Somerset
'Sex without an audience. The first class return
By Farmer White et al
May 1 2021
And we're back at Taunton for the return of Middlesex. They'll want to redress the balance after the Lord's game and we need to push along. Farmer White paints the picture for us all
County Championship Group 2. Somerset v Middlesex. 29th and 30th April, and 1st and 2nd May 2021. Taunton.
Somerset. T.A. Lammonby, T. Banton, T.B. Abell (c), J.C. Hildreth, G.A. Bartlett, S.M. Davies (w), L.P. Goldsworthy, C. Overton, L. Gregory, J.H. Davey, M.J. Leach.
Middlesex. M.D.E. Holden, S.D. Robson, N.R.T. Gubbins, P.S.P. Handscomb (c), R.G. White, J.A. Simpson (w), M.K. Andersson, L.B.K. Hollman, T.J. Murtagh. S.T. Finn, T.G. Helm.
Toss. Somerset. Elected to bowl.
First day 29th April – Oh, W.G.
Oh, W.G., does’t thee turn, head slowly shaking, in thy grave? It was a day when the sun shone bright, Somerset played two spinners and the wicket had a tinge of green as far as the eagle-eyed camera could discern. Before a ball was bowled my heart sank as the wonders of modern technology brought news from the ground that Somerset had won the toss and asked Middlesex to bat. Where the toss is concerned, I am a W.G. man, even when there is a tinge of green, and nothing happened on the first day to dissuade me of that view. More than six decades of watching Somerset play cricket has left me, based on my anecdotal memory it is true, convinced that the percentages weigh heavily in favour of batting on winning the toss, almost whatever the conditions. Forty minutes after lunch, Middlesex were 121 for 2, the ball was losing its early vim, Jack Leach had just replaced Tom Abell at the River End, Peter Handscomb had steered him neatly past James Hildreth at slip for four and another insertion anecdote was being lowered into the well of disappointed hopes.
After the victory at Leicestershire, where most of the Somerset batsmen found some runs, and before the toss, a bright sunny morning over the Blackdowns beyond my laptop screen and over the Quantocks beyond the River and Lord Ian Botham Stands, had promised to bring hope of more. In the event it was Middlesex who prospered with the bat the day long, albeit with some assistance from some Somerset bowling which did not reach its normal heights and some strangely slippery-fingered attempts at catching.
With Somerset having brought in Lewis Goldsworthy’s slow left arm for Marchant de Lange’s pace they needed their three front line pace bowlers to make early incursions into the Middlesex batting. Overton soon found the edge of Robson’s bat, but the ball flew wide of fourth slip and ran down to the covers store for four. Robson was less fortunate against Gregory when he edged behind and Davies took an excellent full-length diving catch almost in front of Hildreth at first slip. In the next over it was the left-handed Holden who edged Overton wide of fourth slip, this time with the ball running down to the benchless Gimblett’s Hill, the regular haunt of groups of familiar faces in other times. The boundary took Middlesex to 27 for 1, neither one thing nor the other in terms of which way the match might sway, but it was perhaps the apogee of Somerset’s day.
From there, as the morning unfolded, the Somerset bowling seemed oddly lacking in its usual fizz and verve. There was movement, particularly off the seam, the edge of the bat was not infrequently beaten, and thick edges brought a steady trickle of runs past the slips. Unlucky for the bowlers perhaps, but in truth the usual sharpness and energy which exemplifies Somerset’s bowling and fielding, and which pressurises batsmen into error, seemed lacking. Errors of a different type, usually almost unheard-of, crept in. The left-handed Holden was a repeated beneficiary. He was caught when the ball flew straight to third slip, but Gregory had bowled his third no ball of the fledgling morning. Then, again off Gregory, Overton sank to his knees in disappointment at second slip as the ball no-one would have expected him to miss ran down to the Trescothick Pavilion boundary for four. When Holden attempted to hook Overton, the edge brushed enough of Davies’ glove as it reached skyward for only one run to result. Whether, on another day, Davies might have reached that extra inch or so is beyond knowing, but it jarred the Somerset mind, for it fitted the pattern of a dispiriting morning for the Somerset screen-watching supporter.
At the other end, Nick Gubbins was adding to the feeling by making more assured progress for Middlesex. An early off drive for three off Overton and a cut backward of square for two off Gregory set the tone for an innings which gave Middlesex a growing advantage. There were thick edges and playing and missing too, and a big appeal for caught behind off Davey, but such things to an extent come with the rations on mornings providing some help to bowlers. As Middlesex moved past 50, and Gubbins steered Gregory to the Somerset Stand near the Garner Gates for four, Abell turned to himself as fourth seamer. As lunch approached Overton was back and that top edge from Holden brushed Davies’ gloves as Somerset faces, and I suspect, Middlesex ones, winced. In Overton’s next over he twice bounced Holden and Holden twice pulled him neatly to the Somerset Stand as the morning seemed conclusively to have gone to Middlesex.
In Overton’s next, Holden added to the pressure on Somerset as he drove for four through the off side. Middlesex were 82 for 1 with one ball to be bowled as one o’ clock approached. Holden held Overton up while he inspected the pitch and while he did so the hour chimed. For the one ball still to be bowled, Overton produced an absolute snorter. It pitched full, moved away off the seam, defeated Holden’s defensive pus and Davies took one of the more straightforward of catches behind the stumps. Somerset’s fingertips gripped the match a little more tightly, Somerset supporters breathed a little more easily and Middlesex ones must have winced again.
Middlesex returned from lunch with Peter Handscomb, their Australian captain, in place of Holden. He immediately played with assurance, cutting Davey square to the Somerset Stand. Gubbins meanwhile restarted with a neatly executed cut off Abell through backward point to Legends Square. A cut off Davey, square to the Caddick Stand boundary, brought four more. When Leach replaced Abell, Handscomb cut him through backward point to the Ondaatje Stand. In Leach’s next over Handscomb, who looked intent on building the foundations for a long stay, drove him through midwicket to the Somerset Stand.
When Handscomb pushed Leach straight of mid on for a single, Roelof van der Merwe, fielding at mid on as substitute for Davey, set off like a greyhound out of the traps, intercepted the ball with his left hand and flicked it into the stumps with Handscomb just short of his ground. The relief of the Somerset fielders was palpable as they rushed to celebrate almost as fast as van der Merwe had leapt after that ball. 129 for 3 gave Somerset an opening that had looked to be closing when Gubbins and Handscomb were making progress. It was not exactly edge of seat time, but it was time to lean a little closer to the screen.
With Leach making no impact on the early season pitch and Davey off the field, Somerset turned to Tom Lammonby’s left arm medium pace. The absence of a fourth front-line seamer immediately made itself felt. Whilst Overton kept the batsmen in check from the Trescothick Pavilion End, Lammonby suffered at the River End. In his second over, Gubbins, who had just moved past 50, pulled him to the Caddick Pavilion dugouts and cut him square to the Somerset Stand, both for four. His next over cost seven runs with Gubbins steering him neatly past the two slips to the Trescothick Pavilion boundary and Middlesex passed 150 in the 49th over. Three runs an over is not normally a rate of scoring in this day and age fast enough to cause comment, and Overton, Davey and Abell gave nothing away, but on a helpful pitch at 150 for 3 the Somerset heart knew Middlesex had established a clear advantage.
There seemed no respite for Somerset as Gregory immediately came under pressure when he replaced Overton. Twice in an over Gubbins clipped him of his legs square to the Somerset Stand for four. In his next over Gubbins cut him square to the Caddick Pavilion. But off the last ball he attempted to steer Gregory past third slip for four and edged him to Overton at second. In a day of Somerset slip fielding nightmares, Overton began to give Somerset supporters another as he parried the ball upwards but saved them further pain when he caught it on the way down. Gubbins had made 75 in three hours and Middlesex were 170 for 4. After the departure of Handscomb, and doggedly supported by White, Gubbins had begun to take the game away from Somerset. Middlesex still had the ascendancy, but once again Somerset had forced a toehold.
From there, as the afternoon wore on, that toehold was loosened as White and Simpson began to build another partnership. Abell had some success in holding the batsmen in check, but no wicket came his way. Gregory had already taken two wickets but was unable to greatly stem the flow of runs, and Lammonby was exposed in the absence of Davey. Ten came from his last over before tea with Simpson clipping him off his legs and steering him past slip for two fours and pushing him into the onside for two. At tea Middlesex were 208 for 4. Given that the bowlers were still finding some movement there was little doubt in the Somerset mind that they were on the threshold of building a daunting, if not commanding total.
After tea, Simpson immediately gave notice of Middlesex’s intent when he drove Leach over long on to the Colin Atkinson Pavilion for six. Off the first ball of the next over White cut Overton square to the Somerset Stand for four. The second ball he edged for four through the point where a third slip’s hands might have been waiting had there still been a third slip. It did not exactly sum up Somerset’s day, for Middlesex had held their own against the tighter bowling and made good headway against the rest, but it did recall in the Somerset mind the missed catches that had helped Middlesex along.
Overton and Abell came together and briefly stemmed the flow of runs, Overton forcing an edge from Simpson, only for Hildreth to drop the sort of catch at slip that he would normally make appear the easiest thing in the world. “What is wrong with our slips today” asked the bemused text. Then Lammonby, having been driven through the covers to the Somerset Stand for four by Simpson, moved a ball away off the seam. Simpson edged to a demonstrably relieved Hildreth, now Lammonby’s only slip, who made no mistake this time. Simpson 33. Middlesex were 239 for 5 with White on 45, accumulated while Gubbins and Simpson had kept Middlesex moving forward at the other end.
Now Andersson took up where Gubbins and Simpson had left off. He scored 38 in three quarters of an hour at more than a run a ball in a partnership of 55 with the ever-present White. Lammonby and Abell were punished to the extent of 41 runs in the seven overs from the fall of Simpson to the taking of the second new ball, Davey being unable to bowl after a lengthy absence from the field for an x-ray. Andersson began by steering Lammonby past the two slips to the covers store for four and then drove him through the covers for four more. Abell was driven through the covers and then in his next over, driven again through the covers and steered, if a little perilously, past second slip, all for four. When the new ball arrived, it was with relief rather than anticipation for Somerset supporters, for Middlesex had reached 280 for 5 and, if the pitch continued to offer help to the bowlers, Somerset’s grip on the game was becoming tenuous indeed.
And indeed, Overton did bring relief, bowling five determined overs for four runs and the wicket of Andersson who was lbw to a perfectly directed quick ball which Overton persuaded to cut in off the pitch. It was though both a relief and a warning to the watching Somerset support, and perhaps brought both disappointment and hope to Middlesex ones. Middlesex were 294 for 5. From there they managed to squeeze a further 14 runs from the final 11 overs, White ending the day on 70, as the returning Davey and Abell maintained order in the closing overs for Somerset. If Somerset are to retain an interest in this match and look W.G. in the eye, they will need to continue to exert control in the morning, use it to take wickets and then bat long and hard in conditions which may be far from conducive to their needs.
Close. Middlesex 308 for 6.
For more on this game and others please go to Famer's site www.farmerwhite.co.uk
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Stumbleupon'Sex without an audience. The first class return
Discussion started by Grockles.com , 01/05/2021 15:54
Grockles.com
01/05/2021 15:54
01/05/2021 15:54
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:05:16:12:47 by Grockle.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:05:16:12:47 by Grockle.
The double entendres just keep on coming!
We welcome back Middlesex to an empty County Ground for our fourth Championship game this Thursday. The batsmen have not yet solved their first innings issues but we have to hope that Tom Lammonby's score in the second at Lecester was the start of better things.
If that is moving in the right direction then all we've got to sort out is who opens with him. A 15 man squad has been named and you can probably perm any 6 from 10 of those!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:28:22:10:28 by Grockle.
We welcome back Middlesex to an empty County Ground for our fourth Championship game this Thursday. The batsmen have not yet solved their first innings issues but we have to hope that Tom Lammonby's score in the second at Lecester was the start of better things.
If that is moving in the right direction then all we've got to sort out is who opens with him. A 15 man squad has been named and you can probably perm any 6 from 10 of those!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:28:22:10:28 by Grockle.
We must certainly hope so although, even then, that would sort only one of two opening spots.
I wonder if we’ll see any pace bowling rotation?
With the injury records of guys like MDL and LG we could use some BUT we’re painfully short on experienced options - only an out of form Brooks.
That being the case, I’d be tempted to alter the balance of the side, going to 3 quicks, plus the two Toms and Leachy. Then we could introduce an extra batsman, be that Byrom or Goldsworthy or even Green (who would then be a third part of our fourth seamer, with the two Toms).
We surely have to find a way to get the odd rest for one or two of our pacemen and I think the above remedy would be less detrimental to our chances Vs Middx than picking Brooks would be.
I wonder if we’ll see any pace bowling rotation?
With the injury records of guys like MDL and LG we could use some BUT we’re painfully short on experienced options - only an out of form Brooks.
That being the case, I’d be tempted to alter the balance of the side, going to 3 quicks, plus the two Toms and Leachy. Then we could introduce an extra batsman, be that Byrom or Goldsworthy or even Green (who would then be a third part of our fourth seamer, with the two Toms).
We surely have to find a way to get the odd rest for one or two of our pacemen and I think the above remedy would be less detrimental to our chances Vs Middx than picking Brooks would be.
Agree Grockle. Would definitely swap MDL for Goldsworthy tomorrow, and also open with Tom Abell,as he has realistically done the job all year so far.
