's not get too down. Their opening attack was way superior to ours but we did have both our opening bowlers missing and with the overtones back supported by Lewis and Tregs plus Leach and RVM we will be more competitive.
Do feel though we are one batsman short a lot of all rounders (bodes well perhaps for 1 day teams) but would like to see Bartlett or Hose given a go at 5 instead of an all rounder.
One final comment did anyone actually see Rodgers say anything in the field perhaps too cold or still coming to terms with his dismissal?
Thanks very much Treeman, great to hear first-hand from somebody who was actually there - and who's glass-half-full 😉. Your comment re Hose or similar (I suspect Myburgh may add some Comptonesque stickability, or Barrow if there's no expectation to be in much of a rush) in place of Allenby is a good shout.
Apologies but realised I forgot to post on the performance of Ryan Davies.
I thought his keeping was extremely tidy uncomplicated and very promising. With the bat I though he looked good playing positively and taking the attack to the bowlers. He got an awful delivery that clearly stuck in the wicket but prior to that looked completely at ease.
Early days I know but I think we have a real find in Davies
I thought his keeping was extremely tidy uncomplicated and very promising. With the bat I though he looked good playing positively and taking the attack to the bowlers. He got an awful delivery that clearly stuck in the wicket but prior to that looked completely at ease.
Early days I know but I think we have a real find in Davies
Quote:Shepton Paul 2
Thanks very much Treeman, great to hear first-hand from somebody who was actually there - and who's glass-half-full 😉. Your comment re Hose or similar (I suspect Myburgh may add some Comptonesque stickability, or Barrow if there's no expectation to be in much of a rush) in place of Allenby is a good shout.
I thought we were supporting the "team" ?. Bit unfair after one game to want someone dropped in my view!!!
I certainly am Ronnie - I think the team would be stronger with a specialist (or better) batsman. I'm not slagging off anyone, Jim, MM or anyone else, just making a suggestion for the betterment, IMHO, of the team.
It's all a matter of perception, Ronnie.
But, seriously, is Mybs even still around? Not noticed him in the seconds? And he's not with the firsts.
But, overall, he was better with the bat than JA when he played. I suppose MM would argue that he needs JA in the slips and that a change seamer is more use early season than a change spinner.
Whilst Rogers should be a distinct improvement on Cooper at 3, it seems to me that we still have a glut of number 6 or 7 batsmen in the first XI and no true number 5. Mybs is a top-order player by trade and so not a natural five himself. Ditto Adam Hose and Eddie Byrom. George Bartlett? Not sure.
There was some talk that VDM, not JA, would bat at five this season. But, realistically, he is likely to have to go through growing pains in conditions that are alien to him. I don't think a T20 stint provides any kind of grounding for red ball cricket in April/May.
If MM does not want to give Mybs or a youngster a go at five then we may end up having to go with Pete in that slot?
But, seriously, is Mybs even still around? Not noticed him in the seconds? And he's not with the firsts.
But, overall, he was better with the bat than JA when he played. I suppose MM would argue that he needs JA in the slips and that a change seamer is more use early season than a change spinner.
Whilst Rogers should be a distinct improvement on Cooper at 3, it seems to me that we still have a glut of number 6 or 7 batsmen in the first XI and no true number 5. Mybs is a top-order player by trade and so not a natural five himself. Ditto Adam Hose and Eddie Byrom. George Bartlett? Not sure.
There was some talk that VDM, not JA, would bat at five this season. But, realistically, he is likely to have to go through growing pains in conditions that are alien to him. I don't think a T20 stint provides any kind of grounding for red ball cricket in April/May.
If MM does not want to give Mybs or a youngster a go at five then we may end up having to go with Pete in that slot?
I take it back, he was playing at Taunton Vale today, where he, Hose and Byrom all had a field day, by the sounds.
I know the weather forecast for tomorrow is not good so a day's play is unlikely but with tongue not too far in cheek,if we get a day tomorrow I reckon the loss of one day puts us back in it. If in any game we had to score 300 at just over 3 an over we would think we had a chance. If we start, Collingwood might bat on but might think he's got enough and will take the overs to dismiss us. The large pink thing that has just drifted past my window thinks I'm mad but never say die
Thanks and welcome Treeman.
I think many would agree we are a front end batsman down and many hope Davies may be the Kieswetter replacement (though he will have to go some with the bat to be that I think).
I also like the cut of Hose's jib and would like to see him in the CC1 side somewhere. He's big, he's not particularly phased by much from what I saw and hits a ball well in many areas of the field.
It may be (and we all have to hope so) that our bowling attack is missing two if not three major parts of it in the Overton's and (maybe) Jack Leach (if we can get him in somehow). I think AG is right in thinking that RvdM may be our slow option for at least this half of the CC season but I still have hope of seeing a specialist spinner in the line up.
You are right that it isn't the ideal start but then again it isn't the ideal team and we did get a duff draw with Durham at home on their first day with the bowlers fresh and uninjured. We can only hope that they can keep Onions especially fit for other opponents and this will not stand against us in the later season when he starts to struggle to keep up with the pace of professional cricket.
So...not the end of the Somerset cricketing world then. Well it needs to get a whole lot better before many crawl out of their pit of despair and have a brighter perspective. But at least someone suggests it may be possible.
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:05:00:01 by Grockle.
I think many would agree we are a front end batsman down and many hope Davies may be the Kieswetter replacement (though he will have to go some with the bat to be that I think).
I also like the cut of Hose's jib and would like to see him in the CC1 side somewhere. He's big, he's not particularly phased by much from what I saw and hits a ball well in many areas of the field.
It may be (and we all have to hope so) that our bowling attack is missing two if not three major parts of it in the Overton's and (maybe) Jack Leach (if we can get him in somehow). I think AG is right in thinking that RvdM may be our slow option for at least this half of the CC season but I still have hope of seeing a specialist spinner in the line up.
You are right that it isn't the ideal start but then again it isn't the ideal team and we did get a duff draw with Durham at home on their first day with the bowlers fresh and uninjured. We can only hope that they can keep Onions especially fit for other opponents and this will not stand against us in the later season when he starts to struggle to keep up with the pace of professional cricket.
So...not the end of the Somerset cricketing world then. Well it needs to get a whole lot better before many crawl out of their pit of despair and have a brighter perspective. But at least someone suggests it may be possible.
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:05:00:01 by Grockle.
We could have drawn Durham on a week when Wood and Stokes were available too. That really would have been a 'duff draw.'
Re: the spin bowling. For what it's worth, Mr Gibson seemed to feel that VDM has bowled quite well in this one.
Re: the spin bowling. For what it's worth, Mr Gibson seemed to feel that VDM has bowled quite well in this one.
Forecast seems to have improvec?
Any sign of that translating to improved actual weather? (Q is for those that are there)
We may have to do some batting.
If so?
Good, because nets and a University bowling attack cannot re-produce the calibre of test that Onions and Rushworth can provide for our batsmen. Even if they all make 50+ vs a Uni attack it would be unlikely to have much effect as I'm sure all our guys know that a Uni attack is nowhere near CC1 standard. Therefore any boost to confidence would be minimal and any evidence of 'form,' could be taken with a pinch of salt.
Juxtapose that with the effect on confidence should one of our guys - any of them - bat really well today and make 50+ under a leaden CLS sky. Even 20 or 30 for guys like Allenby, VDM and Davies would be welcome to give them a little impetus, IMO.
Any sign of that translating to improved actual weather? (Q is for those that are there)
We may have to do some batting.
If so?
Good, because nets and a University bowling attack cannot re-produce the calibre of test that Onions and Rushworth can provide for our batsmen. Even if they all make 50+ vs a Uni attack it would be unlikely to have much effect as I'm sure all our guys know that a Uni attack is nowhere near CC1 standard. Therefore any boost to confidence would be minimal and any evidence of 'form,' could be taken with a pinch of salt.
Juxtapose that with the effect on confidence should one of our guys - any of them - bat really well today and make 50+ under a leaden CLS sky. Even 20 or 30 for guys like Allenby, VDM and Davies would be welcome to give them a little impetus, IMO.
We are overcast and dry at the moment. I shall be surprised if we see no drizzly rain, but the light is not good and I judge it depends on the outfield.
I'd take Wood or Stokes against Onions with his tail up in any game at any time.
We could have also drawn them with no-one available or in a hypothetical parallel universe where they fielded a herd of cows.
