Somerset
CC1 - A sense of purpose
Into the Firsts
By Grockle et al
August 3 2013
No Alviro Petersen for this clash due to jet lag and no Alfonso due to a bruised ankle so our second half Championship sees Chris Jones and George Dockrell joining the usual suspects against Nottinghamshire with points on our mind and a need to have absolute focus for every minute the weather allows of every Championship day of cricekt between here and the middle of September. Nick Compton may be waiting to see the results of these games before deciding to cast his lot with us again.
v Nottinghamshire CC1 @ TAUNTON Friday 2 August 2013
Commentary (click on George's head at the top of the forum)
Injuries other issues made selection a little easier for this game as Alviro Petersen and Alfonso Thomas booth made themselves unavailable because of jetlag and bruised heels respectively. So the Somerset side was as follows;
Trescothick, Compton, Hildreth, Jones, Kieswetter, Buttler, Trego, Meschede, Dockrell, Overton J, Kirby
Day 1
With a trip up to the East Midlands and back on Thursday and wifi issues all day I couldn't produce much of a Day 1 report so i thought I'd leave it until the end of the innings to catch up. HHowever, as I speak the Notts tail who made a meal of things last night are continuingwith Fletcher just going to a Number 9 50 off 50 balls with 9 fours and 1 six (the shot that took him to the half ton).
Yesterday we lost the toss and they decided to bat first on a dry sunny day with little chance of rain until, at best, late afternoon.
The day saw Notts to a score they should not have really got thanks to a couple of catches that were put down and a good 9th wicket partnership of 57 from Fletcher and Shahzad. This should be balanced by an excellent though unrewarded bowling day from Steve Kirby and two brilliant catches from Craig behind the wickets and The Boss.
Some Notts men fared better than others. Patel had a decidedly rough time against both Jamie Overton and George Dockell
Chris Read (25) did not trouble us the way he usuallly does, though he was dropped because of a schoolboy error on the boundary by Craig Meschede when he had scored only 11. Andre Adams did not do his usual either. The people who made the runs were Mullaney and Hussey with Fletcher puttiing on 60 odd at the end with a tail that made a probably significant 100.
Day 2
With a fourth ball leave taking out Shazad's off stump for no addition we expected a good workmanllike finish to the Notts innings and into Somerset's batting day. It didn't quite work out like that and we finally dismissed the visitors for 278 after some pretty indifferent bowling - why don't people bowl stright to tailenders?
The bowlers had good and bad days. George took 3 but went for 103 and some were gifts. Steve bowled his heart out and went past the bat many times on Friday but ended up wicketless and 92 runs in debit. Pete had 3 for 61 and Jamie had 3 for 67 but neither looked wholely convincing. Craig M completed the list with 1 for 51 off 10, including an inexplicable new ball spell from the 81st over where he shared it with George against a new batsman and the tail (who took 57 off it) while Steve and Jamie looked on from fielding positions. Not easily explained I have to say.
Anyway 11:55 Day 2 and Marcus and Nick are at the crease looking to bat all day. The innings starts the same way the Notts one did with both batsmen scratching around trying to find their feet against accurate bowling.
No-one scores until halfway through the 5th over against Gurney (Old Pavilion) and Fletcher (River) and then something that seems to becoming too usual happens. Marcus prods forward to a ball from Gurney in the 8th over, no foot movement means he gets a leading edge and he is pouched by Mullaney for 2 with the score on 9. I have pondered on this for a while now and I thinkwe have something of the same problem with our skipper as we had with our previous one. As age moves you on, your hand eye co-ordination is not what it was, you are still perfectly capable most of the time but the 'edgier' balls don't go your way as often. In Justin's case it was an increase in LBW's, in Marcus' case it seems to be snicks to the slips or keeper early on. In The Boss's case it is something people questioned about his ability to open early in his career, he does not move his feet early on. Now, it seems, those marginal balls he used to have more of an idea to leave or was to earlier so he hit more confidently, are getting the better of him. The evidence from the seconds game is that the rest of the Trescothick game is still in decent order, the catch he took yesterday proved he still has excellent fielding skills. I just think he should move down the order and take the older ball. But that's an opinion and he will do what he will do.
