Pressure on him?
A Triple over Hants?
Pressure on him?
By Grockle May 7 2008
Hampshire must be sick of the sight of us. Not only do we keep beating them but we seem to remove one of their main players each time we do.. They arrive for a four day game without Shane Bond, their main bowling attack and no KP to bolster the batting. We have our own problems but we also have a surplus of riches at the moment!!
Pressure on him?
Hampshire must be sick of the sight of us. Not only do we keep beating them but we seem to remove one of their main players each time we do.. They arrive for a four day game without Shane Bond, their main bowling attack and no KP to bolster the batting. We have our own problems but we also have a surplus of riches at the moment!!
v Hampshire CC1 @ Taunton 7 May 2008
A lot of speculation about this side. The one to bring Championship cricket of the highest form back to the County Ground. The official site has a 12 man squad and that puts some of the speculation below either into sharp focus while other comments will have to be left for other games.
The main decision is whether to play Michael Munday or not and then the corresponding choice of which bowler to leave out. No Caddick yet (the newest injury is a neck related one it seems). No Mark Turner as we reported on Sunday because of a groin 'niggle'. A number of players are already involved in a seconds game at the Riverside and so the side basically picks itself up to number 10.
Trescothick, Edwards (welcome back Neil), Langer, Hildreth, Blackwell, de Bruyn (though probably not coming in at number 6), Kieswetter, Trego/Jones, Munday, Phillips, Willoughby
As we expect both Phillips and Willoughby to play, it simpy comes down to who will make way for Munday if he plays? Pete took the new ball on Sunday and did nothing wrong during the game. Steffan bowled an excellent spell at the death before nearly winning the game singlehandedly after our lauded batting line-up has shhpericalled it up royally and left him and Charl far too much to do.
Michael will play - the weather is warming and the ground is drying and we have to play our wicket-taking spinner in a side without its main seamer (however well the others have done). I'd like Jonah to get the nod for the other place. No other reason than I think he pipped it on Sunday but Peter has as good a claim to the place and I'll be happy to see either of them turm out. But Michael will play surely.
There'll be comment on the first two days here.
The Game
So Jonesy loses out and Mike Munday plays. KP is playing for the opposition but they are struggling with bowlers with Tremlett joining Bond on his favourite area of space, the treatment table!
Not of course that it does us any good at all, we win the toss and onece again decide to field and on the first really glorious day of the season we completely spherical it up with an appalling batting performance against a second rate bowling attack led by a lfet hand seamer called Tomlinson who has done very little to worry many teams visiting the Southampton area over number of sesons.
What does he do to us? The side looking to make a real impact on the County Championship? The side with 2 of the world's top number 5 batsmen of the last 10 years in their line-up?
Well he takes 8 for 46 in an innings lasting just 36 overs. Trescothick makes double figures (just) but the skipper goes first ball. Half the runs are made by Phillips and Kieswetter in a wagging tail but the front end seem to have learned very little from Glamorgan on the week-end and give up abjectly. We are all out for 126 and this game is a draw at best unless something is done to redress the balance .
But it gets worse. Although Charl Willoughby and Ben Phillips come out fighting and have Hampshire in trouble at 3 for 2 in the early overs, Crawley and Pietersen put our first innings performance in perspective as they add 190 with Pietersen hitting 100 first then going the ball after reaching the milestone and just 3 overs from the end. 194 for 3 at the end of Day 1 with Crawley close to a second Hawks 100.
Day 2
A big morning is necessary for us to stay in this game and getting Crawley early helps that morning get going, especially as he is the second wicket to go down as Griffiths is caught behind off Charl before Ben gets the ex-international at 234.
But Lumb and Pothas put the brakes on producing a partnership in the high 40's while LUmb goes on to hit 76 while the tail crumple a little. Eventually Hampshire capitulate for 359 with Lumb the last man out. Willoughby, Phillips and Ian Blackwell were the pick of the bowlers in both economy rate and wicket sharing (3 for each of the seamers and 2 for the slow man). Peter Trego adds the other two while de Bruyn, Hildreth and Munday all have a share of the bowling chore but with less success.