We are talking about what we DID do not what might have happened in the millions of possible scenarios that you wander into on a regular basis AG - well not counting any that operate in SCCC's favour of course because then what would you have to complain about?
Anyway back from your particular land of dreams
We could have also drawn them with no-one available or in a hypothetical parallel universe where they fielded a herd of cows.
We are talking about what we DID do not what might have happened in the millions of possible scenarios that you wander into on a regular basis AG - well not counting any that operate in SCCC's favour of course because then what would you have to complain about?
Anyway back from your particular land of dreams
Looking at rain radar............
Bit of rain between 10.45 - 11.00
Then dry until heavier rain arrives at about 13.30
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:10:36:20 by byronbay.
Bit of rain between 10.45 - 11.00
Then dry until heavier rain arrives at about 13.30
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:10:36:20 by byronbay.
Sorry, Grockle, just pointing out that a "woe is us," stance based on the fact we had to play Durham and they happen to have two good new -ball bowlers is not entirely realistic, given that they were without their two current international bowlers.
Also, if you really want to go there, then the chances are that - all things being equal - both Bunny and Chris Rushworth will most probably (in common with most bowlers) actually be in better form 3 or 4 games into the season than they are in game one. In that sense, too, we have NOT been given some kind of "poor Somerset," short straw to start the season in playing them first up.
Just wanted to get you back from your little world of unreality...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:10:42:14 by AGod.
Also, if you really want to go there, then the chances are that - all things being equal - both Bunny and Chris Rushworth will most probably (in common with most bowlers) actually be in better form 3 or 4 games into the season than they are in game one. In that sense, too, we have NOT been given some kind of "poor Somerset," short straw to start the season in playing them first up.
Just wanted to get you back from your little world of unreality...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:10:42:14 by AGod.
The less play the better seems to be the concensus Byron. No a satisfactory end to the game for anyone but the one with the lesser effect on our season.
There's one we usually lose to the weather so I suppose this one may even that one out.
There's one we usually lose to the weather so I suppose this one may even that one out.
I sincerely hope the players aren't sitting in the dressing room hoping to not have to play.
They need to get out there and try to get some good scores under their belts.
It seems that a full day is most unlikely anyway. So unless we manage a particularly appalling effort, then having to bat should not remove the points that we would expect for the draw anyway.
They need to get out there and try to get some good scores under their belts.
It seems that a full day is most unlikely anyway. So unless we manage a particularly appalling effort, then having to bat should not remove the points that we would expect for the draw anyway.
"Had I been present at the creation, I would have given some useful hints for the better ordering of the universe." - Alfonso the Wise (probably unrelated to our own wise Alfonso)
Johann Myburgh was in the team photos last week, perhaps he has an injury.
Obviously slightly fortunate to escape with a draw if that's the case considering we have been under the cosh in this one.
Not going to get too carried away though.
Clearly everything in the garden is not rosy but when is that the case in sport?
1. We always start the season's first game slowly.
2. Away at Durham against Rushworth and Onions is always tough.
3. We are missing the Overton boys
Will hold judgement for a little while yet.
Not going to get too carried away though.
Clearly everything in the garden is not rosy but when is that the case in sport?
1. We always start the season's first game slowly.
2. Away at Durham against Rushworth and Onions is always tough.
3. We are missing the Overton boys
Will hold judgement for a little while yet.
Starting with that daft 'Sorry' again AG.... and you still aren't
I thought you were the 'woe is us' merchant on this website AG.....
I take what reality throws at us most of the time. Don't try to analyse the excrement out of it or predict the many many other ways things could have gone.
The game is the game and the results are what they are. Tomorrow is another day and the game then is another start with possiblities I am happy to wait for, enjoy and/or comment on once they have happened.
The reality we were talking about was the reality we actually faced. The person talking about 'unreality' was the person creating situations that weren't real to prove whatever point you were trying to prove.
I did not mention a 'poor' Somerset I did not make excuses for how they dealt with what they faced. I commented on what they faced. On the basis of what happened it was a 'duff' draw for us.
So you seem to be the one floating about in a world of your own making...... with scenarion X and scenario Y but can't say that is anything new.
I thought you were the 'woe is us' merchant on this website AG.....
I take what reality throws at us most of the time. Don't try to analyse the excrement out of it or predict the many many other ways things could have gone.
The game is the game and the results are what they are. Tomorrow is another day and the game then is another start with possiblities I am happy to wait for, enjoy and/or comment on once they have happened.
The reality we were talking about was the reality we actually faced. The person talking about 'unreality' was the person creating situations that weren't real to prove whatever point you were trying to prove.
I did not mention a 'poor' Somerset I did not make excuses for how they dealt with what they faced. I commented on what they faced. On the basis of what happened it was a 'duff' draw for us.
So you seem to be the one floating about in a world of your own making...... with scenarion X and scenario Y but can't say that is anything new.
That seems pretty logical and succinct to me Byron.... let's go with that aye?
Jack Leach? Not sure he would have been any extra use here.
Jack Leach? Not sure he would have been any extra use here.
Realistically, It's probably also unlikely that Jamie Overton would have made much difference at CLS either as:
a) the pitch is, reportedly, very slow
and
b) Nagging accuracy tends to win the day at CLS more so than pace and bounce anyway.
The big miss was Craig Overton - especially because he has a good record vs Durham.
a) the pitch is, reportedly, very slow
and
b) Nagging accuracy tends to win the day at CLS more so than pace and bounce anyway.
The big miss was Craig Overton - especially because he has a good record vs Durham.
Well, if he learnt to keep him mouth shut on the field of play, he would have been available.
Indeed he would have been Clarence. Let's hope that lesson has now been fully absorbed.
Well, maybe bullet dodged, depends if we had managed to bat well.
At it is, we leave for the airport with a top six none of whom scored more (I think) than 25. Not great.
Hard lines to Durham who were in complete control after two days.
We have a Uni game in which to give Craig O a run out. It may give us the chance to get LG closer to fitness. If JO is fit enough to start the game, then it will be a fitness test for him. Having made runs and, reportedly, bowled well in the first innings, maybe Trego will sit the Uni game out which would give a chance to maybe look at somebody like Adam Hose?
Unfortunately, some of the Surrey guys have taken a chance to find some apparent batting form in their second innings as their game has not been washed out.
At it is, we leave for the airport with a top six none of whom scored more (I think) than 25. Not great.
Hard lines to Durham who were in complete control after two days.
We have a Uni game in which to give Craig O a run out. It may give us the chance to get LG closer to fitness. If JO is fit enough to start the game, then it will be a fitness test for him. Having made runs and, reportedly, bowled well in the first innings, maybe Trego will sit the Uni game out which would give a chance to maybe look at somebody like Adam Hose?
Unfortunately, some of the Surrey guys have taken a chance to find some apparent batting form in their second innings as their game has not been washed out.
It's never very satisfactory to escape from a match in such a manner and the ratio of points (10-8 I think) hardly reflects the balance of the match, giving me a little sympathy for the county of my birth though providing much comfort for the county of my upbringing and allegiance.
I particularly appreciated Treeman's very measured account of his two days at the match - let's hope for more from him. "measured" is the right description for someone who ensures that his glass is half full.
And young Davies has yet to concede a bye in serious cricket for Somerset. (Perhaps some credit might be given to the much maligned Maynard as far as that signing was concerned.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I particularly appreciated Treeman's very measured account of his two days at the match - let's hope for more from him. "measured" is the right description for someone who ensures that his glass is half full.
And young Davies has yet to concede a bye in serious cricket for Somerset. (Perhaps some credit might be given to the much maligned Maynard as far as that signing was concerned.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Yes, we can consider ourselves fortunate, indeed, to have escaped with only two fewer points than our opponents, given that we ourselves did nothing to secure the draw.
My objection re: Davies was not to signing him, per se, but rather to promising a first-team place at the start of the season.
I was pleased to hear GM say that Mr Davies had kept very well. The chatter on the radio was that he 'looked a natural 'keeper. I wouldn't be at all impressed had we jettisoned Bates for somebody who was not adept with the gloves.
Nevertheless, it seems unlikely to me that he will actually prove *better* with the gloves than Michael Bates. Mr Maynard was not satisfied with the batting of Mr Bates. And so Mr Davies has been signed, in part, because it is hoped that he can prove accomplished in both disciplines, rather than being accomplished only with the gloves.
Davies having a good game with the gloves (one of them) does not prove that bringing him in, whilst jettisoning Bates, was the right move. He will need to produce sustained excellence with the gloves and be clearly better than Bates with the bat for the move to prove definitively justified.