A possible future opener and Somerset captain strrides out with a new contract under his belt and a reputation to consolidate. Chris Jones comes in at number 3 but only 11 more runs are added before the rain finally arrives and the umpires take them off for an early lunch at 12:30.
By 1:25 the little rain we had had dried and the sun was out again. The openers seemed in little trouble but in wary mode as Chris Read ran through his bowling options. The 50 arrived in the 19th over with both batsmen putting in an equal amount of work; Nick on 25 and Chris on 22.
And so it went through to the 27th and a score of 70 when the thunder from the Minehead Valley suggested something more substantial in terms of rain and the umpires got the players off the pitch in order for the groundstaff to get the big covers on before the deluge. Presently the deluge hhasn't arrived but the hard covers are on the wicket and all the outfield ones are out in force. Although the clouds are moving at speed across the ground from east to west, there are a lot of them and they are all moving from grey to black.
And that as it for Day 2. At 4 o'clock with masses of rain coming down and all the covers on the umpires called it a day.
Day 3
Rain everywhere but not at the County Ground at the start of Day 3. The wind dried the outfield out enough to make it playable and we started on time. Within 5 balls we have lost Chris Jones and then, just before they are taken off for the first time in a disjointed day, Nick has some kind of moment of madness and gives his wicket away trying to smack the seam out of the ball. 75 for 3 after the 5 odd overs before the first rain arrives.
It wasn't a particularly long break and neither was the session of play that followed it. Long enough however for Hildreth to give his wicket away without adding to the score followed by Kieswetter caught behhind 6 runs later and Trego first ball in identical fashion putting Fletcher on a hatrick which, thankfully, we didn't give to him on a silver platter. By the start of the weather created early lunch we'd managed to go from 70 for 1 to 81 for 6 in 11 overs and the praying for rain had started in most parts of the ground where the sparse Somerset support was watching on.
The afternoon session found Jos Buttler and Craig Meschede facing an uphill battle but they took the score beyond 100 and started to give us all hope until, for no apparent reason, Jos decided to take on a ball that was not there to be taken on and died half thwacking a ball straight down the only fielder in the area's (Shahzad) throat with suppporters around me shouting "NNNOOOOOO!". Lacking in sense would be a pleasant way of describing the young man's one day shot selection.
With a follow on score of 238 over a hundred runs away we watched the number 9 batsman walk in and expected an afternoon follow on - and silently prayed for rain again.
But Craig and George Dockrell had other plans and settled down to getting some moderate respectability to the score. With the new man acting as accumulator and Craig playing sensibly they added 50 to the score over a significant period of time before Craig was cleaned up by a good ball from Gurney at 175. More than one person in the crowd asked the question why a number 8 could deal with this bowling while thee 'cream' of the batting line-up felt they had to score using huge shots on an overcast and damp day with rain always threatening.
Dockrell staggered on with Kirby and added 12 before he went to Patel caught Taylos in close at 187. By then though the weather was closing in and at about 4:30 the umpires decided the light was too bad for our last two to face Patel and the day's play was ended by bad light at 188 for 9
Day 4
Started in grey cloud but no rain even though it had been belting down most of the early morning. Steve Kirby and Jamie Overton strode to the crease and 2 balls later were striding back after Kirbs was out, caught off Patel by close fielder Taylor, without adding anything. All out for 188 and the follow on was enforced by Notts.
No rain all morning although the predictions were for very heavy showers and the cloud cover certainly suggested it for most of the morning.
Marcus rode his luck after being dropped by Patel on 9 - a regular catch in the covers although quite low down - the skipper probably needs a bit of luck. By the lunch interval we had movved on to 68 without loss though Compton had to survive his own wwicket claim when he square cut a ball into the shin pads of Taylor and the ball bounced back into Read's hands. The Notts men went up but the umpire said not out and Notts seemed to accept that so we can only think it bounced up. However most people who saw it live thought it was a legitimate claim. That was just before the lunch break.
