Somerset
Fancy a Little 'Sex on a Wednesday?
Is the CC bat switched on
By Grockle et al
May 15 2013
Middlesex will arrive in Taunton for this game with a little trepidation based on the fear that Somerset are starting to motor after their destruction of Yorkshire in the one day game on Saturday. Will the form of our batsman finally start to trickle into the four day games. Blistering innings from Jos Buttler and Peter Trego may kick start a CC1 onslaught, especially for the latter and the solid supporting work of James Hildreth suggests he may be coming good. Some bowling issues for this game however.
v Middlesex @ Taunton Wednesday 15 May 2013
Scorecard
Commentary - click on George Dockrell's head for the SCCC link
Marcus will be starting to perm an eleven from his dwindling resources after this one. Without Craig Kieswetter already he will be losing Nick Compton, Jos Buttler and Alviro Petersen at different times for different periods over the next month and may have another international individual added to the roster to complicate matters further.
For today he will pick from the following according to souces;
More to come....
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Discussion started by Grockles.com , 15/05/2013 05:19
Grockles.com
15/05/2013 05:19
15/05/2013 05:19
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:19:10:04:24 by Grockle.
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:19:10:04:24 by Grockle.
An extra factor for Marcus to consider at the toss on Wednesday, is that Middlesex may well be strengthened early on day 2 by the return of Stephen Finn, who could well be the man to miss out at Lord's.
I'd almost always bat first anyway, but this could be another reason for doing so.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:13:12:51:41 by Grockle.
I'd almost always bat first anyway, but this could be another reason for doing so.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:13:12:51:41 by Grockle.
I personally doubt that Finn will miss out, although it's true that he's not been in good form.
At the moment the forecast suggests that Thursday might be the worst weather day, so that might be a reason to bat first anyway.
At the moment the forecast suggests that Thursday might be the worst weather day, so that might be a reason to bat first anyway.
I think we can take it that Bresnan is the 12th man, at least if I was a selector!
James Harris is playing for Middlesex 2's today in a friendly.
If he gets through it he will make the trip to Taunton.
If he gets through it he will make the trip to Taunton.
I would personally bowl first.With torrential rain forecast all day tomorrow the wicket will have been covered for almost 2 days
I'm on my way down to Taunton-arriving Wed am. Is the weather as bad as it sounds
I think the worst weather will be tomorrow GM. After that showers more than persistent rain most days. But cold. Though as a hardy Northerner I expect you to be in shorts!
Thank you. It can't [possibly be any where near as cold as it was at Chester le Street- but I have packed a pair of shorts!!
![[:wor kid:]](/phorum-5.1.15/mods/smileys/images/13.gif "[:wor kid:]")
Went down to ground today wicket wasn't covered. Working on it. It is now though and will be till wed morning now I presume due to forecast tomorrow. Ground is dry so hopefully it can withstand the deluge tomorrow if its that bad.
It may be too late to build an Ark.
Glad I live at the top of the village.
Glad I live at the top of the village.
Looks like they are forecasting some 16 or so hours of heavy rain ... Lasting until breakfast time on the Wednesday so would scarcely be a surprise if there is a delayed start.
Forecast for rest of Wed, Thur and Fri not bad. Saturday shaky.
Forecast for rest of Wed, Thur and Fri not bad. Saturday shaky.
I presume it won't be long before we are being told by the Daily Express and its ilk that we didn't have weather like this before we became part of the EU!!!
Perhaps we could do the Eurocrats a deal..... we'll let them put an extra tax on our bankers in exchange for some of the weather from Southern Europe!
How much better would the cricket season be if we had the weather of, say, Provence or Catalonia....
How much better would the cricket season be if we had the weather of, say, Provence or Catalonia....
I think we'll be the only place with chance of play tommorrow.
The other three games in Derby,Nottingham and Birmingham may not see the rain pass until late afternoon
The other three games in Derby,Nottingham and Birmingham may not see the rain pass until late afternoon
Rainfall is definitely affected by political allegiance. I remember a fine chat with some of my African colleagues some years ago. They had been suffering from declining rainfall and recalling how abundant it had been back in the "good old days". Those days were actually in the pre-indepence period when they could rely on, say, 25 inches of rain a year. They had cast off the colonial shackles and thrown out the trappings of the British, including the imperial measufrement systems. I told them they had only had themselves to blame if they still received 25 units a year but that these were now centimetres.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I received the following official message for our contingent traveling to Taunton, but thought it may be of benefit to some Grockles
Hi Kev
Somerset have been in contact to let us know that on Thursday there is a homecoming parade in Taunton for the 40 commando battalion whose base is nearby.
The town centre in Taunton and roads around it will be shut off and secured from 7.30am Thursday morning.
The parade starts at 9.30am in the town centre and the battalion will walk past the county ground by the main entrance gates on St James street. Therefore Somerset will open the gates half an hour earlier than usual on Thursday only to allow Cricket spectators into the ground in plenty of time. They also expect the local area to be very busy.
I thought it may be useful for the unofficial site for those travelling.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:13:21:47:36 by BarmierKev.
Hi Kev
Somerset have been in contact to let us know that on Thursday there is a homecoming parade in Taunton for the 40 commando battalion whose base is nearby.
The town centre in Taunton and roads around it will be shut off and secured from 7.30am Thursday morning.
The parade starts at 9.30am in the town centre and the battalion will walk past the county ground by the main entrance gates on St James street. Therefore Somerset will open the gates half an hour earlier than usual on Thursday only to allow Cricket spectators into the ground in plenty of time. They also expect the local area to be very busy.
I thought it may be useful for the unofficial site for those travelling.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:13:21:47:36 by BarmierKev.
That is very helpful information, though I shan't be there. One hopes that this information is on the SCCC site and emailed to all on the data base.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
You'd expect it to be there wouldn't you. Hope it is well before Wednesday (tomorrow then).
Thanks for passing it on Kev. Funnily enough it didn't get to Grockle Minarets in Muscat.
Thanks for passing it on Kev. Funnily enough it didn't get to Grockle Minarets in Muscat.
I'm on the email list but have heard nothing about it from the county.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I'm not on the mailing list and I've not been informed...I'm outraged, outraged in Swansea.
I got an email dated 9 May with some info about the parade happening on Thursday - though the subject line was 'Tickets Available for Somerset v Australia'.
One would imagine the ground will be very sparse before lunch.
Is there any bus services into the Town centre?
Is there any bus services into the Town centre?
thank you very much for posting that and for the link to the gov site. I don't know road names. Can those who know Taunton tell me if I can drive from the Premier Inn (O bridge one) to the St JAmes Street club carpark?
The club site says arrive early,enter by Priory Bridge Road and drive through to St James St car park.
Quote:GM
if I can drive from the Premier Inn (O bridge one) to the St JAmes Street club carpark?
GM, you will be fine coming from that direction,but remember only pre-booked parking is available in the clubs car park.
Priory Bridge car park, is open parking, and the travellers have now gone.
To be strictly accurate the parade do not pass in front of the gates but very close that's why the road will be closed.
Thanks Roger I. Has that changed from last year when I parked without booking in one of the disabled spaces behind the old pavillion.
With reference to Bapgpuss's email of 23.02 yesterday evening, I probably DID receive the ounty's message, but as the heading was about a match I shall not be able to attend I deleted it without reading it.
Next time I see a headline saying that there is to a referendum about Britain's membership of the EU I had better check to see whether somewhere it also mentions that Gove has become the new PM.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Next time I see a headline saying that there is to a referendum about Britain's membership of the EU I had better check to see whether somewhere it also mentions that Gove has become the new PM.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
GM it would be worth giving the club a ring, to see if any spaces are left.
I pre-book early,having missed out availability by not doing so previously.
Also noticed a sign near the gates at the entrance during the Wark's match saying pre-booked parking only.
I pre-book early,having missed out availability by not doing so previously.
Also noticed a sign near the gates at the entrance during the Wark's match saying pre-booked parking only.
thanks everyone for being so helpful- no more than I would expect from fellow Grockles. The web site says that parking on matchdays is first come first served but that disabled ad longroom members may book. Taking your advice I have just done soand managed to secure a disabled space to help Mrs GM .Now all we needis sunshine.
I hope you and Mrs GM enjoy your days on the world's loveliest acres, that the sun and Somerset shine with equal brilliance and that your only complaint is that you find your safely parked car too hot inside when you return to it at the end of each day.
Tomorrow's team will not (barring a late injury) include any of those in the Seconds match starting today. That team is: Alex Barrow, Tom Abell, Josh Lawrence, Craig Meschede, Max Waller, Cameron Steel, Josh Smailing (from Devon), James Regan (wkt), Gemaal Hussain, George Dockrell and Callum Stewart
Middlesex squad for tomorrow
Middlesex CCC
Match Preview: Somerset CCC v Middlesex CCC
14 May 2013
Middlesex CCC welcome back James Harris and Toby Roland-Jones for this week’s LV=CC game at Taunton. Harris has fully recovered from the hamstring strain that has prevented him from playing in Middlesex’s last three LV=CC matches, whilst Roland-Jones returns from playing with the England Lions. Steven Finn disappears to join up with the England squad for Thursday’s 1st Test against New Zealand at Lord’s.
Tom Smith is added to the squad. Smith has taken 15 wickets in the last two 2nd XI three-day games he has played in and deserves his chance. Also included and travelling to Taunton is Adam Rossington, who has been in excellent form so far this season.
The challenge for Middlesex CCC this week is simple – to continue to play the sort of cricket we have played so far this season. Somerset are a strong, well drilled and disciplined side. They have several high quality players and we will need to be at our best for four days. Last season they taught us a valuable lesson at Taunton, which is that you cannot afford to have one bad session in Division One. If you do this your opponents will grab hold of the game and make it extremely hard to get back to parity.
However, with the group of players we have, there is no reason why we should not have another productive week if we play to our potential.
Middlesex CCC are pleased to announce the following 14-man squad to play against Somerset at Taunton, starting tomorrow, Wednesday 15 May:
Chris Rogers (captain)
Gareth Berg
Corey Collymore
Joe Denly
Neil Dexter
James Harris
Dawid Malan
Tim Murtagh
Ollie Rayner
Sam Robson
Toby Roland-Jones
Adam Rossington
John Simpson
Tom Smith
Middlesex CCC
Match Preview: Somerset CCC v Middlesex CCC
14 May 2013
Middlesex CCC welcome back James Harris and Toby Roland-Jones for this week’s LV=CC game at Taunton. Harris has fully recovered from the hamstring strain that has prevented him from playing in Middlesex’s last three LV=CC matches, whilst Roland-Jones returns from playing with the England Lions. Steven Finn disappears to join up with the England squad for Thursday’s 1st Test against New Zealand at Lord’s.
Tom Smith is added to the squad. Smith has taken 15 wickets in the last two 2nd XI three-day games he has played in and deserves his chance. Also included and travelling to Taunton is Adam Rossington, who has been in excellent form so far this season.
The challenge for Middlesex CCC this week is simple – to continue to play the sort of cricket we have played so far this season. Somerset are a strong, well drilled and disciplined side. They have several high quality players and we will need to be at our best for four days. Last season they taught us a valuable lesson at Taunton, which is that you cannot afford to have one bad session in Division One. If you do this your opponents will grab hold of the game and make it extremely hard to get back to parity.
However, with the group of players we have, there is no reason why we should not have another productive week if we play to our potential.
Middlesex CCC are pleased to announce the following 14-man squad to play against Somerset at Taunton, starting tomorrow, Wednesday 15 May:
Chris Rogers (captain)
Gareth Berg
Corey Collymore
Joe Denly
Neil Dexter
James Harris
Dawid Malan
Tim Murtagh
Ollie Rayner
Sam Robson
Toby Roland-Jones
Adam Rossington
John Simpson
Tom Smith
They'll need them all...
(It's actually a very good preview; thanks, Bagpuss)
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
(It's actually a very good preview; thanks, Bagpuss)
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Thought I'd only copied the team from the Msex site rather than the whole thing!
So, George D is genuinely just out of favour then, rather than being 'injured,' anymore.
I know he wasn't at his best at the Oval and Jack bowled very well vs Warks but it's still a bit of a shock that George is not even in the squad.
I know he wasn't at his best at the Oval and Jack bowled very well vs Warks but it's still a bit of a shock that George is not even in the squad.
Or is he half fit/ working his way back? Bit much to infer "out of favour" I'd think.
I think it was only meant to be a finger injury? Presumably it is now better or they wouldn't be risking him in second XI stuff?
SLC: lovely to see "infer" used correctly - most unusual these days and makes an old man very happy.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
How do you get it 'better' if you don't use it in lower level games? Isn't it as likely to suggest 'In favour but not match fit yet'
I would be absolutely certain that if and when George is fully fit his name will be one of the first names on the team sheet. IMHO
I agree. I think that his is the first name that I would put down on my team sheet as being a likely match - winning bowler.
I personally rate him much higher than Jack Leach, so his continued non - selection baffles me.
I personally rate him much higher than Jack Leach, so his continued non - selection baffles me.
I hope DN hasn't let his opinion of Dockrell be clouded by two so-so performances in the Durham and Surrey games.
I am sure he is not to be fooled by a spinners performance in early April, but I do find it strange that he is seemingly out of favour.
Anyhow, George has been named in the Ireland squad to play Pakistan in ODI's on the 23rd and 26th of May.
I am sure he is not to be fooled by a spinners performance in early April, but I do find it strange that he is seemingly out of favour.
Anyhow, George has been named in the Ireland squad to play Pakistan in ODI's on the 23rd and 26th of May.
If Dockrell is not fit and if Leach can find an Irish granny, would the Irish selectors choose the latter?
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Just a remider that Somerset's ball-by-ball commentary is back from 11am tomorrow morning online and on FM radio in and around the ground 97.7 if I remember correctly.
Just looked at the other site and I cant see an obvious link to the ball-by-ball coverage and as our page has changed recently we can no longer click on Charl - or was it Murali? Will try to let club know they need a link on their site!
Just looked at the other site and I cant see an obvious link to the ball-by-ball coverage and as our page has changed recently we can no longer click on Charl - or was it Murali? Will try to let club know they need a link on their site!
Our 12 man squad announced, seems Gregory in for Compo will be only change.
Dibble is in but can't see him displacing JOVE, Alfie or Kirbs, and Tregs a definite as sure we will hope he transfers his 1 day form to the 4 day stuff.
I would expect Arul to move up to open, Jos to move up to 5 and Lewis in at 6 before Trego at 7.
Tomorrows foecast looks fine currently, as does SaturdaY. Thursday+Friday look showery but not terminal..
Bat first, bat big and then get amongst them.....
Dibble is in but can't see him displacing JOVE, Alfie or Kirbs, and Tregs a definite as sure we will hope he transfers his 1 day form to the 4 day stuff.
I would expect Arul to move up to open, Jos to move up to 5 and Lewis in at 6 before Trego at 7.
Tomorrows foecast looks fine currently, as does SaturdaY. Thursday+Friday look showery but not terminal..
Bat first, bat big and then get amongst them.....
I doubt Dibble is in the squad for his fielding? So maybe there is an unannounced injury, or he's a genuine candidate to play, possibly instead of a rested Jamie Overton?
If you want our commentary - click on George Dockrell's visage and you should be there.
Good to hear the commentary hasn't been side lined. The BBC links have been a little erratic up until now - well here at least - so another option is welcomed.
Good to hear the commentary hasn't been side lined. The BBC links have been a little erratic up until now - well here at least - so another option is welcomed.
Re
ibble, I also wonder whether there may be a thought that it's been so wet that we might go with an all-seam attack?
ibble, I also wonder whether there may be a thought that it's been so wet that we might go with an all-seam attack?
Great question.
Logically, Mike is likely to be 'on the scene,' first so we'll await his report as to how much water is lying on the covers, whether there are pooled areas on the outfield etc..
Logically, Mike is likely to be 'on the scene,' first so we'll await his report as to how much water is lying on the covers, whether there are pooled areas on the outfield etc..
A point to make on today.
With the weather interruption expected it look likely that end of play will go onto 6.30 which often mean later than that to get the number of overs in.
The club announced member have a chance to find out the latest redevelopment plans for the OP end of the ground, this was planned for 6.30, I am not sure if that start time will be possible on a day like this.
If it does go ahead I will be going to see the latest news and plans on the redevelopment, as this will make me later getting home I am not sure what time I will be able to get my photos on line (if I have any).
With the weather interruption expected it look likely that end of play will go onto 6.30 which often mean later than that to get the number of overs in.
The club announced member have a chance to find out the latest redevelopment plans for the OP end of the ground, this was planned for 6.30, I am not sure if that start time will be possible on a day like this.
If it does go ahead I will be going to see the latest news and plans on the redevelopment, as this will make me later getting home I am not sure what time I will be able to get my photos on line (if I have any).
Quote:AGod
I doubt Dibble is in the squad for his fielding? So maybe there is an unannounced injury, or he's a genuine candidate to play, possibly instead of a rested Jamie Overton?
Not a lot in it, but my impression when seeing them play either this season or last is that Dibble and Meschede are probably likely eventually to prove to be more successful than Cove or Jove, but as I say - NOT A LOT! IMO
Had a great deal of rain in TA1 over last 24 hours. Dry now with a chilly brisk wind which is a drying wind.
Doubt we shall see much play before lunch somehow!
Doubt we shall see much play before lunch somehow!
Sky beginning to break here in TA2 with a stiff breeze keeping the clouds moving.Showers look very likely but they may be short lived affairs. I don't think we had quite the predicted volume of rain yesterday. I suspect they will start on time if it doesn't rain in the meantime
How do things look under said covers, Mike?
It's a fairly appalling day in the SE today with glowering skies and very cold wind..... has a November feel to it, so I sincerely hope there are better viewing conditions in TA1 for those that will be attending the match.
It's a fairly appalling day in the SE today with glowering skies and very cold wind..... has a November feel to it, so I sincerely hope there are better viewing conditions in TA1 for those that will be attending the match.
One other possibility re: Dibble;
I wonder if Dave N has decided that the second XI games are pretty much useless in 2013 due to the awful track at Taunton Vale... perhaps Dave is of the view that he wants to get at least one look at the younger players in first-team CC action, early in the season, rather than simply relying on nets, second XI matches and the views of others to assess them?
I wonder if Dave N has decided that the second XI games are pretty much useless in 2013 due to the awful track at Taunton Vale... perhaps Dave is of the view that he wants to get at least one look at the younger players in first-team CC action, early in the season, rather than simply relying on nets, second XI matches and the views of others to assess them?
People keep referring to the Taunton Vale pitches, I have not seen any play at that ground so I can't comment personally.
Rob (not Bristol Rob) the groundsman won an award for his pitches last season at Taunton Vale, I can't see how they should have changed that much unless it is due to the bad pre-season weather we had.
Edit - spelling
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:09:42:36 by Mike TA1.
Rob (not Bristol Rob) the groundsman won an award for his pitches last season at Taunton Vale, I can't see how they should have changed that much unless it is due to the bad pre-season weather we had.
Edit - spelling
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:09:42:36 by Mike TA1.
Still dry, but the "stiff breeze" has now turned into blowing a hooley, which i guess increases the prospect of a prompt start but will decrease comfort considerably!
I have seen a fair amount of the play at Taunton Vale. It seems to me that the wickets have not been very batsman friendly, mainly due to variable bounce, but that characteristic has not been uncommon across the country if reports are to believed, with many blaming the variable weather.