Tom Abell
Tom Lammonsby
George Bartlett
James Hildreth
Tom Banton
Steve Davis
Lewis Goldsworthy
Lewis Gregory
Craig Overton
Josh Davey
Jack Leach
Tom Abell
Tom Lammonsby
George Bartlett
James Hildreth
Tom Banton
Steve Davis
Lewis Goldsworthy
Lewis Gregory
Craig Overton
Josh Davey
Jack Leach
For none UK residence, we have had our first rain today for weeks, let hope this clears before tomorrow.
Banton can keep and Davies can open if you like.
Also rest a bowler and bring in Goldsworthy or use Lammonby and Abell a bit more? Brooks may be ready though personally I'd be suprised
Also rest a bowler and bring in Goldsworthy or use Lammonby and Abell a bit more? Brooks may be ready though personally I'd be suprised
I can imagine what Fiery Fred or Alec Bedser would say about this rotating business. Doesn't mean I agree with what they would say.
Middlesex, who beat Surrey in two-and-a-half days last week to record their first win of the season, are following a rotation policy at Taunton tomorrow.
They rest leading wicket-taker Toby Roland-Jones and fellow seamer Ethan Bamber, bringing in Tom Halm and Blake Cullen in their place. They also include two spinners - Thilan Wallallawita and Luke Holman - in their squad of 13.
They rest leading wicket-taker Toby Roland-Jones and fellow seamer Ethan Bamber, bringing in Tom Halm and Blake Cullen in their place. They also include two spinners - Thilan Wallallawita and Luke Holman - in their squad of 13.
Bamber was sharp against us and TRJ has been steady all season, so...good news? Especially for Lammonby who might find some form.
Anthony Gibson was on a podcast yesterday, advocating bringing in Jack B. for MDL, on grounds of rotation & also that JB deserves his chance.
I can see the logic, but I'm not too sure that Jack is back to the level needed after his winter surgery.
As for the batting, well, let's hope the 2nd Innings v. Leics. was the start of better things.
Fingers firmly crossed.
Grizzers
I can see the logic, but I'm not too sure that Jack is back to the level needed after his winter surgery.
As for the batting, well, let's hope the 2nd Innings v. Leics. was the start of better things.
Fingers firmly crossed.
Grizzers
I do find it difficult not to think of the Middlesex pace bowler as Gascoigne Bamber.
Anthony was going on about Brooks during the Leics game but I'm not sure he saw how off the boil he was in the friendlies. He was as rusty as hell while MdL was coming into form.
All for the 'favourites' but we should learn from the games we favoured Marcus in the last couple of seasons when he wasn't there Jack is welcome back IF he is performing. If he isn't he is pretty easy Middlesex runs.
All for the 'favourites' but we should learn from the games we favoured Marcus in the last couple of seasons when he wasn't there Jack is welcome back IF he is performing. If he isn't he is pretty easy Middlesex runs.
Yeah, I think no TRJ has to count as great news and no Bamber probably good news too.
Unusual decision by Somerset at Taunton.Play 2 spinners, win the toss and bowl. Either a green tinge first up, or they expect the pitch to get better as the game goes on?
No MdL and 2 Lewis Gs as Goldsworthy gets Championship debut.
AG will panic about pitch inspectors as we gamble on taking spin wickets on Day 1!!!
AG will panic about pitch inspectors as we gamble on taking spin wickets on Day 1!!!
Is it just me or does anybody else get annoyed by the online stream that when they show the online scorecard it never shows how many wickets are down? Surely not a difficult job to change the graphic?
Costly over - catch off a no ball and Davey injured fielding?
Edit - Davey seems OK, still bowling....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:12:14:23 by Rod1883.
Edit - Davey seems OK, still bowling....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:12:14:23 by Rod1883.
Holden’s 35 might be the worst 35 I’ve ever seen... but at the rate he’s going, he’ll fluke a big score if we’re not careful!
Thank heavens! Snorter from Cove rips him out and no fourth life for him!
Tom Abell bowled very well.
Tom Abell bowled very well.
Not good at all. Mr Hurry May have to get his finger out and find a second overseas bowler as we’ve left ourselves woefully short of bodies with any experience with a number of departures in recent years.
I don’t think Brooks is ready and there’s nothing in his track record to suggest he’ll stay fit even if he is ready. England will probably want Cove to rest soon.
Guys like Leonard and Baker would have ECB bowling volume restrictions on them, were they to be selected.
I don’t think Brooks is ready and there’s nothing in his track record to suggest he’ll stay fit even if he is ready. England will probably want Cove to rest soon.
Guys like Leonard and Baker would have ECB bowling volume restrictions on them, were they to be selected.
Davey back on, thankfully, so x ray presumably negative.
We’ve been way below our best with the ball and in the field today. Too many four balls, and poor catching.
Leachy still looks nowhere near peak form either.
All quite underwhelming.
We’ve been way below our best with the ball and in the field today. Too many four balls, and poor catching.
Leachy still looks nowhere near peak form either.
All quite underwhelming.
Our Jack did ok in India and it is still April, there is a nip in the air and in years gone by we might not even have played a specialist spinner this early in the season. Talk of England ruining him is a bit premature!
Abject slip fielding today.Doesn’t seem any enthusiasm out there at the moment
I’m not convinced England have 100% confidence in Jack (he doesn’t have a central contract after all) and he may be suffering from a slight lack of self confidence possibly
THIS is why Abell & Lammers should NOT be treated as proper bowling options.
30 overs 1 for 115.
This on day 1 where we chose to bowl first on a green seamer.
I have nothing against Abell or Lammers but they are our 1 and 3 BATSMEN.
They are useful part time bowlers who should not be bowling 30+ overs on a day 1 bowler freindly pitch.
If you only pick 3 seamers you run the risk of 1 getting injured & being woefully short of serious options.
We cant afford to let Craig & Lewis rack up 25 overs plus a day.
Josh appeared injured or not fit at Leics given big spells of not bowling.
Not a lot makes sense today.
If Brooks isnt a realistic option to the management at present we have a tough few weeks ahead with no flexibility & presumably no intention or ability to sign an overseas.....
30 overs 1 for 115.
This on day 1 where we chose to bowl first on a green seamer.
I have nothing against Abell or Lammers but they are our 1 and 3 BATSMEN.
They are useful part time bowlers who should not be bowling 30+ overs on a day 1 bowler freindly pitch.
If you only pick 3 seamers you run the risk of 1 getting injured & being woefully short of serious options.
We cant afford to let Craig & Lewis rack up 25 overs plus a day.
Josh appeared injured or not fit at Leics given big spells of not bowling.
Not a lot makes sense today.
If Brooks isnt a realistic option to the management at present we have a tough few weeks ahead with no flexibility & presumably no intention or ability to sign an overseas.....
If 'they' don't fancy Jack later in the year that's fine by me. We'll pick him and he'll take wickets.
Anyhony saying we are not having much luck. What's the betting EVERYTHING goes to hand when we bat. Ho zhum...
Poor all over the place today. Overton's only managed one. No MdL. I know, I know, drops, but still...
Hopefully Goldsworthy slash and dashes his way to a big debut score and Lammonby keeps his form or this one will get away.
Hopefully Goldsworthy slash and dashes his way to a big debut score and Lammonby keeps his form or this one will get away.
Brooks is not a good option, WSM.
The only seconds game in which he did anything was on a track Vs Warks that was loaded in favour of the ball and on which the scores were something like Som 120 Vs Warks 60 in the first innings. Otherwise? Repeatedly wicketless even at second team level. Plus, it’s hard to have any faith in him staying fit anyway.
If we wanted to rest one of our main four bowlers, there was always a significant chance that we’d do it by adding an extra batsman simply because of a lack of alternatives in the pace bowling ranks.
As you know, WSM, we have had a number of bowling departures in recent years and have brought relatively little in.
If we’re not flat broke, Mr Hurry May have to think about finding a second overseas paceman to take a bit of the pressure off, especially as and when England start resting Coverton.
As for Leachy?
I think the issue is he’s bowling too quickly .. something he picked up in response to getting clobbered by Pant. Firing it in quickly is fine on bunsens but I think he needs to go back to a more flighty style on the largely unresponsive early season pitches in order to keep batsmen guessing.
The only seconds game in which he did anything was on a track Vs Warks that was loaded in favour of the ball and on which the scores were something like Som 120 Vs Warks 60 in the first innings. Otherwise? Repeatedly wicketless even at second team level. Plus, it’s hard to have any faith in him staying fit anyway.
If we wanted to rest one of our main four bowlers, there was always a significant chance that we’d do it by adding an extra batsman simply because of a lack of alternatives in the pace bowling ranks.
As you know, WSM, we have had a number of bowling departures in recent years and have brought relatively little in.
If we’re not flat broke, Mr Hurry May have to think about finding a second overseas paceman to take a bit of the pressure off, especially as and when England start resting Coverton.
As for Leachy?
I think the issue is he’s bowling too quickly .. something he picked up in response to getting clobbered by Pant. Firing it in quickly is fine on bunsens but I think he needs to go back to a more flighty style on the largely unresponsive early season pitches in order to keep batsmen guessing.
I am very aware of the bowling stocks thanks.
It was clear we were short over the winter.
If its clear to me it must be clear to those upstairs.
They see Brooks Kasey Ned Sonny everyday (we dont), they clearly deemed they were sufficient to cover the main 4 seamers.
The only other logic is we have money at all, as there are without question overseas bowlers available. It's not even about signing a superstar, just a "competent" body would help boost the stocks and allow rotation.
None of this position is a surprise, it was a position we knew since Xmas and have decided did not need addressing.
It was clear we were short over the winter.
If its clear to me it must be clear to those upstairs.
They see Brooks Kasey Ned Sonny everyday (we dont), they clearly deemed they were sufficient to cover the main 4 seamers.
The only other logic is we have money at all, as there are without question overseas bowlers available. It's not even about signing a superstar, just a "competent" body would help boost the stocks and allow rotation.
None of this position is a surprise, it was a position we knew since Xmas and have decided did not need addressing.
We’re going to end up giving away 330-350 in conditions where par should probably have been no more than 250.
Unless the track flattens considerably then one imagines it will be a big challenge for our batsmen to respond to a total 80-100 over par.
Still, the pattern of our past 3-4 seasons has been of our bowlers and catchers repeatedly bailing out some inept batting.
This time, the boot is going to have to be on the other foot... a batting line-up with Lewis Gregory at number 9 really ought to have enough to put up at least a respectable total, one would hope.
Get us close enough on first innings and then hope for an exceptional second innings bowling effort, as at Lord’s... that’s got to be the plan/hope from here, surely?
(Or at least the realistic one... I mean, sure, we could all hope to bat just once and make 650 but..)
Unless the track flattens considerably then one imagines it will be a big challenge for our batsmen to respond to a total 80-100 over par.
Still, the pattern of our past 3-4 seasons has been of our bowlers and catchers repeatedly bailing out some inept batting.
This time, the boot is going to have to be on the other foot... a batting line-up with Lewis Gregory at number 9 really ought to have enough to put up at least a respectable total, one would hope.
Get us close enough on first innings and then hope for an exceptional second innings bowling effort, as at Lord’s... that’s got to be the plan/hope from here, surely?
(Or at least the realistic one... I mean, sure, we could all hope to bat just once and make 650 but..)
Is Kasey fit now? He was injured.
Baker and Leonard can’t play totally full roles by ECB rules - both spell lengths and total overs in a day are limited to manage the risk of stress fractures.
I do fear we may be broke because, given that the club knew that Coverton was under England control, Brooks had bust his Achilles and Baker and Leonard would be under restrictions, it’s hard to see how it would be a rational decision to conclude that we had all our bowling bases covered.
Baker and Leonard can’t play totally full roles by ECB rules - both spell lengths and total overs in a day are limited to manage the risk of stress fractures.
I do fear we may be broke because, given that the club knew that Coverton was under England control, Brooks had bust his Achilles and Baker and Leonard would be under restrictions, it’s hard to see how it would be a rational decision to conclude that we had all our bowling bases covered.
Quote:hantssabre
I’m not convinced England have 100% confidence in Jack (he doesn’t have a central contract after all) and he may be suffering from a slight lack of self confidence possibly
That’s a fair point although I hope wrong obviously. It doesn’t always follow that people come back from a good tour full of confidence. Devon Malcolm was absolutely magnificent as agreed by Wisden in Australia in 1990 to 91 although his figures didn’t do him justice but he came back exhausted from being stock( yes really) and shock bowler in an awfully hot summer and was really poor in the 91 season .
Leachy just doesn’t look quite right. He doesn’t look that confident. It may be that he simply needs a very long bowl to find a groove.
Need to sort Josh. If he has a dodgy foot then we have a problem because he is the bowler that keeps people honest.
Not sure what’s going on with him. X Ray must have been negative and they presumably wouldn’t have sent him back out there if any other kind of scan e.g MRI, was deemed necessary.
Perhaps just badly bruised?
But it’s worrying. Little used in second innings Vs Leics either.
But they must have thought him 100% coming into this game, otherwise they’d never have gone with him as one of just three main seamers.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:18:04:28 by AGod.
Perhaps just badly bruised?
But it’s worrying. Little used in second innings Vs Leics either.
But they must have thought him 100% coming into this game, otherwise they’d never have gone with him as one of just three main seamers.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:18:04:28 by AGod.
One has to say it isn't the bowlers as much as the fielders today. The inference is that there are all kinds of international bowlers available.... who?
Asians are in IPL... are there Pakistanis available? Who? Forget Sri Lankans in April... not a lot there either.
Aussies and Kiwis? Are they travelling anywhere except the sub continent. Again, if so... who?
It's alright saying 'buy someone in' but there is also the implied assumption that no one at the county has bothered to try.
Once you identify one 3 things need to exist. 1 The Money 2 the Paperwork 3 The mutual desire.