After luunch the Somerset pair resumed their defence and rodee their luck again as The Boss flashed a high one through the hands of 3rd slip for a boundary. unfortunately he was decieved by Gurney quite soon after and caught behind for 39. 39 for 1 and in came Chris Jones to the innings where you have 4 around the bat and the keeper and Patel niggling at you.
Eventually it became too much for Chris who never really got going but defended his wicket for a precious 58 minutes for 6 runs before falling caught behind to the best ball Shahzzad managed to bowl. James Hildreth came in determined to carry on where hee left off and helped guide the score towards 190 and a first innings lead and help his partner to 50 and beyond.
All was moving towards an increasingly obvious conclusion when at 3:25 the umpires took the sides off for an early Tea as the light over the flats was becoming increasingly poorer. Then this happened
Notts rain
And that was 'yer lot ladies and gentlemen. Game drawn. Nick Compton 70 and James Hildreth 16. Notts take 10 and we take 6.
The game was ended by the rain but it was saved with the bat and that has to be a morale booster which is all we could really take from this game. On to Surrey tomorrow in our other guise but with our mind also on the away Championship games to come when this form will NOT be good enough to guarantee First Division long format cricket next year.
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StumbleuponCC1 - A sense of purpose
Discussion started by Grockles.com , 03/08/2013 11:54
Grockles.com
03/08/2013 11:54
03/08/2013 11:54
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:19:19:27 by Grockle.
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:19:19:27 by Grockle.
Forecast seems to be sunshine and showers every day (which is usually a sign that the forecasters are very uncertain of what will actually happen).
Their batting has been leaning heavily on two guys, Lumb and Taylor, both of whom are averaging around 60.
So, I'd suggest that KP's calf injury could be quite important to Somerset. If he does not recover then the job of our bowlers may be quite a bit easier.
Our sometime nemesis, Chris Read, has had a poor season with the bat. This seems odd as, in seasons past, he's done really well as the top-order fail. This season their top-order has been much better and so Read has been going in far later but then failing.
Suspect that a bit of T20 may have helped Hales out of his slump.
I'd feel better about this fixture if we had an in-form spinner as Notts lack anyone of quality in the spin dept that will be available for this one.
Notts' seamers have not had a great season either. Andre Adams is now, hopefully, past his best and Ajmal Shahzad has not really caught fire.
I don't think we've won a home CC game with Notts since MKM took all those wickets at the end of our last Div Two campaign? So we owe them/should be due.
If Marcus is unavailable, do we suppose that Alf will be skipper?
I guess Jones's T20 innings are getting his nose in front for a place in the team, but if Tres is unfit will we move CK to three? If we don't move CK to three then surely Jones + AN Other will have to come into the side to bat in our top three with Compton.
I'm sure Marcus will be desperate to play, but he may be hopeful of losing the toss....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:02:16:12:34 by Grockle.
Their batting has been leaning heavily on two guys, Lumb and Taylor, both of whom are averaging around 60.
So, I'd suggest that KP's calf injury could be quite important to Somerset. If he does not recover then the job of our bowlers may be quite a bit easier.
Our sometime nemesis, Chris Read, has had a poor season with the bat. This seems odd as, in seasons past, he's done really well as the top-order fail. This season their top-order has been much better and so Read has been going in far later but then failing.
Suspect that a bit of T20 may have helped Hales out of his slump.
I'd feel better about this fixture if we had an in-form spinner as Notts lack anyone of quality in the spin dept that will be available for this one.
Notts' seamers have not had a great season either. Andre Adams is now, hopefully, past his best and Ajmal Shahzad has not really caught fire.
I don't think we've won a home CC game with Notts since MKM took all those wickets at the end of our last Div Two campaign? So we owe them/should be due.
If Marcus is unavailable, do we suppose that Alf will be skipper?