We start the afternoon some 233 runs behind so we need big scores from the front five this time if this is going to be any kind of game. Niel Edwards opens with Marcus T after failing the day before. This time it goes a bit better as the openers put on 83 for the first wicket with Edwards providing the larger score before going just after passing his first 2008 50. Banger keeps going after being joined by his captain. Together they take the score through to 159 at the close. A good start but we need batting all day Friday for any chance of getting a positive result from this fixture. Not hopeful but we are moving the right way. On to Day 3
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Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:08:47:29
What team for Hants?
I was really disappointed to read (on another thread) that Mark Turner may be hors de combat with some kind of groin problem. I was really looking forward to seeing him try to build on his success at Old Trafford.
I would hope that Turner possibly not being available will make it all but certain that Michael Munday must play versus Hants? After all, we need the firepower to take 20 wickets and if there’s no Cadmeister, no extra pace of Turner, then it’s not obvious how else we might eliminate multiple top-order batsmen. If it swings, then Charl might be one answer, but the forecast does not seem to indicate much cloud cover. I guess Alphonso Thomas is another possible answer, though JL’s comments the other day might suggest that he is possibly seen as a better bet in the limited overs stuff. Again, according to Wisden, Thomas’s success in SA was primarily as a swing bowler as well.
With warm sunshine forecast, that should suit Munday. As a wrist-spinner myself I know that cold, damp weather (as was present at Old Trafford) sometimes persuades the shoulder that it does not want to go all the way over in the manner that is necessary for bowling wrist-spin.
With warm sunshine forecast and Shane Bond hors de combat, then I will be disappointed if our batsmen do not take full advantage to all make a score at some point in the game and get themselves into real form. So far, I’d say that only Ian of the big-guns has demonstrated truly convincing form. Others have had one decent innings, and a number of poorer scores. Of course, De Bruyn has a 100% record, albeit from one innings (I discount the duck from the other day as he wasn’t beaten by a bowler and the run-out was not his fault).
I was really disappointed to read (on another thread) that Mark Turner may be hors de combat with some kind of groin problem. I was really looking forward to seeing him try to build on his success at Old Trafford.
I would hope that Turner possibly not being available will make it all but certain that Michael Munday must play versus Hants? After all, we need the firepower to take 20 wickets and if there’s no Cadmeister, no extra pace of Turner, then it’s not obvious how else we might eliminate multiple top-order batsmen. If it swings, then Charl might be one answer, but the forecast does not seem to indicate much cloud cover. I guess Alphonso Thomas is another possible answer, though JL’s comments the other day might suggest that he is possibly seen as a better bet in the limited overs stuff. Again, according to Wisden, Thomas’s success in SA was primarily as a swing bowler as well.
With warm sunshine forecast, that should suit Munday. As a wrist-spinner myself I know that cold, damp weather (as was present at Old Trafford) sometimes persuades the shoulder that it does not want to go all the way over in the manner that is necessary for bowling wrist-spin.
With warm sunshine forecast and Shane Bond hors de combat, then I will be disappointed if our batsmen do not take full advantage to all make a score at some point in the game and get themselves into real form. So far, I’d say that only Ian of the big-guns has demonstrated truly convincing form. Others have had one decent innings, and a number of poorer scores. Of course, De Bruyn has a 100% record, albeit from one innings (I discount the duck from the other day as he wasn’t beaten by a bowler and the run-out was not his fault).
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa. (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:08:50:43
Put it this way... if Warne were still playing for Hants, he would definitely have played in the coming CC match. Given that we have a leg-spinner with a better strike rate than Warne, the choice about whether he should play or not must be automatic.
LoL
Sixty Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:08:51:58
That comparison is a little mischievous, LoL, but I certainly agree with the sentiment!
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:09:21:16
With Alfonso Thomas playing for Somerset II for three days at Durham - he took 3-12 when the home side batted yesterday - the choice of fast-bowlers against Hampshire is beginning to take shape.
Hopefully, it will be Charl, Turner, Phillips and Trego, with Steffan in the wings if Turner is indeed out with a groin strain.
One bonus this year is that with de Bruyn taking the No.5 batting role, he does give us an extra medium-pace bowling option, unlike McKenzie last year.
Hopefully, it will be Charl, Turner, Phillips and Trego, with Steffan in the wings if Turner is indeed out with a groin strain.