Asians are in IPL... are there Pakistanis available? Who? Forget Sri Lankans in April... not a lot there either.
Aussies and Kiwis? Are they travelling anywhere except the sub continent. Again, if so... who?
It's alright saying 'buy someone in' but there is also the implied assumption that no one at the county has bothered to try.
Once you identify one 3 things need to exist. 1 The Money 2 the Paperwork 3 The mutual desire.
The obvious answer is that other counties are (and have been) finding people.
For example, up at Gloucs they’ve found some Aussie called Worrall. Last time I looked at the scorecard, he was the only bowler to have enjoyed any success at all for them Vs Leics.
Windies quicks are available - one is at Surrey, one is at Worcs.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:18:22:11 by AGod.
For example, up at Gloucs they’ve found some Aussie called Worrall. Last time I looked at the scorecard, he was the only bowler to have enjoyed any success at all for them Vs Leics.
Windies quicks are available - one is at Surrey, one is at Worcs.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:18:22:11 by AGod.
In the main, though, I think most counties have their overseas turning up after the crappy IPL is done with.
Kemar Roach
Alzari Joseph
Peter Siddle
Miguel Cummins
Sean Abbott
Dan Worral
Wayne Parnell
Billy Stanlake
Kyle Abbott
M Abass
Batters being
M Harris
Labuschagne
Brathwaite
Handscomb
Amla
That was very quickly just off the top of my head......
So yes if we had looked since Xmas its inconceivable we couldnt have found one when every other county had managed to.
We must be a bigger attraction than Worcs Derbys Leics Glam Glos surely IF we have the funds.....
If as Jason has said on interview our club policy is to give chances to our own rather than go overseas then it is what it is.
But as a coach and DOC its a very brave policy as most people judge them on live results not a "nicey homegrown" policy.
A good overseas also brings so much more to a club than purely occupying a slot in the 11.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:18:25:14 by wsm fan.
Alzari Joseph
Peter Siddle
Miguel Cummins
Sean Abbott
Dan Worral
Wayne Parnell
Billy Stanlake
Kyle Abbott
M Abass
Batters being
M Harris
Labuschagne
Brathwaite
Handscomb
Amla
That was very quickly just off the top of my head......
So yes if we had looked since Xmas its inconceivable we couldnt have found one when every other county had managed to.
We must be a bigger attraction than Worcs Derbys Leics Glam Glos surely IF we have the funds.....
If as Jason has said on interview our club policy is to give chances to our own rather than go overseas then it is what it is.
But as a coach and DOC its a very brave policy as most people judge them on live results not a "nicey homegrown" policy.
A good overseas also brings so much more to a club than purely occupying a slot in the 11.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:18:25:14 by wsm fan.
Agree, WSM.
Andy Hurry had some fairly lame excuse about players not much fancying quarantine arrangements, but that doesn’t seem to have stopped other outfits.
Andy Hurry had some fairly lame excuse about players not much fancying quarantine arrangements, but that doesn’t seem to have stopped other outfits.
Can't quite put my finger on why we haven't quite 'clicked' yet this season.
We're doing ok, but we have a way to go to reach the 'virtually unbeatable' standard that we attained last year.
Don't really 'get' the decision to play with only three seamers tbh, especially given that Josh seems a little below par. I'm quite happy to see Lewis Goldsworthy given his chance though, so in the absence of dropping someone in the top six, I guess this was the only option.
May the 'X' factor (whatever it is) return soon.
Grizzers
We're doing ok, but we have a way to go to reach the 'virtually unbeatable' standard that we attained last year.
Don't really 'get' the decision to play with only three seamers tbh, especially given that Josh seems a little below par. I'm quite happy to see Lewis Goldsworthy given his chance though, so in the absence of dropping someone in the top six, I guess this was the only option.
May the 'X' factor (whatever it is) return soon.
Grizzers
Well done for listing those mostly already there, many with links to the county they are with but I ask again
From that list and others WHO is realistically available
I'm sure they all 'were' and I'm sure many counties other than the one they are now with looked but what about NOW?
Taking into account that we had at least one bowler already locked in and the Babar thing still hasn't been explained, who on your 'off the top of your head' list is/ has been available?
This is the second usual tack. First we have a demand for someone to be brought in and when asked WHO we get a list of all those other counties have found. It still does not produce names to discuss.
Sometimes people are lucky and find a diamond no-one else has come up with or they get an old guy who does them a solid service but other than 1. An expensive name who will be doing white ball service in Asia 2. An older professional with a doubtful injury record (MdL) 3. Loads of people playing for someone else
WHO is available that would fill our need, is looking for winter/international work and doesn't take half a season of paperwork to sort out?
From that list and others WHO is realistically available
I'm sure they all 'were' and I'm sure many counties other than the one they are now with looked but what about NOW?
Taking into account that we had at least one bowler already locked in and the Babar thing still hasn't been explained, who on your 'off the top of your head' list is/ has been available?
This is the second usual tack. First we have a demand for someone to be brought in and when asked WHO we get a list of all those other counties have found. It still does not produce names to discuss.
Sometimes people are lucky and find a diamond no-one else has come up with or they get an old guy who does them a solid service but other than 1. An expensive name who will be doing white ball service in Asia 2. An older professional with a doubtful injury record (MdL) 3. Loads of people playing for someone else
WHO is available that would fill our need, is looking for winter/international work and doesn't take half a season of paperwork to sort out?
Are you serious?
How on earth should i know who is available.
I am not a county cricket DOC with access to the world of agents and contacts that i trust Mr Hurry and his county equivalents all have.
What i can do is list a mass of those that WERE available and went to another club. That proves signing players is and was possible and we just havent for whatever reason.
It was and is possible very clearly.
I just dont get your continued Babar stance.
We never signed him for 2021 nor suggested we had or were going to.
A lazy admin error means somebody hadnt taken his mugshot off our website player section.
We was never signed for this season nor did anyone ever suggest or think he had been.
And in addition the PSL is now in June and a white ball tour to England after.
So we can very safely assume he is not coming i think.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:20:44:00 by wsm fan.
How on earth should i know who is available.
I am not a county cricket DOC with access to the world of agents and contacts that i trust Mr Hurry and his county equivalents all have.
What i can do is list a mass of those that WERE available and went to another club. That proves signing players is and was possible and we just havent for whatever reason.
It was and is possible very clearly.
I just dont get your continued Babar stance.
We never signed him for 2021 nor suggested we had or were going to.
A lazy admin error means somebody hadnt taken his mugshot off our website player section.
We was never signed for this season nor did anyone ever suggest or think he had been.
And in addition the PSL is now in June and a white ball tour to England after.
So we can very safely assume he is not coming i think.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:29:20:44:00 by wsm fan.
And he’s in Zimbabwe now and SA before that so he couldn’t even come until mid May at best . He was never on cards I’m afraid
The website blurb about Babar is about 2020. 2021 is not even mentioned.
There’s no indication they ever thought he was coming this season.
There’s no indication they ever thought he was coming this season.
I have never said we signed him. I simply pointed out for something over 6 months that he had not been removed from our squad page while others had been taken off and added. Pretty selective 'adimn error' but that is highly possible
It simply seemed strange that we'd left it there in a time of confused timelines, competitions and availability. I see no difference between pointing that out and claims that we should have signed someone else we haven't signed.
You claim we should have signed 'someone'. I understand you aren't a DoC but you seem to selectively seem to know what a DoC should or should not do. You know they should have signed someone but do not know if anyone relevant was available.
I simply suggested that at some time between now and the winter a suggestion that Babar might have been available might have been an option and may have influenced SCCCs plans.
It is no less unrealistic and at least identifies a name.
I've got no problems with bringing in internationals and it might be money based but the seeming assumption we simply haven't bothered because of young players being available is simplistic seeing as two of those bowlers are restricted by age.
It's more likely we tried but were not succesful maybe because we were late, our offer was too low or we simply didn't have the connections
Please continue with your seeming obsession with my seeming obsession with signing Babar. I actually know it now is not going to happen ( have they removed his picture yet?)
However moaning and criticising the management for not signing well respected international bowlers while you admit you have no idea if such an individual is available seems as pointless.
Ask the question by all mean but don't infer it can only be a managerial fault if you can't back that up with some info you seem to be lacking.
It's a problem. That doesn't immediately mean it is the fault of inept management unless you know more facts you haven't mentioned yet.
It may be. It may not be. However based on data provided so far it is no more than a bit of speculation pushed probably by frustration that the international bowler (un-named so far) of our dreams hasn't arrived hot foot by plane so bolster our resources. He may not get here and we may have to do the best we can with what is available and accept that as reality.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:30:00:43:01 by Grockle.
It simply seemed strange that we'd left it there in a time of confused timelines, competitions and availability. I see no difference between pointing that out and claims that we should have signed someone else we haven't signed.
You claim we should have signed 'someone'. I understand you aren't a DoC but you seem to selectively seem to know what a DoC should or should not do. You know they should have signed someone but do not know if anyone relevant was available.
I simply suggested that at some time between now and the winter a suggestion that Babar might have been available might have been an option and may have influenced SCCCs plans.
It is no less unrealistic and at least identifies a name.
I've got no problems with bringing in internationals and it might be money based but the seeming assumption we simply haven't bothered because of young players being available is simplistic seeing as two of those bowlers are restricted by age.
It's more likely we tried but were not succesful maybe because we were late, our offer was too low or we simply didn't have the connections
Please continue with your seeming obsession with my seeming obsession with signing Babar. I actually know it now is not going to happen ( have they removed his picture yet?)
However moaning and criticising the management for not signing well respected international bowlers while you admit you have no idea if such an individual is available seems as pointless.
Ask the question by all mean but don't infer it can only be a managerial fault if you can't back that up with some info you seem to be lacking.
It's a problem. That doesn't immediately mean it is the fault of inept management unless you know more facts you haven't mentioned yet.
It may be. It may not be. However based on data provided so far it is no more than a bit of speculation pushed probably by frustration that the international bowler (un-named so far) of our dreams hasn't arrived hot foot by plane so bolster our resources. He may not get here and we may have to do the best we can with what is available and accept that as reality.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:30:00:43:01 by Grockle.
Not the greatest website SCCC, e.g. click Players & Staff then SELECT STAFF -> SCHOLARSHIP.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:30:00:53:56 by Scrumper.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:30:00:53:56 by Scrumper.
I see Somerset have booked an `Evening with Tina Turner` concert for the County Ground on August 6. Perhaps they should have listened to her 1989 hit - `Bold and Reckless` - before deciding to field yesterday.
So you think you`ve got a hold on me. Or is that your fantasy?
So you think you`ve got a hold on me. Or is that your fantasy?
Lammonby and Abell bowling more than 30 overs on Day 1 of a game where we put them in suggests bowling issues or not a lot of faith in the batting line-up whatever theories people have for solving either
On reflection - whilst I do believe that either a) we’re skint or, if not b) we have been complacent in assuming we only needed one overseas player, I am coming to the view that I don’t think we have serious prospects of winning the red ball comp this year (through three and a bit games we just don’t look a side that is consistently on it?) and, that being the case, maybe we should just take advantage of no relegation this year, and use the season to help develop Aldridge, Baker and Leonard?
Perhaps, one of those 3 should be part of a 4 main seamer attack in most/all of the remaining games, providing at least a measure of rotation?
Perhaps, one of those 3 should be part of a 4 main seamer attack in most/all of the remaining games, providing at least a measure of rotation?
When I looked at the weather forecast on Wednesday, it seemed that Thursday would likely be dry and sunny, rain would arrive on Friday and, most probably, both Saturday and Sunday would be a wash out: hence, a rain-affected draw seemed (seems) the most likely result.
Given that batting would, surely, have been easier on the first (dry and sunny) day, a win was (is) unlikely and we need bonus points, is anybody able to explain why we chose to bowl first at Taunton, a venue where the traditional thinking on winning the toss was always to look at the pitch and sky, think about it and then choose to bat?
Given that batting would, surely, have been easier on the first (dry and sunny) day, a win was (is) unlikely and we need bonus points, is anybody able to explain why we chose to bowl first at Taunton, a venue where the traditional thinking on winning the toss was always to look at the pitch and sky, think about it and then choose to bat?
Thinking at Taunton has long been you field first because, if there’s going to be any help for the bowlers, it will be first up. The only exception to that within the past 12-14 years or so were the 3 or so years where we had the turning tracks.
Aside from that, one imagines that we wouldn’t have fancied our batsmen Vs Murtagh with early life in the track.
Aside from that, one imagines that we wouldn’t have fancied our batsmen Vs Murtagh with early life in the track.
Re. fielding first, I understand the logic where a match is expected to last the full four days, but my thoughts were the match would end in a draw due to the weather so best to try and get the batting bonus points when the pitch and outfield were dry.
As it now happens, we might get some batting points thanks to Josh Davey
As it now happens, we might get some batting points thanks to Josh Davey
I fear 357 is well above par, given the pitch and conditions. Hope I‘m wrong.
I fear that you are entirely correct.
I think 250 was about par for yesterday.
And then, today, overhead batting conditions are worse.
I’m afraid our catching in the first half of both matches Vs Middx has been nowhere near our usual standard.
I think 250 was about par for yesterday.
And then, today, overhead batting conditions are worse.
I’m afraid our catching in the first half of both matches Vs Middx has been nowhere near our usual standard.
They were talking yesterday about the score being about par plus 50 given the runs lost because of the poor fielding. They ended up 50 above that though.
I suppose we are still getting our heads around the pitches that are being produced by the new team. they shouldn't be significantly difference but there may be marginal changes.
I suppose we are still getting our heads around the pitches that are being produced by the new team. they shouldn't be significantly difference but there may be marginal changes.
This particular track is a good cricket wicket, IMO.