I guess Jones's T20 innings are getting his nose in front for a place in the team, but if Tres is unfit will we move CK to three? If we don't move CK to three then surely Jones + AN Other will have to come into the side to bat in our top three with Compton.
I'm sure Marcus will be desperate to play, but he may be hopeful of losing the toss....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:02:16:12:34 by Grockle.
Jones
Compton
CK
Hildreth
Buttler
Barrow
Trego
That could be the top seven if Tres is not fit?
Unless Abell's big knock gets him a look at joining Jones in the top three?
Gregory has also had improved second XI form so I suppose he might be a candidate to bat at three if we don't want CK there?
Compton
CK
Hildreth
Buttler
Barrow
Trego
That could be the top seven if Tres is not fit?
Unless Abell's big knock gets him a look at joining Jones in the top three?
Gregory has also had improved second XI form so I suppose he might be a candidate to bat at three if we don't want CK there?
Tres is said to be on course to be fit, being rested as precaution for final 2 T20's.
Therefore Tres, Nick, Jones, Hildy, Craig, Jos, Pete + 4 bowlers
Therefore Tres, Nick, Jones, Hildy, Craig, Jos, Pete + 4 bowlers
Being rested is not a bad idea considering the stats. [stats.espncricinfo.com]
Chris Jones has scored more runs than Marcus already.
Chris Jones has scored more runs than Marcus already.
wsm - that did not seem to me to be quite what AH was saying about Tres on the official site.
I drew the inference from AH's comments that it may be touch and go for Marcus vs Notts.
I drew the inference from AH's comments that it may be touch and go for Marcus vs Notts.
Well he's presently no great loss in the CC if he insists on batting 1 or 2 so it may be a good thing if he refuses to move down the order and isn't fit to be brutally honest.
But there's a few days yet so time for things to be sorted however they may be.
But there's a few days yet so time for things to be sorted however they may be.
So Grockle you a have joined those of us that thinks its time for Marcus to move down the order?.
Tres will not move down, nor do I personally want him to.
We have 6 cup finals left, i'm backing our skipper, ex international test opener to come good.
He's not fired this year but I back him to.
What is other option? Jones?
It is probably about 15 years if ever since he batted anywhere else but opener, is this the right time to put him somewhere else?
We need a new number 3 for the rest of season with no Alviro, and for last 4 or 5 we'll be missing Jos too i'd expect, (Lions leading into ODI's)
So our potential top 6 for our last 4 or 5 games is
Tres, Compo, Jones, Hildy, Craig, Alex
We have 6 cup finals left, i'm backing our skipper, ex international test opener to come good.
He's not fired this year but I back him to.
What is other option? Jones?
It is probably about 15 years if ever since he batted anywhere else but opener, is this the right time to put him somewhere else?
We need a new number 3 for the rest of season with no Alviro, and for last 4 or 5 we'll be missing Jos too i'd expect, (Lions leading into ODI's)
So our potential top 6 for our last 4 or 5 games is
Tres, Compo, Jones, Hildy, Craig, Alex
Yep Roger joined a few weeks ago because we have people to cover the front end and I think Marcus would destroy old ball bowling at number 4.
Sadly his destroying days are probably behind him.
He's not been very reliable against spin either this season and would see more of that at four.
Regardless, he is surely most unlikely to agree to move down the order.
He's not been very reliable against spin either this season and would see more of that at four.
Regardless, he is surely most unlikely to agree to move down the order.
Quote:Sadly his destroying days are probably behind him.
Says who?
I still believe.
Never been the same since returning from the second injury, IMO, but you are of course free to believe whatever you wish.
Given that he will, surely, decide to remain as an opener then your own post of 19:48 is not exactly unequivocal in its enthusiasm for Tres's batting, Grockle.
I'm not saying he cannot make runs, just that it's probable that his days of domination are in the past. He's played the equivalent of a full season since coming back after the Notts injury and probably averages about mid 30s over that time.
That's, obviously, a very far cry from what he was doing before the ankle was hurt the first time.