At the moment, after one game, the most that can be said is that at least the new man seems to be good with the gloves.
My objection re: Davies was not to signing him, per se, but rather to promising a first-team place at the start of the season.
I was pleased to hear GM say that Mr Davies had kept very well. The chatter on the radio was that he 'looked a natural 'keeper. I wouldn't be at all impressed had we jettisoned Bates for somebody who was not adept with the gloves.
Nevertheless, it seems unlikely to me that he will actually prove *better* with the gloves than Michael Bates. Mr Maynard was not satisfied with the batting of Mr Bates. And so Mr Davies has been signed, in part, because it is hoped that he can prove accomplished in both disciplines, rather than being accomplished only with the gloves.
Davies having a good game with the gloves (one of them) does not prove that bringing him in, whilst jettisoning Bates, was the right move. He will need to produce sustained excellence with the gloves and be clearly better than Bates with the bat for the move to prove definitively justified.
At the moment, after one game, the most that can be said is that at least the new man seems to be good with the gloves.
It can also be said, AG, that the young man is England's choice at under 19 level so someone other than Mr. Maynard thinks he is a good keeper!
Yes Davies has done no wrong...yet and possibly may stay that way. Or even do better.
Or do worse. Gosh
Will any of that change the Bates situation? If he is no better or worse then he IS younger. Have we all considered this as a possible as well?
Or do worse. Gosh
Will any of that change the Bates situation? If he is no better or worse then he IS younger. Have we all considered this as a possible as well?
Match drawn, not lost. Eight points in the bag from tough away game. Not brilliant and not terrible (not sure how anyone can say we did nothing to secure the draw when we bowled them out for 250ish, scored 180ish and didn't lose in the two days that were available - but hey, if that's your agenda...).
Ten days now to get more players into form, notably CO, JO, maybe JL if fit. Back-up players like Hose, Byrom, Myburgh getting some runs in the 2s yesterday puts some pressure on our current top six - that's gotta be good. One issue last year seemed to be the lack of rotation in the XI if a player lost form, so that may be something to address.
Well, I'm optimistic.
Ten days now to get more players into form, notably CO, JO, maybe JL if fit. Back-up players like Hose, Byrom, Myburgh getting some runs in the 2s yesterday puts some pressure on our current top six - that's gotta be good. One issue last year seemed to be the lack of rotation in the XI if a player lost form, so that may be something to address.
Well, I'm optimistic.
Well I would leave him out Ronnie - I'm not saying he's the world's worst player, or that MM should be sacked for hiring him. I just don't think we need him in the team (I dont think being needed in the slips is reason enough), either as a change seamer or to bat. Yes, he was worth a go at Durham after his pre-season 100, but I'd prefer a better bat to have that place - because I believe it strengthens the team. He could go away, improve his form, maybe coming back when somebody else loses form or needs a break.
Im not yelling ALLENBY OUT from the rooftops, just making a suggestion.
Halo still firmly in place 😉😇
Im not yelling ALLENBY OUT from the rooftops, just making a suggestion.
Halo still firmly in place 😉😇
Trescothick
Abell
Rogers
Hildreth
Hose
Trego
Davies
Gregory
Overton C
Leach
Overton J
That's the side I would pick for The Oval and that's my suggested batting order, but I know nothing about anything. And eight of them are home-grown!
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Abell
Rogers
Hildreth
Hose
Trego
Davies
Gregory
Overton C
Leach
Overton J
That's the side I would pick for The Oval and that's my suggested batting order, but I know nothing about anything. And eight of them are home-grown!
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
"Match drawn, not lost. Eight points in the bag from tough away game. Not brilliant and not terrible (not sure how anyone can say we did nothing to secure the draw when we bowled them out for 250ish, scored 180ish and didn't lose in the two days that were available - but hey, if that's your agenda...). "
Good grief. You are not actually serious are you?
We got a draw because it rained for two days, believe it or not.
That's the only reason we did not lose the game. Hence, why I say that we (as distinct from the weather) did nothing to secure the draw.
If you really think that batting for only about 45 overs and being 77 runs behind on first innings and then being 300 runs behind with 6 wickets left at the end of day two constitutes "us," securing the draw rather than the weather?
Wow.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:14:54:00 by AGod.
Good grief. You are not actually serious are you?
We got a draw because it rained for two days, believe it or not.
That's the only reason we did not lose the game. Hence, why I say that we (as distinct from the weather) did nothing to secure the draw.
If you really think that batting for only about 45 overs and being 77 runs behind on first innings and then being 300 runs behind with 6 wickets left at the end of day two constitutes "us," securing the draw rather than the weather?
Wow.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:14:54:00 by AGod.
Seven lessons from CC game 1:
1) We still have potential.
2) We still haven't learned that the season starts in April.
3) We have a very promising new stump man, and MM may therefore not be as dumb as some have suggested.
4) Our batting still has the tendency to self destruct.
5) Cove should indeed exercise more self control in future.
6) Some posters will never see eye to eye about anything, ever.
7) It still rains a lot in England.
Welcome to the start of the cricket season !
Grizzzly
1) We still have potential.
2) We still haven't learned that the season starts in April.
3) We have a very promising new stump man, and MM may therefore not be as dumb as some have suggested.
4) Our batting still has the tendency to self destruct.
5) Cove should indeed exercise more self control in future.
6) Some posters will never see eye to eye about anything, ever.
7) It still rains a lot in England.
Welcome to the start of the cricket season !
Grizzzly
It seems, AGod, that you know exactly how we would have batted in our second innings, had there been one. I very much doubt whether even our players or the opposition knew that - but of one thing I am sure, namely that Collingwood would have taken nothing for granted in setting a target.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Quote:Loyal of Lhasa
Trescothick
Abell
Rogers
Hildreth
Hose
Trego
Davies
Gregory
Overton C
Leach
Overton J
That's the side I would pick for The Oval and that's my suggested batting order, but I know nothing about anything. And eight of them are home-grown!
Jack not meant to be fit until June, I believe?
Mr Maynard will, most likely, pick exactly the same side for the Oval except that Craig Overton will replace Josh Davey.
In the event that Jamie Overton is fit, he might replace Tim G.
I don't believe for one moment that there will be any other changes unless somebody is injured (for example if LG is deemed to still not be fully fit).
I fully expect Allenby to be given at least half a season before Mr Maynard even considers de-selecting him. He's obviously not going to be de-selected for getting a golden duck because dropping him after one game would imply that the decision to select him in the first place was wrong. After all, if one has genuine faith in someone, one does not change one's mind after one innings.
In your side above, LoL, I would suggest that Craig Overton should come in next after Trego.
Grizzzly: I am sure you must be paid millions of Canadian dollars for your flawless analytical skills - and I was surprised when I checked the list of Panamanian account holders not to find your name among them.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Had play been possible, LoL, I think Mr Collingwood would have declared immediately overnight, LoL.
Had play been possible yesterday, I think he would have declared by tea.
I don't know "exactly," how we would have batted in the second innings but, suffice to say that from the general rejoicing on here when it became clear that we would not have to bat, I think those that were rejoicing may well have expected us to fare worse than I did..
And I do know that, as we did not bat, we certainly did nothing to extricate ourselves from our predicament.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:15:03:03 by AGod.
Had play been possible yesterday, I think he would have declared by tea.
I don't know "exactly," how we would have batted in the second innings but, suffice to say that from the general rejoicing on here when it became clear that we would not have to bat, I think those that were rejoicing may well have expected us to fare worse than I did..
And I do know that, as we did not bat, we certainly did nothing to extricate ourselves from our predicament.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:15:03:03 by AGod.
AGod: I am sure that you realise that SP's statement and yours are not mutually incompatible.
I am sure that SP speaks for many supporters - including me. No-one claims that this was a great start to the season - but there were some reasonable performances. Again, no-one says that this how the DoC should look at things - but many of us do not see the need to put ourselves in the shoes of the DoC and are content with our role as supporters.
Your perspective is entirely valid. But please don't try to belittle those who take a more relaxed view of things - it is, after all, only a game; and if one can't take enjoyment from a game, then what's the point?
I am sure that SP speaks for many supporters - including me. No-one claims that this was a great start to the season - but there were some reasonable performances. Again, no-one says that this how the DoC should look at things - but many of us do not see the need to put ourselves in the shoes of the DoC and are content with our role as supporters.
Your perspective is entirely valid. But please don't try to belittle those who take a more relaxed view of things - it is, after all, only a game; and if one can't take enjoyment from a game, then what's the point?