Some decent pace and bounce, which is what they have been aiming for.
But it’s hard to see anything other than a rain-ruined draw, at best, for us here.
If the weather allows sufficient time, then the chances are that - having lost zero home games since 2017 prior to the Gloucs’ game - then we’ll suffer a second straight home defeat. And, very possibly, a second straight heavy home defeat.
There’ll be no Lord’s red ball final this year.
Some decent pace and bounce, which is what they have been aiming for.
But it’s hard to see anything other than a rain-ruined draw, at best, for us here.
If the weather allows sufficient time, then the chances are that - having lost zero home games since 2017 prior to the Gloucs’ game - then we’ll suffer a second straight home defeat. And, very possibly, a second straight heavy home defeat.
There’ll be no Lord’s red ball final this year.
James Hildreth is now the highest run scorer still playing first class cricket. 4th highest Somersetian.
Quote:Phrench Phil
When I looked at the weather forecast on Wednesday, it seemed that Thursday would likely be dry and sunny, rain would arrive on Friday and, most probably, both Saturday and Sunday would be a wash out: hence, a rain-affected draw seemed (seems) the most likely result.
Given that batting would, surely, have been easier on the first (dry and sunny) day, a win was (is) unlikely and we need bonus points, is anybody able to explain why we chose to bowl first at Taunton, a venue where the traditional thinking on winning the toss was always to look at the pitch and sky, think about it and then choose to bat?
I would say the managements’ decision making process this season leaves a lot to be desired
Tom Abell has become the luckiest batsman in England.
Put down an inordinate amount of times at Grace Road, as well as the run out and now shelled twice in an over here. Both should have been comfortable catches, too.
We are making batting look as difficult as most of us would expect us to.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:30:15:20:29 by AGod.
Put down an inordinate amount of times at Grace Road, as well as the run out and now shelled twice in an over here. Both should have been comfortable catches, too.
We are making batting look as difficult as most of us would expect us to.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:04:30:15:20:29 by AGod.
Sports social media has now gone pretty quiet for the next 2 and a half days
86 for 2 at Tea but 40 odd overs after Tea unless the light takes em off or the rain comes back so still an interesting day.
The scores from Bristol and the Oval give me hope. If we can pull out a draw (locals, how's the weather really looking for tomorrow?) we're still right in the thick of things.
Well played George Bartlett and Lewis Goldsworthy. An excellent last session.
Three Cs:
Confident, competent and compact.... those would be my adjectives for Lewis Goldsworthy. Excellent.
Bartlett showed tenacity to battle through after a really ropey start.
A really good effort from this pair and, even if the forecast rain doesn’t materialise, they may have done enough to save us (assuming we save the follow on then the match should peter out into a draw).
Middx did as bad a job of catching as we did, thankfully.
Confident, competent and compact.... those would be my adjectives for Lewis Goldsworthy. Excellent.
Bartlett showed tenacity to battle through after a really ropey start.
A really good effort from this pair and, even if the forecast rain doesn’t materialise, they may have done enough to save us (assuming we save the follow on then the match should peter out into a draw).
Middx did as bad a job of catching as we did, thankfully.
A bit more solidity today in the top six, well done to George and Lewis this evening. I still maintain we have a team full of batsmen suited to 4-8 and are trying desperately to fill the round holes of 1,2 and 3 (and tbh 9,10 and 11) with some of these square pegs.
I hope we succeed with the group we have now and am happy with this experimentation for this season as we'll stay in Div One for 2022 while paying off our points penalty.
I hope we succeed with the group we have now and am happy with this experimentation for this season as we'll stay in Div One for 2022 while paying off our points penalty.
I agree Paul.
As I said in another thread a few days ago - I feel the 'Management' are seeing/using this season as a 'free hit' to blood a few youngsters and absorb the penalty points when there is no risk of relegation. Of course, if we could scrape into the top division after the group phase, without bringing in expensive star players, this season then that would be a bonus.
Well played Lewis and George this evening in difficult conditions. Should ensure that scores after first innings are close to parity.
As I said in another thread a few days ago - I feel the 'Management' are seeing/using this season as a 'free hit' to blood a few youngsters and absorb the penalty points when there is no risk of relegation. Of course, if we could scrape into the top division after the group phase, without bringing in expensive star players, this season then that would be a bonus.
Well played Lewis and George this evening in difficult conditions. Should ensure that scores after first innings are close to parity.
Hardly any comments since close of play - seems like Grockles think we must've had a good day then!
They must be all observing an extension of the social media black out Shepton.
A couple of 50s will help tomorrow morning but Lewis Goldsworthy was impressively cool on debut. We rode our luck a bit but deserved some after the first day. Not won or lost yet unless the weather takes a hand.
Here is the link to my Second Day Report:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
An for ease of reference, here is the link to my First Day Report:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
Farmer
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
An for ease of reference, here is the link to my First Day Report:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
Farmer
I agree with Grizzzzz’s characterisation of Lewis Goldsworthy - confident, competent and compact. Breaking the alliteration, I would add “gritty” and - from what I’ve seen of him in T20, Second XI highlights and yesterday’s innings - that he seems to have a mature head on young shoulders. Very early days, of course, but I feel that he is someone who is likely to make the most of his talents.
Pitch still looks like it has plenty of pace and bounce.
With hindsight, I assume we may regret having rested MDL... he’d be one heck of a handfull on this, one would think.
With hindsight, I assume we may regret having rested MDL... he’d be one heck of a handfull on this, one would think.
Assuming we save the follow on, then we become second favourite (after the draw) IMO.
It’s really a big tall quick deck this one, though, and we only have one such bowler playing. So, unless Craig surpasses himself, it’s surely unlikely that we’ll be able to rush Middx out for a paltry second innings total.
It’s really a big tall quick deck this one, though, and we only have one such bowler playing. So, unless Craig surpasses himself, it’s surely unlikely that we’ll be able to rush Middx out for a paltry second innings total.
More abysmal slip catching.
Robson has been awful in the slips in both of these early season games.
Robson has been awful in the slips in both of these early season games.
Excellent first innings from Goldsworthy. Would have been nice to see him pass 50 but he looked solid, compact and confident. Good 50 from George. He is becoming an 'anchor' for the lineup.
Poor, soft dismissal from Davies.
There will be a substantial first innings deficit but we could do with at least taking some time out of the game here rather than a patented Somerset “blink and you miss it,” collapse.
There will be a substantial first innings deficit but we could do with at least taking some time out of the game here rather than a patented Somerset “blink and you miss it,” collapse.
Gregory out of match, by the sounds. “Bubble “ member being tested for Covid.
I assume we’re allowed a sub though, if it’s Brooks, I fear that will he of no help with the ball.
I assume we’re allowed a sub though, if it’s Brooks, I fear that will he of no help with the ball.
So much for my hope of getting close to parity - 8 down, still 129 behind. Is Brooks allowed to bat?
I’m sure he will be. And I suspect he might be more useful in that capacity than with the ball.
Yes, we’re missing Marchant - maybe also with the bat... But Lewis Goldsworthy definitely justified his selection as they say.I wholly agree with his three Cs, but don’t forget an all-important fourth one: Cornish!
Well batted, Cove. Now a superhuman bowling effort needed from him along with Josh.
Given the game situation I might have preferred to cover Lewis’s batting rather than his bowling. Ben Green might have been my choice.
Suffering from a very ropey Youtube feed today. Reset it and Overton and Leach have gone and Brooks is bowling!!
Quote:AGod
Why on earth have they given Brooks the new ball?
Davey is injured . Baker and Leonard in next game I presume .
He’s not.. so far as I know.
But the apparent management assumption that we’d be fine with what we have, bowling wise, already seems to be unravelling.
Imagine if Cove is told to rest, by England, for next week, with LG still in isolation.
Middx, by comparison, have a lot of pace bowling options.
But the apparent management assumption that we’d be fine with what we have, bowling wise, already seems to be unravelling.
Imagine if Cove is told to rest, by England, for next week, with LG still in isolation.
Middx, by comparison, have a lot of pace bowling options.
Pretty safe to say Davey is injured, or at best not 100% fit.
Missed chunks of Leics match, went for an Xray Thursday on his foot, didn't open the bowling here despite no Lewis.
These things aren't really bad luck they are part of being a fast bowler, injuries happen.
Even the Lewis thing, this was always a possibility we needed (or could have) planned for.
We have chosen not to use rotation as a club since the Maynard days. We select or drop, we dont do rotation. The hierachy is made very clear, which may boost the chosen ones but has to leave the rest feel like outsiders.....
There are plusses & minuses.
Surrey have about 11 quicks and have rotated.
Middlesex at least 8 & done the same.
Even Glos 6 or 7 and rotated.
We played same 5 man attack all the first 3 matches.
It is safe to say Craig WILL be rested in 1 of the next 2 games. ECB own him so with 7 matches in a row its for exactly this reason.
We have also chosen not to employ the services of a second overseas, again a choice / policy decided by the management.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:14:04:06 by wsm fan.
Missed chunks of Leics match, went for an Xray Thursday on his foot, didn't open the bowling here despite no Lewis.
These things aren't really bad luck they are part of being a fast bowler, injuries happen.
Even the Lewis thing, this was always a possibility we needed (or could have) planned for.
We have chosen not to use rotation as a club since the Maynard days. We select or drop, we dont do rotation. The hierachy is made very clear, which may boost the chosen ones but has to leave the rest feel like outsiders.....
There are plusses & minuses.
Surrey have about 11 quicks and have rotated.
Middlesex at least 8 & done the same.
Even Glos 6 or 7 and rotated.
We played same 5 man attack all the first 3 matches.
It is safe to say Craig WILL be rested in 1 of the next 2 games. ECB own him so with 7 matches in a row its for exactly this reason.
We have also chosen not to employ the services of a second overseas, again a choice / policy decided by the management.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:14:04:06 by wsm fan.
Yes, I fully expect the ECB to rest Cove.
Brooks looks as uninspiring as expected.
This is a season for developing Baker, Leonard and, if fit, Aldridge.
Brooks looks as uninspiring as expected.
This is a season for developing Baker, Leonard and, if fit, Aldridge.
We have 'planned for it' Brooks is the replacement. That was the plan.
Maybe useful to get him bowling in a first team game. At least we can see where he is in a game he may not be able to 'balls' up if he isn't ready
People may speculate that he isn't ready or Josh may well have been rested here. Also has MdL been rotated OR is hr carryimg a niggle as well because surely if Josh was struggling AND Jack B wasn't ready then you would have assumed Marchant would have played if possible
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:14:03:59 by Grockle.
Maybe useful to get him bowling in a first team game. At least we can see where he is in a game he may not be able to 'balls' up if he isn't ready
People may speculate that he isn't ready or Josh may well have been rested here. Also has MdL been rotated OR is hr carryimg a niggle as well because surely if Josh was struggling AND Jack B wasn't ready then you would have assumed Marchant would have played if possible
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:14:03:59 by Grockle.
The best we can hope for, it seems, is to keep their scoring rate very low and take time out until the rain comes.
That last Brooks over isn't on that message....
That last Brooks over isn't on that message....
Well it's confirmed one thing. Jack Brooks is NOT ready for first class cricket
Nothing in his record at second XI level this season suggested Brooks would be effective at first team level. He lacks both pace and accuracy and has no chance of being effective unless the ball is swinging around corners.
Brooks’ contract is up at season’s end and I certainly wouldn’t expect an extension.
So we may as well get on with Aldridge, Baker and Leonard and get them some first team experience before CC1 resumes (assuming it does).
Brooks’ contract is up at season’s end and I certainly wouldn’t expect an extension.
So we may as well get on with Aldridge, Baker and Leonard and get them some first team experience before CC1 resumes (assuming it does).
Sam Robson feels the flipside of all that luck he got thanks to our drops at Lord’s.
By the law of averages, Tom Abell can expect to suffer from some similarly absurdly good catches as just befell Robson.
By the law of averages, Tom Abell can expect to suffer from some similarly absurdly good catches as just befell Robson.
Yet another poor drop from Hildreth. Far too many this season already. I think that’s the 4th time we’ve dropped Gubbins in this match.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:14:26:24 by AGod.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:14:26:24 by AGod.
Wonderful catch from Banton. Davey makes things happen even when not at 100%
Yep I'm not sure Jack B can get back and the call for an international option is understandable
Can't believe the backroom aren't aware so it may be down to getting Aldridge back working on Leonard and Baker because a) there's no money and/or b) there's nothing about.
Now Hilda is dropping em... oh dear
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:14:26:41 by Grockle.
Yep I'm not sure Jack B can get back and the call for an international option is understandable
Can't believe the backroom aren't aware so it may be down to getting Aldridge back working on Leonard and Baker because a) there's no money and/or b) there's nothing about.
Now Hilda is dropping em... oh dear
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:14:26:41 by Grockle.
Stupendous catch by Banton.
Well bowled by Cove for the second - but Hildreth! I've watched that back a few times and the catch looks easier to take each time!
Well bowled by Cove for the second - but Hildreth! I've watched that back a few times and the catch looks easier to take each time!
Josh Davey is an absolute diamond!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:15:02:51 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:15:02:51 by Grockle.
Slugger!!!
I’m afraid Tom will be looking hard at himself for wasting the new ball with Brooks here, though... what’s happening now could have happened, instead, at the start of their innings.
I’m afraid Tom will be looking hard at himself for wasting the new ball with Brooks here, though... what’s happening now could have happened, instead, at the start of their innings.
Josh Davey 3 for 4!! Gotta keep this going we can't let them get away.
It may have been a decision based on an awareness of what resources Tom had rather than a mistake. Needing Davey to hold it together after Jack and hoping Craig could use new ball conditions to get something early.