I think 16 games is too long a time-frame to be merely a blip in form. It's certainly longer by far than he's had at any time since he returned to SCCC full-time, post England.
It may be that part of it, this season, has been the pressure of leading a struggling side.
I'm not saying he cannot make runs, just that it's probable that his days of domination are in the past. He's played the equivalent of a full season since coming back after the Notts injury and probably averages about mid 30s over that time.
That's, obviously, a very far cry from what he was doing before the ankle was hurt the first time.
I think 16 games is too long a time-frame to be merely a blip in form. It's certainly longer by far than he's had at any time since he returned to SCCC full-time, post England.
It may be that part of it, this season, has been the pressure of leading a struggling side.
Please refrain from telling me what I mean by my own posts.
a) you are useless at it and b) it isn't appreciated.
If you want me to explain what I mean simply ask and I'll tell you the actual meaning.
If I agreed with your view of MT's batting I'd say I agreed with your view of MT's batting. As I didn't say that you can probably deduce that I don't.
As for the rest of your opinion, well it is yours and so I'll not tell you what you really mean by it.
a) you are useless at it and b) it isn't appreciated.
If you want me to explain what I mean simply ask and I'll tell you the actual meaning.
If I agreed with your view of MT's batting I'd say I agreed with your view of MT's batting. As I didn't say that you can probably deduce that I don't.
As for the rest of your opinion, well it is yours and so I'll not tell you what you really mean by it.
Please don't pretend there was some hidden meaning in your post.
You said that, at present 'he's no great loss'.
As I say that hardly constitutes unequivocal backing for his batting and you are presumably not going to claim that it does?
You said that, at present 'he's no great loss'.
As I say that hardly constitutes unequivocal backing for his batting and you are presumably not going to claim that it does?
Not sure why AG's above posts were regarded with such disdain, given that the views expressed have been widely aired & discussed on Grockles for many weeks.
As far as Marcus is concerned, the jury must surely still be out as to his future role & abilities, (with Marcus himself likely fulfilling the role of foreman of the jury !).
Grizzzly
As far as Marcus is concerned, the jury must surely still be out as to his future role & abilities, (with Marcus himself likely fulfilling the role of foreman of the jury !).
Grizzzly
Just because I say he is 'presently no great loss' at one or two is a factual statement and says nothing about my opinion of his ability as a batsman over time or of his prowess with the willow.
Keep your 'Mystic Meg' comments to yourself and please don't tell me I'm wrong when I tell you what I mean.
You have absolutely no flaming clue and are typing out of your posterior once more.
Keep your 'Mystic Meg' comments to yourself and please don't tell me I'm wrong when I tell you what I mean.
You have absolutely no flaming clue and are typing out of your posterior once more.
Pretty certain that if I'd said that 'Tres is no great loss', unless he agrees to go down the order then I'd be accused by some - including yourself - of all kinds of disrespect to our Captain.
But, hey ho
But, hey ho
Well there's the difference between posters I suppose AG. I may very well ask what you meant should you state that and I might even ask you to explain yourself.
I certainly wouldn't tell you what you meant before you explained yourself because I'd then be 'accused' (by you most certainly) of putting words in your mouth.
Difference of perceptions, understanding and sheer courtesy I suppose
As you say 'hey ho'
The absolutely hilarious part of this is that I do seriously believe that you still think you know more about what I mean than I do!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:07:28:14:03:38 by Grockle.
I certainly wouldn't tell you what you meant before you explained yourself because I'd then be 'accused' (by you most certainly) of putting words in your mouth.
Difference of perceptions, understanding and sheer courtesy I suppose
As you say 'hey ho'
The absolutely hilarious part of this is that I do seriously believe that you still think you know more about what I mean than I do!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:07:28:14:03:38 by Grockle.
Sadly - but rather excitingly, I must confess - I will not be meeting fellow-Grockles on Gimblett's Hill during this match as planned as I will, totally unexpectedly, be performing in a show on the Edinburgh Fringe.