I don't always agreed with you about everything AGod, but sadly I think your response about my proposed team for the Surrey match almost certainly reflects what will happen. As for the batting order, I might slide Davies down one place. Mine is certainly a strong batting si`
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:15:12:43 by Loyal of Lhasa.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:15:12:43 by Loyal of Lhasa.
1 AGod 1min
2 AGod 2min
3 AGod 3min
There is a good service operating with no delays
Please report any unattended baggage to a member of staff
2 AGod 2min
3 AGod 3min
There is a good service operating with no delays
Please report any unattended baggage to a member of staff
Our Captain has, as per cricinfo, used the word "unforgiveable," in respect of certain aspects of our performance.
Edited to say to LoL that I am therefore no longer sure that I am in agreement with myself re: probable team selection for the Oval. If Mr Rogers has a strong say in the team selection then there might be more than just the one change...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:15:14:59 by AGod.
Edited to say to LoL that I am therefore no longer sure that I am in agreement with myself re: probable team selection for the Oval. If Mr Rogers has a strong say in the team selection then there might be more than just the one change...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:15:14:59 by AGod.
"Sorry" AG but these ARE the facts
Play wasn't possible so it makes no difference what Collingwood would have done
We didn't have to do anything to secure the draw because the rain secured it so we were not tested and therefore did not come up wanting however much you expected us to
We DID secure the draw and therefore the game was not the disaster you expected it to be - and no matter how bad you expected it to be it is not going to change that fact
Nothing you predict would have happened actually happened and until we fall short, your predictions that we will are NOT facts however much you question anyone who says otherwise.
Why can you question the seriousness of another poster and not be called 'childish' for doing so while anyone who suggests you are being less than serious is seen as such? Maybe I shouldn't direct that at you I suppose though I think 'childlike' and 'brainless' were the two states suggested by you when anyone questioned your analysis of the position yesterday.
LoL be careful... you are not really allowed to be light hearted about this immensely serious subject, especially if you think Somerset might be something close to a fairly interesting side to watch this season.
Well we have started off wonderfully haven't we. Welcome to the first week everyone!!
Whooppeeddoo!!
Play wasn't possible so it makes no difference what Collingwood would have done
We didn't have to do anything to secure the draw because the rain secured it so we were not tested and therefore did not come up wanting however much you expected us to
We DID secure the draw and therefore the game was not the disaster you expected it to be - and no matter how bad you expected it to be it is not going to change that fact
Nothing you predict would have happened actually happened and until we fall short, your predictions that we will are NOT facts however much you question anyone who says otherwise.
Why can you question the seriousness of another poster and not be called 'childish' for doing so while anyone who suggests you are being less than serious is seen as such? Maybe I shouldn't direct that at you I suppose though I think 'childlike' and 'brainless' were the two states suggested by you when anyone questioned your analysis of the position yesterday.
LoL be careful... you are not really allowed to be light hearted about this immensely serious subject, especially if you think Somerset might be something close to a fairly interesting side to watch this season.
Well we have started off wonderfully haven't we. Welcome to the first week everyone!!
Whooppeeddoo!!
Quote:Wickham
AGod: I am sure that you realise that SP's statement and yours are not mutually incompatible.
I am sure that SP speaks for many supporters - including me. No-one claims that this was a great start to the season - but there were some reasonable performances. Again, no-one says that this how the DoC should look at things - but many of us do not see the need to put ourselves in the shoes of the DoC and are content with our role as supporters.
Your perspective is entirely valid. But please don't try to belittle those who take a more relaxed view of things - it is, after all, only a game; and if one can't take enjoyment from a game, then what's the point?
Sorry, but from the way that SP worded his post it looks as though we should be giving credit to the team for the draw on the basis that they did not lose the match inside two days.
I thought I was supposed to be the Board pessimist. But if we're meant to dole out credit for "achievements," such as that....
Apologies for my levity; sometimes I forget that cricket is a matter of life or death.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Starting almost every post with 'Sorry' now AG. Why? You clearly aren't at all.
Only a matter of Death sir.... there is no life in this carcass of a side it seems.
Putting any there is living in the fantasy world of a child....... which I for one seem to be... not sure about you, you are a lot older than me..
Do you think we are both going through our second childhood perhaps?
Putting any there is living in the fantasy world of a child....... which I for one seem to be... not sure about you, you are a lot older than me..
Do you think we are both going through our second childhood perhaps?
I am genuinely sorry that you keep putting those irksome emoticons in your posts.
I've yet to see a post to which those things added anything.
I've yet to see a post to which those things added anything.
Chris Rogers today
"We want to challenge ourselves and we want to get better but it was probably a relief to us in many respects because we were behind in the game and it was going to be hard work, particularly against Rushworth and Onions in that last innings," said Rogers. "On the other hand, it would have been a useful opportunity to see where we're at."
The more caustic West Country critics might be quick to tell Rogers where they think his team is "at" but they might be wisely advised to listen to what else he had to say. For example, here is his assessment of Somerset's performance in a game in which they were bowled out for 179 and in which Durham were 53 for 1 after ten overs in their first innings and - the real horror show - 72 for 0 after 11 overs in their second.
"Our fielding was top class and our attitude was top class but we disappointed with the new ball and that's pretty unforgivable at Durham in the first game of the season. But the guys who had that ball in their hands will know that and they will get better. We found it hard with the bat and lost wickets in groups. Then we were shown that it was possible to stick around by our Nos. 7 and 9."
Given the limitations placed on Rogers by the fact that his comments were for public consumption, there is not too much skipper-speak in them. If he described the new-ball bowling as "unforgivable" outside the dressing room one wonders what adjectives he attached to it in private.
Rogers is a fighter and he wants to lead a team of players with similar dispositions. He will be delighted to welcome the Overtons back for the game against Surrey at The Oval a week on Sunday. This is him on the challenge of facing Durham's seamers on the first evening and second morning of this game.
"I loved being back in the fight. To be up at Durham against Rushworth and Onions is probably as tough as it gets and I thought I was coming out at the other end of it when I was run out. These things happen. There were a couple of glances at Peter as I was walking off but I've done it to other people too, so you just have to cop that on the chin."
And so he did. But he will not be deceived by that return of eight points. One imagines there are some things Rogers will take on the chin and others which he will refuse to accept.
"I've learned a lot about the guys and there is plenty to work on," he said. "There is a lot of talent in the squad but how they put that into practice out in the middle is going to be our challenge. Every game's going to be tough but it comes down to us. We didn't get it right in this match but it's a long season."
"We want to challenge ourselves and we want to get better but it was probably a relief to us in many respects because we were behind in the game and it was going to be hard work, particularly against Rushworth and Onions in that last innings," said Rogers. "On the other hand, it would have been a useful opportunity to see where we're at."
The more caustic West Country critics might be quick to tell Rogers where they think his team is "at" but they might be wisely advised to listen to what else he had to say. For example, here is his assessment of Somerset's performance in a game in which they were bowled out for 179 and in which Durham were 53 for 1 after ten overs in their first innings and - the real horror show - 72 for 0 after 11 overs in their second.
"Our fielding was top class and our attitude was top class but we disappointed with the new ball and that's pretty unforgivable at Durham in the first game of the season. But the guys who had that ball in their hands will know that and they will get better. We found it hard with the bat and lost wickets in groups. Then we were shown that it was possible to stick around by our Nos. 7 and 9."
Given the limitations placed on Rogers by the fact that his comments were for public consumption, there is not too much skipper-speak in them. If he described the new-ball bowling as "unforgivable" outside the dressing room one wonders what adjectives he attached to it in private.
Rogers is a fighter and he wants to lead a team of players with similar dispositions. He will be delighted to welcome the Overtons back for the game against Surrey at The Oval a week on Sunday. This is him on the challenge of facing Durham's seamers on the first evening and second morning of this game.
"I loved being back in the fight. To be up at Durham against Rushworth and Onions is probably as tough as it gets and I thought I was coming out at the other end of it when I was run out. These things happen. There were a couple of glances at Peter as I was walking off but I've done it to other people too, so you just have to cop that on the chin."
And so he did. But he will not be deceived by that return of eight points. One imagines there are some things Rogers will take on the chin and others which he will refuse to accept.
"I've learned a lot about the guys and there is plenty to work on," he said. "There is a lot of talent in the squad but how they put that into practice out in the middle is going to be our challenge. Every game's going to be tough but it comes down to us. We didn't get it right in this match but it's a long season."