One bonus this year is that with de Bruyn taking the No.5 batting role, he does give us an extra medium-pace bowling option, unlike McKenzie last year.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:10:18:48
I'm hoping that, if Turner is out, we'll go with a bit more batting, with the bowling line-up comprising Charl, Alphonso, Trego and Munday, supplemented, of course, by Ian.
I'd have thought, that should be sufficient bowling?
And we do have a question-mark over one of the opening slots and neither Banger nor JL appear to be in prime form, as of yet. In terms of the batting, if Neil Edwards is not available, then I think I might move JL up to open with Banger.
I'd then go with De Bruyn, Hildreth, Ian and insert Wes Durston at six. We'd then have Craig and Pete, then Alphonso, Michael and Charl.
I'd have thought, that should be sufficient bowling?
And we do have a question-mark over one of the opening slots and neither Banger nor JL appear to be in prime form, as of yet. In terms of the batting, if Neil Edwards is not available, then I think I might move JL up to open with Banger.
I'd then go with De Bruyn, Hildreth, Ian and insert Wes Durston at six. We'd then have Craig and Pete, then Alphonso, Michael and Charl.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: geordie moonraker (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:11:43:52
Don't forget Wes is cap[taining the seconds at Durham
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: Shepton Paul (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:12:17:03
I don't think that playing for the 2s at Durham would necessarily preclude playing in the CC v Hants on Wednesday. The latter would always take preference and they can always pull players out of the lesser game (I'm not sure there isn't a rule which allows players to be replaced in 2nd XI games if they're called up for the 1s, though I could have dreamt that).
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: Mike BOS (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:12:27:54
Shepton Paul I think you are correct, I had the same dream.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:12:45:49
If it does preclude it, then Alphonso Thomas won't be able to play either.
If Mr Rose wants the same balance of the team as last week then that would mean he would have to pick Jonah, as well as Charl, Pete and Ben for the game if he can't call people from the second XI.
If Mr Rose wants the same balance of the team as last week then that would mean he would have to pick Jonah, as well as Charl, Pete and Ben for the game if he can't call people from the second XI.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: BristolRob (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:14:18:43
The 2nds team is usually 12 players with only 11 batting and fielding ,so there is always the capability to withdraw a player.This was done once when Wes was called up for the firsts halfway through a 2nds game.
Now living in Saltford
Now living in Saltford
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:14:28:05
You can pull as many players as you wish out of a Second XI match to play for the `firsts`, but you can only replace one of them. If we are going to do so - it is a helluva long overnight journey from Chester le Street to Taunton.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: BristolRob (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:14:29:53
Caddys helitaxi may be available.
Now living in Saltford
Now living in Saltford
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:14:37:13
Yep, true CJM.
I guess that will mean that the team almost picks itself, namely the same team as last time but with Jonah in for Mark Turner, if the latter is unfit.
Then again, if Thomas builds on 3 for 12, they might look at it and think that we could really do with getting him out there and hang the expense of a chopper or whatever.
I guess that will mean that the team almost picks itself, namely the same team as last time but with Jonah in for Mark Turner, if the latter is unfit.
Then again, if Thomas builds on 3 for 12, they might look at it and think that we could really do with getting him out there and hang the expense of a chopper or whatever.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:15:12:20
Of course, forgot that De Bruyn will come in as well. Either for JF or for Turner, I suppose?
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: Mike BOS (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:15:14:19
Hants depleted for Somerset
Hampshire take a weakened bowling attack to Taunton as they seek to bounce back from their innings defeat by Yorkshire in LV County Championship Division One. [www.ecb.co.uk]
Hampshire take a weakened bowling attack to Taunton as they seek to bounce back from their innings defeat by Yorkshire in LV County Championship Division One. [www.ecb.co.uk]
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: Grizzzly (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:15:16:16
"Neck injury continues to keep Caddick out of the Somerset squad" ?
Would be nice to get an update from Brian Rose on Caddy's situation.
Grizzzly
Would be nice to get an update from Brian Rose on Caddy's situation.