I'll raise a glass to Somerset cricket and all my friends in the Oxford Bar.
I'll raise a glass to Somerset cricket and all my friends in the Oxford Bar.
@Ronnie do not miss 'King Kong - The Musical' (The Space, Niddry Street, Aug 2-3 & 5-10).
@Grockle - good wishes very much appreciated.
@Grockle - good wishes very much appreciated.
Are you King? Kong? or the Fay Wray character? Now if you say the Jack Black character in the newest version that will make my day.
Afraid not Grockle - the Kong character is much bigger than me (built on the lines of Mitch McClenaghan) and the Fay Wray character much much much prettier.
My character is not in any of the movies. He's a Broadway producer by the name of Merian P. Jackson.
Think about it.
Apologies for taking this thread so far off topic. Actor's ego.
My character is not in any of the movies. He's a Broadway producer by the name of Merian P. Jackson.
Think about it.
Apologies for taking this thread so far off topic. Actor's ego.
Why is it that whenever I come on to this site and whatever subject is being discussed it seems to descend into a spat between agod and grockle. Tiresome.
My pleased reaction, West1, is that once again there are a few posts I needn't bother reading.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Maybe you don't come on often enough West1 (welcome by the way) and unfortunately we don't see eye to eye sometimes.
But please browse about. You'll find lots that has none of us on it and try not to concentrate on the bits that do if they aren't to your liking. No compulsion to read them or contribute to them, no membership to pay etc etc
And if it tires you then have a rest and come back. We go 24 hours a day and things will still be here for commentary or to ignore.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:07:29:14:37:21 by Grockle.
But please browse about. You'll find lots that has none of us on it and try not to concentrate on the bits that do if they aren't to your liking. No compulsion to read them or contribute to them, no membership to pay etc etc
And if it tires you then have a rest and come back. We go 24 hours a day and things will still be here for commentary or to ignore.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:07:29:14:37:21 by Grockle.
Welcome West1.
If you have been reading this site for a while you will know who to read and who to ignore.
I may be one of those you want to ignore so you may not be reading this.
If you have been reading this site for a while you will know who to read and who to ignore.
I may be one of those you want to ignore so you may not be reading this.
Quote:West1
Why is it that whenever I come on to this site and whatever subject is being discussed it seems to descend into a spat between agod and grockle. Tiresome.
Don't panic West1 - the 'spats' between the named posters are, in 95% of them, private to the couple involved! The total posts from those probably account for about 60% of all posts - and of course the latter named has the job of keeping us all in order! So, as advised by others, pick and choose your moment to get involved, and you don't have reply to every post that doesn't agree with yours. Just rest in the knowledge that you know you are right!!!
I haven't been a member hare for long so still remember my early impressions, not that different to yours W1. The fact that I'm here and posting this indicates that I persevered, though I confess I sometimes I wonder why. I do recommend it to others however, and to you.
But the constant sniping between those two particular posters seems to be increasing in its frequency, and it's becoming a real irritation.
Well never mind Lord H, we all have to put up with things here - it's a free forum you see.
As said above. If it irritates you don't read it. We aren't the only two who 'snipe' and the points usually start with cricket issues.
We also agree and discuss things as well, some forget that, the sniping usually realises it's off topic, the complaining about it tends not to.
Funny how the world is full of things you like and things you don't like as much isn't it?
I'd personally love the people who complain about my posts to post items other than complaints about my posts a little more but you can't have everything and that complaint doesn't cover everyone so it's a moveable feast really.
As said above. If it irritates you don't read it. We aren't the only two who 'snipe' and the points usually start with cricket issues.
We also agree and discuss things as well, some forget that, the sniping usually realises it's off topic, the complaining about it tends not to.
Funny how the world is full of things you like and things you don't like as much isn't it?
I'd personally love the people who complain about my posts to post items other than complaints about my posts a little more but you can't have everything and that complaint doesn't cover everyone so it's a moveable feast really.