Ahh.... well they are there and kids like to play with toys. I like em so I'll use em. You don't...so don't
"Given the limitations placed on Rogers by the fact that his comments were for public consumption, there is not too much skipper-speak in them. If he described the new-ball bowling as "unforgivable" outside the dressing room one wonders what adjectives he attached to it in private."
Sounds like a jolly good rollocking all-round may have been administered with only the fielding and late-order batting being exempt.
I don't remember too much along these lines from Trescothick during his tenure, nor from Mr Maynard last season. And I only remember stupid comments on twitter from Dave Nosworthy.
So this may be a refreshing change of tempo for the dressing-room with more of a straight-forward and no-nonsense approach, with luck.
Sounds like a jolly good rollocking all-round may have been administered with only the fielding and late-order batting being exempt.
I don't remember too much along these lines from Trescothick during his tenure, nor from Mr Maynard last season. And I only remember stupid comments on twitter from Dave Nosworthy.
So this may be a refreshing change of tempo for the dressing-room with more of a straight-forward and no-nonsense approach, with luck.
Yes it is good to see Chris Rogers doing his job and not accepting poor play.
What happened in the locker room I have no idea. I have no idea what happened last year either and I doubt you do either so why you should criticise MT for his captaincy or the DoC for his management in a previous season after a speech from the present captain based on very little knowledge is once again mystifying. The point eludes me.
Like many other things most of us have to wait a little longer to see what kind of metal CR is made of. I hope this is an indication that he is a man to get things done. He certainly needs to be.
What happened in the locker room I have no idea. I have no idea what happened last year either and I doubt you do either so why you should criticise MT for his captaincy or the DoC for his management in a previous season after a speech from the present captain based on very little knowledge is once again mystifying. The point eludes me.
Like many other things most of us have to wait a little longer to see what kind of metal CR is made of. I hope this is an indication that he is a man to get things done. He certainly needs to be.
I did not critisise Trescothick's Captaincy, I merely observed that I do not recall much in the way of public criticism of our performances coming from him - certainly not in a blunt fashion. I don't rule out that I may have forgotten something harsher in tone from him.
At times we had things like "It was a bit disappointing," and things like that. Maybe he dished out rollockings behind closed doors. He could have done. He doesn't really strike me as the type, however. I think it's in the nature of many Australians to be somewhat more forthright, personality wise, than your average Englishman. And Mr Trescothick has never seemed to me to be more forthright than your average Englishman.
I noticed that one of the eye-witnesses - Treeman I think it was - implied that Mr Rogers seemed rather taciturn in the field..
... Maybe he (CR not Treeman) was applying that old adage of "If you've got nothing nice to say........
At times we had things like "It was a bit disappointing," and things like that. Maybe he dished out rollockings behind closed doors. He could have done. He doesn't really strike me as the type, however. I think it's in the nature of many Australians to be somewhat more forthright, personality wise, than your average Englishman. And Mr Trescothick has never seemed to me to be more forthright than your average Englishman.
I noticed that one of the eye-witnesses - Treeman I think it was - implied that Mr Rogers seemed rather taciturn in the field..
... Maybe he (CR not Treeman) was applying that old adage of "If you've got nothing nice to say........
Possibly... let's hope it becomes apparent in the next few games. Though one also hopes he has little to be harsh about in immediate future matches.
Quote:AGod
Jack not meant to be fit until June, I believe?
That is not what Jack said last week, but obviously you believe different.
I thought, Roger, that was what had been said on our highly reliable website?
I have no belief independent of what I thought I had read.
I have no belief independent of what I thought I had read.
Has anybody noticed? We're third in the table ... (though I don't think the final Warks v Hants points have been recorded yet)
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
For a reason that completely eluded me we were actually listed as being first in the table on the Sky Sports Cricket app yesterday - before any points had been given to any team.
i.e all 9 teams were on zero but Somerset were in the number one slot. It cannot have been alphabetical order. It cannot have been reverse alphabetical order. It was certainly not in order of the odds cited by the bookies for CC1 this season. Maybe the SkySports computer knows something that we do not?
i.e all 9 teams were on zero but Somerset were in the number one slot. It cannot have been alphabetical order. It cannot have been reverse alphabetical order. It was certainly not in order of the odds cited by the bookies for CC1 this season. Maybe the SkySports computer knows something that we do not?
For years various Somerset coaches and DOC's have subjected us to the hackneyed expression - "We can take a lot of positives out of this game."
Well if Matt Maynard or anyone else can take a single positive out of the Durham game, then all I can deduce is that they set their standards very low, and heaven help us because they don't have a clue.
I don't care if it is the first game of a new season, we are a very mediocre outfit.
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
Well if Matt Maynard or anyone else can take a single positive out of the Durham game, then all I can deduce is that they set their standards very low, and heaven help us because they don't have a clue.
I don't care if it is the first game of a new season, we are a very mediocre outfit.
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
Quote:Loyal of Lhasa
Grizzzly: I am sure you must be paid millions of Canadian dollars for your flawless analytical skills - and I was surprised when I checked the list of Panamanian account holders not to find your name among them.
Shhh......I'm expecting a knock on the door at any time !
Grizzzly
They can cite the 8 points as a positive if they want, albeit we only truly earned three of them.
We were certainly mediocre last season. And we've made our customary lackluster start to this one.
The 64 millon dollar question is whether Mr Rogers can have the sort of influence that Mr Langer did?
After all, we were something far, far worse than merely 'mediocre,' in the 2-3 years immediately prior to Langer taking over.
So sometimes it's possible than an injection of the right kind of attitude can make a significant difference..
We were certainly mediocre last season. And we've made our customary lackluster start to this one.
The 64 millon dollar question is whether Mr Rogers can have the sort of influence that Mr Langer did?
After all, we were something far, far worse than merely 'mediocre,' in the 2-3 years immediately prior to Langer taking over.
So sometimes it's possible than an injection of the right kind of attitude can make a significant difference..
I tend to be over critical at times, but it seems to me that the downbeat nature of many of the above comments is a massive over reaction.
Would not the performance of Ryan Davies behind the stumps rank as positive Tom ?
Bowling out Durham for 256 in their first innings, with no bowler having an economy rate of worse than 3.6 also doesn't seem to me, admittedly from afar.
So, yes, we have a lot of work to do. But I don't think we should be writing off the season just yet !
Grizzzly
Would not the performance of Ryan Davies behind the stumps rank as positive Tom ?
Bowling out Durham for 256 in their first innings, with no bowler having an economy rate of worse than 3.6 also doesn't seem to me, admittedly from afar.
So, yes, we have a lot of work to do. But I don't think we should be writing off the season just yet !
Grizzzly
Lewis Gregory's four wickets in the first innings would certainly be a positive for me.
Josh Davey taking wickets in his first outing in a four day game. I'd see that as a forward move.
Peter Trego bowling 14 overs for 25 runs at a rate of 1.78 plus his 45 off 57 balls when he needed to produce something suggests the all round ability may still be there.
Many thing's that need sorting and many players who need to show Tom they aren't mediocre but you are feeding far too much to the wrong wolf Mr Seymour if you found nothing in that game that was worth mentioning.
The side is no more mediocre than you are realistic at the present moment.
Mediocrity needs time to show itself and 6 sessions of one game is far too small a timespan for your cutting assessment.
I DO hope this side shows you something different because as I said before the season started. Someone with your level of negativity really does need something good in your cricket watching life.
Josh Davey taking wickets in his first outing in a four day game. I'd see that as a forward move.
Peter Trego bowling 14 overs for 25 runs at a rate of 1.78 plus his 45 off 57 balls when he needed to produce something suggests the all round ability may still be there.
Many thing's that need sorting and many players who need to show Tom they aren't mediocre but you are feeding far too much to the wrong wolf Mr Seymour if you found nothing in that game that was worth mentioning.
The side is no more mediocre than you are realistic at the present moment.
Mediocrity needs time to show itself and 6 sessions of one game is far too small a timespan for your cutting assessment.
I DO hope this side shows you something different because as I said before the season started. Someone with your level of negativity really does need something good in your cricket watching life.
I like Rogers' comments, thank you for those Byron...and thank you Wickham for your support! AG, we didn't lose in two days, as teams have in the past (possibly as often as not at Durham since the days of Rice and Hadlee at the unmown Trent Bridge). As neither you nor I, nor anyone else representing Somerset, were on the field, I'm going to give the credit for that to our team.