'Awful track' seems an sweeping and unjustified judgement.
'Awful track' seems an sweeping and unjustified judgement.
Though i think the scorecards from the matches played there so far this season support that judgement. I have only watched small segments, but the variable bounce I have witnessed has turned batting into something of a lottery.
Let us hope that Marcus's judgement on fielding first will be fully justified in the context of the game as a whole.
Clarence re: your 10:42AM posting;
I should not be in the least bit surprised if Marcus has fielded not only for the apparently conventional reason (all that rain that has just fallen) but also because he suspects that the track might do exactly what it did vs Warwickshire... namely get flatter with each passing day.
In other words, this decision might be as much about having a better chance of bowling Middx out in the 3rd innings than the 4th as it is about taking advantage of potentially friendly conditions today.
I should not be in the least bit surprised if Marcus has fielded not only for the apparently conventional reason (all that rain that has just fallen) but also because he suspects that the track might do exactly what it did vs Warwickshire... namely get flatter with each passing day.
In other words, this decision might be as much about having a better chance of bowling Middx out in the 3rd innings than the 4th as it is about taking advantage of potentially friendly conditions today.
Sounds like plenty in it for Kirby, early.
Really think we need a very strong bowling effort in this match as the Middx seam attack is very strong and our batting has certainly not consistently inspired confidence in the CC.
Really think we need a very strong bowling effort in this match as the Middx seam attack is very strong and our batting has certainly not consistently inspired confidence in the CC.
Batting is looking pretty comfortable, at present. Few balls have beaten the bat.
Some pleasing drives by Robson.
Some pleasing drives by Robson.
Oh dear.
Wonder if Marcus is already wishing he'd elected to bat first instead?
Still, I'm personally sticking with the notion that the track may just get flatter and flatter, meaning that the last thing we'd want to be doing would be bowling last.
Wonder if Marcus is already wishing he'd elected to bat first instead?
Still, I'm personally sticking with the notion that the track may just get flatter and flatter, meaning that the last thing we'd want to be doing would be bowling last.
This update by Cricinfo's David Hopps on the live blog made me giggle!
"Somerset v Middlesex 130-1
A Somerset fan is trying to rally the troops. He deserves attention, if only because he is braving an unseasonably cold day in only a black t-shirt and straw hat.*
"Come on Tommo," he shouts regularly at Alfonso Thomas who, so encouraged, beats Joe Denly's outside edge and then is unfortunate to see a boundary whistle down to fine leg.
"Come on Tommo!" The cry is more insistent. Around him, nithered spectators in overcoats look vaguely hopeful.
Then Tommo gets boot trouble, the game is held up for five minutes and his next ball is a half-volley, deposited by Denly through square leg for four. He takes five boundaries off Thomas in 10 balls, some of them more fortunate than others.
"They'll never get ' em out," says an unbeliever.
They might, but probably not for a very long time.
*Tractor on Gimblett's Hill apparently.
by David Hopps 2:20 PM"
"Somerset v Middlesex 130-1
A Somerset fan is trying to rally the troops. He deserves attention, if only because he is braving an unseasonably cold day in only a black t-shirt and straw hat.*
"Come on Tommo," he shouts regularly at Alfonso Thomas who, so encouraged, beats Joe Denly's outside edge and then is unfortunate to see a boundary whistle down to fine leg.
"Come on Tommo!" The cry is more insistent. Around him, nithered spectators in overcoats look vaguely hopeful.
Then Tommo gets boot trouble, the game is held up for five minutes and his next ball is a half-volley, deposited by Denly through square leg for four. He takes five boundaries off Thomas in 10 balls, some of them more fortunate than others.
"They'll never get ' em out," says an unbeliever.
They might, but probably not for a very long time.
*Tractor on Gimblett's Hill apparently.
by David Hopps 2:20 PM"
Thank all things holy for that.
Sounds like Jamie has bowled extremely well today?
Beeb commentators have been critical of Tres for twice making Jamie wait to bowl until after Kirby had bowled.. any view on that from those there?
Sounds like Jamie has bowled extremely well today?
Beeb commentators have been critical of Tres for twice making Jamie wait to bowl until after Kirby had bowled.. any view on that from those there?
"A Somerset fan is trying to rally the troops. He deserves attention, if only because he is braving an unseasonably cold day in only a black t-shirt and straw hat."
Can someone, please, urgently, please, tell Tractor he's forgotten his trousers.
And if he's resting on his laurels, he's wearing them in the wrong place.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:15:02:39 by Loyal of Lhasa..
Looks like a master-stroke from Tres to have Jamie champing at the bit!!!
If anyone is listening to the actual ground commentary can I have some reports please as I'll feed issues to Spencer if there are any.
I've only just come in so I have no idea how it has been but I'm assuming that there may be some problems as AG is listening to the BBC.
I've only just come in so I have no idea how it has been but I'm assuming that there may be some problems as AG is listening to the BBC.
Listened to about an hour and a half of the morning session, one commentator sounded much quieter than the other.
Oh, and we didn't get any wickets whilst I was listening. As soon as I switched to the BBC we got one. Hope Spencer can sort this!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:15:52:23 by Bagpuss.
Oh, and we didn't get any wickets whilst I was listening. As soon as I switched to the BBC we got one. Hope Spencer can sort this!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:15:52:23 by Bagpuss.
Lots of breath noise from one of the two chaps on just before tea. Otherwise fine.
I've found the same issue as last year (and the year before) considerable variations between the two commentators volume levels?
They need new kit or it is pointless bothering I am afraid.
They need new kit or it is pointless bothering I am afraid.
I switched to BBC this morning as volume was low.
A shame they couldn't find a Somerset based commentator.
A shame they couldn't find a Somerset based commentator.
I am massively encouraged that all six wickets so far have been taken by very young and very local lads.
Delete "six": insert "seven"!
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Delete "six": insert "seven"!
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
And another one.
Seven wickets. And they've fallen to guys with a combined age of, what, 60?
Seven wickets. And they've fallen to guys with a combined age of, what, 60?
I long to see Dockrell and Leach bowling in tandem with Rehman in reserve!!
Beeb commentary has gone totally haywire - they've suddenly patched through a load of rubbish from BBC Gloucs instead.
Do NOT wish to listen to inane prattle on there.
Do NOT wish to listen to inane prattle on there.
What on earth is Kirby bowling at the moment? 22 runs off two overs.
Maybe we should have persisted with the old ball.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:17:26:13 by Tumbles.
Maybe we should have persisted with the old ball.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:17:26:13 by Tumbles.
Time for Kirby and Thomas to stick to 1 day and T20 format I think, and leave the proper cricket to the youngsters!!
I understand the idea of taking the new ball, but when wickets were tumbling and we'd only taken one wicket in the first 50 odd overs with the last one perhaps we could have persisted for 5-6 overs...
Quote:Loyal of Lhasa.
I am massively encouraged that all six wickets so far have been taken by very young and very local lads.
Delete "six": insert "seven"!
Delete "seven": insert "eight"!
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I'm not happy with that stat at all, Lol.
I'd have preferred a few imports, maybe an overseas player to have been amongst the wickets, all this is doing is papering over the very obvious cracks, the fact that we can't nurture homegrown talent.
Overton and Leach are killing cricket.
I'd have preferred a few imports, maybe an overseas player to have been amongst the wickets, all this is doing is papering over the very obvious cracks, the fact that we can't nurture homegrown talent.
Overton and Leach are killing cricket.
You are right as ever, BJ, but allow me my dreams, though I'd murder for a proper Kolpaked lunch.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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I agree with you absolutely! If our local lads can only get eight out in a day what hope is there for us making any progress! At least if we had a few kolpaks we would have someone to really take the blame!!
Stats for the day!!
Bowlers 30+ 48 overs 9 maidens 177 runs 0 wickets
....... 22- 48 overs 17 maidens 111 runs 8 wickets
The case for using our youngsters unanswerable!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:18:22:38 by old boy!.
Bowlers 30+ 48 overs 9 maidens 177 runs 0 wickets
....... 22- 48 overs 17 maidens 111 runs 8 wickets
The case for using our youngsters unanswerable!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:18:22:38 by old boy!.
And Barrow and Meschede in the runs at The Vale. Great day for our youngsters.
The only inference I can draw from those figures, old boy!, is that it is just as well you and I weren't picked today.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Think Kirby may be a luxury we can't afford these days - great guy and always a real team trier but leaking runs this season without wickets generally.
As others have posted might be time to bite the bullet and start to phase out our aged stars ( not all at once of course ) in the bowling department and blood more youngsters more quickly. Why does Kirby have a divine rigt to the new ball when he does nothing with it and another quickie in the side has wickets to his name ?
I for one would accept an average season in the CC this year if we built a bedrock for the future.
Just IMO of course !
As others have posted might be time to bite the bullet and start to phase out our aged stars ( not all at once of course ) in the bowling department and blood more youngsters more quickly. Why does Kirby have a divine rigt to the new ball when he does nothing with it and another quickie in the side has wickets to his name ?
I for one would accept an average season in the CC this year if we built a bedrock for the future.
Just IMO of course !
A good day at the office, as long as the weather holds...AG, what's news from the Met Office?
Maybe young mister Overton isn't comfortable with the new ball yet, perhaps he's a better bowler once that initial shine has gone.
Supposedly, we should be okay, BJ.
Middx seam attack is strong, though, and I wouldn't necessarily put any significant sum of money on us gaining a first-innings lead, with our batting being below full-strength.
Middx seam attack is strong, though, and I wouldn't necessarily put any significant sum of money on us gaining a first-innings lead, with our batting being below full-strength.
Quote:Loyal of Lhasa.
The only inference I can draw from those figures, old boy!, is that it is just as well you and I weren't picked today.
You could have been a VERY silly mid off and I could have been a VERY long leg!!
Craig M in for Kirby for Horsham next week, for my money.
Would strengthen the batting and either Alf or Jamie could take the new ball with Pete, with Craig M being second change.
I'm afraid Kirby somewhat let Middx off the hook with the second new ball.
Would strengthen the batting and either Alf or Jamie could take the new ball with Pete, with Craig M being second change.
I'm afraid Kirby somewhat let Middx off the hook with the second new ball.
For once AG I totally agree with you - see my earlier post re the options !
Marcus makes the decisions, I'm sure he has his reasons.
Good day at the office, a good team effort.
Well done lads.
Good day at the office, a good team effort.
Well done lads.
I'd gave taken 293 for 8 when they were 160 for 1. Kirby was poor with second new ball and trego was totally ineffective all day. Overton and leach were excellent. If say we've let them get too many though. Just short of a length from river end the ball seemed to do a but. Maybe that was just Overton though and his height.
Time for the captain to make his first major cc contribution if the season methinks!!!
Time for the captain to make his first major cc contribution if the season methinks!!!
I note with delight that eight of today's eleven learned their cricket in Somerset or Devon. A glance at the Middlesex side suggests that none of their side first emerged through the county's youth teams, somewhat strange given the size of the catchment area.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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I have just sat down after returning from the meeting at the SCCC and having a cooked meal.
I don't think I have time to put any photos on here tonight if not I will try in the morning, I also have a request to supply some for the Middlesex site.
I don't think I have time to put any photos on here tonight if not I will try in the morning, I also have a request to supply some for the Middlesex site.
Honours pretty even, I reckon. Jove was by far the most threatening bowler, beating the bat on many occasions (including four successive balls to Smith, two of which went for four through the slips). Leach bowled accurately; and it was good to see Gregory, who deserved his wicket, bowling at the sort of pace he had reached the season before last.
The day was all the better for the excellent company of fellow Grocklees and some others.
The day was all the better for the excellent company of fellow Grocklees and some others.
Might I be forgiven for being pedantic enough to point out that a ball edged through the slips didn't exactly beat the bat?!?!
... the batsman but not the bat, perhaps.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:22:28:45 by Loyal of Lhasa..
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:15:22:28:45 by Loyal of Lhasa..
Fellow-Grockles now known by sight: 6 and climbing.
(The number, I mean of course).
(The number, I mean of course).
It was a that wasn't good at lunch but got better. All the comments are accurate .Enthusiastic as Kirby is I'm afraid he no longer cuts the mustard and Alf and Peter were under par I delighted in the performance of Jamie and Jack with a delightful cameo from Lewis-are we still nursing his back? On a day that was not obvious for fielding first I would have settled -as I said to Wickham at tea- for 300 for 8 at close, so a good day. All we need tomorrow is 2 wickets by 1115 and a first innings lead by close.
Really sorry to have to agree with Rodders and other posters re Kirbs. Also feel that Pete is going to have to get some runs soon before his position becomes questionable.
Last year I thought Cove was quicker than Jove, i would love to see him encouraged to bend his back as well and then let them both loose. I think before this season is out we will see a bowling lineup of Cove & Jove, supported by Meschede & Gregory and spin twins of George & Jack.
Last year I thought Cove was quicker than Jove, i would love to see him encouraged to bend his back as well and then let them both loose. I think before this season is out we will see a bowling lineup of Cove & Jove, supported by Meschede & Gregory and spin twins of George & Jack.
Alfie is in year 1 of new 3 year deal I believe so don't see him going anywhere soon.
Kirby enthusiasm and experience will do us good this year.
He was unlucky first up, I agree he wont play week in week out but will be a big help to the youngsters coming through.
As well as Pete has bowled in last year and a bit I have never seen him as a frontline bowler, useful in right conditions, good fill in bowler and will always give 110% but yes I think he needs runs at 7 and to bowl 12/15 a day.
The youngsters did well today, and they all show promise but we'd do well not to expect too much too soon.
I think this is the season to bring them through slowly with the older guys.
In 2 years time I don't think Kirby or Alfie will feature in our bowling line up, but as we get there they haver a big part to play bringing on Gregory, Meschede, Dibble, Overtons.
Our future attack should be Overton x2, Leach/George, Meschede, Gregory but not now.
The fact Gregory is said to be a batter, we've seen glimpses from both Craigs too bodes well, in time.....
Kirby enthusiasm and experience will do us good this year.
He was unlucky first up, I agree he wont play week in week out but will be a big help to the youngsters coming through.
As well as Pete has bowled in last year and a bit I have never seen him as a frontline bowler, useful in right conditions, good fill in bowler and will always give 110% but yes I think he needs runs at 7 and to bowl 12/15 a day.
The youngsters did well today, and they all show promise but we'd do well not to expect too much too soon.
I think this is the season to bring them through slowly with the older guys.
In 2 years time I don't think Kirby or Alfie will feature in our bowling line up, but as we get there they haver a big part to play bringing on Gregory, Meschede, Dibble, Overtons.
Our future attack should be Overton x2, Leach/George, Meschede, Gregory but not now.
The fact Gregory is said to be a batter, we've seen glimpses from both Craigs too bodes well, in time.....
Quote:Railboy
Really sorry to have to agree with Rodders and other posters re Kirbs. Also feel that Pete is going to have to get some runs soon before his position becomes questionable.
Last year I thought Cove was quicker than Jove, i would love to see him encouraged to bend his back as well and then let them both loose. I think before this season is out we will see a bowling lineup of Cove & Jove, supported by Meschede & Gregory and spin twins of George & Jack.
Unless sabotaged by the Home Office (or Mary-Jane), I still think Rehman will get a game when he gets here!
The Beeb commentators seemed to think Alf got it to move all over the place after lunch but enjoyed no luck?
Today is forecast to be the best batting day of the match from a weather stand-point.
Time for Tres and Hildreth, as senior batsmen, to step it up. Can't be consistently relying on AP - especially as he's off soon.
Arul and Pete are, between them, averaging 9 runs per innings this season, so obviously that has to change.
Lewis has previously averaged about 12 when he's played in the CC but he's supposed to be mainly a batsman so he's surely got to show us something soon.
Time for Tres and Hildreth, as senior batsmen, to step it up. Can't be consistently relying on AP - especially as he's off soon.
Arul and Pete are, between them, averaging 9 runs per innings this season, so obviously that has to change.
Lewis has previously averaged about 12 when he's played in the CC but he's supposed to be mainly a batsman so he's surely got to show us something soon.
From where I was watching, AT seemed to be bowling pretty well, AG, without any luck.
Day one photos.
A bit of a delay with not enough time last night.
With the cold winds back I am back over in front of the Colin Atkinson pavilion.
Jamie Overton is mentioned in most of the photos, Chris Rogers making sure he keeps this ball down off of his bowling.
Sam Robson hitting four runs straight down the ground.
Another good shot from Sam Robson four runs again.
I am not sure what Marcus is about to do to Jamie Overton after he caught Sam Robson off his bowling.
Chris Rogers playing with a straight bat a nice four runs.
Joe Denly didn't like this ball from Jamie Overton he still managed to get four runs off a inside edge.
This is another ball Joe Denly didn't like, it went up into the air either off his body or bat and he is watching the ball to make sure it didn't hit his stumps.
Alfonso Thomas had a good try at catching this ball from Chris Rogers.
Jos Buttler tossing the ball into the air after catching Chris Rogers off Jamie Overton.
Dawid Malan sweeping the ball off Jack Leach
Joe Denly bowled by Jack Leach not playing a shot.
A bit of a delay with not enough time last night.
With the cold winds back I am back over in front of the Colin Atkinson pavilion.
Jamie Overton is mentioned in most of the photos, Chris Rogers making sure he keeps this ball down off of his bowling.
Sam Robson hitting four runs straight down the ground.
Another good shot from Sam Robson four runs again.
I am not sure what Marcus is about to do to Jamie Overton after he caught Sam Robson off his bowling.
Chris Rogers playing with a straight bat a nice four runs.
Joe Denly didn't like this ball from Jamie Overton he still managed to get four runs off a inside edge.
This is another ball Joe Denly didn't like, it went up into the air either off his body or bat and he is watching the ball to make sure it didn't hit his stumps.
Alfonso Thomas had a good try at catching this ball from Chris Rogers.
Jos Buttler tossing the ball into the air after catching Chris Rogers off Jamie Overton.
Dawid Malan sweeping the ball off Jack Leach
Joe Denly bowled by Jack Leach not playing a shot.
Yep. Personally I'd like to see this "Older bowlers starting to under perform and younger bowlers taking most of the wickets" trend that some seem to have identified be a little more obvious over a longer period of time before we start discussing major overhauls of our bowling selection this season.
Having said that it is very encouraging to see these players knocking very loudly on the doors. I'd certainly like to see us using Craig Meschede much more than we presently do, though his injury record is a little worrying. I'm not personally sure what Lewis Gregory is and he isn't showing me all that much to help me define him at the moment I have to say.
Having said that it is very encouraging to see these players knocking very loudly on the doors. I'd certainly like to see us using Craig Meschede much more than we presently do, though his injury record is a little worrying. I'm not personally sure what Lewis Gregory is and he isn't showing me all that much to help me define him at the moment I have to say.
Brilliant photos as always Mike - Airborne Alfie in particular is a beauty.
I am going to wear my Arul Suppiah benefit tie today in the hope of encouraging at least a 50.
Don't think it was Alfie diving if I'm honest. Thought it was petersen myself!!
Has mesch got injury worries. He had that freak finger injury last year but has been fit the rest if he time. If anything it's Gregory with he injury concerns. Time to get mesch in more though.
Geordie I will look out for you today!!
Has mesch got injury worries. He had that freak finger injury last year but has been fit the rest if he time. If anything it's Gregory with he injury concerns. Time to get mesch in more though.
Geordie I will look out for you today!!
Brilliant pictures Mike, but a point of order...the opposition don't score a "nice four runs"...they score an extremely lucky four runs.
