Barmy Kev reports on a day where decision making about whether to go to Lords or not was as crucial as the actual day's play. You could say it was a drawn out day,
This was a pre arranged day off booked In January in hope of an exciting 4th day cricket preferably in glorious weather. The weather forecast indicated some rain and unseasonably cold temperature 54 degrees max The game looked like heading for yet another bore draw. I had other matters at home to deal with. Between 10am and 11am it was raining heavily in Edgware. . I had no intention of heading to Lord's for a while. and thought I'd go for Kevin Hand option for morning session , then decide next move.
My thoughts were declare when we start and if can bowl them out by around 3.00 or even tea maybe a chance. I reckoned we needed at very least 3 out before lunch. 2 surprises what with the weather about 6 miles away wasn't expecting any play at 11 and given there was I felt tactic of not declaring most negative. Maybe a crucial factor as this effectively loses us at least 2 overs for little potential gain. Few lusty blows we are all out with 47 lead. So that's overall 4 less overs to bowl at them but 16 runs added. Hmm.
The commentators shared my view re declaration, they seemed to be bored with what was going on and said well at least they get paid for watching this. They understood why the crowd was very sparse. A bit of good cheer the female commentator , forget name, mentioned she played in Middx victory against the enemy in 20 20 at gasworks. Then I was expecting to hear for excitement stories of moving lorries and cranes. What happened next,? I was tidying up the garden I hear 4 down approaching lunch including Tresco and Buck. At 12.45 I head for Lords in winter clothing.
So here I am at Lords with a growing crowd. It is crucial we get rid of Hildreth or Trego early. It is slipping away , apart from odd appeal an un eventful hour. The work of the new crane now dominating conversations. At 156 4 with 50 overs left we need a miracle. One leads to two. Trego and Gregory out successive balls. Hat trick one, survived , next ball stumping appeal. Batsmen under pressure , there's spring in our step. Game back on. Next over from Ollie Ryan Davies bowled.
That is good as it gets. Somerset survive to tea. Even with 3 quick wickets we are looking at 20 20 style batting to chase.
Just had a quick glass of wine in a subdued Presidents Box . I'm out of here as game meandering into 6th successive draw for both teams. I want result cricket. Where are Surrey playing next.
PS: as I was sending this report they went of for bad/bored light in playable conditions.
Discussion started by Middlesex till we die , 25/05/2016 22:06
Middlesex till we die
25/05/2016 22:06
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Apologies that earlier version of this story did not open up properly. Hopefully now fixed and you can read Kev's report in all its glory.
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2016:05:26:22:04:52 by BarmierKev.
In contrast to the preceding three days, a couple of sessions of good cricket.
The Hildreth/Trego partnership, both of whom batted well in both innings, made it safe for Somerset. Surprisingly, Trego gave his wicket away to a good catch by Harris.
Overton however, effectively put the shutters up.
Thanks for the report Kev. Bravery beyond the call of duty.
As you say, the crane movements provided added interest.
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