Grizzzly
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:15:18:15
neck injury? That's another new one.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:15:19:56
Sounds like Neil Edwards is back in the squad at JF's expense. Good to see him back.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: BVI Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:15:33:55
My source at Taunton St. Andrews (let's shroud him in secrecy and call him Brother Of BVI Grockle) tells me that Turner has a niggle. Perhaps more encouragingly, Brother Of BVI Grockle also reveals that Turner bowled at Keith Parsons in the adjoining net earlier this season and looked "$%&*ing $%&* quick." You will note that Brother Of BVI Grockle is less erudite than his expatriate brother.
Perhaps some people (not all) on this thread are a little quick to jettison Phillips? Not sure he's put a foot wrong so far.
BVI Grockle
Perhaps some people (not all) on this thread are a little quick to jettison Phillips? Not sure he's put a foot wrong so far.
BVI Grockle
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:15:40:31
The Turner thing is really dissappointing, though, because he cleaned up top-order players at Old Trafford.
Ben produced tidy figures but did not break through until confronted with the tail. Moreover, his career record suggests that he is more a 'stock,' than 'shock,' bowler.
If Turner cannot play, then I would be inclined to perhaps throw the new-ball to Jonah on the basis that he did well as a new-ball bowler for Derbys.
Ben produced tidy figures but did not break through until confronted with the tail. Moreover, his career record suggests that he is more a 'stock,' than 'shock,' bowler.
If Turner cannot play, then I would be inclined to perhaps throw the new-ball to Jonah on the basis that he did well as a new-ball bowler for Derbys.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:16:01:46
I believe Steff would be unfairly treated if he wasn't a serious consideration for Wednesday. Not because of his batting performance on Sunday but because of his aggressive and on target bowling especially at the end of the innings with Alfonso when everything was on the batsmen's toes and all they could do was keep it out or walk to the pavilion.
I've been very impressed with him in the matches I've watched. He really has taken to the challenge.
I'll have a pnder on it later - with weather like this afternoon at Grockle Acres you have to expect Munday to play. As LoL says earlier - if he is going to be a wicket taking spinner in the Warne/Mushtaq fashion then he plays whenever he can. Got to go and strim!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:05:06:23:19:45 by Grockle.
I've been very impressed with him in the matches I've watched. He really has taken to the challenge.
I'll have a pnder on it later - with weather like this afternoon at Grockle Acres you have to expect Munday to play. As LoL says earlier - if he is going to be a wicket taking spinner in the Warne/Mushtaq fashion then he plays whenever he can. Got to go and strim!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:05:06:23:19:45 by Grockle.
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa. (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:19:07:42
Can we hope that BOBVIG will soon make a personal appearance on this site?
LoL
Sixty Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: Team for Hants?
Posted by: BVI Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:06:20:35:34
He often whinges about open-plan offices at County Hall and not being able to skive off (... I mean... make carefully formulated contributions to local debate...) without being noticed.
I might see if he will come on - he's playing in the same team as the Parsons, Mike Burns, Turner, Phillips etc. and against other Prem 1 teams (with players like Durston etc.) so he could have some useful insight.
Saying that, he might just take the michael out of his big brother!
BVI Grockle
I might see if he will come on - he's playing in the same team as the Parsons, Mike Burns, Turner, Phillips etc. and against other Prem 1 teams (with players like Durston etc.) so he could have some useful insight.
Saying that, he might just take the michael out of his big brother!
BVI Grockle
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:08:22:13
Is the correct term 'triple,' or 'treble,' or are both correct?
One for the pedants, I think.
One for the pedants, I think.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa. (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:08:25:29
... better wait for ss to get to her desk, I think.
"Pedants" is definitely not the right term in my view. Some of us like to think of ourselves as custodians of one of the richest languages the world has ever known.
LoL
Sixty Seasons a Somerset Supporter
"Pedants" is definitely not the right term in my view. Some of us like to think of ourselves as custodians of one of the richest languages the world has ever known.
LoL
Sixty Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Big Jim (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:09:41:42
Didn't know you felt so passionately about the Welsh language LoL.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa. (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:09:43:56
,,, you had a bad vowel movement this morning, BJ?
LoL
Sixty Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Big Jim (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:09:57:54
I'm having a bad morning full stop LoL.
Roll on de-mob.
Roll on de-mob.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Shepton Paul (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:02:46
Cricinfo (not always 100% reliable) says Hants won toss and put us in - surprising?