As you were, what's the weather like in Taunton, AG?
As you were, what's the weather like in Taunton, AG?
Sorry,just to clarify. Wasn't advocating a full root and branch pruning of our attack right now. Was just surmising about the future and thinking that even if this were forced upon us this year we have an Under 21 bowling attack that should excite everyone. If we were to find ourselves, towards the end of the season, playing a "meaningless, nothing on it" type game I would be very happy to see my line up leading the attack.
Last two wickets so far have put 80 runs on - why oh why did we take the new ball. Why??
With 15 CC wickets this season, Jove is currently our leading bowler.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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We took the new ball because the captain thought it was the right thing to do.
In life things don't always turn out as you'd like.
Cricket is no different.
In life things don't always turn out as you'd like.
Cricket is no different.
Quote:Big Jim
We took the new ball because the captain thought it was the right thing to do.
In life things don't always turn out as you'd like.
Cricket is no different.
I know, I know. Deeply frustrating problem that Somerset keep having (this season and last) that they don't seem to be able to finish teams off when 6/7 wickets down. 110 runs since we got them 7 down with the old ball. That's unacceptable and may cost us any chance of a victory.
Frustrating this morning but James Murtagh is hardly a number 11!
Fantastic by Jove.
Fantastic by Jove.
James Murtagh is hardly a number 11!
He's hardly a James either!
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He's hardly a James either!
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Not sure why I wrote that... He's always been someone I rate quite highly.
SLC: I suspect you are old enough for senior moments. I count mine in hours these days.
And I agree with you about Jason Murtagh.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
And I agree with you about Jason Murtagh.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
On very flat pitches to be honest and in this game Dexter (highest scorer) was 9th man down. It depends whether we are failing to remove real tail end partnerships or we are working with a pair where a capable batsman is paired with a solid defence based batsman. Is it 'unacceptable' when a capable man in form is holding the tail together?
Not desirable maybe but it's the middle order man's job surely to coax runs out of the tail.
Not desirable maybe but it's the middle order man's job surely to coax runs out of the tail.
Deep doo soo here I feel. Tres looked good too!! Need hildy big time here!!
I'm sorry to say that the second mike is again not working well today.
(No insult intended to Mssrs Index or TA)
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(No insult intended to Mssrs Index or TA)
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Good thing too. Score 500+ in 2nd innings and bowl Middx out for 57 on Saturday afternoon. Easy.
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not much reading required then...
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Anyone present who can say why the pitch seems to have turned into a demon???!
Or are we batting like prunes again?!
Or are we batting like prunes again?!
Six wickets down and not a lot of batting to come, Pete might as well go in to One day mode. See if we can get anywhere near the follow on target.
Dont give up yet, remember the warwickshire match.
Dont give up yet, remember the warwickshire match.
At risk of a lambasting for being a pessimist I have to say " Oh Dear ".
Anyone who still thinks this squad is going to challenge for the championship anytime soon is I fear sadly deluded.
On a brighter note I think the squad is well placed for the shorter versions but for the " real one that we all hanker after " - no real chance. Out bowled and out batted and perhaps more important out thought yet again.
Anyone who still thinks this squad is going to challenge for the championship anytime soon is I fear sadly deluded.
On a brighter note I think the squad is well placed for the shorter versions but for the " real one that we all hanker after " - no real chance. Out bowled and out batted and perhaps more important out thought yet again.
I'm starting to fear that we might be in a relegation fight.
The quality is there - evidently at times we've shown it - but there is no consistency and too many times we collapse on the bating front and struggle to finish teams off when we have them on the backfoot.
Long season ahead in the 4 day game.
The quality is there - evidently at times we've shown it - but there is no consistency and too many times we collapse on the bating front and struggle to finish teams off when we have them on the backfoot.
Long season ahead in the 4 day game.
Yes we need Pete to somehow stick around and get 70+ runs with Leach, Kirbs & Jove.
Then again Middlesex put on 130 for the last 3 wickets
Then again Middlesex put on 130 for the last 3 wickets
Please could someone tell me what's happened to Kieso? I've been sunning myself and not kept up.
Quote:Botham
Please could someone tell me what's happened to Kieso? I've been sunning myself and not kept up.
Broke his thumb on day 4 against Warks (just before lunch, cold, first over of new ball) - out for 4-6 weeks and currently trying to advance that by having oxygen chamber trips.
Well then, following on 195 runs behind.
400 required to make it interesting.
400 required to make it interesting.
Does anyone know if the follow on has been enforced?
Well that will be a yes then!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:16:16:15:35 by Following on.
Well that will be a yes then!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:16:16:15:35 by Following on.
Yes. Some sides do realise the benefits of enforcing it, even if we don't.
Congratulations to J.Ove for a career best today..well done. What a future you have ahead of you.
Sadly, not much one can say about our batting today. It's fine hitting the Unicorns and the Yorkshire one-day attack around the ground, and so far we do look a very decent one-day side, but for many of us the CC is the big one, the holy grail. Our performances so far this season have on the whole not been up to scratch.
Maybe our players can't adapt from the one-day slog to the more measured, patient approach needed for the longer game.
Congratulations to J.Ove for a career best today..well done. What a future you have ahead of you.
Sadly, not much one can say about our batting today. It's fine hitting the Unicorns and the Yorkshire one-day attack around the ground, and so far we do look a very decent one-day side, but for many of us the CC is the big one, the holy grail. Our performances so far this season have on the whole not been up to scratch.
Maybe our players can't adapt from the one-day slog to the more measured, patient approach needed for the longer game.
As a batting side in 4 day cricket we are nowhere near good enough and could well be in trouble.
Crikey.
I hope that Craig is progressing well and the DoC has someone good lined up to cover Alviro because if this batting doesn't improve rapidly the R word is going to start coming to the fore.
At least Surrey are struggling a bit too, though they are much more in their game than we are.
I hope that Craig is progressing well and the DoC has someone good lined up to cover Alviro because if this batting doesn't improve rapidly the R word is going to start coming to the fore.
At least Surrey are struggling a bit too, though they are much more in their game than we are.
I went down today. It took us an hour to get two wickets. The theory appeared to be - bowl fast and short to frighten them. During that hour if Jove and Alf bowled a dozen balls ON the wickets I would be amazed. During our knock until I left at 3pm if Middlesex bowled half a dozen balls that wren't on the wickets I would be equally amazed. There was no difference in the wicket - just where the various bowlers pitched it. I have never advocated coaches but we must desparately need some bowling coaches to teach the basics. Unfortunately it appears that Steve K and Alfonso have not go the skill to demonstrate how it should be done. Our bowling was exactly similar to the c--p we were bowling at the Warwickshire 9, 10, jack ..... nothing on a length but a short pitched theory. If the DOC was involved in the thinking, he had better change his thinking quickly. We should now concentrate our troops on becoming no lower than 7th!
Bring on ALL the youngsters including MAX!!
Bring on ALL the youngsters including MAX!!
Where are all the happy clappers today? I've been here fir3 days and haven't seen nosworthy once. Composing his next tweet likely. This Is first div versus second div. looks like we haven't learnt a thing from
That warks game 2 years ago. If you can't leArn you can't progress.
That warks game 2 years ago. If you can't leArn you can't progress.
I'm a "happy clapper", as you put it. I'm shocked - I knew we weren't in great nick, but I've been out of contact for three hours and just put the score back on. Wow - I'm amazed.
Just embarrassing now I fear. Too many batsmen of ours think they are better than they are - they should learn from NC - just because you are talented you are not so Godly you do not need the patience to slowly build an innings.
Already lost 16 wickets on a strip that got the Mid last few wickets three figures.
Sorry Grocks and BJ and other posters - quite clearly just not good enough which ever way you look at it - and not good enough twice over in one day !
Ah well, I will just have to accept it aint going to happen in my lifetime which is OK but I seriously wonder why ?
Good county, good facilities generally, good membership on the whole, good attendances by most standards, good youth policy, good overseas signings - again on the whole - much talent in the squad BUT it never happens !
Mental thing ?
Already lost 16 wickets on a strip that got the Mid last few wickets three figures.
Sorry Grocks and BJ and other posters - quite clearly just not good enough which ever way you look at it - and not good enough twice over in one day !
Ah well, I will just have to accept it aint going to happen in my lifetime which is OK but I seriously wonder why ?
Good county, good facilities generally, good membership on the whole, good attendances by most standards, good youth policy, good overseas signings - again on the whole - much talent in the squad BUT it never happens !
Mental thing ?
Frankly I have rapidly lost faith in our beloved DOC. He seems to spend all his time tweeting. He should be banned from using it by the bosses - Chairman and CEO? - or if he objects - sacked!
No Jim. Happy clappers!! Im here supporting. Just thought I'd clear that up. Hope it has me old china!! or maybe not!!
All it'll take is a big innings from Pete and we're right back in this.
As David Soul once sang, don't give up on us baby....he wasn't a bad prop either.
As David Soul once sang, don't give up on us baby....he wasn't a bad prop either.
Even Bagpuss commentating on the local programme isn't saving us. When I left her and BristolRob at 3pm today when Jos was out first time, I said "I may see you tomorrow but it might be over tonight". I think they looked at me as if I was a nutcase!! Of course, I probably am!!
I thought Tractor looked rather well in one of Mike's photographs, if he's there today can somebody say hello to him from me, please?
Quote:Big Jim
All it'll take is a big innings from Pete and we're right back in this.
As David Soul once sang, don't give up on us baby....he wasn't a bad prop either.
Yes BJ - you are absolutely spot on once again - a quick or even not so quick 350 from Pete would help!!
Quote:Big Jim
I thought Tractor looked rather well in one of Mike's photographs, if he's there today can somebody say hello to him from me, please?
Tractor is embarrassed since he came to national attention yesterday on the BBC commentary. I won't say he is quiet but his cheeks are very red!!
Did he do some commentary?
Bois bach, I'd have paid good money to have heard that...bad money too.
Bois bach, I'd have paid good money to have heard that...bad money too.
This is why I believe the follow on should usually be enforced. Kick a side when they're down.
Middlesex looked a fairly poor side when we beat them last season but grew after that to look a decent outfit. This season, like Agod, I make them favourites to win the title.
And us? We seem to be going backwards. We're showing less fight and bottle now than we did a year ago, when half the side seemed out injured.
Tonking the Unicorns round Taunton is all very well, but in the CC we've been outclassed by Durham, Middlesex and Yorkshire, while wobbling against Surrey, and failing to beat a Warks side we had on the ropes.
Of course there is still over 2/3rds of the season to put things right, but I don't like what I'm seeing.
Middlesex looked a fairly poor side when we beat them last season but grew after that to look a decent outfit. This season, like Agod, I make them favourites to win the title.
And us? We seem to be going backwards. We're showing less fight and bottle now than we did a year ago, when half the side seemed out injured.
Tonking the Unicorns round Taunton is all very well, but in the CC we've been outclassed by Durham, Middlesex and Yorkshire, while wobbling against Surrey, and failing to beat a Warks side we had on the ropes.
Of course there is still over 2/3rds of the season to put things right, but I don't like what I'm seeing.
Our CC batting just hasn`t fired this year, in marked contrast to the Pro 40. We always seem a bit brittle batting wise, but this, apart from Piterson early doors and a few nuggets has been consistently below par. What worries me is that no-one is knocking at the door in the 2nds either.
Come on Somerset, cheer me up!
Come on Somerset, cheer me up!
Good grief some people can't wait for a bad performance before they have a dig and a rant. It makes i laugh
A decent stand developing. Well Done to Jos and Pete.
It's not a question of having a dig. Nobody wants us to fail.
It's not a question of having a dig. Nobody wants us to fail.
Quote:Nailsea_Fizz
Good grief some people can't wait for a bad performance before they have a dig and a rant. It makes i laugh
We haven't had a good performance in the 4 day game - too many batting failures and reoccurring theme of bowlers not finishing teams off.
We have a right to be worried - we are soon to loose even more players
These two are showing some fight. Just what the doctor ordered.
You accept you're going to be outclassed sometimes and Middlesex are a very decent side, but you just want to see the players showing character and bottle and not collapsing like a deck of cards.
You accept you're going to be outclassed sometimes and Middlesex are a very decent side, but you just want to see the players showing character and bottle and not collapsing like a deck of cards.
Bizzare thing is had we knocked them over for, say 250, when we had them on back foot at 222/7 we could still be in this.
Jos and Pete will have to put on another 150 from here and then we'll bowl them out for 50
Jos and Pete will have to put on another 150 from here and then we'll bowl them out for 50
Quote:Nailsea_Fizz
Good grief some people can't wait for a bad performance before they have a dig and a rant. It makes i laugh
You may well be right. However, I believe I support Somerset as much as anyone without going OTT. In this match and others the bowling - at least the seam bowling - has been pretty awful with apparently only one plan - to avoid bowling to a good length because I suspect we have caught the "dot ball" disease from the short format, where they are more important than wickets! The contrast in the two bowling styles with Middlesex orchestrated by two ex-England seamers who knew what a good length was - is so obvious. I think the wicket clearly had a lot of life in it, and that probably accounts for Marcus putting them in - unfortunately all our seamers didn't know how to bowl on it.
Quote:Tumbles
Bizzare thing is had we knocked them over for, say 250, when we had them on back foot at 222/7 we could still be in this.
Jos and Pete will have to put on another 150 from here and then we'll bowl them out for 50
We are still in this!
No Botham we are most definitely not still in this !
Get real.
OB I agree with your points re our seam attack but we must ask the question WHY !!
Either the captain or our much vaunted DoC should be putting them straigt if they sadly lack the intelligence to work it out for themselves. See my earlier post re being very second best on the mental as well as playing front.
Get real.
OB I agree with your points re our seam attack but we must ask the question WHY !!
Either the captain or our much vaunted DoC should be putting them straigt if they sadly lack the intelligence to work it out for themselves. See my earlier post re being very second best on the mental as well as playing front.
Quote:rodders12
You have a good laugh Nailsea Fizz !
Most other supporters are crying.
Slightly dramatic don't you think. As you probably already knew it was the reaction to the performances so far this season that raised a laugh
Still it's only a game.
My first thought tonight is was it really worth a 650 mile round trip drive and 4 nights hotel bill to watch this. I think we walk out of the dressing room with a detailed plan of campaign- and stick to it when it's not working. No problem this morning opening with Alfie and Jamie but when they weren'y knocking over the last 2 we didn't try someone else- and it's very difficult to get batsmen out with balls 12 inches above their heads.
My Suppiah tie didn't work but watching him I'm not sure that anything would. I cannot understand why we collapsed. The Msex bowlers bowled very well -all credit to them but we do not have bad batsmen- Tres, Peterson Hildreth Buttler and Trego should see us to 200, The embarrassment of the second innings was redeemed only by Jos and Pete but in reality too little in the wrong innings. I hope this has given Pete some of his mojo back. In the first innings Msex wanted to bowl to Leach and Kirby and set fields to achieve it and time after time Pete took a single off the first ball.
we have plenty of up and coming bowling talent- perhaps a bowling coach rather than a DoC is a priority.Anyway I shall be there in the morning expecting very little
My Suppiah tie didn't work but watching him I'm not sure that anything would. I cannot understand why we collapsed. The Msex bowlers bowled very well -all credit to them but we do not have bad batsmen- Tres, Peterson Hildreth Buttler and Trego should see us to 200, The embarrassment of the second innings was redeemed only by Jos and Pete but in reality too little in the wrong innings. I hope this has given Pete some of his mojo back. In the first innings Msex wanted to bowl to Leach and Kirby and set fields to achieve it and time after time Pete took a single off the first ball.
we have plenty of up and coming bowling talent- perhaps a bowling coach rather than a DoC is a priority.Anyway I shall be there in the morning expecting very little
Surely if NC is not available we should have opened with Tres and AP?Hildy 3, Jos 4?? Play you,re best players available in their best positions. Arul and Lewis not up to it at the moment,but options very limited
Roddrs and old boy. Just to
Let you know our DOC wasn't even there today. Personally I think we are in trouble and we need a win rapidly. Tregs and Buttler looked good at end today. Tres Suppiah and hildreth just not up to it at the moment!! Mesh in next game. Prob dibble or hussain too for me.
Let you know our DOC wasn't even there today. Personally I think we are in trouble and we need a win rapidly. Tregs and Buttler looked good at end today. Tres Suppiah and hildreth just not up to it at the moment!! Mesh in next game. Prob dibble or hussain too for me.
He was at Taunton vale for seconds so he saw them to a good draw with northants.
Given the title to this thread, I can confirm that you were we'll and truly ****** this Thursday !!!
Both our current batsmen have the ability to make big scores and they will be desperate to do so. No-one wants to be in our position, especially at home.
Quote:Botham
Both our current batsmen have the ability to make big scores and they will be desperate to do so. No-one wants to be in our position, especially at home.
You make a good point. If we can persuade the Middlesex bowlers not to bowl so many balls in line and on a good length Jos and Pete might be able to swing things to a respectable total. There is clearly plenty of life still in the wicket if the balls are pitched in the right areas. As someone else said our bowlers (and presumably the Captain as he left them on) thought the best spot was short pitched over the batsman's head.
Day two photos.
I am speechless on Somerset's batting, they don't seem to know when to leave the good ball alone.
I thought Arul Suppiah was going to show some form when he hit this four, but no he gave me false hope.
You can't tell me this is a good shot to play by Marcus Trescothick, as it turned out it wasn't he was caught by John Simpson bowled Tim Murtagh
We did have something to cheer about when Jamie Overton bowled Tim Murtagh
It looks like Jamie Overton is having a well deserved rest after trying to stop the ball.
Tim Murtagh is showing how to avoid a short ball.
And then Tim Murtagh shows us how to play a short ball.
It is not all doom and gloom, Joe Denly bowled by Jack Leach not playing a shot.
Arul Suppiah bld James Harris. Can you see the third stump and the second bail?
Now can you see the third stump and the second bail?
Jack Leach bowled Toby Roland-Jones.
I am speechless on Somerset's batting, they don't seem to know when to leave the good ball alone.
I thought Arul Suppiah was going to show some form when he hit this four, but no he gave me false hope.
You can't tell me this is a good shot to play by Marcus Trescothick, as it turned out it wasn't he was caught by John Simpson bowled Tim Murtagh
We did have something to cheer about when Jamie Overton bowled Tim Murtagh
It looks like Jamie Overton is having a well deserved rest after trying to stop the ball.
Tim Murtagh is showing how to avoid a short ball.
And then Tim Murtagh shows us how to play a short ball.
It is not all doom and gloom, Joe Denly bowled by Jack Leach not playing a shot.
Arul Suppiah bld James Harris. Can you see the third stump and the second bail?
Now can you see the third stump and the second bail?
Jack Leach bowled Toby Roland-Jones.
[audioboo.fm]
Thought you might like to listen to the interview with Tim Murtagh, as it explains the difference between Middlesex and Somerset innings. Whilst it might have seemed a good idea to ask Middlesex to bat yesterday (because of heavy rain Tuesday-and today was expected to be bright and sunny) there wasn't much difficulty batting yesterday- but all the time you were bowling on a soft pitch it created divots which the Middle bowlers were able to hit today.
Suppiah (2nd time around) was described on commentary as having received an unplayable delivery, as it hit one of those divots.