Tom Abell also holding an end is useful.
It may have been a decision based on an awareness of what resources Tom had rather than a mistake. Needing Davey to hold it together after Jack and hoping Craig could use new ball conditions to get something early.
Tom Abell also holding an end is useful.
Wow. Had to pop out for 25 minutes and have come back to 66 for 5! Come on Somerset!
It's spitting and stuff - need to take advantage now because it could disappear as quickly and become turgid again.
If it is doing this - Jack Leach? When these two have done their spells? PLEASE don't give it back to Brooksie.
If it is doing this - Jack Leach? When these two have done their spells? PLEASE don't give it back to Brooksie.
Get Brooks off.
We can't afford to waste any runs.... this won't be an easy chase!
We can't afford to waste any runs.... this won't be an easy chase!
Irresistible from Craig!!! Great stuff.
White has really impressed me in this match.
White has really impressed me in this match.
Insanity. Put Leachy on to hold up an end if you really have to (if two from three of Craig, Josh and Tom are too tired to bowl).
Brooks isn't going to take wickets unless the batsmen do something stupid, and is going to leak runs.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:16:14:22 by AGod.
Brooks isn't going to take wickets unless the batsmen do something stupid, and is going to leak runs.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:16:14:22 by AGod.
Quote:Wickham
I agree with Grizzzzz’s characterisation of Lewis Goldsworthy - confident, competent and compact. Breaking the alliteration, I would add “gritty” and - from what I’ve seen of him in T20, Second XI highlights and yesterday’s innings - that he seems to have a mature head on young shoulders. Very early days, of course, but I feel that he is someone who is likely to make the most of his talents.
Always honoured to be mentioned Wickham, but I must mention it was actually AG's assessment.
Which I agree with entirely btw !
Grizzers
This pitch is playing like a trampoline and a run chase is going to be tough!
Excellent effort from a possessed Cove and Josh, with good support from Tom but I fear that our catching in this match - is liable to cost us..
Excellent effort from a possessed Cove and Josh, with good support from Tom but I fear that our catching in this match - is liable to cost us..
Well if the ECB do insist on resting Craig, (which I guess must be very likely), we are going to miss him for sure.
Tremendous effort by Josh & Craig today, but it's going to be a very tough target no matter what.
Would be a great time to see Messrs Lammonby & Banton put on a hundred partnership.
Hope springs eternal !
Grizzers
Tremendous effort by Josh & Craig today, but it's going to be a very tough target no matter what.
Would be a great time to see Messrs Lammonby & Banton put on a hundred partnership.
Hope springs eternal !
Grizzers
The Banton catch was exceptional, but yes AG drops could cost us. Davies should have left his effort a few overs ago to first slip...
AGod mentioned 'Yet another poor drop from Hildreth'.
Would you be so kind as to indicate (roughly) which over, as I have tried in vain to find it.
Thanks.
I have just found it - the last ball of the twelfth over.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:17:08:31 by Phrench Phil.
Would you be so kind as to indicate (roughly) which over, as I have tried in vain to find it.
Thanks.
I have just found it - the last ball of the twelfth over.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:17:08:31 by Phrench Phil.
Yes - whichever side loses could point to it although, so far, I think we are “winning,” with 7 dropped catches to their three.
Thank you, George!
Nine down.
Dial M will have a quick swipe and then a very, very tough run chase will commence.
It’s meant to be very sunny tomorrow.. will that calm the pitch some?
And how many wkts will we have left for tomorrow!?
Lewis May be a big miss with the bat now?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:17:13:13 by AGod.
Nine down.
Dial M will have a quick swipe and then a very, very tough run chase will commence.
It’s meant to be very sunny tomorrow.. will that calm the pitch some?
And how many wkts will we have left for tomorrow!?
Lewis May be a big miss with the bat now?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:17:13:13 by AGod.
207 then. Will be tough unless the track flattens quite a bit. I make it 60:40 in their favour although, if the theme of these Som - Middx game continues (crap catching) then that changes.
Something behind you lot it seems as Lammonby is just walking to the wicket - Ahh not that far behind then as Banton strolls back!!
Yep he isn't an opener, get him in the middle order and pull Eddie in
Yep he isn't an opener, get him in the middle order and pull Eddie in
Tbh, Grockle, there isn’t a place for Banton in the middle order at the moment.
So I’m afraid he will need to go to the seconds for a few weeks and try and make hay there.
As for Abell, Bloke?
It’s game 4 and he’s already used an entire season’s worth of luck!
So I’m afraid he will need to go to the seconds for a few weeks and try and make hay there.
As for Abell, Bloke?
It’s game 4 and he’s already used an entire season’s worth of luck!
Dearie me.
How many wkts will we even have left for sunny conditions tomorrow?
How many wkts will we even have left for sunny conditions tomorrow?
I don't know about anyone else, and I know our youngsters have prodigious talent and potential, but it often seems to me we are a team of boys batting vs men.....
Well.. I mean we’re not a good batting side and haven’t been for years... BUT... how many county sides currently playing ARE good batting sides?
Not many teams are, in April in England.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:18:10:17 by That Bloke With The Dog.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:18:10:17 by That Bloke With The Dog.
There really isn't a place for either Banton or Lammonby presently but I doubt they'll have the guts to drop both. Have to wait and see what happens with Gregory presently.
Got to change something coz this lineup just isn't working.
Got to change something coz this lineup just isn't working.
I would have thought that one experienced head plus Banton/Lammonby - perhaps on some sort of rotation into the team, or up and down the order - as openers would possibly be the answer. The youngsters could learn from that older head - but who that could be I don't know...
Give Banton the gloves and move Davies. Or let Tom open as he already is effectively. The question then is who at 3? Possibly Goldsworthy with Eddie losing out still?
Seems a bit strange that 'Steady' Eddie is not in when the characteristic people were bothered about seems to be what we are missing.
Seems a bit strange that 'Steady' Eddie is not in when the characteristic people were bothered about seems to be what we are missing.
Yeah, Grockle, with Jason having said - before the year - that TL was “nailed on to open,” and the other place was between Banton and Byrom, then one assumes they’ll be loath to drop TL but, if the decision was between TB and EB then it’s clear that TB hasn’t done enough to continue to get the nod.
Perhaps they're concerned that Banton will otherwise just drift away to T20/Hundred franchises.
Edit: ... and then inevitably to Surrey, or back to Warks.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:18:34:45 by That Bloke With The Dog.
Edit: ... and then inevitably to Surrey, or back to Warks.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:18:34:45 by That Bloke With The Dog.
Well, I've been moaning with the best of them, but here we are, 71 for 2, chasing 207, and the sun is shining.
I tend to the view that Somerset should introduce an additional item in all categories of membership packs.
Valium comes to mind.
Grizzers
Valium comes to mind.
Grizzers
Can't be worried about what Tom will do if he isn't playing. We don't pick players because they might get upset. Players not in form and not picked should be working their sphericals off to get back.
If they aren't doing that then whichever county they want to choose is fine by me and the sooner they join it the better.
I don't think that is Tom at all. I have to say I also don't think Tom B is a new ball batsman, especially in first class cricket.
If they aren't doing that then whichever county they want to choose is fine by me and the sooner they join it the better.
I don't think that is Tom at all. I have to say I also don't think Tom B is a new ball batsman, especially in first class cricket.
Why!? Why do you have to do daft things like that, Hildreth? If you’re going to flash? Flash hard!
If there is a point in nightwatchman, and I rather doubt it, what is the point of him taking a single first ball ?
Nevertheless, I hope Jack survives this last over now as Jack can do a useful job in the morning.
It’s certainly an emotional rollercoaster watching Somerset isn’t it?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:19:13:36 by Des Platt.
Nevertheless, I hope Jack survives this last over now as Jack can do a useful job in the morning.
It’s certainly an emotional rollercoaster watching Somerset isn’t it?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:19:13:36 by Des Platt.
I suspected they’d get Leachy at short leg again, as they had in the first innings.
Realistically, Abell will probably need to get most of a ton if we are to win this.
Realistically, Abell will probably need to get most of a ton if we are to win this.
And it was all going so well. Daft gamble 4 overs out when everything was being done right.
Ours to throw away from here. Is tomorrow going to be the deciding day if the season? That one where you say "it all changed there".
Ours to throw away from here. Is tomorrow going to be the deciding day if the season? That one where you say "it all changed there".
So, the SCCC statement says:
"Jack Brooks has been made available as a Covid-19 replacement for the remainder of the current LV= Insurance County Championship match against Middlesex at the Cooper Associates County Ground.
A member of Lewis Gregory’s private bubble was feeling unwell this morning and has taken a lateral flow test. This test proved to be negative, but protocol dictates that until the results of a further test have been received, Lewis will remain in isolation as per Government guidelines."
Hopefully, the family member will receive a second negative Covid test. In which case, does that mean Lewis can return to bat for us in the second innings ? The Club statement seems to leave that open to interpretation.
Grizzers
"Jack Brooks has been made available as a Covid-19 replacement for the remainder of the current LV= Insurance County Championship match against Middlesex at the Cooper Associates County Ground.
A member of Lewis Gregory’s private bubble was feeling unwell this morning and has taken a lateral flow test. This test proved to be negative, but protocol dictates that until the results of a further test have been received, Lewis will remain in isolation as per Government guidelines."
Hopefully, the family member will receive a second negative Covid test. In which case, does that mean Lewis can return to bat for us in the second innings ? The Club statement seems to leave that open to interpretation.
Grizzers
If they only took a PCR test today after the negative LFT I can't see them getting the result back before tomorrow evening anyway.
They said on the radio that LG is NOT permitted to sub back in anyway, so we’re stuck with Brooks, regardless, I’m afraid.
I would think this game will have disabused management of any lingering notion that playing Brooks is a better idea than furthering the cricketing education of Aldridge, Baker and Leonard, though. The fact that management picked an extra batsman, rather than Brooks, despite resting MDL, implied they already had reservations about going to Brooks as it was.
IF the PCR test confirms the lateral flow result, then we must assume that LG will play the next one (having had only half a workload in this game), and we’ll surely be bringing MDL back. Beyond that? England will probably tell Cove to rest... and will we be looking to rest JD, with him having been somewhat in the wars?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:21:39:54 by AGod.
I would think this game will have disabused management of any lingering notion that playing Brooks is a better idea than furthering the cricketing education of Aldridge, Baker and Leonard, though. The fact that management picked an extra batsman, rather than Brooks, despite resting MDL, implied they already had reservations about going to Brooks as it was.
IF the PCR test confirms the lateral flow result, then we must assume that LG will play the next one (having had only half a workload in this game), and we’ll surely be bringing MDL back. Beyond that? England will probably tell Cove to rest... and will we be looking to rest JD, with him having been somewhat in the wars?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:21:39:54 by AGod.
Who has gone to Kent? Wasn't that Gilchrist?
With Davey's fitness uncertain and Brooks being under par at least we aren't arguing sbout the other Lewis staying in one would assume. MdL has to return next game really.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:21:33:23 by Grockle.
With Davey's fitness uncertain and Brooks being under par at least we aren't arguing sbout the other Lewis staying in one would assume. MdL has to return next game really.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:01:21:33:23 by Grockle.
Yeah, I meant Aldridge.
Gilchrist and TG both went to Kent. Neither have played in the first team this year, though.
Gilchrist May be regretting going to Kent with the idea having been he’d have better opportunities there. Had he stayed here? Good chance he’d have got a few red ball games this year.
Gilchrist and TG both went to Kent. Neither have played in the first team this year, though.
Gilchrist May be regretting going to Kent with the idea having been he’d have better opportunities there. Had he stayed here? Good chance he’d have got a few red ball games this year.
Yes, that‘s right. Not much sign of Jamie‘s career flourishing at Surrey either (though glad to see Dom doing well). In spite of everything I still have us as slight (though only slight) favourites to win this, even without one of the Lews Gs.
Yeah I think that point was made about Gilchrist's timeframe by Andy Hurry at the AGM. With Aldridge sidelined as a starter he would have been on the starting grid.
Though if he's not in Kent's eyeline he might not have been in ours either. It may very well have been his 'Jamie Grove' moment.
How far away from playing anywhere is Kasey?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:06:19:53 by Grockle.
Though if he's not in Kent's eyeline he might not have been in ours either. It may very well have been his 'Jamie Grove' moment.
How far away from playing anywhere is Kasey?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:06:19:53 by Grockle.
Puck changes the mood my Third Day Report link is here:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
And, for ease of reference, here are the liks to the reports on the first two days:
Day Two[/b]
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
[b]Day One
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
Farmer
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
And, for ease of reference, here are the liks to the reports on the first two days:
Day Two[/b]
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
[b]Day One
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
Farmer
County Cricket Links Blog Updated for Round 4 Day 3
I hope it's OK to put this into this discussion. Trying to get it to the most people.
The last time Hampshire lost by an innings and that much was in 1911. Link is in the blog. Going to be an interesting finish in tomorrow's final day.
County Cricket Links Blog--Round 4, Day 3
I hope it's OK to put this into this discussion. Trying to get it to the most people.
The last time Hampshire lost by an innings and that much was in 1911. Link is in the blog. Going to be an interesting finish in tomorrow's final day.
County Cricket Links Blog--Round 4, Day 3
Somerset on the TV for me, Lancs on the iPad. I just hope the batting team win both.
Somerset official write-up on yesterday , "An absorbing match took another twist when Murtagh had Banton caught behind off the first ball of Somerset’s second innings ...".
Yeah, that was one heck of a catch!
Yeah, that was one heck of a catch!
Pretty poor stuff so far this morning and a second successive home defeat appears imminent.
Very disappointing, really.