Munday plays, as does Trego - their team lists 10 excluding de Bruyn and Jones - my guess would be the former would play?
Munday plays, as does Trego - their team lists 10 excluding de Bruyn and Jones - my guess would be the former would play?
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Big Jim (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:09:43
Is this game really starting today or am I dreaming?
I've lost a day,I can't believe it.
There's a barney about to start in chez Jones.
I've lost a day,I can't believe it.
There's a barney about to start in chez Jones.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Bobstan (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:19:49
I don't wish to believe cricinfo.
11 - 3, with ducks for JL and JH.
11 - 3, with ducks for JL and JH.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: hantssabre (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:20:55
Three out already - what's going on!
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: sheffieldsabre (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:22:21
Cricinfo showing 11-3. Please tell me that's wrong!
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Blub (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:23:22
I guess they weren't so mad to choose to bowl after all!
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Blub (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:32:35
18-4 - I wonder if an early declaration is on the cards like at Lords last year???
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:32:48
jesus christ. Getting rolled over by a guy with a career average of 47? What on earth is going off out there? Has the guy suddenly become a world-beater? Are conditions unplaybale? (KT will be pleased!). Is it a load of complacency from our batsmen against a 'weakened,' attack?
It looks like it's going to be a long and painful match - unless Ian can save us.
It looks like it's going to be a long and painful match - unless Ian can save us.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:33:50
"Pedants" is definitely not the right term in my view. Some of us like to think of ourselves as custodians of one of the richest languages the world has ever known.
Yes, yes, but what's the answer, Professor?
Yes, yes, but what's the answer, Professor?
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Shepton Paul (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:35:22
Is this really Taunton? I thought asking us to bat on a sunny day (as I presume it is) was rather odd, but perhaps it's a lively / under-prepared strip?
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Bobstan (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:43:33
There must be a crumb of comfort somewhere.
The run-rate as I write is 2.93, so that's the nearest I can get.
As for Tomlinson, 'every dog has his day' so perhaps this is his. Let's hope he really has bowled superbly and that it is not a case of wickets thrown away.
The run-rate as I write is 2.93, so that's the nearest I can get.
As for Tomlinson, 'every dog has his day' so perhaps this is his. Let's hope he really has bowled superbly and that it is not a case of wickets thrown away.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Blub (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:46:52
It's doing wonders for his bowling average - it's below 44 now!!!!
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Wickham (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:54:39
1. Who is this man Tomlinson?
2. Who does he think he is?
2. Who does he think he is?
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:10:57:51
Shocking. Absolutely unbelievable.
Rain might occur on Friday but it does not presently look as if we are likely to make it that far.
It's going to be a case of Ian just trying to hit the cover of the ball to get us past 50 now.
Actually, BobStan, I'm hoping that Tomlinson has not so much been brilliant as that conditions are unplaybable. If they are unplayable it is, presumably, not weather-related, so maybe conditions will remain very difficult.
Then again, if I were a betting man - which I am - I'd say the pitch probably started damp and that, after lunch, batting will be easy. Perhaps JL will declare at 24?
Rain might occur on Friday but it does not presently look as if we are likely to make it that far.
It's going to be a case of Ian just trying to hit the cover of the ball to get us past 50 now.
Actually, BobStan, I'm hoping that Tomlinson has not so much been brilliant as that conditions are unplaybable. If they are unplayable it is, presumably, not weather-related, so maybe conditions will remain very difficult.
Then again, if I were a betting man - which I am - I'd say the pitch probably started damp and that, after lunch, batting will be easy. Perhaps JL will declare at 24?
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:11:00:18
And this kind of capitulation means that poor MKM may very well be reduced to the role of virtual spectator in this match.
So much for Glamorgan possibly being the 'kick up the backside,' that we needed. This is the equivalent of being hit in the face with a brick!
So much for Glamorgan possibly being the 'kick up the backside,' that we needed. This is the equivalent of being hit in the face with a brick!
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Frome Exile (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:11:15:18
Quote:Bobstan
As for Tomlinson, 'every dog has his day' so perhaps this is his.
With previous best bowling of 6 for 93, he's plainly had others.