Thought you might like to listen to the interview with Tim Murtagh, as it explains the difference between Middlesex and Somerset innings. Whilst it might have seemed a good idea to ask Middlesex to bat yesterday (because of heavy rain Tuesday-and today was expected to be bright and sunny) there wasn't much difficulty batting yesterday- but all the time you were bowling on a soft pitch it created divots which the Middle bowlers were able to hit today.
Suppiah (2nd time around) was described on commentary as having received an unplayable delivery, as it hit one of those divots.
Thanks, chunky.
You certainly have a good set of seam bowlers. Murtagh constantly posed the batsmen problems; and Harris also impressed me.
It was nice to be able to spend time - in the sunshine - in the company of (at various times) Bagpuss, BristolRob and Mr and Mrs GM today. Not much to enthuse about in the Somerset performance: chunky may have provided at least part of the explanation for this.
You certainly have a good set of seam bowlers. Murtagh constantly posed the batsmen problems; and Harris also impressed me.
It was nice to be able to spend time - in the sunshine - in the company of (at various times) Bagpuss, BristolRob and Mr and Mrs GM today. Not much to enthuse about in the Somerset performance: chunky may have provided at least part of the explanation for this.
Thanks chunky. So another poor tres decision then? He's not doing much right.
BBC Online's report also says that indentations from earlier in the game seemed to have hardened once the pitch dried out, and that Arul got one that kept low.
Regarding putting them in yesterday, I tend to the view proposed by (I think) AG yesterday that Tres remembered the Warks game (and others) when the pitch got so flat later on that you couldn't bowl anybody out. I would suspect that weighed more in his decision than any particular expectation to skittle Middx yesterday.
Whatever...it doesn't look like that plan has worked. I'm right behind Tres and respect him enormously - but sooner or later he may feel the weight of criticism of such well-intentioned and defensible decisions as skipper.
In the meantime, tomorrow's another day - if Tregs and Co can see this to Saturday, they'll have done exceedingly well.
Regarding putting them in yesterday, I tend to the view proposed by (I think) AG yesterday that Tres remembered the Warks game (and others) when the pitch got so flat later on that you couldn't bowl anybody out. I would suspect that weighed more in his decision than any particular expectation to skittle Middx yesterday.
Whatever...it doesn't look like that plan has worked. I'm right behind Tres and respect him enormously - but sooner or later he may feel the weight of criticism of such well-intentioned and defensible decisions as skipper.
In the meantime, tomorrow's another day - if Tregs and Co can see this to Saturday, they'll have done exceedingly well.
Quote:snicko
Given the title to this thread, I can confirm that you were we'll and truly ****** this Thursday !!!
So, Snicko returns.
The last time you were on here, I seem to recall, you were shouting the odds about James Harris going to the Rose Bowl.
Well, you got that one wrong didn't you, and now you seem to have followed todays Birthday Boy to Middlesex.
Related to him by any chance, are you?
Sad to say that was without doubt the worst days cricket I have witnessed by us in my 18 years of membership.
I try to be as positive as possible and i'm quite sure all the players are trying their very best (at least I hope so) but this is now 0 wins from 5.
I maintain there is no chance of us going down as we are too good, famous last words but "on paper" we have a cracking team, but as yet they are not performing together, one or 2 in patches but not together.
The batting is a huge worry, we just don't seem to have an idea how to build an innings.
If we get out of this we'll be replacing Headingley 81 with Taunton 13!!!???
I try to be as positive as possible and i'm quite sure all the players are trying their very best (at least I hope so) but this is now 0 wins from 5.
I maintain there is no chance of us going down as we are too good, famous last words but "on paper" we have a cracking team, but as yet they are not performing together, one or 2 in patches but not together.
The batting is a huge worry, we just don't seem to have an idea how to build an innings.
If we get out of this we'll be replacing Headingley 81 with Taunton 13!!!???
I was at the Test today. It did not provide much entertainment and NC played a terrible shot.
But it sounds better than this.
I have no idea if Dave N is the right man for the job (as I said at the time) BUT I honestly believe that he inherited a squad from Brian Rose that contains no quality reserve batting whatsoever. So when you have a couple of first teamers unavailable?
Also, bear in mind that Brian signed NC to provide ballast to an expansive batting line-up. And now NC is gone. So where's the ballast? It had been AP but he's going to be gone soon.
p.s. Old Boy - 99 times out of 100, I HATE seeing people bowl short. If that was honestly the team plan (as opposed to bowlers radars being off) then that sounds absurd to me.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:16:23:40:05 by AGod.
But it sounds better than this.
I have no idea if Dave N is the right man for the job (as I said at the time) BUT I honestly believe that he inherited a squad from Brian Rose that contains no quality reserve batting whatsoever. So when you have a couple of first teamers unavailable?
Also, bear in mind that Brian signed NC to provide ballast to an expansive batting line-up. And now NC is gone. So where's the ballast? It had been AP but he's going to be gone soon.
p.s. Old Boy - 99 times out of 100, I HATE seeing people bowl short. If that was honestly the team plan (as opposed to bowlers radars being off) then that sounds absurd to me.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:16:23:40:05 by AGod.
Just looked at the scorecard - well done, Pete.
But Hildreth is driving me insane. Apart from the Warks' game, I think he's got a start in every CC innings ... But failed to make even a single 50.
But Hildreth is driving me insane. Apart from the Warks' game, I think he's got a start in every CC innings ... But failed to make even a single 50.
Somerset, Surrey and Derbyshire as the bottom three, in some order looks probable at the moment?
All three sides look poor to me.
All three sides look poor to me.
Well we asked for stronger levels of consistency and it seems our demands have been answered. Our Championship batting is now consistently not supporting our Championship bowling.
Until this team and its controllers starts to deal with that issue we should simply have no aspirations of winning this trophy.
Until this team and its controllers starts to deal with that issue we should simply have no aspirations of winning this trophy.
37 days in and performances in four dayers are not improving which of course, creates over reactions though it does also start to become a more significant concern.
I'd probably agree that this will be another season without the CC pot coming to the South West. It would require a very significant sea change of fortune coupled with developments elsewhere to see a situation where we would be serious contenders in September. Not beyond the realms but becoming more unlikely.
Using the R word is also understandable from some, if a little premature I would humbly suggest - how premature will depend on performances before the CC break.
The calls for heads, be it any bowler over the age of 30, the captain, the newly appointed DoC (who in his month of watching performances may now have an idea what kind of job he has taken on) etc - well that's just how things develop when performances are semi-inexplicable.
The eye witnesses, (well except for those who seem to be more interested in insulting their fellow supporters and almost semi gloating over being present at a poor performance) seem to be seeing a game played on a pitch that has deteriorated after being soft at the start where the opposition's front end have set a base, Mr Dexter seems to be having a good game with bat and ball and Middlesex's attack have had the better of the conditions AND have made better use of what they have been given.
OB's comments about the bowling suggest we got our lines and lengths wrong and they got theirs right. Batting wise we are doing what we do, we can attack on good wickets but seem to find it almost impossible to regularly set up a defensive perimeter and weather a storm on an unpredictable one. Looking back to the Warwickshire game of depressing memory, the main difference between the sides was that Warwickshire were absolutely rock solid in their batting basics - if you can't score off a ball then show it a straight bat, hit it and hit it along the ground.
Is it a lack of patience? Is it a seeming disregard for technique? Or is it that 'body language' item that also comes up at these times - do these players care enough about the consequences of their actions for it to make a difference in how they pay the game?
No answers from me I'm afraid. I've got nothing to go on except that lack of understanding as to why a side can look so dominant on one form of the game and act like inexperienced schoolboys in another AND show both in the same week.
The problems aren't going to get easier in the coming weeks and the solution to this becomes more and more pressing.
So no pressure Dave, Marcus, Andy, James, Arul, Steve (sorry I wasn't here yesterday so I've just ploughed through the 'who is to blame' posts. Apologies if I missed your particular candidate) and all who ply their trade at the County Ground in Taunton.
The supporting public of course expects miracles tomorrow.... some positive improvement would be a start though
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:07:06:55 by Grockle.
I'd probably agree that this will be another season without the CC pot coming to the South West. It would require a very significant sea change of fortune coupled with developments elsewhere to see a situation where we would be serious contenders in September. Not beyond the realms but becoming more unlikely.
Using the R word is also understandable from some, if a little premature I would humbly suggest - how premature will depend on performances before the CC break.
The calls for heads, be it any bowler over the age of 30, the captain, the newly appointed DoC (who in his month of watching performances may now have an idea what kind of job he has taken on) etc - well that's just how things develop when performances are semi-inexplicable.
The eye witnesses, (well except for those who seem to be more interested in insulting their fellow supporters and almost semi gloating over being present at a poor performance) seem to be seeing a game played on a pitch that has deteriorated after being soft at the start where the opposition's front end have set a base, Mr Dexter seems to be having a good game with bat and ball and Middlesex's attack have had the better of the conditions AND have made better use of what they have been given.
OB's comments about the bowling suggest we got our lines and lengths wrong and they got theirs right. Batting wise we are doing what we do, we can attack on good wickets but seem to find it almost impossible to regularly set up a defensive perimeter and weather a storm on an unpredictable one. Looking back to the Warwickshire game of depressing memory, the main difference between the sides was that Warwickshire were absolutely rock solid in their batting basics - if you can't score off a ball then show it a straight bat, hit it and hit it along the ground.
Is it a lack of patience? Is it a seeming disregard for technique? Or is it that 'body language' item that also comes up at these times - do these players care enough about the consequences of their actions for it to make a difference in how they pay the game?
No answers from me I'm afraid. I've got nothing to go on except that lack of understanding as to why a side can look so dominant on one form of the game and act like inexperienced schoolboys in another AND show both in the same week.
The problems aren't going to get easier in the coming weeks and the solution to this becomes more and more pressing.
So no pressure Dave, Marcus, Andy, James, Arul, Steve (sorry I wasn't here yesterday so I've just ploughed through the 'who is to blame' posts. Apologies if I missed your particular candidate) and all who ply their trade at the County Ground in Taunton.
The supporting public of course expects miracles tomorrow.... some positive improvement would be a start though
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:07:06:55 by Grockle.
I'm sure others who were there will confirm the array of short off target stuff our seamers bowled (one after a very long time got Dexter due to a brilliant catch by Alfonso). Almost without exception every ball the Middlesex lads bowled was on target on a length which the batsmen had to play. What we don't know for sure was whether the Somerset bowlers were just bad at getting it right or whether the short stuff was bowled to order.
Alex Barrow and Craig Meschede both in the runs for the seconds. No brainer really!!
Grockle - Yes there has been some talk of the pitch becoming more difficult.
However, another eye-witness, a certain Mr Peter Trego, says on the official site that conditions had not really changed and notes very simply that 'We batted poorly.' (And that they bowled well).
However, another eye-witness, a certain Mr Peter Trego, says on the official site that conditions had not really changed and notes very simply that 'We batted poorly.' (And that they bowled well).
Becoming something like that Nel.... Though Alex does have to show something if they bring him back in or he is liable to be identified as one of those who can for the seconds but not for the firsts.
I do get the feeling that Craig M's time is now though, Hopefully Pete is starting to build on his one day batting form - we need to pray for that today. We have to believe that there is a way back into competition in this game because we are too far from the end to think we can hold out for any kind of draw
I do get the feeling that Craig M's time is now though, Hopefully Pete is starting to build on his one day batting form - we need to pray for that today. We have to believe that there is a way back into competition in this game because we are too far from the end to think we can hold out for any kind of draw
Re: Arul Suppiah.
He usually seems to score very well against Sussex but whether that might be able to save his place for one more week, I do not know.
He usually seems to score very well against Sussex but whether that might be able to save his place for one more week, I do not know.
I agree with OB that the Middlesex bowlers bowled better lengths. Moreover, I got the impression that the Middlesex bowlers were able to make good length balls move (in the air or off the pitch) more than our bowlers were able to do. Jove is sharp enough to cause problems even if he doesn't do a lot with the ball, but our other bowlers are not. To what extent this apparent difference between the two sets of bowlers was attributable to a difference in conditions when the two sides were batting, I cannot tell - except to say that not much time had elapsed between the end of the Middlesex innings (when the pitch appeared to be pretty benign) and the tumble of wickets in our innings.
Quote:nelliec
why would Lewis bat ahead of Jos? To protect him? From what?
That, surely, is a very, very good question?
The BBC Leeds guys claimed during the previous match that our Somerset batsmen would have 'Scored 500+ against the Somerset bowling.'
Suffice to say, they were not impressed with it.
I'll be interested to see what Marcus has to say about bowling and team-plans in this one. He is one that is usually quick to blame our bowlers and seldom criticises our batting but, however ill-thought out our bowling was yesterday morning, it sounds like there is plenty of blame to go around and I don't personally think it will be good enough if Marcus tries to dismiss the batting aspect of it as he did after the Durham loss.
Suffice to say, they were not impressed with it.
I'll be interested to see what Marcus has to say about bowling and team-plans in this one. He is one that is usually quick to blame our bowlers and seldom criticises our batting but, however ill-thought out our bowling was yesterday morning, it sounds like there is plenty of blame to go around and I don't personally think it will be good enough if Marcus tries to dismiss the batting aspect of it as he did after the Durham loss.
I can tell you the mood from the crowd was not good they were leaving the ground by the dozens well before the end of play.
At one time there was a spontaneous loud noise from the supporter in disbelief when a wicket fell, I can't remember which wicket it was it could have been Arul's or Marcus's.
The general tone was why do we keep playing so many attacking shots at good ball instead of getting their head down and play only the bad ball.
It is all very well scoring at four an over but there are time when two an over is more sensible.
Somebody ask me what about if we are in division two, I said it makes no difference to me I will watch and support Somerset what ever division they are in.
At one time there was a spontaneous loud noise from the supporter in disbelief when a wicket fell, I can't remember which wicket it was it could have been Arul's or Marcus's.
The general tone was why do we keep playing so many attacking shots at good ball instead of getting their head down and play only the bad ball.
It is all very well scoring at four an over but there are time when two an over is more sensible.
Somebody ask me what about if we are in division two, I said it makes no difference to me I will watch and support Somerset what ever division they are in.
Quote:AGod
He is one that is usually quick to blame our bowlers and seldom criticises our batting....
Really? Based on what evidence? One interview where he did this? Can't personally recall this being his 'usual' approach. Another 'sweeping generalisation' perhaps?
I'm not sure why you are telling me we batted poorly AG... I think I've identified that as something we seem to be doing moderately regularly. Statements of the blazingly obvious as well? You're on a roll dude :-)
I think Div Two would be a potential disaster.
Div Two counties are potentially ripe for being dis-established or merged or whatever crack-pot plan Atherton and Willis and co come up with next.
For those of our players that have international credentials/ambitions, one wonders whether the low quality fare of CC2 will be good enough for them?
Yes, some players, such as A N Cook are on the books of Div Two Counties, but most of the Test team seems to come from Div One sides - Yorkshire, Somerset, Warwickshire, Notts, Sussex, Middx.
Div Two counties are potentially ripe for being dis-established or merged or whatever crack-pot plan Atherton and Willis and co come up with next.
For those of our players that have international credentials/ambitions, one wonders whether the low quality fare of CC2 will be good enough for them?
Yes, some players, such as A N Cook are on the books of Div Two Counties, but most of the Test team seems to come from Div One sides - Yorkshire, Somerset, Warwickshire, Notts, Sussex, Middx.
Well good job we are in Div 1 and have a good chance of staying there then. Down to us
Grockle - my point was not to tell you that we had batted poorly.
You'd mentioned this bit about indented pitch etc and the point of my post was merely to point out that it does not seem to be a universally held view, at least not amongst those playing on the pitch - hence why I pointed out that Pete had said that conditions had 'not changed a lot.'
You'd mentioned this bit about indented pitch etc and the point of my post was merely to point out that it does not seem to be a universally held view, at least not amongst those playing on the pitch - hence why I pointed out that Pete had said that conditions had 'not changed a lot.'
As for Marcus - that's the impression I've formed over the years - very reluctant to criticse the batting but happier to moan about the bowling.
I find it very difficult to cope with our bad days, as an exiled supporter. Wanting our team to do well. Hoping that superstious acts like listening to or not listening to the commentary will change the course of the game (of course it doesn't).
It would be nice if we could take our one day form into the 4 day stuff but please, please, please don't let us take our 4 day form into the short stuff.
Dare I go to Horsham next week?
It would be nice if we could take our one day form into the 4 day stuff but please, please, please don't let us take our 4 day form into the short stuff.
Dare I go to Horsham next week?
As for your question, Grockle, about is the batting about a lack of patience?
I should say so... I think that's why Brian brought Nick Compton to the club and why Brian asked NC to bat in ultra-patient mode.
I should not be at all surprised if Dave N attempts to add TWO batsmen of Compton's ilk during the winter, especially if we have managed to retain Div One status.
I should say so... I think that's why Brian brought Nick Compton to the club and why Brian asked NC to bat in ultra-patient mode.
I should not be at all surprised if Dave N attempts to add TWO batsmen of Compton's ilk during the winter, especially if we have managed to retain Div One status.
I had adream - come Saturday morning - Somerset all out for 500. Then a nightmare - Middleserx 300 - 0 won by 10 wickets!
Could that happen?? Surely not!!
Could that happen?? Surely not!!
Most likely, we'll have lost by lunchtime.
At which point, I hope Dave N enforces two days of supplementary practice because there are not very many players who currently deserve extra time off work!
At which point, I hope Dave N enforces two days of supplementary practice because there are not very many players who currently deserve extra time off work!
So it's a generalisation based on your perception and not a factual assessment of his 'usual' stance. Thanks. Just trying to clarify.
I'm not sure my own assessment lists him as a general 'moaner' either but there you go. You say 'potato' and I say the same letters probably a little differently.
On that point has anyone ever heard anyone refer to a
"potartoe?" like in the song?
I'm not sure my own assessment lists him as a general 'moaner' either but there you go. You say 'potato' and I say the same letters probably a little differently.
On that point has anyone ever heard anyone refer to a
"potartoe?" like in the song?
Saw Johnson and the middx coach inspecting the wicket at lunch time. Johnno was looking at it particularly closely. Probably identified the indentations everyone is talking about. If so fair play to them and he probably imparted that to his bowlers. Haven't seen a single Somerset player /official near it all game. And dave n not at the ground. Didn't see andy hurry either he must have been hiding. Middx seem far more professional which is hard to believe after all what langer and hurry seemed to build up previously and Trescothick seemed to take on!! Old boy had it right we had no plan in the morning to take those last 2 wickets and if that was the plan then it was totally incorrect . Need tregs and jos to get to lunch then hopefully a showery downpour and then see where we are. Ill be there to see what happens. Whatever it is the ground was looking a picture last night in the sun. Great place to be.
What's most worrying as Old Boy suggests is that we seemed to have learned nothing from our failure to bowl out the Warks's number 11. He was not forced to play much and it sounds like Murtagh and co were not either.
The wheels seem to have fallen off in this one from the moment that Tres threw the second new ball to Kirby and then watched him waste it.
The wheels seem to have fallen off in this one from the moment that Tres threw the second new ball to Kirby and then watched him waste it.
If it's going up and down, then thank the heavens Finn kept his Test place: otherwise this might have been over already.
Incidentally, can anyone tell me (authoritatively) which roller Marcus called for at the start of each of our innings? Have we been damaged by our own fears that the big kit deadens the surface too much?
Incidentally, can anyone tell me (authoritatively) which roller Marcus called for at the start of each of our innings? Have we been damaged by our own fears that the big kit deadens the surface too much?