You're right Grockle, it is a free forum, so if you don't like people "complaining about your posts" then that's tough - lump it.
I've nothing against healthy debate and argument, but it would be a shame if people were put off visiting and commenting on this forum because they have to wade through the reams of posts of you and AG bickering.
I've nothing against healthy debate and argument, but it would be a shame if people were put off visiting and commenting on this forum because they have to wade through the reams of posts of you and AG bickering.
But as you say Lord... they don't have to, they can ignore it.
And I do "lump it" (though you misquoted me. I said I wished they'd post a little more about other things besides my posts).
I only make reference to them in response to references made to my posting habits, AG can answer for himself.
I don't initiate a debate about those people because what they think has nothing to do with me until they post it and then it is up to me to choose to comment or not.
I would like to point out that if I called someone else's interactions 'tiresome' or 'tedious' or said their comments were nothing more than 'bickering' then those same people would be posting immediately referring me to the rules and accusing me of abusing fellow posters. First stones and all that.
The "reams of posts of you and AG bickering" are nearly all on topic for most of the time. So either people don't read and complain or they don't like the style of our discussion which they are perfectly welcome to dislike and steer away from.
However, I don't intend to put up any health warnings. Comments on this are few and far between and website numbers don't indicate huge amounts of people being put off by this form of debate. Most seem to think "Sad people" and wander off to read something more interesting and either browse or comment there instead.
AG is a prolific poster. I'm the watching moderator. We don't see supporting Somerset quite the same way and we are on a lot. I'd challenge you that the majority of AG's 'reams' of posts are not bickering with me and I would also challenge you that most of my posts do not go looking for AG.
On some points we clash, sometimes we clash badly. Other times we discuss, with others very often, the finer points of the game in the South West and further afield. Both of us interact with very many other posters
Those who are regulars sort the wheat from the chaff and consume accordingly.
Those who want to pop in on an irregular basis and aren't willing to give the forum time can complain and leave if that is their particular desire in search of that perfect Somerset forum where all keep their tempers and injudicious things are never typed. As I have suggested many times, they could even start their own site and manage it to see how easy it is to provide that balance they seek.
Some just give AG and I far too much importance in their own daily lives and cricket forum consumption and want to tell others about it... Hey it takes all sorts.
Welcome, as I've said somewhere else, to open internet forums. Pop on a few others, see how normal we are here.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:07:30:14:18:59 by Grockle.
And I do "lump it" (though you misquoted me. I said I wished they'd post a little more about other things besides my posts).
I only make reference to them in response to references made to my posting habits, AG can answer for himself.
I don't initiate a debate about those people because what they think has nothing to do with me until they post it and then it is up to me to choose to comment or not.
I would like to point out that if I called someone else's interactions 'tiresome' or 'tedious' or said their comments were nothing more than 'bickering' then those same people would be posting immediately referring me to the rules and accusing me of abusing fellow posters. First stones and all that.
The "reams of posts of you and AG bickering" are nearly all on topic for most of the time. So either people don't read and complain or they don't like the style of our discussion which they are perfectly welcome to dislike and steer away from.
However, I don't intend to put up any health warnings. Comments on this are few and far between and website numbers don't indicate huge amounts of people being put off by this form of debate. Most seem to think "Sad people" and wander off to read something more interesting and either browse or comment there instead.
AG is a prolific poster. I'm the watching moderator. We don't see supporting Somerset quite the same way and we are on a lot. I'd challenge you that the majority of AG's 'reams' of posts are not bickering with me and I would also challenge you that most of my posts do not go looking for AG.
On some points we clash, sometimes we clash badly. Other times we discuss, with others very often, the finer points of the game in the South West and further afield. Both of us interact with very many other posters
Those who are regulars sort the wheat from the chaff and consume accordingly.
Those who want to pop in on an irregular basis and aren't willing to give the forum time can complain and leave if that is their particular desire in search of that perfect Somerset forum where all keep their tempers and injudicious things are never typed. As I have suggested many times, they could even start their own site and manage it to see how easy it is to provide that balance they seek.