Let's just hope that whatever their tall left-armer can acheive, ours can overmatch.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:11:20:22
well, maybe, but at 46 for 6, I find myself wishing that, actually, Jonah and Alphonso were 10 and jack.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:11:27:28
Of course, if this game continues in the same vein in which it has begun, then the ignorant national media, led by Agnew, will run with the lazy “Somerset are finding the step up to division one too difficult line.”
This would completely ignore the fact that everything about Tomlinson’s record suggests that he would be not at all out of place, playing for Gloucs or Glamorgan or A N other Division Two bottom-feeder. In other words, Tomlinson does not represent a step up in class from your average division two bowler anyway.
This would completely ignore the fact that everything about Tomlinson’s record suggests that he would be not at all out of place, playing for Gloucs or Glamorgan or A N other Division Two bottom-feeder. In other words, Tomlinson does not represent a step up in class from your average division two bowler anyway.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:11:29:18
Disaster. Ian has gone to someone that I have never heard of.
Unless we give our greatest bowling performance in living memory, then we are surely set for an absolute hiding now.
Unless we give our greatest bowling performance in living memory, then we are surely set for an absolute hiding now.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Blub (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:11:31:01
Well at least he didn't take a wicket in his first over in First Class Cricket. Imagine how embarrassing that would have been.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Big Jim (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:11:40:04
Is this a bad dream or is this really happening?
Anybody at the ground please let us know what on earth is happening.
It must be the pitch,it has to be the pitch.
Why else would they have put us in?
I'm not feeling well.
Anybody at the ground please let us know what on earth is happening.
It must be the pitch,it has to be the pitch.
Why else would they have put us in?
I'm not feeling well.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Blub (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:11:52:37
Sean Ervine's bowling record against us so far; 18-0-142-2; what chance him improving on that today I wonder.......
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: tufnell parka (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:12:12:55
Don't worry Grockles. Let's get the early season wobbles out now - I think this could act as a huge kick up the backside.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Bobstan (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:12:17:12
The 'recovery' by Craig and Ben is at least as worrying as the collapse. It really does seem to indicate that conditions are easing. Any other explanation, such as their batting better than the top batsmen, is even more worrying!
I wonder whether it was an atmospheric thing, or a pitch thing, or a combination of the two. I don't believe it can have been careless or irresponsible batting.
I wonder whether it was an atmospheric thing, or a pitch thing, or a combination of the two. I don't believe it can have been careless or irresponsible batting.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:12:27:43
Exactly right, BobStan.
I suspect that we knew, 10 days or so ago that Caddy would probably not be available and we probably panicked and decided that we'd start the pitch damp in the hope of winning the toss and bowling because we did not like our chances of taking 20 wickets on the usual flat-track.
Of course, we lost the toss and were promptly inserted.
The pitch starting damp is the only logical explanation that I can think of for why a Hants team missing almost all of their regular bowling attack, would decline the option to follow the Cowdrey dictum.
This afternoon, I strongly suspect that the pitch will behave impeccably and we can only hope that KP is not motivated for this game, I feel.
I suspect that we knew, 10 days or so ago that Caddy would probably not be available and we probably panicked and decided that we'd start the pitch damp in the hope of winning the toss and bowling because we did not like our chances of taking 20 wickets on the usual flat-track.
Of course, we lost the toss and were promptly inserted.
The pitch starting damp is the only logical explanation that I can think of for why a Hants team missing almost all of their regular bowling attack, would decline the option to follow the Cowdrey dictum.
This afternoon, I strongly suspect that the pitch will behave impeccably and we can only hope that KP is not motivated for this game, I feel.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:12:30:40
The only other thing that I can cling to is that their left-armer got most of their wickets. Since about 95% of left-arm pacemen seem to be primarily swing bowlers, perhaps that indicates that swing occurred? That would be a straw for Willow and Trego to clutch at, at least. Then again, swing is notoriously unpredictable and could dissappear at any moment.
Alternatively, maybe Tomlinson got all the wickets because he's the only bowler (of the front three) that has any real experience, whatsoever? Maybe the rest saw a damp pitch and got carried away and he just landed it on a spot?
Alternatively, maybe Tomlinson got all the wickets because he's the only bowler (of the front three) that has any real experience, whatsoever? Maybe the rest saw a damp pitch and got carried away and he just landed it on a spot?