A lot being made about the indentations in the pitch.
I personally think our inability to remove the last three Middlesex batsman has played a major factor in the game,
When was the last time Somerset 9/10/11 batsman added 130+.
I personally think our inability to remove the last three Middlesex batsman has played a major factor in the game,
When was the last time Somerset 9/10/11 batsman added 130+.
Off the top of my head?
You'd probably have to go back to the days when Richard Johnson was here. Probably s game or two where he and Nixon McClean carted a Div Two attack.
You'd probably have to go back to the days when Richard Johnson was here. Probably s game or two where he and Nixon McClean carted a Div Two attack.
Cricket is a very stupid game sometimes and the defining lines in a game can be so small that it can sometimes be hard to identify them.Scorecards can so often give such a misleading view - and grated we have been on the positive end of this before.
At the moment, it seems we are struggling to buy a bit of luck.Right from Kirby's first over Rodgers in particular lived the most charmed life imaginable. People talk, with some justification perhaps, about our length selection yet how many balls flashed past outside edges, how many inside edges avoided the stumps and ended up 4 runs, how many huge LBW shouts were turned down? Contrast this with our innings where i struggle to recall a play and miss, every false shot resulted in a trudge back to the Caddyshack. It would only have taken a small swing in the "luckometer" for the fortunes of the sides to be completely reversed. I know life is full of ifs and buts and Aunties becoming Uncles, but sometimes @#$%& happens, and sometimes it happens more than once!
At the moment, it seems we are struggling to buy a bit of luck.Right from Kirby's first over Rodgers in particular lived the most charmed life imaginable. People talk, with some justification perhaps, about our length selection yet how many balls flashed past outside edges, how many inside edges avoided the stumps and ended up 4 runs, how many huge LBW shouts were turned down? Contrast this with our innings where i struggle to recall a play and miss, every false shot resulted in a trudge back to the Caddyshack. It would only have taken a small swing in the "luckometer" for the fortunes of the sides to be completely reversed. I know life is full of ifs and buts and Aunties becoming Uncles, but sometimes @#$%& happens, and sometimes it happens more than once!
But Dave N is going to have to look at whether the balance of the team needs changing to try and prop up the batting.
It's all very well and theoretically great to say 'No, the batsmen need to get the runs,' but if you say that every week and it never happens? One starts to look a little foolish.
Craig M must surely come in somewhere. Dibble was in the squad for this one. He can put bat to ball so maybe he could come in too?
It's all very well and theoretically great to say 'No, the batsmen need to get the runs,' but if you say that every week and it never happens? One starts to look a little foolish.
Craig M must surely come in somewhere. Dibble was in the squad for this one. He can put bat to ball so maybe he could come in too?
If there really was 'hardly a play and miss,' in our batting then that would imply to me that conditions for bowling were BETTER when SCCC bowled than when Middx bowled.
Quote:Roger ivanhoe
A lot being made about the indentations in the pitch.
I personally think our inability to remove the last three Middlesex batsman has played a major factor in the game,
When was the last time Somerset 9/10/11 batsman added 130+.
Well that isn't entirely accurate Roger. If the last three Middlesex wickets had fallen for zero we would have possibly avoided the follow on but would have still finished the first innings some 70 runs behind the visitors. Surely the major factor is that a first division side failed to get anywhere near 200 in their first inning at home.
And regarding the 130, Middlesex's 9, 10 and 11 added 67 not 130. The rest (63) was added by the Middlesex number 5, Dexter.
So I suppose the question ought to be when was the last time one of our front end batsman helped the tail get a score over 130 or when did the Somerset 9,10 and 11 add over 67?
It's still a good effort from the Sex but not as damning as your statement suggests or probably as significant in the scheme of things related to this game.
We aren't going to lose this game because the last men in the other side's batting line-up got one side or the other of 20. We will lose this game because our own total first innings score is pathetic when related to the supposed capability of our line-up.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:09:29:35 by Grockle.
Quote:AGod
The wheels seem to have fallen off in this one from the moment that Tres threw the second new ball to Kirby and then watched him waste it.
I'm sorry people but can someone with eye witness comments to make justify this statement or do we just chalk it down as another AG perception/unworthy comment rather than something that actually happened. As far as I am aware more than one bowler uses the new ball or did Marcus break with tradition and get Steve to bowl from both ends?
Ref comments about the batting. The issue very definitely isn't batsmen getting more runs.
It is most definitely batsmen NOT losing their wickets cheaply. They have to stay in and establish before they start to make runs and that is where my comment about patience came from.
Our batsmen need to work on the boring things rather than the flashy. Get bat on ball and keep it from hitting you or the wicket and if you do get it off the strip keep the flaming thing DOWN until you are certain you can pick your spot.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:09:40:37 by Grockle.
Regarding taking the new ball (and this is not an after thought it was said at the time) we were saying at the time why take the new ball, Jack Leach was troubling the batsman and so was Lewis Gregory at the other end. We have all seen runs come quicker off the new ball.
What is done is done we can't do nothing about it now.
What we mustn't do is blame the groundsmen both team play on the same pitch.
What is done is done we can't do nothing about it now.
What we mustn't do is blame the groundsmen both team play on the same pitch.
Grockle agree with your response to my point, but the sequence of events was behind my thinking.
I should have quoted fall of wickets, rather than No's of batsman.
We let them off the hook with seven down, apart from Overton nobody else looked like taking a wicket during that time, and he in fact took the wickets of Dexter, Roland -Jones & Murtagh.
So we went out to bat knowing they had got a 100 more than they should have done. Then we just do not buckle down, and look for excuses in the pitch.
But just my opinion of course as i saw it from the ground.
I should have quoted fall of wickets, rather than No's of batsman.
We let them off the hook with seven down, apart from Overton nobody else looked like taking a wicket during that time, and he in fact took the wickets of Dexter, Roland -Jones & Murtagh.
So we went out to bat knowing they had got a 100 more than they should have done. Then we just do not buckle down, and look for excuses in the pitch.
But just my opinion of course as i saw it from the ground.
Don't know that any of the team were looking for excuses in the pitch Roger? I reported what BBC and other media outlets had reported, while Trego said that conditions hadn't changed much.
Sorry, Grockle, but if you listened to the game, Kirby was given the second new ball and did go for a lot of runs with it. From memory, that included 14 from the very first over with it. You don't have to have been on the ground to know that, I'm afraid.
But some of those who were on the ground have already said as much, anyway.
But some of those who were on the ground have already said as much, anyway.
Roger - not sure about 130, but in July 2011, we did have a game at Taunton where our final three wickets managed to add 120.. Alf made 42, Kartik 43 and Kirby 19. Charl finished not out 0, so somebody else would also have been involved in the partnerships, possibly Marcus who made 163.
And in the very next game (the extraordinary one vs Sussex) our final three wickets put on 193, having been 93 for 7. Jos made 100, Alf 43, Kartik 34.
"Ref comments about the batting. The issue very definitely isn't batsmen getting more runs.
It is most definitely batsmen NOT losing their wickets cheaply. They have to stay in and establish before they start to make runs and that is where my comment about patience came from."
----
And if batsmen avoid throwing their wicket away?
Then they should end up scoring more runs. Simple, really.
It is most definitely batsmen NOT losing their wickets cheaply. They have to stay in and establish before they start to make runs and that is where my comment about patience came from."
----
And if batsmen avoid throwing their wicket away?
Then they should end up scoring more runs. Simple, really.
We did seem to waste the second new ball. Kirbs didn't seem on the money and went around the park. I remember shouting after about 3 overs 'Can we have the old ball back please!'
The batters have been poor in the top order especially but some of that must go as credit to Tim Murtagh and co.
How many wickets did our three senior seamers take in the Middx innings!!
The batters have been poor in the top order especially but some of that must go as credit to Tim Murtagh and co.
How many wickets did our three senior seamers take in the Middx innings!!
And the bowler at the other end had no part in 'wasting' it then AG. It was all this 'Kirby' blokes fault? And he bowled constantly with this new ball until the ball had last all newness, shine and everything else.
It's not what you say AG it's the way that you say it, as if events on a pitch that you are usually interpreting from a computer screen and a semi neutral voice in the background are entirely black and white and the facts that the whole world can see.
You brook little alternative interpretation of the events, constantly seek to justify your view as the only truth and are almost entirely ungracious when it comes to handing out criticism of the people you believe are to blame.
They don't have a bad spell or one poor interview or whatever, they 'waste' or they 'moan' or they are 'usually' batting defenders as if you see through their subterfuge and harshly see them for what they truly are.
I'd like more than your interpretation before I condemn or heap more than their fair share of blame on individuals and I will continue to question your interpretation of things when you make these sometimes huge generalisations based on very limited and even one sided knowledge of what actually went on.
I'm sure you'll come back to justify yourself (you nearly always do) but I'll wait for someone else who saw the events to confirm or deny what you say is true before I take your assessment most of the time I'm afraid.
It's not what you say AG it's the way that you say it, as if events on a pitch that you are usually interpreting from a computer screen and a semi neutral voice in the background are entirely black and white and the facts that the whole world can see.
You brook little alternative interpretation of the events, constantly seek to justify your view as the only truth and are almost entirely ungracious when it comes to handing out criticism of the people you believe are to blame.
They don't have a bad spell or one poor interview or whatever, they 'waste' or they 'moan' or they are 'usually' batting defenders as if you see through their subterfuge and harshly see them for what they truly are.
I'd like more than your interpretation before I condemn or heap more than their fair share of blame on individuals and I will continue to question your interpretation of things when you make these sometimes huge generalisations based on very limited and even one sided knowledge of what actually went on.
I'm sure you'll come back to justify yourself (you nearly always do) but I'll wait for someone else who saw the events to confirm or deny what you say is true before I take your assessment most of the time I'm afraid.
Thank you Sloop. A follow up question then. Was it the bowlers with the new ball who struggled to make any impact or just Steve Kirby?
It seems that most people there were not bothered so much about Kirby being given the new ball as the new ball being taken when Leach seemed to be getting stuff from the old one.
It seems that most people there were not bothered so much about Kirby being given the new ball as the new ball being taken when Leach seemed to be getting stuff from the old one.
Quote:AGod
And if batsmen avoid throwing their wicket away?
Then they should end up scoring more runs. Simple, really.
You really are in blatantly obvious mode today aren't you?
Yes. Ergo unless you ensure you don't throw your wicket away you can't make runs... Equally simple but it is in that order is it not?
Kirbs has been disappointing and was all day Wednesday. Trego not far behind. In fact I saw kirby at Durham and in my opinion was the least effective seamer we had and that was on a seamers wicket. In my view its stand aside time for him for a youngster. Is it any coincidence that the only game he didn't play was be one we nearly won!! He can take over coaching or something. Just my view of course.
Cheers Ron... the question I suppose is; Is there a seamer to come in for him?
Adam Dibble and Gemaal Hussain don't seem to be flavours of the month. Craig Overton?
Steve would be a problem if he isn't taking wickets because in the past when he's been going for a few at least he's looked like getting something in return. If that isn't the case then we have an issue.
Just another one then.....
Adam Dibble and Gemaal Hussain don't seem to be flavours of the month. Craig Overton?
Steve would be a problem if he isn't taking wickets because in the past when he's been going for a few at least he's looked like getting something in return. If that isn't the case then we have an issue.
Just another one then.....
Toss at Durham...won, inserted..turned out to be the wrong decision
Toss v Warks..won, batted, spot on decision..but then came the non follow on issue
Toss v Middlesex..won, inserted, would appear to be the wrong decision again
A pattern of bad decision making is emerging here, along with indisciplined batting and a bowling attack not bowling as a unit.
But it's early days and I'm confident things will settle down and improve.
Toss v Warks..won, batted, spot on decision..but then came the non follow on issue
Toss v Middlesex..won, inserted, would appear to be the wrong decision again
A pattern of bad decision making is emerging here, along with indisciplined batting and a bowling attack not bowling as a unit.
But it's early days and I'm confident things will settle down and improve.
Dibble was twelfth man for this game, so maybe that's to show him he's next cab on the rank.
I'd have thought Meschede was worth a try - for potential runs and wickets?
It seems to me that Barrow, Jones, Gregory, Dibble, Meschede all have POTENTIAL - they either haven't had the chance or, with the few chances they have had, they've not taken advantage. Waller has at least had some chances, while Dockrell I would say has had chances and taken them, but may not be 100% fit.
I'd have thought Meschede was worth a try - for potential runs and wickets?
It seems to me that Barrow, Jones, Gregory, Dibble, Meschede all have POTENTIAL - they either haven't had the chance or, with the few chances they have had, they've not taken advantage. Waller has at least had some chances, while Dockrell I would say has had chances and taken them, but may not be 100% fit.
The 'poor' decisions are a matter of opinion Naxxar there are those for and against them so it is only a trend for people with your view of matters I suppose.
Has the 'indisciplined' bowling been a feature of the season so far or this game is another matter of debate. I thought some were surprised at how well our bowlers were doing.
The batting however....... is there any argument on that one?
Has the 'indisciplined' bowling been a feature of the season so far or this game is another matter of debate. I thought some were surprised at how well our bowlers were doing.
The batting however....... is there any argument on that one?
It's not a matter of opinion. It's a matter of fact. You put a side in, they then score 170+ more than you manage in your first innings. That represents a bad decision.
We bowled well at Durham, except for the period between lunch and tea on the first day.
Warks we bowled very well until late on the final day.
At Surrey, Yorkshire and in this match, the scorecard would suggest otherwise.
I did not refer to our bowling as indisciplined, I remarked that we haven't always bowled as a unit this season. By that, I mean matches/innings where all the bowlers were on the top of their game, rather than just one or two.
Pleasing to see Jos and Pete continuing to build on last night's good work...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:11:43:20 by Naxxar.
We bowled well at Durham, except for the period between lunch and tea on the first day.
Warks we bowled very well until late on the final day.
At Surrey, Yorkshire and in this match, the scorecard would suggest otherwise.
I did not refer to our bowling as indisciplined, I remarked that we haven't always bowled as a unit this season. By that, I mean matches/innings where all the bowlers were on the top of their game, rather than just one or two.
Pleasing to see Jos and Pete continuing to build on last night's good work...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:11:43:20 by Naxxar.
Barrow, Jones and Gregory have, I believe, all played more CC games than Max, SP.
Oh, and Grockle, if you'd paid attention then you'd have seen that people had already commented on the second new ball being wasted and Kirby having been wayward BEFORE I said anything about it, which renders your huge diatribe entirely redundant, I'm afraid
Let's face it, a number of senior players have failed us in this one. From what I heard Kirby was the one that sprayed, Pete did not offer much penetration but Alf was unfortunate after lunch on Day One.
Then Tres, once, and Hildreth, twice, have got in and then got out again.
Oh, and Grockle, if you'd paid attention then you'd have seen that people had already commented on the second new ball being wasted and Kirby having been wayward BEFORE I said anything about it, which renders your huge diatribe entirely redundant, I'm afraid
Let's face it, a number of senior players have failed us in this one. From what I heard Kirby was the one that sprayed, Pete did not offer much penetration but Alf was unfortunate after lunch on Day One.
Then Tres, once, and Hildreth, twice, have got in and then got out again.
Think dibble might've worth a shot and he can hold a bat too. Not at the moment though as he sliced his hand open in the field on Wednesday so is out for a few days but might be around for Sussex!!
It is not a matter of 'fact' unless you directly relate the toss decision to what the team actually does once the decision is made. You either talk about the toss decision or the team's performance once that decision is made.
One might be seen as a direct comment on the person making the decision at the toss the other is surely a direct comment on the team's actions when told what is going on. A good toss decision may not result in good use of that toss decision - two entirely different things.
Yep sorry misread the last paragraph.
One might be seen as a direct comment on the person making the decision at the toss the other is surely a direct comment on the team's actions when told what is going on. A good toss decision may not result in good use of that toss decision - two entirely different things.
Yep sorry misread the last paragraph.
Fair point AG, tho I meant first-team in general.
Re captain's decisions and putting teams in, etc, I would remind that it is a 4-day, two-innings, game, not one-day or one-innings - it's the result after day four (or three!) that matters. not who got most in the first innings. Agree that results overall haven't been good, but just 170-lead on first innings isn't conclusive evidence for teh tactic being right or wrong.
Re captain's decisions and putting teams in, etc, I would remind that it is a 4-day, two-innings, game, not one-day or one-innings - it's the result after day four (or three!) that matters. not who got most in the first innings. Agree that results overall haven't been good, but just 170-lead on first innings isn't conclusive evidence for teh tactic being right or wrong.
It reflects a misreading of pitch and weather conditions and therefore is a poor decision. Fact.
Oh and AG when I want your comments on how I read this forum I will most certainly ask you for them. Did I mention your patronising attitude when challenged to justify some comment? No? Missed that one then. Jog on sir.
Then I thought...have I missed massive comments about Kirby 'wasting' the new ball?
But no. Comments about Kirby possibly giving way as a bowler. One comment about wasting the new ball - also mentioning the ineffectiveness of Peter Trego all day (you don't include him AG). Other than that only you directly blaming Steve for 'wasting' the new ball. Seems I was 'paying attention'. Most of the debate was about taking the new ball at all and the old versus new conversation including more than just SK.
Please note I did not say you were wrong just ungracious and far too certain of your own (and the Beeb's Middlesex man's assessment I assume) opinion being chapter and verse.
Hope that gets YOU up to speed with the discussions on this thread as your own attention seems to have wandered.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:12:12:24 by Grockle.
Then I thought...have I missed massive comments about Kirby 'wasting' the new ball?
But no. Comments about Kirby possibly giving way as a bowler. One comment about wasting the new ball - also mentioning the ineffectiveness of Peter Trego all day (you don't include him AG). Other than that only you directly blaming Steve for 'wasting' the new ball. Seems I was 'paying attention'. Most of the debate was about taking the new ball at all and the old versus new conversation including more than just SK.
Please note I did not say you were wrong just ungracious and far too certain of your own (and the Beeb's Middlesex man's assessment I assume) opinion being chapter and verse.
Hope that gets YOU up to speed with the discussions on this thread as your own attention seems to have wandered.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:12:12:24 by Grockle.
No Naxxar, Tres may (or may not - I don't know) have been playing the longer game and looking to take advantage on days 3 or 4, rather than skittling on day one. I WOULD agree that the tactic doesn't seem so far to have worked, but I don't see it as a fact that he misread the pitch or weather conditions.
More than one way to skin a cat, and all that.
More than one way to skin a cat, and all that.
As Shepton says. It doesn't...Fact.
You can't retrospectively call the toss decision bad just because the side don't take advantage of the position the call puts them in. They are NOT always directly related.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:12:31:37 by Grockle.
You can't retrospectively call the toss decision bad just because the side don't take advantage of the position the call puts them in. They are NOT always directly related.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:12:31:37 by Grockle.
I am wondering whether the side is missing Kieswetter for more than his keeping and his batting; I sense he may be an intellitgent reader of the game and a useful source of advice on bowling and field-placing.
Just a thought for AGod to demolish...
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Just a thought for AGod to demolish...
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Tres's biggest problem as captain, IMO, is that he has generally been let down by Senior players - including himself - this season.
When a team is firing and playing well, you generally find that interminable arguments about the toss are a rare feature.
When a team is firing and playing well, you generally find that interminable arguments about the toss are a rare feature.
Guess what, Grockle - people wouldn't have been calling for Kirby to be replaced if they thought he'd bowled well but nevermind.