Very disappointing, really.
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A bit unlucky for Tom Abell seeing where he was hit and how far he was down with his front leg.
Per Gibson, it sounds like Jason Kerr has been using the media to try to send a message to England... “do NOT tell us to rest Cove.”
Jason apparently said that Cove needs to be bowling all the time and resting isn’t good for his bowling!
(This was certainly true of Caddick.. I dunno if it’s really true of Cove)
Jason apparently said that Cove needs to be bowling all the time and resting isn’t good for his bowling!
(This was certainly true of Caddick.. I dunno if it’s really true of Cove)
Disgraceful decision to go off for lunch... puts Middx back in it... a result in short order was very clearly possible, so there should have been no question of lunch.
Not posted so far, didn't want to jinx anything. Only watched the last 20 mins or so too.
Yes AG - I was surprised to see them walk off for lunch. It seemed to me that the Middx players almost forced it by setting off anyway....
Yes AG - I was surprised to see them walk off for lunch. It seemed to me that the Middx players almost forced it by setting off anyway....
A strong umpire would simply have called them back:
“Mr Handscomb.. we are continuing ... please return with your men.”
“Mr Handscomb.. we are continuing ... please return with your men.”
Mr Goldsworthy likes the short stuff, doesn’t he!? Sees it early, and hits it with a rifle crack. Word gets round the circuit quickly, so I don’t think too many will be bothering to bounce him in future games.
Those two boundaries that (if I remember right) took the target down into the fifties are when the momentum swung. Andersson has been their weak link.
Enjoyable morning session if quite tense. Well worth the 5AM start for me.
Enjoyable morning session if quite tense. Well worth the 5AM start for me.
And now? Rain.
Good job unpires.. NOT.. game would have been over now if you’d done what you should have done.
Good job unpires.. NOT.. game would have been over now if you’d done what you should have done.
From a look at the Laws and this year’s playing conditions, I can’t see any allowance for the umpires to use their discretion in this situation, which seems odd. Would they really have to go off for lunch if one run were required?
The only exception I can find is an extra half-hour if nine wickets are down.
The only exception I can find is an extra half-hour if nine wickets are down.
Indeed, the game should be over by now. How ridiculous.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:13:47:55 by Flyboy.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:13:47:55 by Flyboy.
I was surprised to see Mike Burns so easily rail-roaded into the lunch decision by Middlesex walking-off. His fellow umpire Ian Gould is in his last season on the circuit, and is known to have avoided making controversial decisions for a while now. But Burns had been getting a reputation for being tough with arrant skippers.
Incidentally, the rules state that both captains must be consulted before it is decided whether or not to play on through a break period - if a result is near. Somerset were not consulted.
Incidentally, the rules state that both captains must be consulted before it is decided whether or not to play on through a break period - if a result is near. Somerset were not consulted.
Jerry, I can’t find that anywhere in the Laws or playing conditions, unless the players go off for weather-related reasons. The lunch interval is automatically moved if there are nine wickets down, but as far as I can see, the umpires had no choice today, which seems daft.
I might be wrong though. It’s not easy to navigate the Laws and playing conditions. Can anyone shed any light?
I might be wrong though. It’s not easy to navigate the Laws and playing conditions. Can anyone shed any light?
A bit early to say ,a star is born‘, but it‘s been a really exciting debut performance from Goldsworthy. Watching him, you‘d think he was an experienced county pro, if you didn’t know otherwise.
Great job by L Gold and very nice job by Davies!
Middx morale must be on the floor.
Middx morale must be on the floor.
Well that was good.
Lewis Goldsworthy take a bow !
Terrific from Steven Davies as well.
Putting the sofa back in its normal place now.
Selection is going to be interesting v. Hants., but for now, a very pleasant start to the day :-)
Grizzers
Lewis Goldsworthy take a bow !
Terrific from Steven Davies as well.
Putting the sofa back in its normal place now.
Selection is going to be interesting v. Hants., but for now, a very pleasant start to the day :-)
Grizzers
I'd never have guessed you'd say that, Jim!
Clearly such a mature innings from Lewis, but also what a wonderful professional Steve Davies is.
Clearly such a mature innings from Lewis, but also what a wonderful professional Steve Davies is.
Great win lads, fine composed batting from Lewis G and a fine debut overall.
plenty to work on obviously but not bad considering impending defeat has been predicted every session for at least 3 days out of 4.
plenty to work on obviously but not bad considering impending defeat has been predicted every session for at least 3 days out of 4.
Well played Lewis Goldsworthy and Steve Davies. Davies played a big part in helping him along I'm sure.
Hampshire away next - that'll be a tough one. Wonder what the team will be... I'd be tempted to put Davies in as opener to perform a similar role for Lammonby/Banton
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:14:21:38 by Rod1883.
Hampshire away next - that'll be a tough one. Wonder what the team will be... I'd be tempted to put Davies in as opener to perform a similar role for Lammonby/Banton
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:14:21:38 by Rod1883.
Good win, well done to Lewis Goldsworthy and Steve Davies, who got us a win.
Coaches now really need to sort our opening pair, but will they change it ? (I am not so sure)
Coaches now really need to sort our opening pair, but will they change it ? (I am not so sure)
Quote:AGod
Pretty poor stuff so far this morning and a second successive home defeat appears imminent.
Very disappointing, really.
Has something happened?
I turned it off after our defeat was announced.
Quite how we've done so well this season is a testament to the strength of the team overall, but the opening batting is clearly a massive cause for concern. I'd also be tempted to try Davies as an opener, at least as an experiment; it surely can't be any worse than we're managing at present.
Again there were some fantastic positives from the game: the attitude that they can win from a very poor position rather than giving up; Overton again, with good support from Davey; and a great performance from the 20-year-old Goldsworthy in a game where he was always batting under pressure. It also sounds like Hildreth's second-innings knock was important yesterday.
As for the negatives: not sure the decision to play Brooks came off, which was something being questioned here before the game - he didn't bowl in the first innings (lack of confidence from the captain?) and no wickets in the second. The openers; the struggles go on and on - don't suppose Goldsworthy can open, do you?!
Again there were some fantastic positives from the game: the attitude that they can win from a very poor position rather than giving up; Overton again, with good support from Davey; and a great performance from the 20-year-old Goldsworthy in a game where he was always batting under pressure. It also sounds like Hildreth's second-innings knock was important yesterday.
As for the negatives: not sure the decision to play Brooks came off, which was something being questioned here before the game - he didn't bowl in the first innings (lack of confidence from the captain?) and no wickets in the second. The openers; the struggles go on and on - don't suppose Goldsworthy can open, do you?!
Following the win, Gouldy went back to the wicket, withdrew a stump and handed it to Lewis Goldsworthy. Really nice touch that.
Quote:Brooks was an 'in match' covid replacement for Gregory. Not sure I agree he was the best replacement we could have played, but perhaps he was the only one available/acceptable to Middx?sfwithers
As for the negatives: not sure the decision to play Brooks came off, which was something being questioned here before the game - he didn't bowl in the first innings (lack of confidence from the captain?) and no wickets in the second.
Brooks didn't bowl in the first innings because he wasn't selected for this match. He was brought in as a covid substitute yesterday morning replacing Lewis Gregory who had to withdraw as he was in contact with someone who was unwell, awaiting a test result.
Roger - as stubborn as they often are, I suspect they will change Banton for the next one.. I think he will miss out.
I’m a little bit more worried about their potential stubbornness with the bowling - I mean are they really going to persist with the idea of Brooks as first cab off the rank?
If management think it’s just too early for the likes of Baker and Leonard, then I’d sooner ask Kent if we could borrow TG back on loan, than I would roll with a half-fit Brooks.
I’m not sure that Jason’s media related pleas re: not resting Coverton will have the desired effect.
It’s funny, we’ve beaten Middx twice yet they rested, from this match, two bowlers, in TRJ and Bamber who are far better than the 2021 version of Jack Brooks that we were seemingly compelled to play.
I’m a little bit more worried about their potential stubbornness with the bowling - I mean are they really going to persist with the idea of Brooks as first cab off the rank?
If management think it’s just too early for the likes of Baker and Leonard, then I’d sooner ask Kent if we could borrow TG back on loan, than I would roll with a half-fit Brooks.
I’m not sure that Jason’s media related pleas re: not resting Coverton will have the desired effect.
It’s funny, we’ve beaten Middx twice yet they rested, from this match, two bowlers, in TRJ and Bamber who are far better than the 2021 version of Jack Brooks that we were seemingly compelled to play.
Sadly they won't be when their current game finishes AG. Mid table in a very tight group will be the position.
I quite fancy a rapidly improving Durham side in that group, Rod. More so than the likes of Warks and Notts, anyway.
Lewis Goldsworthy has certainly thrown a (welcome spanner) into the selection works moving forwards.
Loyalty is admirable, but I'd be pretty surprised to see Tom L & Tom B continuing to open v. Hants.. With Lewis Goldsworthy (can't just say Lewis G. as we now have two of them !) a certainty, I can't see how there is room for both Tom L & Tom B, so one of them will likely have to make way.
My guess would be as follows:
1) Byrom
2) Lammonby (poss. switch with SD)
3) Abell
4) Hildreth
5) Bartlett
6) Davies (poss. switch with TL)
7) Goldsworthy
8) Gregory (assuming all ok re family/Covid)
9) Overton (assuming ECB ok)
10) Davey (assuming fit)
11) Leach
MDL &/or Sonny Baker to come in if (8), (9) or (10) unavailable.
Grizzers
Loyalty is admirable, but I'd be pretty surprised to see Tom L & Tom B continuing to open v. Hants.. With Lewis Goldsworthy (can't just say Lewis G. as we now have two of them !) a certainty, I can't see how there is room for both Tom L & Tom B, so one of them will likely have to make way.
My guess would be as follows:
1) Byrom
2) Lammonby (poss. switch with SD)
3) Abell
4) Hildreth
5) Bartlett
6) Davies (poss. switch with TL)
7) Goldsworthy
8) Gregory (assuming all ok re family/Covid)
9) Overton (assuming ECB ok)
10) Davey (assuming fit)
11) Leach
MDL &/or Sonny Baker to come in if (8), (9) or (10) unavailable.
Grizzers
I don’t think we’ll be allowed to pick Cove - bowled more overs in this game than any other. I dunno what is or isn’t happening with JD’s fitness.
But I think - due in part to shortage of options, plus the menace of Abbas and our nemesis, Abbott, we may again see the 7 batsmen line-up, like so:
Eddie
Tom L
Tom A
JH
Bartlett
L Gold
Davies
L Gregory
Leachy
MDL
Brooks (sadly)
The above is on the assumption that something has been going on with JD’s fitness so a week off would be helpful and that England force us to rest Cove.
I wouldn’t have great confidence in that bowling set-up but it might be what they go with if JD needs break and Cove enforced break.
If Cove OR JD available, they’d obviously replace Brooks. If BOTH available? I think we’d see no Eddie, Tom Abell to open, George Bartlett to 3 and a full four man attack of Cove, JD, L Greg and MDL.
So the team if Cove and JD can both play would be
Tom A
Tom L
George
Hildreth
L Gold
Steve D
Coverton
L Gregory
Davey
Leachy
MDL
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:15:14:55 by AGod.
But I think - due in part to shortage of options, plus the menace of Abbas and our nemesis, Abbott, we may again see the 7 batsmen line-up, like so:
Eddie
Tom L
Tom A
JH
Bartlett
L Gold
Davies
L Gregory
Leachy
MDL
Brooks (sadly)
The above is on the assumption that something has been going on with JD’s fitness so a week off would be helpful and that England force us to rest Cove.
I wouldn’t have great confidence in that bowling set-up but it might be what they go with if JD needs break and Cove enforced break.
If Cove OR JD available, they’d obviously replace Brooks. If BOTH available? I think we’d see no Eddie, Tom Abell to open, George Bartlett to 3 and a full four man attack of Cove, JD, L Greg and MDL.
So the team if Cove and JD can both play would be
Tom A
Tom L
George
Hildreth
L Gold
Steve D
Coverton
L Gregory
Davey
Leachy
MDL
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:15:14:55 by AGod.
Lewis Gregory`s second Covid-19 test was also negative, and he is available for selection against Hampshire. The Rose Bowlers will be nursing some sore reputation, as their loss to Surrey yesterday was their biggest innings defeat since 1911. And that after two substantial championship wins in April.
They are unlikely to rest opening bowlers Mohammad Abbas and Kyle Abbott, although they managed just a single wicket between them at The Oval, but may consider playing either Keith Barker or James Fuller, who have just begun their second XV comeback after injury. Spinner Mason Crane, who was 12th man at the Oval, may also play.
One player definitely out is former Glamorgan batsman Aneurin Donald, who faces a long ACL rehabilitation.
They are unlikely to rest opening bowlers Mohammad Abbas and Kyle Abbott, although they managed just a single wicket between them at The Oval, but may consider playing either Keith Barker or James Fuller, who have just begun their second XV comeback after injury. Spinner Mason Crane, who was 12th man at the Oval, may also play.
One player definitely out is former Glamorgan batsman Aneurin Donald, who faces a long ACL rehabilitation.
For those who have forgotten (as we didn't have a lot of early cricket last year) remember;
It is always worth putting a speculative bit of money on a Somerset win when AG is writing us off at the end of Day 1
I thought we'd draw this - shows my lack of memory - forgot the bowlers usually yank us back into a game in the second innings. Well done to the Davey/Overton pairing once again for the umpteenth time
The loss of the person I shall now be calling 'Big Lewis' for that middle order move towards victory made the win a little less probable but we now have 'Little Lewis' who seems to have ice water for blood and came out to take up the cudgel at one end to help us go for it. Excellent debut young man. You can play again!!