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:12:36:49
But, frankly, if things do not improve significantly in the 2nd innings, then Mr Rose might have to consider whether he wants to give people like Wes and Arul a chance up the order somewhere for the trip to Bristol on Sunday. After all, the famous internationals at the top of the order have not yet performed in the FP this season. And if they don't find some form in this game, then it's not exactly hard to envisage a struggle on Sunday too.
Of course, giving people like Wes and Arul a go somewhere in the top six would be the ultimate way of demonstrating the mantra about it being performances and form that count, not last year's performance or names and reputation.
Of course, giving people like Wes and Arul a go somewhere in the top six would be the ultimate way of demonstrating the mantra about it being performances and form that count, not last year's performance or names and reputation.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: averageside (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:12:41:51
Just watched morning session. I am afraid most of the dismissals were self inflicted. A little movement for Tomlinson he was the only one that seemed to get any, but Tres and De Bryn played at wideballs and Langer hit a short ball outside off stump straight to backward point. Had a look at the pitch and it looks quite pale, mainly dead grass although I noticed that bowlers were asking for Sawdust . If the pitch has nothing for bowlers from now it could be a very long 3 or 4 days.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:13:06:10
Thanks for the report, averageside.
Sounds like the pitch did not look damp, as I supposed. It just all sounds somewhat poor, on our part.
Unless and until they start showing consistent form, I’m afraid I will worry about both Banger and Langer, in terms of focus. Banger has now formally declared an end to his international career. We cannot be sure how that will affect his focus, now that he no longer has international cricket to strive for. In the case of JL, he has all but announced that this is his last cricket, bar the hit-and-giggle in India. JL has always been a consummate professional. However, if you’ve read about him and his career, you’ll know that his own tale of his own career involves a constant desire to prove his worth – to prove that he is good enough, a constant fear that he isn’t quite good enough etc etc. He might not have those fears anymore. Indeed, JL has been quoted as saying that he is looking forward to 'playing with complete freedom.'
And before anyone jumps on me for having the ‘temerity,’ to suggest any such thing about Banger or Langer, I must stress that I am emphatically not talking about anything conscious/deliberate on the part of either man. Rather, I am talking about the sub-conscious.
Sounds like the pitch did not look damp, as I supposed. It just all sounds somewhat poor, on our part.
Unless and until they start showing consistent form, I’m afraid I will worry about both Banger and Langer, in terms of focus. Banger has now formally declared an end to his international career. We cannot be sure how that will affect his focus, now that he no longer has international cricket to strive for. In the case of JL, he has all but announced that this is his last cricket, bar the hit-and-giggle in India. JL has always been a consummate professional. However, if you’ve read about him and his career, you’ll know that his own tale of his own career involves a constant desire to prove his worth – to prove that he is good enough, a constant fear that he isn’t quite good enough etc etc. He might not have those fears anymore. Indeed, JL has been quoted as saying that he is looking forward to 'playing with complete freedom.'
And before anyone jumps on me for having the ‘temerity,’ to suggest any such thing about Banger or Langer, I must stress that I am emphatically not talking about anything conscious/deliberate on the part of either man. Rather, I am talking about the sub-conscious.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:13:07:59
From a competition for places point of view, I guess Ben is answering what Jonah did in the last FP game.
I'm sure we all rather wish that neither man had got the opportunity, though.
I'm sure we all rather wish that neither man had got the opportunity, though.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: Big Jim (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:13:08:39
Bad morning at the office I'm afraid.
It's really heavy here and even I would fancy having a bowl in these conditions.
Nearly time for our left arm seamer to rip them apart.
This is still winnable.
Go get 'em lads.
It's really heavy here and even I would fancy having a bowl in these conditions.
Nearly time for our left arm seamer to rip them apart.
This is still winnable.
Go get 'em lads.
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:13:17:39
Are you serious, Jim?
It is overcast & humid etc etc?
Please tell me that it is?
It is overcast & humid etc etc?
Please tell me that it is?
Re: A Triple over Hants?
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 2008:05:07:13:19:25
oh dear, I just looked at the webcam.
Perhaps Watchet has a unique micro-climate?
Perhaps Watchet has a unique micro-climate?
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