And you did miss comments in your haste to moan about my posts rather than actually thinking about what is being said.
As for Craig K, LoL, I'll say simply this - if we need to rely on any one player to tell our bowlers to pitch it up against tail-Enders? Houston, we have a problem!
And you did miss comments in your haste to moan about my posts rather than actually thinking about what is being said.
As for Craig K, LoL, I'll say simply this - if we need to rely on any one player to tell our bowlers to pitch it up against tail-Enders? Houston, we have a problem!
Yep. We talked about this last year when the same thing happened (I've wondered if this is part of the seeming reluctance by Hildreth to take on more responsibility). Seniors have to stand up and be counted in times of problems rather than just looking across at the captain and expecting him to sort it out for them.
It is certainly where the younger players will look for guidance.
And AG... maybe if you thought about your posts BEFORE you pressed send there would be little to 'moan' about. As most people are not posting when I put my stuff up I miss very little.
You interpreted the posts specifically based on a theory you yourself seem to have created (come on its one of those players you don't really rate as highly - another common aspect of your critiques). I read them as they were meant, generally and not about one individual although Kirby might have been a focal point in the whole bowling attack. Pete wasted the second new ball as well it seems...no comment about him? Wonder what the assessment would have been if George Dockrell had been at the other end.
But never mind aye. You are right in your own mind as always so be happy.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:12:45:31 by Grockle.
It is certainly where the younger players will look for guidance.
And AG... maybe if you thought about your posts BEFORE you pressed send there would be little to 'moan' about. As most people are not posting when I put my stuff up I miss very little.
You interpreted the posts specifically based on a theory you yourself seem to have created (come on its one of those players you don't really rate as highly - another common aspect of your critiques). I read them as they were meant, generally and not about one individual although Kirby might have been a focal point in the whole bowling attack. Pete wasted the second new ball as well it seems...no comment about him? Wonder what the assessment would have been if George Dockrell had been at the other end.
But never mind aye. You are right in your own mind as always so be happy.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:12:45:31 by Grockle.
With reference to earlier comments. THIS is where we need to see our 9,10 and 11 help Jos put on 130 or more!!
Thanks, AGod, for dissing my suggestion about Kieswetter's role. I would expect nothing less and am profoundly grateful for being put in my place. However, whether it is good or bad to depend on the advice of one particular player does not actually devalue that advice, though what would I know...
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
The force is clearly with us and I recommend a lunchtime declaration. At least I can rely on BJ to agree with me.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Far too sensitive, LoL. I wasn't 'dissing,' anything but the fact remains that our most significant NON batting problem in this match seems to have been wasting the second new ball in general and, more specifically, bowling the ball 'twelve inches over the head,' of the tail-Enders.
One should not need a specific keeper behind the stumps to know that such an approach makes little sense!
And please note, I am in no way questioning the cricket brain of Craig K. He might have lots of brilliant ideas but making tail-Enders play is not a concept which necessitates brilliant thought from anyone. Rather it should be cricket 1-0-1...
One should not need a specific keeper behind the stumps to know that such an approach makes little sense!
And please note, I am in no way questioning the cricket brain of Craig K. He might have lots of brilliant ideas but making tail-Enders play is not a concept which necessitates brilliant thought from anyone. Rather it should be cricket 1-0-1...
At the end of the day, looking at this game, surely we're only a Nick Compton innings short of giving Middlesex a real game? It's easy to say it's a rubbish display, but 4-5 players have done their bit to win this game, it's rare that every player contributes every game, & just the one Compton (of last year at any rate) innings in our 1st innings would potentially have made a huge difference.
Alternatively if Compton keeps his England spot for the summer, I guess you could say we have an absolutely fantastic limited overs squad, but one that's not equipped to win 4 day matches? I know I'll be in a minority of one saying this, but I'll take relegation & winning 20/20 & YB40 this year rather than finish mid table in the CC & nothing in the limited overs, simply because that is what our squad is best equipped for, so you want your squad to excel at what they're best cut out to do? yes it would be great to win the CC, but as with last season, we haven't hit the ground running so are gonna be playing catch up again. It's only a game & I love it
Alternatively if Compton keeps his England spot for the summer, I guess you could say we have an absolutely fantastic limited overs squad, but one that's not equipped to win 4 day matches? I know I'll be in a minority of one saying this, but I'll take relegation & winning 20/20 & YB40 this year rather than finish mid table in the CC & nothing in the limited overs, simply because that is what our squad is best equipped for, so you want your squad to excel at what they're best cut out to do? yes it would be great to win the CC, but as with last season, we haven't hit the ground running so are gonna be playing catch up again. It's only a game & I love it
Perfectly valid opinions brt - you may be right about the NC innings. But otherwise, I don't agree (tho it would be nice to win something) - staying in Div One, even if mid-table, is very important.
Hmm, I was arguing exactly the opposite case with a Wigan Athletic supporter just the other day
Hmm, I was arguing exactly the opposite case with a Wigan Athletic supporter just the other day
I'm not sure you are in a minority of one in your assessment of the present situation BRT. The side themselves seem to be confirming that assessment presently in different parts of the country each week.
Accepting CC relegation however is a much more dangerous long run road to follow and you are probably right about your position on that one.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:13:29:30 by Grockle.
Accepting CC relegation however is a much more dangerous long run road to follow and you are probably right about your position on that one.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:13:29:30 by Grockle.
Just starting to rain in Swansea, I shall try and persuade those clouds to pop over the channel, with a lead of 150 on a damp track.....
Of course I agree with you LoL, I honestly don't know what all the fuss has been about, sometimes players do well, other times, they don't.
Get real folks.
Of course I agree with you LoL, I honestly don't know what all the fuss has been about, sometimes players do well, other times, they don't.
Get real folks.
Quote:AGod
Far too sensitive, LoL. I wasn't 'dissing,'...
Sensitive, moi? You'll be calling my pretentious next. I thought banter was compulsory on this site.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Looks like rain could rob us of certain victory!
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
I'll just make that point about 222/7 again. We could have had a 150+ run lead.
Still Jos is playing a very mature innings here. He's starting to excel at all forms of the game at last.
Still Jos is playing a very mature innings here. He's starting to excel at all forms of the game at last.
And if we'd bowled them out for a hundred our lead would have been even bigger Tumbles :-)
IF we'd bowled out Dexter we may have done better. It's Jos's job to do a Dexter.
IF we'd bowled out Dexter we may have done better. It's Jos's job to do a Dexter.
Well at least we've fought. Frustrating how just a little bit from the top 5 could've made it competitive, but well played Jos so far, and Leach (he was out before I wrote anything).
I was thinking of Wigan when i posted my thoughts. Accounts wise, it's a disaster for them getting relegated from the Premiership, but for their chairman, winning the FA Cup is a life's dream,& more important than an average league existance is to win something you've aimed for forever.
Ok, i know that doesn't quite tie in with Somerset as we have had success in limited overs competition & it's the CC that's the holy grail, but this isn't a CC winning team we've got, its a limited overs winning team. I'm not saying that as a negative thing, & to his credit, Buttler is clearly applying himself to becoming a 4 day game player too, but we need Gregory & Meschade to step up to CC level, we need Suppiah to score some runs etc etc Although a couple of players are getting beyond their best, I'm reasonably confident about the next few years with a good batch of young players (Overtonx2, Leach, Dockrell, Buttler), but this season we haven't really stepped up that final notch. I still think the one big blow the last few years is the inability of Hussein to repeat what he did in CC2. When we signed him & Kirby, I really thought we'd got the bowling quality to match the batting - is CC1 really that much harder?
Ok, i know that doesn't quite tie in with Somerset as we have had success in limited overs competition & it's the CC that's the holy grail, but this isn't a CC winning team we've got, its a limited overs winning team. I'm not saying that as a negative thing, & to his credit, Buttler is clearly applying himself to becoming a 4 day game player too, but we need Gregory & Meschade to step up to CC level, we need Suppiah to score some runs etc etc Although a couple of players are getting beyond their best, I'm reasonably confident about the next few years with a good batch of young players (Overtonx2, Leach, Dockrell, Buttler), but this season we haven't really stepped up that final notch. I still think the one big blow the last few years is the inability of Hussein to repeat what he did in CC2. When we signed him & Kirby, I really thought we'd got the bowling quality to match the batting - is CC1 really that much harder?
Very true.
If you take Tumbles premis that the first innings of Middlesex has done this to us and turn it slightly to look at our batting performance. If we had doubled our first innings total by batting properly we'd not be in this position at all.
Middlesex would be batting building on a much smaller lead of 43.
If you take Tumbles premis that the first innings of Middlesex has done this to us and turn it slightly to look at our batting performance. If we had doubled our first innings total by batting properly we'd not be in this position at all.
Middlesex would be batting building on a much smaller lead of 43.
I don't disagree about the aptitudes in the squad, brtb, but this club is on record as being committed to the CC as the number one goal and it's the job of the Management to develop every player to be the best CC player that they can be.
So the top five faced 61 balls between them and the others have subsequently faced more than 400!
What, pray, happened to all those indentations that were supposed to be so problematic? Did we fill them in overnight?
No, I think it was just the single worst day's performance on Thursday since the 2011 debacle at home to Warks?
Well done to everyone that battled away today.
What Dave N will, or even can, do about the top five is another matter...
What, pray, happened to all those indentations that were supposed to be so problematic? Did we fill them in overnight?
No, I think it was just the single worst day's performance on Thursday since the 2011 debacle at home to Warks?
Well done to everyone that battled away today.
What Dave N will, or even can, do about the top five is another matter...
I noticed the cricinfo report even made reference to 'crowd discontent with management speak.'
But, really, if the team were winning I doubt that anyone would give a tuppence ha'penny about what he said on Twitter!
But, really, if the team were winning I doubt that anyone would give a tuppence ha'penny about what he said on Twitter!
Quote:AGod
I noticed the cricinfo report even made reference to 'crowd discontent with management speak.'
But, really, if the team were winning I doubt that anyone would give a tuppence ha'penny about what he said on Twitter!
True but then perhaps it's for the management to realise when its good to tweet and when not.
Many of us have gone through life without tweeting a single syllable and I doubt the world has been richer or poorer for it.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Yeah, I think the perception problem is that people want 100 percent of DN's attentions on fixing what ails us, rather than spending time worrying about 'the message.'
Is it any different from the 'rubbish' quotes that you'll find on the wall in most professional changing rooms?
230/4 since Hildreth was out yesterday - now that cannot be entirely bad and gives me hope that the CC season is not quite over.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:15:13:56 by Loyal of Lhasa..
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:15:13:56 by Loyal of Lhasa..
A bit strange for Middlesex to have taken the new ball, only for the umpires to take the players off for bad light. One might have thought that Middlesex would have first checked with the umpires whether the light was good enough to bring on the fastest bowlers.
Cricinfo says that they delayed taking it, then took it deliberately knowing they'd have an early tea, then bowlers come back refreshed afterwards. As David Hopps says, it ain't gonna rain for 5 sessions (more's the pity).
I don't want five sessions of rain, personally.
We don't deserve the points for the draw and I'd rather have the extra time after the game ends inside four days to start planning for Horsham
We don't deserve the points for the draw and I'd rather have the extra time after the game ends inside four days to start planning for Horsham
Tim Murtagh and off-spinning all-rounder Paul Stirling have been named in the Ireland squad to play Pakistan in two ODIs next week. They are expected to be available for Middlesex in the YB40 match at Taunton on Sunday, as the ODIs don`t begin until Thursday.
In the meantime, Middlesex have signed Adam Voges as the batting replacment for Chris Rogers when he joins the Australian Ashes squad later in the summer. Looks like a good replacement to me.
In the meantime, Middlesex have signed Adam Voges as the batting replacment for Chris Rogers when he joins the Australian Ashes squad later in the summer. Looks like a good replacement to me.
All seems to have gone quiet.
Won't be easy to find someone of quality, for whom we can get a work permit in time.
Won't be easy to find someone of quality, for whom we can get a work permit in time.
A fine effort from tail. Now get them 4 down for 20 runs and let the panic ensue
Heavy rain with some hail mixed in I think, a couple of miles from the ground. Middlesex may well have to spend another night here.
Think that could be it for the day .Torrential rain with a few flashes and bangs.At least Geordie M will feel better getting full use out of his hotel
I think they might have done that anyway Casomer with a YB 40 game on sunday
If it rains for another 24 hours, I reckon we'd be in with a chance of a draw.
I can already see the headlines:
Play Abandoned at Taunton
Pitch Dug Up Overnight
"BJ Is Innocent" Campaign Blamed
(not that I think he IS innocent...)
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Play Abandoned at Taunton
Pitch Dug Up Overnight
"BJ Is Innocent" Campaign Blamed
(not that I think he IS innocent...)
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Quote:Botham
All I can say is Wednesday is market day.
Have a little sit down and we'll get you a nice cup of tea Botham
?? (Doesn't it depend where you are? You do know tomorrow is Saturday right?)
Quote:Loyal of Lhasa.
I can already see the headlines:
Play Abandoned at Taunton
Pitch Dug Up Overnight
"BJ Is Innocent" Campaign Blamed
(not that I think he IS innocent...)
Yuk, I can't stand tea!
It was just a play on words, re your thread title and an attempt to lighten the mood.
Well it's far too deep for me I'm afraid. Maybe it will come to me later and I will laugh heartily.
I now understand Botham's earlier posting, though what it has to do with BJ's criminal past (or what BJ's criminal past has to do with anything) is beyond me.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
oh I get it. You titled the thread 'Fancy a little 'sex on Wednesday' and Botham has pointed out that Wednesday is market day.
Not immediately obvious though!
Not immediately obvious though!
To anyone but Botham it seems but the shades have fallen from our eyes and we now laugh and smooth the furrowed brow.
As a famous Irishman used to say - "It's the way I tell 'em" and that was almost as funny as he was.
Ahh Frank.. you were so much funnier off stage..
As a famous Irishman used to say - "It's the way I tell 'em" and that was almost as funny as he was.
Ahh Frank.. you were so much funnier off stage..
Just a thought re our batting problems. Seems to me that if we take Arul out of the equation as he is woefully out of form and should not really be selected, then we are looking at Marcus, James and AP as the main " culprits ".
Many years ago when I played in the Lansdown team with a very young Viv Richards, I remember the then captain saying to one or two of us " trouble with this youngster is he has so much talent he really believes that he can hit every ball for a boundary as soon as he comes in ".
Sometimes ( to a lesser extent obviously ) I wonder if the three mentioned above have a similar problem. My good wife who knows nothing about cricket but suffers some of the televised games once remarked " your friend Marcus seems to either get a lot of runs quickly or he gets out ".
Might be a simplification but food for thought - as someone else posted there is a time for two an over.
Jos has learnt and is now building an innings patiently.
Maybe our top three or four should follow suit.
Just an opinion for posters to mull over while the rain falls !
Many years ago when I played in the Lansdown team with a very young Viv Richards, I remember the then captain saying to one or two of us " trouble with this youngster is he has so much talent he really believes that he can hit every ball for a boundary as soon as he comes in ".
Sometimes ( to a lesser extent obviously ) I wonder if the three mentioned above have a similar problem. My good wife who knows nothing about cricket but suffers some of the televised games once remarked " your friend Marcus seems to either get a lot of runs quickly or he gets out ".
Might be a simplification but food for thought - as someone else posted there is a time for two an over.
Jos has learnt and is now building an innings patiently.
Maybe our top three or four should follow suit.
Just an opinion for posters to mull over while the rain falls !
Warks have had an absolute pasting at home to Yorkshire and Surrey look like they are heading to defeat at Notts.
While our league position isn't good, a couple of wins would see us move up the table quite rapidly.
While our league position isn't good, a couple of wins would see us move up the table quite rapidly.
Has play been abandoned for today?
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Well we do seem to be slightly blinkered when it comes to Marcus Rodders and I for one take your point. We tend to just assume Marcus will come good and look at the problems elsewhere but he has always been very vulnerable in the early overs because of foot movement etc.
He is our one class act but he is less classy less often and has had long periods of pretty mediocre form in the past. He has to be considered in the whole order and should not be immune from assessment.
AP will now suffer form his tremendous start with some people and anything less than 50 each outing will be seen as something of a failure
James is just becoming James. What we hoped he would mature out of seems to be his style. He is like a latter day Lathwell (and I appreciate the issues with that assessment). The style appears more often but not often enough in between pretty dull periods.
I also personally liken him to Piran Holloway a little although he has far more latent talent, he has had one immense season and seems to have spent 3 seasons chasing that form. Piran never reached that level again. One has to hope James can but time is running out for him.
These players can't be bulletproof. They have to prove their value like anyone else.
He is our one class act but he is less classy less often and has had long periods of pretty mediocre form in the past. He has to be considered in the whole order and should not be immune from assessment.
AP will now suffer form his tremendous start with some people and anything less than 50 each outing will be seen as something of a failure
James is just becoming James. What we hoped he would mature out of seems to be his style. He is like a latter day Lathwell (and I appreciate the issues with that assessment). The style appears more often but not often enough in between pretty dull periods.
I also personally liken him to Piran Holloway a little although he has far more latent talent, he has had one immense season and seems to have spent 3 seasons chasing that form. Piran never reached that level again. One has to hope James can but time is running out for him.
These players can't be bulletproof. They have to prove their value like anyone else.
I think we should recall that Hildreth finished 8th in the national averages as recently as last year. He has certainly had more than one good season, though I do agree that his manner of getting himself out disappoints a lot of us.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
We are just poor at the minute. As are warks, Surrey and derby. Need to make sure we are less poor than them going forward. We've got time to get it right but we need to be more on the money. Middx were both on and off the field this game. Need to ensure we are too!!!
I'm talking about consistently good seasons LoL.
The one (and only season in the last 5 in my opinion) where he showed his true class was where he was a pretty sure bet nearly every game.
A decent average does not mean he produces the goods on a consistent basis, just scores big occasionally to cover the lower scores - eg, the 300 against Warwickshire
If he was consistent he would be somewhere else at this moment in time playing in the game he really should be in alongside our more consistent player.
The one (and only season in the last 5 in my opinion) where he showed his true class was where he was a pretty sure bet nearly every game.
A decent average does not mean he produces the goods on a consistent basis, just scores big occasionally to cover the lower scores - eg, the 300 against Warwickshire
If he was consistent he would be somewhere else at this moment in time playing in the game he really should be in alongside our more consistent player.
Dave Nosworthy had all/most of the coaching staff on his balcony for quite a while today, it looked like they were having a meeting.
OK Lads and Lasses,
I have it from the Norses mouth (or twitter feed). His team talks would appear to consist of:
"When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it"
and
"The secret to change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old - but building the new"
If you can translate that gobbledegook please let me AND the players know what the hell it means.
Surely, the best way to lift them is to say "If the lads picked can't achieve what we want, we'll pick some others".
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:19:18:40 by old boy!.
I have it from the Norses mouth (or twitter feed). His team talks would appear to consist of:
"When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it"
and
"The secret to change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old - but building the new"
If you can translate that gobbledegook please let me AND the players know what the hell it means.
Surely, the best way to lift them is to say "If the lads picked can't achieve what we want, we'll pick some others".
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:19:18:40 by old boy!.
Day three and final days photos.
Alfonso Thomas did try and stay out in the middle.
And as did Jack Leach, he looked like he could score runs on his day.
What ever is said about Steve Kirby he do try his best, this lbw appeal from Joe Denly and John Simpson was turned down.