Bagpuss had the rulebook out earlier. Seems the lunchtime rule is Rule 12.2.8 15 mins or 4 overs if the umpire thinks the extra time would bring about a definite result. I can see why they didn't bother.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:15:19:47 by Grockle.
It is always worth putting a speculative bit of money on a Somerset win when AG is writing us off at the end of Day 1
I thought we'd draw this - shows my lack of memory - forgot the bowlers usually yank us back into a game in the second innings. Well done to the Davey/Overton pairing once again for the umpteenth time
The loss of the person I shall now be calling 'Big Lewis' for that middle order move towards victory made the win a little less probable but we now have 'Little Lewis' who seems to have ice water for blood and came out to take up the cudgel at one end to help us go for it. Excellent debut young man. You can play again!!
Bagpuss had the rulebook out earlier. Seems the lunchtime rule is Rule 12.2.8 15 mins or 4 overs if the umpire thinks the extra time would bring about a definite result. I can see why they didn't bother.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:15:19:47 by Grockle.
I didn’t write anything off after day one - I simply agreed with BJ that the oppo total from day one was probably well over par. This was proved correct. Fortunately, the oppo made a severely below par total in their second dig to make up for it.
I still have nightmares about watching Kyle Abbott annihilate us at the Bowl in 2019.
Hope our batsmen don't !
Grizzers
Hope our batsmen don't !
Grizzers
Yeah AG we've read you long enough. You wrote us off. In April you pretty much always do.
I'm not saying you are always wrong... just it is worth a punt sometimes.....
I'm not saying you are always wrong... just it is worth a punt sometimes.....
Nope, that wasn’t what was said on day one.
I also said, on day two that I thought that, if we saved the follow on, we would become second favourites in the match - at the time, under those circumstances I favoured the draw as favourite as I thought it would take Middx a long time to build a big enough lead for them to be comfortable with.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:15:36:42 by AGod.
I also said, on day two that I thought that, if we saved the follow on, we would become second favourites in the match - at the time, under those circumstances I favoured the draw as favourite as I thought it would take Middx a long time to build a big enough lead for them to be comfortable with.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:15:36:42 by AGod.
I didn't realise about the substitution by Brooks - I fins Somerset too stressful to watch on the livestream. I tuned in and saw the last ball before lunch (!) and then the final few runs, when I was confident even Somerset couldn't mess that up!
I was hoping that Leicester would beat Gloucester to really ice the cake and while that is possible, it doesn't look likely now. And yes, it may be temporary, but good to see Essex propping up the table!
I was hoping that Leicester would beat Gloucester to really ice the cake and while that is possible, it doesn't look likely now. And yes, it may be temporary, but good to see Essex propping up the table!
Was that on Day One?
Nope.
When the two wickets went down early this morning, it did indeed look as though the fat lady would shortly be limbering up.
Anyway, WSM, at least Surrey won, so that should keep you happy, although I suspect that it may be Topley for Jamie for the next Surrey match and so both parties will have to wait for another chance to really justify that move for either party. So far, he seems to have had no more bowling opportunity (bar six overs in the match with the new ball) for Surrey than he would have had here.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:16:11:08 by AGod.
Nope.
When the two wickets went down early this morning, it did indeed look as though the fat lady would shortly be limbering up.
Anyway, WSM, at least Surrey won, so that should keep you happy, although I suspect that it may be Topley for Jamie for the next Surrey match and so both parties will have to wait for another chance to really justify that move for either party. So far, he seems to have had no more bowling opportunity (bar six overs in the match with the new ball) for Surrey than he would have had here.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:16:11:08 by AGod.
That's good. Get Jove back here on loan if Cove is ordered to rest.
Then play Cove anyway, on account of no one would notice.
Then play Cove anyway, on account of no one would notice.
But that would mean that Craig would have to remember to follow through until he's standing underneath the batsmen's nose, every single ball...
So he might need some coaching to remember...
So he might need some coaching to remember...
Jason says, rightly, that we're "winning ugly, without playing our best cricket."
By far the greatest difference between this season and what had become the norm for us over the past 3 or so seasons, has been in the standards of our catching. I'm sure we must have already put down more slip catches this season than in the whole of 2019 and 2020 combined (I know the latter was truncated, but still). IF we can get back to our usual standards of catching and miraculously dodge bowling injuries and orders to rest Coverton, then our prosepects in this group would seem to be good.
It's going to take a lot of good fortune with bowling injuries, though.
By far the greatest difference between this season and what had become the norm for us over the past 3 or so seasons, has been in the standards of our catching. I'm sure we must have already put down more slip catches this season than in the whole of 2019 and 2020 combined (I know the latter was truncated, but still). IF we can get back to our usual standards of catching and miraculously dodge bowling injuries and orders to rest Coverton, then our prosepects in this group would seem to be good.
It's going to take a lot of good fortune with bowling injuries, though.
Not such good reading for Tom Banton, among others. For such a quality player that's a pretty dismal average! Abell, Davies and Bartlett should feel pretty pleased with their batting and Overton and Davey with their bowling; Leach, de Lange and Gregory's figures aren't that bad either.
But we really do need Overton to stay fit, our catchers to take catches and somebody to score some big runs – no centuries at all and only two players have scores in the 80s. I think Davies will be most disappointed on that front, as he played a very poor shot to get out on 87, if I remember correctly.
But given our points deduction I think we'd have been happy to be where we are at this stage of the season. We could easily have been played four, won one rather than played four, won three!
But we really do need Overton to stay fit, our catchers to take catches and somebody to score some big runs – no centuries at all and only two players have scores in the 80s. I think Davies will be most disappointed on that front, as he played a very poor shot to get out on 87, if I remember correctly.
But given our points deduction I think we'd have been happy to be where we are at this stage of the season. We could easily have been played four, won one rather than played four, won three!
Given the points deduction, we'd definitely take it!
If you further had told Jason before the start of the season that we'd put down probably, what, at least ten catches over the first four games (I think we dropped 7 in the 2 games vs Middx alone) and still have a 3-1 W-L record, then he'd have been doubly glad to accept.
From a pace bowling depth point of view, this is built on somewhat flimsy foundations though... we need to keep everything crossed!
If you further had told Jason before the start of the season that we'd put down probably, what, at least ten catches over the first four games (I think we dropped 7 in the 2 games vs Middx alone) and still have a 3-1 W-L record, then he'd have been doubly glad to accept.
From a pace bowling depth point of view, this is built on somewhat flimsy foundations though... we need to keep everything crossed!
Until that happens we'll keep coming second because the consistent county will continue to pick up the bonus points and pip us at the finishing post.
Quote:AGod
Was that on Day One?
Nope.
When the two wickets went down early this morning, it did indeed look as though the fat lady would shortly be limbering up.
Anyway, WSM, at least Surrey won, so that should keep you happy, although I suspect that it may be Topley for Jamie for the next Surrey match and so both parties will have to wait for another chance to really justify that move for either party. So far, he seems to have had no more bowling opportunity (bar six overs in the match with t
he new ball) for Surrey than he would have had here.
I guess that's the point.
If you post by the minute you will always be changing tack as a game day session hour unfolds
Today changed momentum in a session. A game of cricket lasts 4 days. We have shown time and again never write us off. At 130/6 with Lewis SD Craig Josh needing 70 odd it was never all over, in the balance maybe but no way near inevitable.
A game of cricket takes shape over 4 days in SO many different ways.
Winning is what matters.
If our bottom 6 keep getting more than our top 5 its fine by me IF we keep winning.
There seems to be this idealistic correct way of getting a total, there isnt.
350 from 100/5 is better than 200/2 to 300ao 🤔
Opening the batting in April is hard.
Someone has got to do it.
We have no overseas or obvious trained candidate within so we cant be overly surprised the 2 doing it are finding it tough.
As for the Jamie comments i imagine he is pretty happy in general. Given the chance with new ball. Batting higher in the order. Part of a bowling unit with clear strategy for keeping all fresh and fit for a full season.
Time will tell how it works out but he is now getting the opportunities we wouldnt/couldnt/didnt offer him.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:02:18:52:37 by wsm fan.
We have an 'obvious' candidate or 2 who have done it many times. It is NOT the case that we do not have people of experience who have spent time as county opening bats.
The conundrum (a word I use many times when talking about Somerset's order) seems to be whether to move them to that position, use one of them to provide experience while we train another or gamble on an untried pair becoming an opening partnership for the ages
We've tried one combination, it is probably time to consider another....
The conundrum (a word I use many times when talking about Somerset's order) seems to be whether to move them to that position, use one of them to provide experience while we train another or gamble on an untried pair becoming an opening partnership for the ages
We've tried one combination, it is probably time to consider another....
I think Tom B will drop out. Either Eddie will come in or, perhaps more likely, Tom A will move up to open. If they move Tom A, they’ll need a new number 3, though.
I see Middlesex are at home on Thursday against Gloucs., who must be on a high right now.
Good stuff this 4 day cricket. Who knows it might even catch on.
Grizzers
Good stuff this 4 day cricket. Who knows it might even catch on.
Grizzers
Let’s hope Middx actually pick their best possible bowling attack. I think Murtagh, Bamber, TRJ and Helm should be a big handful at Lord’s.
I'd be happy to see George or to be honest 'Little Lewis' at 3
Both have to an extent earned the right to be expected to be 'sticky' in that position.
Both have to an extent earned the right to be expected to be 'sticky' in that position.
Another solid victory today, despite AG's various portents of doom 
Cove outstanding yet again, some rather more encouraging batting performances and, above all, a very promising debut from young Molesworthy, or Lewis Minor, ect ect
Cove outstanding yet again, some rather more encouraging batting performances and, above all, a very promising debut from young Molesworthy, or Lewis Minor, ect ect
That was an excellent performance from Somerset. I am really enjoying watching the live stream on my tv. The commentary was great too.
Yes, the match went to and fro but in the end our bowling during the Middlesex 2nd innings and our batting in the run chase was superior.
It seems we are now a bat second side, maybe because we don't like batting first anymore. To that end we need to limit the opposition 1st innings score from sides like Hampshire if we are to stand a chance.
Other than that and tweaking an opener, this season is shaping up very well for Somerset
Yes, the match went to and fro but in the end our bowling during the Middlesex 2nd innings and our batting in the run chase was superior.
It seems we are now a bat second side, maybe because we don't like batting first anymore. To that end we need to limit the opposition 1st innings score from sides like Hampshire if we are to stand a chance.
Other than that and tweaking an opener, this season is shaping up very well for Somerset
Most enjoyable. I always felt we were still 50-50 even when those two wickets went down. I have great faith in Cove and we didn’t even need him. I feel very disloyal to my birth county because I watched every delivery at Taunton and only the odd one at Hove.
I may have to change my theory that teams who bats second and fourth and have a significant first-innings deficit rarely win. It does seem to becoming quite common this season.
I know there was a theory that teams find chasing much easier these days because of all the one-day cricket but until this season, I always held by my rule that nine times out of 10, you wouldn’t get much over 250 to win in the fourth innings.
I still find modern captaincy baffling. In the game at Hove, Jennings snicked the ball through a vacant second slip early on ; just out of first slip’s diving range. I just think you might as well lose quickly rather than regret not taking wickets. The thing is that teams do it in one day cricket; they keep one day fields when the only possibility of winning is taking wickets and stopping singles so they just do the same in four day.
There was no better example of this then the tied game in 2018 . Sorry if this is a painful memory but Lancashire were giving away so many easy singles to Somerset when under 30 were needed and only brought the field in when there was only one run needed with two wickets left. We all know what happened from there.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:03:12:27:50 by Des Platt.
I may have to change my theory that teams who bats second and fourth and have a significant first-innings deficit rarely win. It does seem to becoming quite common this season.
I know there was a theory that teams find chasing much easier these days because of all the one-day cricket but until this season, I always held by my rule that nine times out of 10, you wouldn’t get much over 250 to win in the fourth innings.
I still find modern captaincy baffling. In the game at Hove, Jennings snicked the ball through a vacant second slip early on ; just out of first slip’s diving range. I just think you might as well lose quickly rather than regret not taking wickets. The thing is that teams do it in one day cricket; they keep one day fields when the only possibility of winning is taking wickets and stopping singles so they just do the same in four day.
There was no better example of this then the tied game in 2018 . Sorry if this is a painful memory but Lancashire were giving away so many easy singles to Somerset when under 30 were needed and only brought the field in when there was only one run needed with two wickets left. We all know what happened from there.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:03:12:27:50 by Des Platt.
I was out this morning, but wound back the live stream and watched it this afternoon. Despite - perhaps because of - knowing the result, it was most enjoyable. I saw no reason to revise the assessment I shared yesterday that Golden Lewis has a mature head on young shoulders - well batted, young man (along with Davies, Hildreth and Abell). It was, of course, Cove, abetted by JD, who gave us an opportunity to win.
I hope, after all the praise we’ve given him, we aren’t discussing Lewis minor in the same terms as we have been discussing TL only a few games later after praising him so highly . Personally, I would give them both a long run although I recognise it can hit confidence of young players badly to have a long poor run as well as it can by dropping them.
"Second season syndrome," is not unusual. That may be afflicting Lammonby.
However, we should all recognise that, all other things being equal, opening the innings in August (as TL did last year), is usually going to be easier than doing so in April.
We should also absolutely recognise that TL is not, by trade, an opener anyway!
At the moment, my biggest concern re: TL is that we may be causing a bit of damage to a terrific middle-order batting prospect by shoe-horning him into the opening role.
Personally, I'd be opening with Byrom and Abell as those are the two that are, in my view , best suited from a technical standpoint to the task at hand.
That would leave, probably, George Bartlett at number three.