Positives: Gregory's first innings wickets and runs, Trego's runs and, so I hear, Davies' keeping; possibly also our new skippers' attitude and learning curve.
And a more general point about heads dropping: every fielding side I've ever been part of is likely to drop its collective heads when catches go down, boundaries are conceded regularly or other unfortunate events occur. That doesn't mean they think the game is lost, they've stopped trying, the season will be unsuccessful, they hate the captain or any of a number of similar pieces of guesswork. It probably means they're a bit cheesed off for a few minutes.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:19:13:22 by Shepton Paul 2.
Positives: Gregory's first innings wickets and runs, Trego's runs and, so I hear, Davies' keeping; possibly also our new skippers' attitude and learning curve.
And a more general point about heads dropping: every fielding side I've ever been part of is likely to drop its collective heads when catches go down, boundaries are conceded regularly or other unfortunate events occur. That doesn't mean they think the game is lost, they've stopped trying, the season will be unsuccessful, they hate the captain or any of a number of similar pieces of guesswork. It probably means they're a bit cheesed off for a few minutes.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:13:19:13:22 by Shepton Paul 2.
And a good captain gets their heads back in the game and back to work.... wonder if he did that... that doesn't seem to have been checked or noticed... or maybe just not commented on.
Perhaps a few crumbs of comfort in Ryan Davies' performances with bat and gloves (having said that I have not seen him yet) but the game did not tell us much that we didn't already know.
We don't consistently play well away from home; there are not too many 'roads' on small grounds around the circuit. Our batters, and even those who are not batters, can prosper at Taunton, but elsewhere?
Last season, after months of fitness training, indoor workouts and oh yes - fitness training and a jolly in Spain, we were not IMO match fit for the start of the season. Will that be so again this season?
The season will meander on, and our position in the CC will be 'masked' by what we do or don't do in the T20 and 50 over game.
In the CC, I would hope that anyone not ‘cutting the mustard’ would be summarily dropped irrespective of his standing or seniority within the club, and replaced by someone else. The squad is not strong enough in depth, and before the season closes, I expect a couple of additions to be made to it.
Can we avoid the drop to Div. 2 next year? At the moment, I live with a small degree of hope, but everyone needs to turn up PDQ. It is a long season in terms of months, but there are only 15 more matches to go, and we must not remain in the doldrums for any length of time.
This is a depressing thread to read, but understandable in some ways because members and supporters alike start each season with high hopes and expectations, and thus expect better than we have been served up at CLS.
We don't consistently play well away from home; there are not too many 'roads' on small grounds around the circuit. Our batters, and even those who are not batters, can prosper at Taunton, but elsewhere?
Last season, after months of fitness training, indoor workouts and oh yes - fitness training and a jolly in Spain, we were not IMO match fit for the start of the season. Will that be so again this season?
The season will meander on, and our position in the CC will be 'masked' by what we do or don't do in the T20 and 50 over game.
In the CC, I would hope that anyone not ‘cutting the mustard’ would be summarily dropped irrespective of his standing or seniority within the club, and replaced by someone else. The squad is not strong enough in depth, and before the season closes, I expect a couple of additions to be made to it.
Can we avoid the drop to Div. 2 next year? At the moment, I live with a small degree of hope, but everyone needs to turn up PDQ. It is a long season in terms of months, but there are only 15 more matches to go, and we must not remain in the doldrums for any length of time.
This is a depressing thread to read, but understandable in some ways because members and supporters alike start each season with high hopes and expectations, and thus expect better than we have been served up at CLS.
Sorry, SP, but there is very little basis in fact for your post about teams losing in two days at CLS, at least in the recent past.
I do not yet have my 2016 Wisden (which details the 2015 season).
However, in the 2012, 2013 and 2014 seasons only one side lost inside two days at CLS. And that was Northants who had plainly given up - they had already been relegated and were bowled out twice in about a combined 45 overs in Durham's final home game of the 2014 season.
In the 2011 season there was one game that took place across two days at CLS but that was a double-forfeiture game in which each side only had one innings, and I think you'd have to accept that that is a different scenario.
So, in four full seasons, prior to last season, only one team (and an already relegated one at that) lost in two days at CLS.
I do not yet have my 2016 Wisden (which details the 2015 season).
However, in the 2012, 2013 and 2014 seasons only one side lost inside two days at CLS. And that was Northants who had plainly given up - they had already been relegated and were bowled out twice in about a combined 45 overs in Durham's final home game of the 2014 season.
In the 2011 season there was one game that took place across two days at CLS but that was a double-forfeiture game in which each side only had one innings, and I think you'd have to accept that that is a different scenario.
So, in four full seasons, prior to last season, only one team (and an already relegated one at that) lost in two days at CLS.
I don't know if Chris Rogers gave a different interview to our official site compared to the comments made on Cricinfo, but I note that the official website has presented comments in a somewhat different light - for example the word 'unforgiveable,' has been replaced with the word 'crucial.' There is also praise for some of the bowling (by implication not the new ball stuff).
Any chance you could re check how many matches finished in three days, how far into the third day they finished and if rain in days 1 and / or 2 meant a third day was required. Thanks.
Okay we got lucky with the weather and we don't seem to have played that well. And though I've got grave doubts about this season (frankly I do every season), I still think it's too early to judge. It was only one game, or half a game, and I'll take the draw any day of the week rather than fall behind the pack this early. Let's see where the next few games leave us. There were at least positives from Davies, Trego, Gregory and Davey, though I do worry about the depth of our bowling. And Chris Rogers doesn't sound like he's going to take any s**t from anybody, which is nice (and the Australian way).
Pip pip! Here's to the next game...
Pip pip! Here's to the next game...
My point was intended as quite a general one, in that games CAN be lost in two days, and ours wasn't. Anyway, never mind - don't let me stop the research for Nailsea's request.
Pretty much agree with CP's post of 20:33 - of course we need to improve and be up-and-at-em PDQ, starting at the Oval.
Pretty much agree with CP's post of 20:33 - of course we need to improve and be up-and-at-em PDQ, starting at the Oval.
Thanks AG for letting all those who don't know that the 2016 Wisden details the 2015 season. I've often wondered (as a cricket fan) what the point of the book was. Gosh you are sooo knowledgeable about these things and not at all patronising to your fellow posters.
Quote:Clarence Parker
Can we avoid the drop to Div. 2 next year? At the moment, I live with a small degree of hope, but everyone needs to turn up PDQ. It is a long season in terms of months, but there are only 15 more matches to go, and we must not remain in the doldrums for any length of time.
Only 15 more matches to go.
I hadn't realised things were quite so desperate.
This time next year there'll only be 13 matches to go.
Yes, and in less than a month from now (11th. May) 25% of the CC games will have been played. If we are in a bad place then, it will be even more difficult to lift ourselves to a position of respectability.
It's no good resting on your laurels and hoping that things will turn around at some stage. Being Australian, I have confidence in our new skipper and I hope that if there are some backsides that need kicking, he will do just that.
It's no good resting on your laurels and hoping that things will turn around at some stage. Being Australian, I have confidence in our new skipper and I hope that if there are some backsides that need kicking, he will do just that.
How can we be respectable if we are 'very mediocre'? Has the level of English cricket fallen so far as to make our quality of cricket acceptable in Divison 1? Surely the best thing we can do is simply cede all the games to our opponents and take our place in Division 2 immediately.
We could then spend this year more productively trying to reach a higher level of skill by going earlky where people already know we are headed without doubt. Don't fight the inevitable relegation, greet it as a long lost friend and let it embrace you.
Why waste the audience's time? Just accept your lot Somerset like a number of your viewing public already have expecting no surprises yet complaining when they don't come.
It IS ineivtable after all according to many.
"Errr" (TiC)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:10:13:29 by Grockle.
We could then spend this year more productively trying to reach a higher level of skill by going earlky where people already know we are headed without doubt. Don't fight the inevitable relegation, greet it as a long lost friend and let it embrace you.
Why waste the audience's time? Just accept your lot Somerset like a number of your viewing public already have expecting no surprises yet complaining when they don't come.
It IS ineivtable after all according to many.
"Errr" (TiC)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:10:13:29 by Grockle.
Forgive me, SP, but your point seemed to be that you thought that teams losing inside two days at CLS was a reasonably regular occurrence - so regular that it might be the most regular happenstance since Hadlee and Rice were bowling on tracks knee-deep in grass in 3 day cricket at Trent Bridge.
I suspect there was a little bit of truth to that back when Durham were winning titles and had an awesome attack (as opposed to the merely very good one that they now have).