This is what the heavy roller looks like ,a lot small than it was.
A well judged leave by Jos Buttler.
GAME OVER.
Alfonso Thomas did try and stay out in the middle.
And as did Jack Leach, he looked like he could score runs on his day.
What ever is said about Steve Kirby he do try his best, this lbw appeal from Joe Denly and John Simpson was turned down.
This is what the heavy roller looks like ,a lot small than it was.
A well judged leave by Jos Buttler.
GAME OVER.
Quote:Mike TA1
Dave Nosworthy had all/most of the coaching staff on his balcony for quite a while today, it looked like they were having a meeting.
Maybe he should have invited Vic Marks away from his Test Match media work to attend?
Vic is after all the Chairman of Somerset's Cricket Committee and is thus, in my opinion, the person ultimately responsible for all matters appertaining to cricket at the club.
As a club we are seriously under - performing in the County Championship, and for whatever reason someone needs to get a grip with any problem(s) that there may be, right now.
Quote:Ronniesabre
I take it you don't rate nos then old boy?
Well Ronnie - put it like this! He may be a very nice chap, and may be one of the greatest coaches ever brought to Taunton, but if he expects his troops to translate his twitter feeds (all the players seem to be followers) and make sense of them, then I am struggling to rate him very highly. Sorry.
So Ronnie, can we have your translation please?.
I wouldn't take some 140 word clips as an inner path into the man OB.
It's just something he does, it doesn't define him or give you massive insights to what he is doing at Somerset.
It's just something he does, it doesn't define him or give you massive insights to what he is doing at Somerset.
Grockle
You are probably right, but I can think of plenty of cases of "celebrities" and "sports people" who have regretted doing too much twittering! or should it be tweeting?
I bet LOL is good at it!
You are probably right, but I can think of plenty of cases of "celebrities" and "sports people" who have regretted doing too much twittering! or should it be tweeting?
I bet LOL is good at it!
Are we a Chelsea or Man United. Give him time and we will see.Aim now is to stay up and blood as many of the younger players as we can without throwing away our Div 1 status
DN's personal favourite may be "An aphorism a day keeps the Tractor away".
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Well, disappointing but I'm here until Sunday night so we will see. I was happy with Pete's batting adn very happy with Jos' batting. I don't know what went wrong at the top end but it did and that was that. I refuse to fall into the slough of despond, as a senior gentleman who was bending my ear during a rain break has.( not a grocklee I think) Everything is apparently wrong. Jamie is raw, but I hope the speed doesn't get coached out of him. I hope Marcus doesn't lose con fidence in himself and I hope James finds some. We can give Craig M a game, let Lewis find his feet and at the ewnd of term try Chris Jones. I am sorry that Hussain doesn't seem to be the answer and i think Steve K will never give up trying but is past his best. A good win on Sunday aim at one or both of the 2 one dayers and 6th in the champ.
Sound, sensible and non-judgmental as always, GM. Much appreciated by a supporter who has never lost faith.
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
If DN is still finding his feet (according to his comments on the the website), BR appears to have moved out, VM on journalism call, then who off field calls the shots and challenges the players?
I am not criticising DN, I'll trust those who hired him and know more about it than me. But given that BR packed it in because he felt he couldn't go further with the players (and criticised them after the Surrey cup final for ignoring the coaches) then we might be in for a rough ride.
I am not criticising DN, I'll trust those who hired him and know more about it than me. But given that BR packed it in because he felt he couldn't go further with the players (and criticised them after the Surrey cup final for ignoring the coaches) then we might be in for a rough ride.
Well there's a Head Coach bloke called Andy Hurry and some other bloke called Guy Lavender still there. Oh and Marcus Trecothick
I never really understood Vic's role. He is rarely here in the summer because he's off somewhere commentating or working at his second/third job as correspondent and he's rarely here in the winter for the same reason. Whenever he's questioned on the Somerset situation he turns into bumbling joking giggler (all a front I am sure) and pretends that it is all beyond him.
I'm sure it isn't but he seems a deeply unapproachable man. Roy Kerslake seems much more in tune with what is happening regarding the club yet he is often seen as a subordinate character to the Mighty Marks. I'm personally not sure why. He is a man of authority and integrity with a streak of Somerset a mile wide running through him.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:21:17:36 by Grockle.
I never really understood Vic's role. He is rarely here in the summer because he's off somewhere commentating or working at his second/third job as correspondent and he's rarely here in the winter for the same reason. Whenever he's questioned on the Somerset situation he turns into bumbling joking giggler (all a front I am sure) and pretends that it is all beyond him.
I'm sure it isn't but he seems a deeply unapproachable man. Roy Kerslake seems much more in tune with what is happening regarding the club yet he is often seen as a subordinate character to the Mighty Marks. I'm personally not sure why. He is a man of authority and integrity with a streak of Somerset a mile wide running through him.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:17:21:17:36 by Grockle.
At this rate we are going to need all 4 days to slay the Aussies next month!
Quote:old boy!Quote:Ronniesabre
I take it you don't rate nos then old boy?
Well Ronnie - put it like this! He may be a very nice chap, and may be one of the greatest coaches ever brought to Taunton, but if he expects his troops to translate his twitter feeds (all the players seem to be followers) and make sense of them, then I am struggling to rate him very highly. Sorry.
So Ronnie, can we have your translation please?.
I have no translation old boy. I asked you a simple question. You gave a complicated answer.
For what's its worth I think hurry may be in danger due to nosworthy being there. Nosworthy s a coach too I believe? He just seems not at the forefront the way he used to be and with langer etc. wouldn't surprise me if that's where are problems are stemming from. Just a hunch and may be way off beam.
I didn't post last night because I wanted to take time to put some perspective on an incredibly disappointing day.
Before commenting on the negatives, one must acknowledge the excellent bowling by Middlesex, especially by Murtagh, who gave one of the best exhibitions of fast-medium bowling I have seen in a long time (incidentally with Eion Morgan, aren't Ireland worth test match status; I would back them to beat both Bangladesh and Zimbabwe).
Also, great credit needs to be given to Jos for curbing his natural instincts and fighting for the side. He has now produced 3 really mature CC innings already this season.
However many points come to mind:
1 Please no more putting the opposition in, especially at Taunton, where we know green looking pitches always play much better than they look.
2 We had an attack consisting 3 bowlers who are nearer the end of their bowling career than the beginning together with 3 apprentices. Sadly we do not have established bowlers in their mid to late 20s, but such an age range is a weakness.
3 Steve K is a great example, always doing his best and an excellent representative of the club off the field. Sadly he has lost the zip that a new ball bowler needs and he does not have the subtleties to compensate. His two overs with the second new ball were crucial because they enabled Dexter and the tail to got away. Furthermore the lengthy tail and his limited fielding are other factors. He needs to be replaced as fourth seamer by Craig M who has form in both 2nd XI and CB40 cricket to support his inclusion.
4 we need to radically rethink how be bowl at the tail, getting rid of the obsession with the bouncer. Jamie O needs guidance, even if it occasionally means Marcus standing at mid-off.
5 As soon as he returns from Durham Chris J needs to be given a run as Marcus's opening partner. At least we know that he will sell his wicket dearly and we saw some evidence last season that he could be the answer, while Arul looks a walking wicket.
6 Apprentice batsmen, unless they are specialist openers should bat below established players. Lewis should have been at 7 in this match.
7 We need to realise that the more bowling we ask from Peter T the less runs we are likely to get.
Despite all this, I do believe that we will retain our Div 1 status; Derbys, Surrey and Warwicks all have major problems and I believe that our batting will come good. However dave N must be hands on and remember that actions speak louder than words
Before commenting on the negatives, one must acknowledge the excellent bowling by Middlesex, especially by Murtagh, who gave one of the best exhibitions of fast-medium bowling I have seen in a long time (incidentally with Eion Morgan, aren't Ireland worth test match status; I would back them to beat both Bangladesh and Zimbabwe).
Also, great credit needs to be given to Jos for curbing his natural instincts and fighting for the side. He has now produced 3 really mature CC innings already this season.
However many points come to mind:
1 Please no more putting the opposition in, especially at Taunton, where we know green looking pitches always play much better than they look.
2 We had an attack consisting 3 bowlers who are nearer the end of their bowling career than the beginning together with 3 apprentices. Sadly we do not have established bowlers in their mid to late 20s, but such an age range is a weakness.
3 Steve K is a great example, always doing his best and an excellent representative of the club off the field. Sadly he has lost the zip that a new ball bowler needs and he does not have the subtleties to compensate. His two overs with the second new ball were crucial because they enabled Dexter and the tail to got away. Furthermore the lengthy tail and his limited fielding are other factors. He needs to be replaced as fourth seamer by Craig M who has form in both 2nd XI and CB40 cricket to support his inclusion.
4 we need to radically rethink how be bowl at the tail, getting rid of the obsession with the bouncer. Jamie O needs guidance, even if it occasionally means Marcus standing at mid-off.
5 As soon as he returns from Durham Chris J needs to be given a run as Marcus's opening partner. At least we know that he will sell his wicket dearly and we saw some evidence last season that he could be the answer, while Arul looks a walking wicket.
6 Apprentice batsmen, unless they are specialist openers should bat below established players. Lewis should have been at 7 in this match.
7 We need to realise that the more bowling we ask from Peter T the less runs we are likely to get.
Despite all this, I do believe that we will retain our Div 1 status; Derbys, Surrey and Warwicks all have major problems and I believe that our batting will come good. However dave N must be hands on and remember that actions speak louder than words
Grockle - what an excellent comment on Roy Kerslake, who is not only a mile wide Somerset supporter but also one who inter-relates with Somerset members better than anyone else.
Horsham becomes even more important now in what will be a long and difficult battle against relegation. I shall be there and hopefully many other members will also be there to support the team.
Joverton has come of age against Middlesex. As we are adopting a rotational policy with the fast bowlers, it is time to give Andy Dibble (fitness permitting) a go against Sussex as well as Coverton and Meschede and rest Alfonso, Steve and Lewis.
That might give us more chance of 20 wickets but will the batting give us a big enough platform to do so??? Alviro will need to come to the party in his last match for us. But can Tres do his main job of giving us 100s as captain?
It is tough to captain a losing team. Is now the time to think the "unthinkable" and replace Tres with Hildy as captain? A couple of years ago Hildy's batting shone as captain of the Lions in Australia & West Indies.
Do others agree that having Tres concentrating solely on his batting and 2nd slip duties is more in the best interests of the team?
Horsham becomes even more important now in what will be a long and difficult battle against relegation. I shall be there and hopefully many other members will also be there to support the team.
Joverton has come of age against Middlesex. As we are adopting a rotational policy with the fast bowlers, it is time to give Andy Dibble (fitness permitting) a go against Sussex as well as Coverton and Meschede and rest Alfonso, Steve and Lewis.
That might give us more chance of 20 wickets but will the batting give us a big enough platform to do so??? Alviro will need to come to the party in his last match for us. But can Tres do his main job of giving us 100s as captain?
It is tough to captain a losing team. Is now the time to think the "unthinkable" and replace Tres with Hildy as captain? A couple of years ago Hildy's batting shone as captain of the Lions in Australia & West Indies.
Do others agree that having Tres concentrating solely on his batting and 2nd slip duties is more in the best interests of the team?
Good points Tops.
I can't disagree with anything you have raised.
I also agree with Roger's last point. I have never been convinced with Tres being captain and think that his game would benefit from reliquishing these duties.
I can't disagree with anything you have raised.
I also agree with Roger's last point. I have never been convinced with Tres being captain and think that his game would benefit from reliquishing these duties.
Have not all the signs been that James Hildreth does not wish to be skipper?
There is also the point that your captain should be a player who is certain of his place in the team irrespective of captaincy issues - unless he is called Michael Brearley. It is no longer clear that JH is a nailed-on selection.
If, on the other hand, he could be persuaded to take on the captaincy might he perhaps be one of those whose batting benefits from the extra responsibilities?
Of course there may not be a captaincy issue!
There is also the point that your captain should be a player who is certain of his place in the team irrespective of captaincy issues - unless he is called Michael Brearley. It is no longer clear that JH is a nailed-on selection.
If, on the other hand, he could be persuaded to take on the captaincy might he perhaps be one of those whose batting benefits from the extra responsibilities?
Of course there may not be a captaincy issue!
It doesn't help at all this season but I still say that Dave Nosworthy, in common with almost all similar figures, would probably strongly prefer to have some of his 'own,' people around him, be they players or fellow back-room staff.
Assuming that Dave wishes to continue in the role in 2014 and that his employers wish him to continue then I think we will see significant changes. I'm sure some here won't like them as some of the players that some of the posters really like may not be Dave's cup of tea.
Now, if we're going to be able to bring in much playing quality we surely have to retain Div One status.
As soon as possible, I still think we should see if we can get Jack and George into the same side to maximise the amount of control that Marcus has as a Captain in the field. Attack of Alf, Pete, Jamie and the 2 spinners. Craig M probably in the side too.
Last time SCCC played at Horsham the track was pretty dry so it might be a ground that tends to have that attribute?
So I'd like to see Dockrell for Kirby and Craig M for Gregory for the next match.
I tip Arul, if he retains his place, to make a 50 at Horsham. Would scarcely be shocking to see Barrow given another chance in his stead, though.
Assuming that Dave wishes to continue in the role in 2014 and that his employers wish him to continue then I think we will see significant changes. I'm sure some here won't like them as some of the players that some of the posters really like may not be Dave's cup of tea.
Now, if we're going to be able to bring in much playing quality we surely have to retain Div One status.
As soon as possible, I still think we should see if we can get Jack and George into the same side to maximise the amount of control that Marcus has as a Captain in the field. Attack of Alf, Pete, Jamie and the 2 spinners. Craig M probably in the side too.
Last time SCCC played at Horsham the track was pretty dry so it might be a ground that tends to have that attribute?
So I'd like to see Dockrell for Kirby and Craig M for Gregory for the next match.
I tip Arul, if he retains his place, to make a 50 at Horsham. Would scarcely be shocking to see Barrow given another chance in his stead, though.
Sorry it was a scabby day Tops and your points are well made, especially the one about Pete which is why I personally think we need to give Craig Meschede as run in the four dayers.
But as you say and with apologies to Roger S, we aren't in a "difficult relegation battle" and we won't be. We have some disappointing results but the Championship season has about 67% of its fixtures to run yet. No-one is in a "difficult relegation battle" yet. The only thing you can probably say with certainty at the moment I that we aren't pushing for the top spot in CC1
With regards some other points in your post Roger, people were speculating about Marcus taking the captain's role in the winter and candidates were few and far between to replace him however you felt about it.
IF (and its a big one) there had been doubts about him we would have an international player as captain. Therefore he presently has the managements vote at least. Of the two men you mention;
James shone, briefly as captain of the Lions and at home but seems to have given the job away and shows a seeming reluctance to consider it again. Presently his place in the CC side would be up for discussion if we were at full strength because he can hardly buy a run. Would he instil confidence striding out to the middle as captain? Not presently in my book I'm afraid.
Peter is also struggling with his own CC batting and is being asked to once again shoulder a large amount of bowling as the rest of the attack goes through something of a transition. I'm not sure taking the responsibility from a batsman so he can concentrate on his main role and giving it to an untried bowling captain in the same position with his role solves any problems at all.
Other candidates to take over in the middle of a slump? Well is it the right time to change to anyone. Isn't this the time to see what the captain is made of? He'll live or die as skipper on what happens in the next few months anyway.
But as you say and with apologies to Roger S, we aren't in a "difficult relegation battle" and we won't be. We have some disappointing results but the Championship season has about 67% of its fixtures to run yet. No-one is in a "difficult relegation battle" yet. The only thing you can probably say with certainty at the moment I that we aren't pushing for the top spot in CC1
With regards some other points in your post Roger, people were speculating about Marcus taking the captain's role in the winter and candidates were few and far between to replace him however you felt about it.
IF (and its a big one) there had been doubts about him we would have an international player as captain. Therefore he presently has the managements vote at least. Of the two men you mention;
James shone, briefly as captain of the Lions and at home but seems to have given the job away and shows a seeming reluctance to consider it again. Presently his place in the CC side would be up for discussion if we were at full strength because he can hardly buy a run. Would he instil confidence striding out to the middle as captain? Not presently in my book I'm afraid.
Peter is also struggling with his own CC batting and is being asked to once again shoulder a large amount of bowling as the rest of the attack goes through something of a transition. I'm not sure taking the responsibility from a batsman so he can concentrate on his main role and giving it to an untried bowling captain in the same position with his role solves any problems at all.
Other candidates to take over in the middle of a slump? Well is it the right time to change to anyone. Isn't this the time to see what the captain is made of? He'll live or die as skipper on what happens in the next few months anyway.
A very bold statement (or perhaps a state of denial), Grockle to assert that we 'won't be in a relegation battle.'
At present we seem to be one of the three worst teams, with Derbys and Surrey, though Notts and Warks also look poor sides.
Middx and Yorkshire look strong sides. Durham and Sussex look fairly strong sides.
Sussex may have lost their captain for Wed, though, as Joyce batted at 11 vs Derbys.
At present we seem to be one of the three worst teams, with Derbys and Surrey, though Notts and Warks also look poor sides.
Middx and Yorkshire look strong sides. Durham and Sussex look fairly strong sides.
Sussex may have lost their captain for Wed, though, as Joyce batted at 11 vs Derbys.
Well I'd leave that one to the end of the season AG if I were you and you can tell me 'I told you so' then.
I am a Somerset supporter and I expect my side to be in Division 1 next season. I have that faith. If you don't well that's your problem and we have little to discuss on the matter because I will maintain that level of faith until the maths tells me categorically that I'm wrong.
I am a Somerset supporter and I expect my side to be in Division 1 next season. I have that faith. If you don't well that's your problem and we have little to discuss on the matter because I will maintain that level of faith until the maths tells me categorically that I'm wrong.
It's perfectly, possible, Grockle for us to be in a relegation battle and win that battle.
To exclude the possibility of having to fight that battle is, however, wishful thinking to the nth degree at the present time.
To exclude the possibility of having to fight that battle is, however, wishful thinking to the nth degree at the present time.
Why? The season isn't over.
You do struggle with the concept of faith and optimism in a supporter of a club don't you? Why should I look at what is behind when there are prospects in front that can change a picture out of all recognition? It doesn't stop me from discussing how things might be changed for the better and it doesn't top me from being a critical friend to a side I have supported for two decades but I'm certainly not prepared to countenance the possibility of failure while the possibility of success is in front of my face.
Go and be miserable with someone else AG. I support Somerset and the summer is far from over. Talk to me about it in October. The 'table' means @#$%& all to my season presently, there is more to look forward to than there is behind us.
You do struggle with the concept of faith and optimism in a supporter of a club don't you? Why should I look at what is behind when there are prospects in front that can change a picture out of all recognition? It doesn't stop me from discussing how things might be changed for the better and it doesn't top me from being a critical friend to a side I have supported for two decades but I'm certainly not prepared to countenance the possibility of failure while the possibility of success is in front of my face.
Go and be miserable with someone else AG. I support Somerset and the summer is far from over. Talk to me about it in October. The 'table' means @#$%& all to my season presently, there is more to look forward to than there is behind us.
We've won 0 of 5.
We've come close to winning 1 of 5.
We've lost twice.
We would surely have lost 3 of 5 (Yorks too) if weather had not saved us.
There can be little argument that the above is the form profile of a side that is struggling quite badly and sides that struggle end up in relegation dog-fight.