A top three of Byrom, Abell and Bartlett would then leave four players - Hildreth, Lammonby, Goldsworthy and Banton to scrap over two places (at number 4 and 5) in our order. That's unless management want to go with the longer batting line-up on a more regular basis, in which case perm three from four.
I don't expect management to move to this solution with great alacrity, but I do suspect that the above is where we will end up eventually, and I hope that no lasting damage is done to TL, in the interim.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:03:13:07:40 by AGod.
However, we should all recognise that, all other things being equal, opening the innings in August (as TL did last year), is usually going to be easier than doing so in April.
We should also absolutely recognise that TL is not, by trade, an opener anyway!
At the moment, my biggest concern re: TL is that we may be causing a bit of damage to a terrific middle-order batting prospect by shoe-horning him into the opening role.
Personally, I'd be opening with Byrom and Abell as those are the two that are, in my view , best suited from a technical standpoint to the task at hand.
That would leave, probably, George Bartlett at number three.
A top three of Byrom, Abell and Bartlett would then leave four players - Hildreth, Lammonby, Goldsworthy and Banton to scrap over two places (at number 4 and 5) in our order. That's unless management want to go with the longer batting line-up on a more regular basis, in which case perm three from four.
I don't expect management to move to this solution with great alacrity, but I do suspect that the above is where we will end up eventually, and I hope that no lasting damage is done to TL, in the interim.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:03:13:07:40 by AGod.
The people who were talking about Tom Lammonby as the 'new Trescothick' have either forgotten about the problems Marcus had finding his place in the Somerset side in the late 90's and are hoping too much based on too little evidence
As AG points out, cricketers need at least 2 seasons on front of their peers before they can be assessed. We have had bowlers who looked phenomenal in their first run outs and did not come through the 24 month period. We were talking about a few while talking about the famous Yorkshire run chase of days of yore. In that side was David Stiff who played a significant role in batting Yorkshire into oblivion and had a season where he took wickets for fun with 'surprise' pace. Second season he got smacked into oblivion when people had seen it and knew how to deal with it.
Even Pete Trego did not become a star in his first 2 years - he had to go away and come back
Tom has latent talent - it's whether we can put it into action in our structure that matters. He is by no means a finished product who sorted out all the issues at the end of last year. He won't sort them out this year either but we hope he moves forward and puts some of that talent into practice. One of our most talented batsmen never really put it into play and left the game early.
Lewis has traits we hope will be part of his plan going forward and and will become part of our batting formula. When he hits the doldrums, as Tom Abell did aa couple of seasons ago then the backroom boys click into action and they work with the player to help him get past it and come back strong. Hope it happens for all of them. We have a remarkably talented young batting cohort that can complement each other in the right structure. If we get this right then Byrom, Banton, Bartlett, Lammonnby, Goldsworthy, Green, Smeed and others will take us a long way into the 20's as a force in domestic cricket.
And that isn't mentioning the bowlers.....
As AG points out, cricketers need at least 2 seasons on front of their peers before they can be assessed. We have had bowlers who looked phenomenal in their first run outs and did not come through the 24 month period. We were talking about a few while talking about the famous Yorkshire run chase of days of yore. In that side was David Stiff who played a significant role in batting Yorkshire into oblivion and had a season where he took wickets for fun with 'surprise' pace. Second season he got smacked into oblivion when people had seen it and knew how to deal with it.
Even Pete Trego did not become a star in his first 2 years - he had to go away and come back
Tom has latent talent - it's whether we can put it into action in our structure that matters. He is by no means a finished product who sorted out all the issues at the end of last year. He won't sort them out this year either but we hope he moves forward and puts some of that talent into practice. One of our most talented batsmen never really put it into play and left the game early.
Lewis has traits we hope will be part of his plan going forward and and will become part of our batting formula. When he hits the doldrums, as Tom Abell did aa couple of seasons ago then the backroom boys click into action and they work with the player to help him get past it and come back strong. Hope it happens for all of them. We have a remarkably talented young batting cohort that can complement each other in the right structure. If we get this right then Byrom, Banton, Bartlett, Lammonnby, Goldsworthy, Green, Smeed and others will take us a long way into the 20's as a force in domestic cricket.
And that isn't mentioning the bowlers.....
"The Opening Conundrum".
A gut churning, tense thriller produced & directed by SCCC.
Series 86 starts this Thursday at the Rose Bowl.
Starring ..............to be advised.
A gut churning, tense thriller produced & directed by SCCC.
Series 86 starts this Thursday at the Rose Bowl.
Starring ..............to be advised.
Invert the order!!
Leachy isn’t good Vs towering quicks on bouncy pitches (see the two bounce outs Vs Finn) but against the Hants style bowlers looking to pitch it up? Not sure I’d send MDL out to open with him mind!
Leachy and JD to open it is then!!
I expect an emerald green pitch for the ultra dangerous M Abbas and our nemesis, K Abbott.
Leachy isn’t good Vs towering quicks on bouncy pitches (see the two bounce outs Vs Finn) but against the Hants style bowlers looking to pitch it up? Not sure I’d send MDL out to open with him mind!
Leachy and JD to open it is then!!
I expect an emerald green pitch for the ultra dangerous M Abbas and our nemesis, K Abbott.
Apologies for my long absence: if anybody missed me and thought I might have died you should have remembered that that cannot happen until Somerset wins the championship. The death - or near death - that occured related to my computer, which gradually slowed to a virtual halt, with contact with the internet lost. Eventually, the machine went off to the menders, with a promise that if repair proved impossible I would receive a voucher for a new one. Perhaps I was a little disappointed that repairs could be made. Since the computer was retrieved I have been very busy catching up - reinstalling software and files, ploughing through several dozen emails and eventually glimpsing a few hundred postings on this site that had accumulated over three weeks or more. With the help of Bobstan and Radio Five Live (the latter providing only very occasional news of the championship) I just managed to keep abreast of Somerset's doing and so, having learned of our remarkable victory over Middlesex at Lord's, I was never concerned about defeat at Taunton.
But the match just ended was indeed a remarkable one and, apart from Banton and Lammonby (except in one innings), every member of the team has made more than one useful contribution. In the case of Lammonby, talk of second season syndrome is premature. Somebody here sensibly reminded us of Trescothick's early difficulties , to which I would add that the first four matches of 2021 hardly constitute a second season - more accurately he is enduring 6th - 9th first-class match syndrome.
Goldsworthy appears to be a very talented young man (as he hinted at in his T20 batting last year) and I am reminded that after Abell's near century against Warwickshire in his very first innings, which I was lucky enough to watch, one of the umpires said it was the best debut innings he had ever seen. Something similar could be said about Goldsworthy's first match, especially as twice he arrived at the crease when things looked far from rosey.
Reading all the threads I had missed, I was frequently confused and I would like to propose a ban on the use of the single words "Tom" or "Lewis" and the initials LG. Being an old-fashioned kind of chat, I have never really warmed to the use of nicknames, which in my opinion smack of an intimacy with the players that few of us enjoy. And some nicknames, such as Hilda or Hildy or Leachy are frankly inelegant and ridiculous (as was Belly for the former Warwickshire man). I have a radical suggestion (which is bound to irritate some of my co-contributors): why not identify the players simply by their surnames. An exception would of course be allowable should the Overtons be playing in the same match.
This year's screening of matches is of a very high standard and much appreciated. But I noticed that there is now a stand at the river end called the "Lord Ian Botham Stand". Without wishing to provoke a debate about the excess creation of peers to serve in what is already the second largest legislature in the world, I would welcome Tom Seymour's (should I just call him Seymour!) informed opinion on whether that labelling is correct. Surely he is Lord Botham without the inclusion of his first name. (I apologise if this matter has been raised in a posting I have not read)
And now for a little statistic.... When Hildreth and Bartlett appeared at Lord's in the first match of the season, they were making the 1999th an 2000th appearance of former Millfield pupils in county championship matches for Somerset. Don't ask me how I know that, for I would have to reveal how desperately sad I am.
Now that I am back and have written at such length some of you are probably hoping my computer will soon break down again - but I DO enjoy the company of you all, even the doom mongers.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:03:19:59:21 by Loyal of Lhasa.
But the match just ended was indeed a remarkable one and, apart from Banton and Lammonby (except in one innings), every member of the team has made more than one useful contribution. In the case of Lammonby, talk of second season syndrome is premature. Somebody here sensibly reminded us of Trescothick's early difficulties , to which I would add that the first four matches of 2021 hardly constitute a second season - more accurately he is enduring 6th - 9th first-class match syndrome.
Goldsworthy appears to be a very talented young man (as he hinted at in his T20 batting last year) and I am reminded that after Abell's near century against Warwickshire in his very first innings, which I was lucky enough to watch, one of the umpires said it was the best debut innings he had ever seen. Something similar could be said about Goldsworthy's first match, especially as twice he arrived at the crease when things looked far from rosey.
Reading all the threads I had missed, I was frequently confused and I would like to propose a ban on the use of the single words "Tom" or "Lewis" and the initials LG. Being an old-fashioned kind of chat, I have never really warmed to the use of nicknames, which in my opinion smack of an intimacy with the players that few of us enjoy. And some nicknames, such as Hilda or Hildy or Leachy are frankly inelegant and ridiculous (as was Belly for the former Warwickshire man). I have a radical suggestion (which is bound to irritate some of my co-contributors): why not identify the players simply by their surnames. An exception would of course be allowable should the Overtons be playing in the same match.
This year's screening of matches is of a very high standard and much appreciated. But I noticed that there is now a stand at the river end called the "Lord Ian Botham Stand". Without wishing to provoke a debate about the excess creation of peers to serve in what is already the second largest legislature in the world, I would welcome Tom Seymour's (should I just call him Seymour!) informed opinion on whether that labelling is correct. Surely he is Lord Botham without the inclusion of his first name. (I apologise if this matter has been raised in a posting I have not read)
And now for a little statistic.... When Hildreth and Bartlett appeared at Lord's in the first match of the season, they were making the 1999th an 2000th appearance of former Millfield pupils in county championship matches for Somerset. Don't ask me how I know that, for I would have to reveal how desperately sad I am.
Now that I am back and have written at such length some of you are probably hoping my computer will soon break down again - but I DO enjoy the company of you all, even the doom mongers.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:03:19:59:21 by Loyal of Lhasa.
Glad to read that you are back, Loyal of Lhasa. I am sure I am not the only one who has missed your contributions and your sense of humour.
Welcome back LoL. All you have missed on the cricketing front is three weeks of unending purgatory. But have no fear, there are still five months of it to come.
Farmer
Farmer
And for those who have emerged from behind the sofa, here is the link to my Final Day Report on the latest instalment of purgatory:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
And for ease of reference links to the reports on the first three days:
Day 3:
Farmer
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
Day 2:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
Day 1:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
And for ease of reference links to the reports on the first three days:
Day 3:
Farmer
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
Day 2:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
Day 1:
[farmerwhite.co.uk]
"The Emperor" is not a nickname - it is an honorific title. Some fellow contributors on meeting him in the street might feel emboldened to say "Hiya Hildy" but none would surely think of saying "Hail The Emperor".
Talking of the great man, I really appreciated the long interview with him on the official site. What a great human being he is, not at all imperial in his manners but very different with a bat in his hand.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Talking of the great man, I really appreciated the long interview with him on the official site. What a great human being he is, not at all imperial in his manners but very different with a bat in his hand.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Domestic Cricket Links Blog--County Championship Round 4 complete: links to scores, scorecards, tables, statistics, video links to full match videos and highlight videos, links to match stories.
In 4 games the winning team was losing after the 1st Innings. A 1 run win for Yorkshire, 2nd 1 run win since 1890. Hampshire their biggest innings loss since 1911, Glamorgan their fewest overs win since 1926
CC Links Blog--Round 4--Complete
In 4 games the winning team was losing after the 1st Innings. A 1 run win for Yorkshire, 2nd 1 run win since 1890. Hampshire their biggest innings loss since 1911, Glamorgan their fewest overs win since 1926
CC Links Blog--Round 4--Complete
I'm appalled that you would not 'Hail the Emperor' if you met him. He is, after all one of the two greatest batsmen born in Milton Keynes.
I've long thought that our esteemed, erudite, venerable and most learned correspondent from Tibet should have a suitable title:
'Lord Lozza of Lhasa' perhaps ?
Welcome back LoL !
Grizzers
'Lord Lozza of Lhasa' perhaps ?
Welcome back LoL !
Grizzers
I must remember to greet him on Gimblett's Hill later in the summer with 'Whatcha Lozza'
Thanks for your support, chaps. I think I prefer Lama Lozza of Lhasa and I shall be prepared to offer blessings when eventually I reach Gimblett's Hill - for a small fee (payable in beer or ice cream). Yak Butter Tea (which is as revolting as it sounds) will NOT be acceptable.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Those of us that know LoL knows he goes on these secret missions now and then.
It is always a relief when he returns safe and well.
It is always a relief when he returns safe and well.
Ahhh the oldie but goodie "Is LoL OHMSS?" Not been here for a long long while!
I still remember the frisson of listening in 2003 to commentary on cricket from Taunton on my laptop in a Beijing hotel, when Grockle said, "We have a contributor living in Tibet and we think he may be some kind of spy..."
Fortunately, my cover was not blown on that day and I may have got away with it.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:05:12:32:05 by Loyal of Lhasa.
Fortunately, my cover was not blown on that day and I may have got away with it.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:05:12:32:05 by Loyal of Lhasa.
Lovely to see you back, LoL, I knew you hadn't died because you'd have texted to tell me if you had.
You're spot on there, Big Jim, and I would of course insist on our enjoying a sherbert or two together before the end.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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