My 2016 Wisden has just landed on my desk and no County side - not even Worcestershire - were beaten at CLS inside two days during the 2015 season either.
Therefore, in the preceding five seasons only one team - Northants was beaten inside two days in a full game at CLS (i.e the losing side had two innings).... in their case the game started on day 3 and ended, with their humiliating defeat, on day four.
So all that we can say of the first two days is that we managed to "achieve," the same thing that every other side apart from an already relegated Northants side, had achieved at CLS over the past five years.
40 matches. 1 ending inside two days or the equivalent thereof. 1 other which started on day three but was one innings per side. 38 games in which nobody lost in the equivalent of two days. This also includes the home side not losing in that time-frame.
I suspect there was a little bit of truth to that back when Durham were winning titles and had an awesome attack (as opposed to the merely very good one that they now have).
My 2016 Wisden has just landed on my desk and no County side - not even Worcestershire - were beaten at CLS inside two days during the 2015 season either.
Therefore, in the preceding five seasons only one team - Northants was beaten inside two days in a full game at CLS (i.e the losing side had two innings).... in their case the game started on day 3 and ended, with their humiliating defeat, on day four.
So all that we can say of the first two days is that we managed to "achieve," the same thing that every other side apart from an already relegated Northants side, had achieved at CLS over the past five years.
40 matches. 1 ending inside two days or the equivalent thereof. 1 other which started on day three but was one innings per side. 38 games in which nobody lost in the equivalent of two days. This also includes the home side not losing in that time-frame.
Yes, Clarance.
ONce again, we have the spectre of a Somerset Captain saying, after the first game of the season, "We were a little bit off the pace," (as per CR's comments on the official site).
It seems that we are always "off the pace," in the first game which implies, to me, that either the whole club has too much of a relaxed atmosphere around it or that we are somehow doing the wrong things in the off-season.
But I struggle to believe that what we do in the off-season is that much different to what other counties do.
Therefore, I suspect that we simply have a club where the atmosphere is less intense than elsewhere such that it takes us a few games of actual action to get our intensity levels up to where they should be. But, by definition, not every county is 'off the pace,' (relative to its opponent) at the start of the season - so there are obviously some counties who are able to get this right............... so we ought to be able to, too.
ONce again, we have the spectre of a Somerset Captain saying, after the first game of the season, "We were a little bit off the pace," (as per CR's comments on the official site).
It seems that we are always "off the pace," in the first game which implies, to me, that either the whole club has too much of a relaxed atmosphere around it or that we are somehow doing the wrong things in the off-season.
But I struggle to believe that what we do in the off-season is that much different to what other counties do.
Therefore, I suspect that we simply have a club where the atmosphere is less intense than elsewhere such that it takes us a few games of actual action to get our intensity levels up to where they should be. But, by definition, not every county is 'off the pace,' (relative to its opponent) at the start of the season - so there are obviously some counties who are able to get this right............... so we ought to be able to, too.
Thanks CP. Seems sensible and saves all the anguish of waiting for the inevitable I thought.
We'd not be able to play in the CC2 this year of course but we could spend the time having extensive nets and giving careers advice to those players we have employed who aren't obviously worth the kit they wear and who need to look for other areas of employment besides being county cricketers.
To fill the gaps our scouts and coaches could use their time more effectively watching every other county and compiling a wish list of people we would like who would be willing to come to our godforsaken county to play for us next year - thus getting in early for the 2017 season.
Maybe they could also look for other opportunities rather than simply causing injury to the squad with their pointless fitness regimes and bonding sessions. The need for those would also be cut by the decrease n the amount of cricket we are playing.
We would still be earning of course because the T20 money machine could still operate and we might even get a run in the 50 over version which wouldn't tax us too much.
The shape of things to come perhaps?
We'd not be able to play in the CC2 this year of course but we could spend the time having extensive nets and giving careers advice to those players we have employed who aren't obviously worth the kit they wear and who need to look for other areas of employment besides being county cricketers.
To fill the gaps our scouts and coaches could use their time more effectively watching every other county and compiling a wish list of people we would like who would be willing to come to our godforsaken county to play for us next year - thus getting in early for the 2017 season.
Maybe they could also look for other opportunities rather than simply causing injury to the squad with their pointless fitness regimes and bonding sessions. The need for those would also be cut by the decrease n the amount of cricket we are playing.
We would still be earning of course because the T20 money machine could still operate and we might even get a run in the 50 over version which wouldn't tax us too much.
The shape of things to come perhaps?
Grockle: you've got it wrong again. We should be finding which of our players are best at darts and then form a team to play that instead of cricket, as we are clearly so bad at the latter. Sorry, I should have opened this posting with "Sorry".
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
This year only (I've put it in bold and underlined it just so it is a little more obvious).
Having a new captain in the top three
Having a new slow bowling option in the middle order
Having a new man behind the stumps
Losing two of your strike bowling team (one expected and one recently injured)
Asking one of your more established bowlers to hold the line because of the loss of a stalwart CC bowler through retirement
Losing a large amount of your setup matches under English conditions because of weather just before the start of the season.
Yep.... I can't see any mitigating circumstances for this year's side finding themselves 'off the pace' in the first couple of days of the season. It must be entirely down to a too 'relaxed atmosphere' at the club... entirely without any doubt at all.
Nothing else could have contributed in any way shape or form. How right you are.
Having a new captain in the top three
Having a new slow bowling option in the middle order
Having a new man behind the stumps
Losing two of your strike bowling team (one expected and one recently injured)
Asking one of your more established bowlers to hold the line because of the loss of a stalwart CC bowler through retirement
Losing a large amount of your setup matches under English conditions because of weather just before the start of the season.
Yep.... I can't see any mitigating circumstances for this year's side finding themselves 'off the pace' in the first couple of days of the season. It must be entirely down to a too 'relaxed atmosphere' at the club... entirely without any doubt at all.
Nothing else could have contributed in any way shape or form. How right you are.
LoL.... I sense a level of frustration that you have managed to handle much better than I in the past is getting the better of you this year.
Step away from the website.........
Step away from the website.........
Sorry ... (or Forgive me, the new variant)
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
As usual, Grockle, you have reading comprehension problems.
Nowhere did I say that nothing else could have contributed and - more to the point - I was NOT talking about this year only as you know very well. I was talking about why it ALWAYS seems to happen to us.
However, if you want to play this game as it pertains to THIS YEAR ONLY:
a) How many counties did not lose quite a bit of their pre-season programme to the weather? Answers on a post-card to Michael Fish.
b) In what way is "having a new Captain in the top three," who happens to be a Test class batsman supposed to be some kind of hindrance? I ask the question because most of the rest of your post seems to be a set of reasons to excuse poor performance. Clue: subbing Chris Rogers for Tom Cooper is NOT a hindrance.
c) It is - sans doute - the case that no other Counties have any other players injured or unavailable for any reason. Mark Wood was not injured for Durham. Ben Stokes was not unavailable. Hampshire did not lose Reece Topley before he could bowl. Chris Woakes - at Warwickshire - does not seem to be injured (having not bowled in the Hants second innings).
d) Clearly, at the start of a season, teams never have new players to bed in, it's only SCCC that have to. Durham did not have a young South African, by the name of Brydon Carse making his debut. They did not have their own England Under 19 player who, like Ryan Davies, is a novice at this level (by the name of Mr Burnham) appearing in their side. Any such things are a figment of the imagination of somebody who obviously has an "agenda," to do down Somerset (TIC).
Your litany of excuses does not wash because Somerset have not been uniquely disadvantaged, I'm afraid.
Must try harder......
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:11:19:09 by AG on apple.
Nowhere did I say that nothing else could have contributed and - more to the point - I was NOT talking about this year only as you know very well. I was talking about why it ALWAYS seems to happen to us.
However, if you want to play this game as it pertains to THIS YEAR ONLY:
a) How many counties did not lose quite a bit of their pre-season programme to the weather? Answers on a post-card to Michael Fish.
b) In what way is "having a new Captain in the top three," who happens to be a Test class batsman supposed to be some kind of hindrance? I ask the question because most of the rest of your post seems to be a set of reasons to excuse poor performance. Clue: subbing Chris Rogers for Tom Cooper is NOT a hindrance.
c) It is - sans doute - the case that no other Counties have any other players injured or unavailable for any reason. Mark Wood was not injured for Durham. Ben Stokes was not unavailable. Hampshire did not lose Reece Topley before he could bowl. Chris Woakes - at Warwickshire - does not seem to be injured (having not bowled in the Hants second innings).
d) Clearly, at the start of a season, teams never have new players to bed in, it's only SCCC that have to. Durham did not have a young South African, by the name of Brydon Carse making his debut. They did not have their own England Under 19 player who, like Ryan Davies, is a novice at this level (by the name of Mr Burnham) appearing in their side. Any such things are a figment of the imagination of somebody who obviously has an "agenda," to do down Somerset (TIC).