It's my view that when a batting line-up struggles over more than just a couple of games then the rot is usually set in for the season as batting is such a confidence game.
I therefore do not expect to see sustained improvement with the bat in 2013 in the CC.
If we're going to save ourselves, I think it will have to be our bowling that will do it and I think we need to hope for drier weather and look primarily to left-arm spin, including Rehman later on, to haul us out of the mire.
We've come close to winning 1 of 5.
We've lost twice.
We would surely have lost 3 of 5 (Yorks too) if weather had not saved us.
There can be little argument that the above is the form profile of a side that is struggling quite badly and sides that struggle end up in relegation dog-fight.
It's my view that when a batting line-up struggles over more than just a couple of games then the rot is usually set in for the season as batting is such a confidence game.
I therefore do not expect to see sustained improvement with the bat in 2013 in the CC.
If we're going to save ourselves, I think it will have to be our bowling that will do it and I think we need to hope for drier weather and look primarily to left-arm spin, including Rehman later on, to haul us out of the mire.
The answer to the why, Grockle, is simply because it shows is in relegation trouble right now which is something you seem to have a lot of trouble conceding.
I don't have to 'concede' anything.
You seem to think this is a logical debate about figures.
You seem to think that just because something HAS happened it will CONTIINUE to happen because of that. I simply don't have to agree with you.
That is why I support Somerset and you seem to see them as some kind of mathematical model of prediction.
I believe my side will sort out their problems, change the past situation and stay in Division 1.
It's not a statistical certainty but it doesn't have to be. Presently your figures suggest it will be harder than it was in April but supporters believe we have the resources and the know how to achieve that goal and we will.
Don't get your nickers in a twist over it. It's just the difference between 'supporting' a sports team and whatever it is you do. There's no logic in it but its why some come back year after year... because they expect better and are warmed through when they get it, especially if the numbers are against it happening.
Presently the numbers aren't against it happening and so faith is not being tested (well except in some cases). Maybe later in the season it will be but that is later in the season when it might be a subject worthy of debate.
Presently the debate should be; what do we need to do to get our Championship side winning because relegation is not an issue if that problem is solved.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:18:08:50:59 by Grockle.
You seem to think this is a logical debate about figures.
You seem to think that just because something HAS happened it will CONTIINUE to happen because of that. I simply don't have to agree with you.
That is why I support Somerset and you seem to see them as some kind of mathematical model of prediction.
I believe my side will sort out their problems, change the past situation and stay in Division 1.
It's not a statistical certainty but it doesn't have to be. Presently your figures suggest it will be harder than it was in April but supporters believe we have the resources and the know how to achieve that goal and we will.
Don't get your nickers in a twist over it. It's just the difference between 'supporting' a sports team and whatever it is you do. There's no logic in it but its why some come back year after year... because they expect better and are warmed through when they get it, especially if the numbers are against it happening.
Presently the numbers aren't against it happening and so faith is not being tested (well except in some cases). Maybe later in the season it will be but that is later in the season when it might be a subject worthy of debate.
Presently the debate should be; what do we need to do to get our Championship side winning because relegation is not an issue if that problem is solved.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:18:08:50:59 by Grockle.
I think many have already given their best answer to the last point.
Dave N talks on the official site about a 're-assessment.'
I doubt the man is about to abandon whatever his normal coaching strategies are at the drop of a hat, so one assumes that 're-assessment,' may be of team selection and/or on field tactics. For example, every chance Jamie Overton gets the new ball in future. Hopefully, no repetition of sending in a guy like Gregory ahead of Jos in the batting order etc..
Dave N talks on the official site about a 're-assessment.'
I doubt the man is about to abandon whatever his normal coaching strategies are at the drop of a hat, so one assumes that 're-assessment,' may be of team selection and/or on field tactics. For example, every chance Jamie Overton gets the new ball in future. Hopefully, no repetition of sending in a guy like Gregory ahead of Jos in the batting order etc..
Horsham is a ground that has at least one tricky run-up so that could be an issue for Jamie as it may have been in Leeds.
Last time we played there, Charl had a terrible time with the run up from the non tennis court end of the ground and got carted to the tune of 6 overs for 40.
I hope Marcus remembers that and initially tries Jamie from the other end.
Last time we played there, Charl had a terrible time with the run up from the non tennis court end of the ground and got carted to the tune of 6 overs for 40.
I hope Marcus remembers that and initially tries Jamie from the other end.
Ed Joyce definitely won`t be captaining Sussex at Horsham next week as he is in the Ireland squad to play Pakistan in two ODIs, as indeed is George D.
Sussex will have Luke Wright back from the IPL, where his main role seems to be as drinks carrier for bottom team Pune.
Sussex will have Luke Wright back from the IPL, where his main role seems to be as drinks carrier for bottom team Pune.
If we collapse to Wright that would represent a new low.
Hopefully he can bowl some erratic stuff to give our guys a bit of a break from the good bowlers like Magoffin or Monty.
Hopefully he can bowl some erratic stuff to give our guys a bit of a break from the good bowlers like Magoffin or Monty.
Most times we question his ability on here, Luke goes and does something right (or Wright) so keep the dismissive stuff down too a minimum boys and girls and we'll get the LW we know and love with luck.
For tomorrow, can't see much point in playing Arul at three so why not give Craig M a go up there with permission to have a dart at the bowling?
If there was one thing that I thought Dave N would change it was moving Jos up to four but does not appear as though it will happen.
But unless we have standing team orders for guys to deliberately get themselves out at a particular juncture in an innings, then there will surely come the day where SCCC make, say, 230 for 3 from 40 overs and the opposition knock them off with time to spare... If that 230 for 3 comes with our biggest one-day gun sat in the pavilion with his pads on then we'll look total and utter numpties.
If there was one thing that I thought Dave N would change it was moving Jos up to four but does not appear as though it will happen.
But unless we have standing team orders for guys to deliberately get themselves out at a particular juncture in an innings, then there will surely come the day where SCCC make, say, 230 for 3 from 40 overs and the opposition knock them off with time to spare... If that 230 for 3 comes with our biggest one-day gun sat in the pavilion with his pads on then we'll look total and utter numpties.
Apologies for interfering in a private spat, but I support the team and also believe that we could well be in a relegation fight, even though I think we will pull out.
Regarding JH, he does of course frustrate us, because we believe he could do better, often getting starts and not going on, but He did average 43 in the CC last year and any county would be pleased with that. Let's hope Elgar helps him forget his enigma variations so we can see him in his pomp in every circumstance.
Regarding JH, he does of course frustrate us, because we believe he could do better, often getting starts and not going on, but He did average 43 in the CC last year and any county would be pleased with that. Let's hope Elgar helps him forget his enigma variations so we can see him in his pomp in every circumstance.
You can support a team and still think relegation is an issue. If you don't consider it now and do something about it now it can become worse and possibly irretrievable. I think too we will get out if it but we have to consider it and change things now before its too late. You are never too good to go down I'm afraid!!! On to Horsham!!!
Yep, Ron, how many times have we heard naive footballers, football managers and football fans utter that tired and foolhardy refrain, only to look around at the end of the season and 'oh whoops.'
Just a few points to add to the debate:
We are in a relegation position, ergo we are in a battle to get out of that position before (hopefully well before) the season ends. I have faith we will.
George will be away for us but we are adequately covered, Joyce will be away for them and will leave a hole that will be filled by Luke Wright. I would rather we played a team without Wright than with him, indeed i would rather he were in our team than theirs!
Surely DN's job is a much broader brush, with the day to day performance of the 1st X1 being the responsibility of the coach? Like others, I feel he may be about to endure squeeky bum time.
I remain convinced that the hierarchy saw the next captain as Craig K and the one after that as Lewis G. I guess the change in that hierarchy may alter that thinking.
We are in a relegation position, ergo we are in a battle to get out of that position before (hopefully well before) the season ends. I have faith we will.
George will be away for us but we are adequately covered, Joyce will be away for them and will leave a hole that will be filled by Luke Wright. I would rather we played a team without Wright than with him, indeed i would rather he were in our team than theirs!
Surely DN's job is a much broader brush, with the day to day performance of the 1st X1 being the responsibility of the coach? Like others, I feel he may be about to endure squeeky bum time.
I remain convinced that the hierarchy saw the next captain as Craig K and the one after that as Lewis G. I guess the change in that hierarchy may alter that thinking.
When Brian departed, Railboy, he said that the team needed a DofC that would focus heavily on the first team.
If management agreed, then DN may have been briefed accordingly?
If management agreed, then DN may have been briefed accordingly?
Who said anything about NOT doing something to improve performance... you need to read things a little more thoroughly Ron.
Of course you can think relegation is an issue because you can think.
I personally don't see it as an issue as I clearly posted. Improving performance is an issue. Get that right and relegation isn't. Seems I have more belief in turning things around than you. Doesn't have to be a criticism of your view unless you take it as one it's just how it is.
Oh and AG don't imply naivety just because people have a differing view to yours. I for one am well aware of the position and what needs doing about it. I don't have my head in the sand any more than you have your head somewhere else, we simply differ on our view of the present severity of the situation and whether we will manage to avoid Division 2.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:18:12:45:19 by Grockle.
Of course you can think relegation is an issue because you can think.
I personally don't see it as an issue as I clearly posted. Improving performance is an issue. Get that right and relegation isn't. Seems I have more belief in turning things around than you. Doesn't have to be a criticism of your view unless you take it as one it's just how it is.
Oh and AG don't imply naivety just because people have a differing view to yours. I for one am well aware of the position and what needs doing about it. I don't have my head in the sand any more than you have your head somewhere else, we simply differ on our view of the present severity of the situation and whether we will manage to avoid Division 2.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:18:12:45:19 by Grockle.
I see that with the completion of the current round of CC1 matches we are joint seventh with Surrey. In my opinion we are a better batting side than Surrey though a weaker bowling side, though we have hardly demonstrated that so far.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Quote:Tops
Apologies for interfering in a private spat,
Can we get away from this "private spat" rubbish. This is a PUBLIC forum and the debate that was going on this morning was between the only two people who were up at that time. Don't apologise for joining it on a PUBLIC forum.
AG and I disagree, so do AG and FE, Old Boy and Ron, Big Jim and CP Me and KT (well quite a few and KT) and a number of other pairings to greater or lesser degrees. They aren't classified as 'private spats' and people involve themselves or they don't. AG is a prolific poster and I monitor the site we come across each other more than most and we don't always see eye to eye.
It's a forum people, people talk, occasionally they disagree and occasionally it gets a little warm and then it calms down and then it goes back to normal. I also agree with AG -are they 'private love-ins' even though others also agree with each other?
Please get over your obsession with who I argue with and remember it is NOT ME arguing with them but TWO people arguing with each other. It takes two to tango and long may that be the case on this forum.
Ignore us, post around us, don't worry we don't mind working around you and we promise not to moan about your 'public love ins' or moan about how tedious they are - people on the 'composer' thread just be thankful!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:18:16:20:05 by Grockle.
Nicely summed up Grockle! If we all agreed all of the time, why would we bother to post? And anyway it stops you having to argue with a load of camels - at least I assume you've got a few in Oman!
Well a number of Omani drivers argue with them.
They find the roads very nice to sleep on and some of the guys here drive their muscle cars a little too fast while talking on one mobile and texting on another with the family crammed in the car and not a fastened seat belt in sight.
Deaths on the roads in April? A mere 797. Second most dangerous place to drive in the world after Saudi.
So there are fewer camels all the time OB.
They find the roads very nice to sleep on and some of the guys here drive their muscle cars a little too fast while talking on one mobile and texting on another with the family crammed in the car and not a fastened seat belt in sight.
Deaths on the roads in April? A mere 797. Second most dangerous place to drive in the world after Saudi.
So there are fewer camels all the time OB.
The only poster who I disagree with is that chap from Tibet...and he owes me a drink.
Relegation?
Don't be daft, some of you are starting to sound like football fans.
Relegation?
Don't be daft, some of you are starting to sound like football fans.
Yes, Jim. West Ham and Ipswich supporters. The good news is that neither of those teams was ultimately relegated.
Quote:Grockle
I never really understood Vic's role. He is rarely here in the summer because he's off somewhere commentating or working at his second/third job as correspondent and he's rarely here in the winter for the same reason. Whenever he's questioned on the Somerset situation he turns into bumbling joking giggler (all a front I am sure) and pretends that it is all beyond him.
I'm sure it isn't but he seems a deeply unapproachable man. Roy Kerslake seems much more in tune with what is happening regarding the club yet he is often seen as a subordinate character to the Mighty Marks. I'm personally not sure why. He is a man of authority and integrity with a streak of Somerset a mile wide running through him.
Grockle, you have summed up both of the two afore – mentioned gentlemen, very well in my opinion.
Vic is a very affable man, but his “bumbling, joking, giggling” performances in the past, when asked questions by members at AGM’s, have in my eyes been somewhat embarrassing. I am really unsure as to the reasons behind this behaviour.
I vehemently disagreed with Roy Kerslake (and others too of course) in the run – up and consequent showdown at Shepton Mallet way back in 1986. We have thankfully all moved on from there of course, and it is indeed now all ‘water under the bridge.’
After that particularly divisive constitutional crisis in the club’s history, Roy disassociated himself from the club for a number of years, but I was very, very pleased when he decided to return to the fray, and eventually take over the mantle of Club President – a position that he still holds today.
I don’t personally see him as “a subordinate character to Victor”; perhaps he understandably displays a measure of impartiality in fulfilling his role as President.
A humble and compassionate man, we are indeed fortunate to be able to share his company.
Who do you support, Norwich?
Bobs, just because you follow a football side it doesn't mean you have to adopt the mentality of the average modern day football fan....you know what I mean, calls to sack the manager after one defeat.
Bobs, just because you follow a football side it doesn't mean you have to adopt the mentality of the average modern day football fan....you know what I mean, calls to sack the manager after one defeat.
Its a true pleasure to commentate with him CP. He still reads a game so well. I think he is seen in a subordinate role by people simply because of Vic's profile, he certainly isn't in any area in my opinion.
I can't say I know Vic other than I have come across him within the press box enough to be known to him and to be able to say hello if nothing else. I don't see it as my place to make conversation with these people as they have a paid job to do and I do it for fun as much as anything else. I speak if spoken to and am very grateful to the local press people on that account.
I do have to say I formed a different opinion of the affability of the man while in Abu Dhabi for the second test against Pakistan. In a semi full press box where I was gratefully accepted by Mr Dobel and a very affable gentleman writing for the Times, I made the mistake of saying good morning to Mr Marks only to be looked at and then completely ignored. I was wearing a Somerset shirt so he may not have recognised me but 'hello' doesn't kill anyone.
Three Tests not even a glimpse of affability to another Somerset man. Didn't sit particularly well with me I'm afraid.
I can't say I know Vic other than I have come across him within the press box enough to be known to him and to be able to say hello if nothing else. I don't see it as my place to make conversation with these people as they have a paid job to do and I do it for fun as much as anything else. I speak if spoken to and am very grateful to the local press people on that account.
I do have to say I formed a different opinion of the affability of the man while in Abu Dhabi for the second test against Pakistan. In a semi full press box where I was gratefully accepted by Mr Dobel and a very affable gentleman writing for the Times, I made the mistake of saying good morning to Mr Marks only to be looked at and then completely ignored. I was wearing a Somerset shirt so he may not have recognised me but 'hello' doesn't kill anyone.
Three Tests not even a glimpse of affability to another Somerset man. Didn't sit particularly well with me I'm afraid.
Jim, as you know I agree with you totally. So many fans are what I call stock market fans. One win and "We're the finest football team the world has ever seen." A couple of defeats and it's "Sack the manager."
By the way, Norwich SCCC supports North Walsham Town.
By the way, Norwich SCCC supports North Walsham Town.
Sadly North Walsham were relegated from the Anglian Combination Premier league, Bobstan.
No chance of McCarthy getting the boot though. My Ipswich mates would not swap him for Hughton who was under considerable pressure before West Brom's surrender last week.
No chance of McCarthy getting the boot though. My Ipswich mates would not swap him for Hughton who was under considerable pressure before West Brom's surrender last week.
If Trap leaves, MM may again be offered the Ireland job.
Wonder what Mr Keane would make of that?
Wonder what Mr Keane would make of that?
Botham's post of this morning has been moved from here to the 'Site Views' Thread on the 'Other Forum' - the place it was requested I set up for such discussions and comments.
Should anyone wish to read it and comment it is there for all to see. All Botham's other posts which seem to be within the spirit of this site and to have no possible ulterior motives are still available for everyone to appreciate.
If anyone wishes me to explain the ruling please check with Botham that he is OK for me to release things and I'll happily provide a fuller explanation.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:19:11:57:03 by Grockle.
Should anyone wish to read it and comment it is there for all to see. All Botham's other posts which seem to be within the spirit of this site and to have no possible ulterior motives are still available for everyone to appreciate.
If anyone wishes me to explain the ruling please check with Botham that he is OK for me to release things and I'll happily provide a fuller explanation.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:19:11:57:03 by Grockle.
I have always thought that one of the greatest charms of the Grockles message board is the way in which all sorts of tangential issues with only the smallest relevance to the thread title appear!
My post of 18:30 on 18 May was intended as a comparison with some of the reactions to Somerset defeats or victories on here. Very little difference it seems to me. The Stock Market reaction in both cases. Weather versus Climate if you like. Two or three weeks of cold weather means that the idea of global warming is a nonsense.
My post of 18:30 on 18 May was intended as a comparison with some of the reactions to Somerset defeats or victories on here. Very little difference it seems to me. The Stock Market reaction in both cases. Weather versus Climate if you like. Two or three weeks of cold weather means that the idea of global warming is a nonsense.
I am bound to say that I agree with Bobstan (given the retainer he pays me).
While I fully accept that this site is primarily for the exchange of thoughts and information about cricket and Somerset cricket in particular, it is - through its nature as a forum - a place where like-minded people get to know each other. I have made (and met) a number of good new friends through this superb site and the friendships depend on common interests often far beyond cricket. If we did not interpolate the occasional juicy bit about non-cricketing things that interest some of us, e.g. the saintliness of the chancellor, Ipswich Town Nil, classical music, BJ's brilliance on the rugby fields of Wales, our beloved mother tongue, the urban landscape of India... (the list is endless), some of those friendships might never get started.
I note with pleasure that I learn some basic economics from our very own moderator and that can do no harm either.
So let's not be too prescriptive, please.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:20:15:52:45 by Loyal of Lhasa..
While I fully accept that this site is primarily for the exchange of thoughts and information about cricket and Somerset cricket in particular, it is - through its nature as a forum - a place where like-minded people get to know each other. I have made (and met) a number of good new friends through this superb site and the friendships depend on common interests often far beyond cricket. If we did not interpolate the occasional juicy bit about non-cricketing things that interest some of us, e.g. the saintliness of the chancellor, Ipswich Town Nil, classical music, BJ's brilliance on the rugby fields of Wales, our beloved mother tongue, the urban landscape of India... (the list is endless), some of those friendships might never get started.
I note with pleasure that I learn some basic economics from our very own moderator and that can do no harm either.
So let's not be too prescriptive, please.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:05:20:15:52:45 by Loyal of Lhasa..
Thank you for your support, LoL. Once I've washed it I shall wear it frequently.
Cheque in the post - a sort of Barnes Wallis cheque.
Cheque in the post - a sort of Barnes Wallis cheque.
Damn that Buster Bobstan!
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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