Your litany of excuses does not wash because Somerset have not been uniquely disadvantaged, I'm afraid.
Must try harder......
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:11:19:09 by AG on apple.
Here is Durham's final warm-up game, for example, before the clash with us.
[www.espncricinfo.com]
Gosh, it looks like they lost pretty much half the match to the weather - fancy that - sides losing cricket to the weather in early April - well, blow me down!
Maybe, in Somerset, there is a special and different kind of rain (different to that in Durham or elsewhere) which sloooooooooooooooooooooooooowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwsssssssssssssssss us down so that we are "off the pace." (TIC)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:11:20:41 by AG on apple.
[www.espncricinfo.com]
Gosh, it looks like they lost pretty much half the match to the weather - fancy that - sides losing cricket to the weather in early April - well, blow me down!
Maybe, in Somerset, there is a special and different kind of rain (different to that in Durham or elsewhere) which sloooooooooooooooooooooooooowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwsssssssssssssssss us down so that we are "off the pace." (TIC)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:11:20:41 by AG on apple.
No idea what that has to do with the SOMERSET situation my boy. I am talking about my county. Other county scenarios are different in sooo many ways that your attempt to open this up to a county by county comparison is laughable (and increases your litany of reasons to blame every thing on your theory alone)
See I can do it too.
They aren't 'excuses' - the side was off the pace. They are OTHER reasons for it to counter your strange attempt at THIS has happened therefore it must be because of THAT kind of - shall we call it logic?.
You put it down to my comprehension problems... I put it down to your inability to put your case across properly if you don't actually mean what you write.
Counties have a lot of reasons why they might or might not be off the pace.
I have no inclination whatsoever to widen this analysis to 18 counties - I'm a Somerset supporter I don't care what problems other sides have or how they cope with them.
There are a number or reasons for being off the pace this year, other than being 'too relaxed'. I've made that point to you and you can go away now in short jerky movements if you don't agree.... I really care very little and expect no other reaction.
I'll keep expanding your awareness. If you want to play childish little report card games with the information... I am not interested enough to stop you though I might allow myself the time to pity your interaction skills.
Nah... that is moving down to your level.... think I'll just ignore the insults. I've done what I needed to do.
See I can do it too.
They aren't 'excuses' - the side was off the pace. They are OTHER reasons for it to counter your strange attempt at THIS has happened therefore it must be because of THAT kind of - shall we call it logic?.
You put it down to my comprehension problems... I put it down to your inability to put your case across properly if you don't actually mean what you write.
Counties have a lot of reasons why they might or might not be off the pace.
I have no inclination whatsoever to widen this analysis to 18 counties - I'm a Somerset supporter I don't care what problems other sides have or how they cope with them.
There are a number or reasons for being off the pace this year, other than being 'too relaxed'. I've made that point to you and you can go away now in short jerky movements if you don't agree.... I really care very little and expect no other reaction.
I'll keep expanding your awareness. If you want to play childish little report card games with the information... I am not interested enough to stop you though I might allow myself the time to pity your interaction skills.
Nah... that is moving down to your level.... think I'll just ignore the insults. I've done what I needed to do.
"No idea what that has to do with the SOMERSET situation my boy. I am talking about my county. Other county scenarios are different in sooo many ways that your attempt to open this up to a county by county comparison is laughable (and increases your litany of reasons to blame every thing on your theory alone)."
Here's how logic works:
If you are off the pace in comparison to other outfits, then you need to look not only at your own situation, but also at that of others. In this case, most particularly the situation as it pertains to Durham.
Here's how logic works:
If you are off the pace in comparison to other outfits, then you need to look not only at your own situation, but also at that of others. In this case, most particularly the situation as it pertains to Durham.
"I'll keep expanding your awareness."
I've never used an emoticon before.
But if there was a sentence that *could* prompt me to use one? This is it.
Thanks for the belly-laugh.
I've never used an emoticon before.
But if there was a sentence that *could* prompt me to use one? This is it.
Thanks for the belly-laugh.
Yes that's one of the problem with those who think they know it all
The reasons for Somerset to be off their pace are individual to Somerset.
I'm making no attempt to compare the level of how far off the pace we are with others... try to stay with the point my boy.
I'm simply identifying reasons why we might have been off OUR pace other than a 'too relaxed attitude' Nothing more. I've done that... the rest is just you looking up your own posterior and I can leave you to do that. You are an expert at it
But if it made you laugh I supposed it at least got the stump a little way out of your backside. Progress
The reasons for Somerset to be off their pace are individual to Somerset.
I'm making no attempt to compare the level of how far off the pace we are with others... try to stay with the point my boy.
I'm simply identifying reasons why we might have been off OUR pace other than a 'too relaxed attitude' Nothing more. I've done that... the rest is just you looking up your own posterior and I can leave you to do that. You are an expert at it
But if it made you laugh I supposed it at least got the stump a little way out of your backside. Progress
We cannot be "off the pace," without a comparator. We were "off the pace," compared to Durham not compared to some hypothetical "other," Somerset team which coulda/shoulda/woulda started less slowly.
Most teams are likely to get sharper once they have a few matches under their belts, but the only thing that counts, in terms of results, is where team x is in comparison to its opponent (team y) at any given point.
I would have thought this was obvious but apparently not.
Most teams are likely to get sharper once they have a few matches under their belts, but the only thing that counts, in terms of results, is where team x is in comparison to its opponent (team y) at any given point.
I would have thought this was obvious but apparently not.
Ah, a new season is upon us ,having suffered the winter withdrawalls with only statistics to warm us .The cold days and short nights were a time of preparation, honing skills for the contest to come . There were skirmishes but nothing compared to the upcoming battles . And now , finally , the first ball has been bowled the peace is shattered and the combattants lock horns . All is right in the world we are not dissappointed , we anticipate the clashes to come .
Where would this site be without Agod and Grock ???
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:12:24:26 by Streeter.
Where would this site be without Agod and Grock ???
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:12:24:26 by Streeter.
I wish to congratulate Shepton Paul. He has now crept above Dickens, though is still marginally behind Shakespeare, in having his prose subject to close textual analysis.
... and I think Streeter's magnificent piece deserves some serious deconstruction.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
No "close textual analysis," was needed.
I simply read the post in question and took it at face value.
I simply read the post in question and took it at face value.
Haven't managed to read all the above, but thanks for the entertainment gentlemen, which is far better than the cricket.
We do our best Mr B
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:19:01:06 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:14:19:01:06 by Grockle.
After reading this thread and chuckling at the entertainment value, I have a great idea for next pre season.
Instead of flying off to Spain for warm weather pre season training next year maybe we should turn the county ground over to the regional scouts and organise a big jamboree camp involving them, the team and supporters and then we can all be more in tents.
Now where is my coat.
Instead of flying off to Spain for warm weather pre season training next year maybe we should turn the county ground over to the regional scouts and organise a big jamboree camp involving them, the team and supporters and then we can all be more in tents.
Now where is my coat.
Welcome to people with a flaming sense of humour or at least perspective.
I must also comment that I do find it mildly amusing how the outrage of 'outraged of Somerset' seems to diminish the moment they are informed that they can't publicly state how outraged they are on the site's main CRICKET forum. The official back channels stay quiet, no complaints are logged and the website tootles on into the sunset.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:15:06:14:37 by Grockle.
An early season draw up at CLS?
I'll take that every time. Upwards and onwards boys and girls, it's going to be an exciting summer.
I'll take that every time. Upwards and onwards boys and girls, it's going to be an exciting summer.
Oh the excitement has already started Jim... it can only get better from here. Hope you are well and ready for it and can get to some this year. Noticed that you made Cardiff which is good news.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:15:06:27:09 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2016:04:15:06:27:09 by Grockle.
You do infuriate me at times AG but sometimes the smile is just a smile 'peanut gallery'.... like it centurion.
Fair comments, Grockle. My post was also a heat of the moment reaction, a genuine one at that, but I did regret it afterwards. Onwards and upwards.
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