Some just give AG and I far too much importance in their own daily lives and cricket forum consumption and want to tell others about it... Hey it takes all sorts.
Welcome, as I've said somewhere else, to open internet forums. Pop on a few others, see how normal we are here.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:07:30:14:18:59 by Grockle.
Well said Grockle! But be very very careful! We don't want you having to return to your teaching duties in Oman with writers cramp!!
Northamptonshire - though I don't know why you can't have this information at your fingertips.
Why not keep [www.birdfolk.co.uk] permanently open?
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Why not keep [www.birdfolk.co.uk] permanently open?
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Right, Russell's absence is not material for SCCC then as Northants are certain to finish ahead of us.
Sorry wrong thread - still, think it would've been better if he'd missed the match against us!
Quote:SheptonPaul
Sorry wrong thread
That, SP, is what Squeaky Brum Time can do for a chap.
I hope they don't do what they normally do and take off Trego after a very good opening over.
Alviro back in Taunton on Thursday. In line to play this game? If not surely hes back for t20 at least!!
Did you get that from his Twitter feed?
I assume T20 QFs are next week as Finals Day is only 16 days away.
With NC having surpassed expectations then one wonders if it might be Jones to make way for AP with something of a re-shuffle? Maybe PT to open with CK?
I'm not personally holding my breath for Tresco to make it. If he does then, presumably, Jones and NC would miss out although Hildreth may also be vulnerable?
I assume T20 QFs are next week as Finals Day is only 16 days away.
With NC having surpassed expectations then one wonders if it might be Jones to make way for AP with something of a re-shuffle? Maybe PT to open with CK?
I'm not personally holding my breath for Tresco to make it. If he does then, presumably, Jones and NC would miss out although Hildreth may also be vulnerable?
The big question is if Marcus is fit should he play in the QF when you consider is form so far??
Always an advocate for giving the team that got us to a point the chance to take us further rather than replacing people simply because you can.
However, if it was a choice of Nick or Marcus in the middle I'd take the plunge. If it is replace Chris with the skipper I'd personally not be as happy.
Stems from this happening in the past - especially Steff Jones being replaced in the Cider Final by Graham Rose.
However, if it was a choice of Nick or Marcus in the middle I'd take the plunge. If it is replace Chris with the skipper I'd personally not be as happy.
Stems from this happening in the past - especially Steff Jones being replaced in the Cider Final by Graham Rose.
Realistically, I think there's absolutely zero chance of Marcus being left out if he is fit to play. None.
These scenarios need to be looked at on a case-by-case basis. Rose for Jones might have been a mistake but it's highly unlikely that Willougby for Turner would have been, for example.
These scenarios need to be looked at on a case-by-case basis. Rose for Jones might have been a mistake but it's highly unlikely that Willougby for Turner would have been, for example.
Yes it should - we never did find out why Charl wasn't in that side.
I don't expect Marcus to be left out. I would be unimpressed if it was at the expense of Chris Jones.
I don't expect Marcus to be left out. I would be unimpressed if it was at the expense of Chris Jones.
Chris Jones is in the Second XI playing MCC Universities in a three-day match at Tauton Vale, starting today. So it looks as though either the skipper or Alviro Petersen will open against Notts, unless of course they call Jones back to HQ.
Good to see Craig Overton in the side also, despite earlier predictions he would miss the whole season through injury. Maybe as a batsman only for a match or two.
Good to see Craig Overton in the side also, despite earlier predictions he would miss the whole season through injury. Maybe as a batsman only for a match or two.
I was talking about the T20. It would be harder to get him into a CC side with Marcus, Nick and Alviro looking at working in a top 5 - his time will come there.
The skipper is currently opening the batting for the Seconds in the match at Taunton Vale - must be a fitness test.
This is a superb preview of the match from the Notts site. Actually not really a preview as it looks back at past matches more than forward to Friday, but very good all the same.
[www.nottsccc.co.uk]
[www.nottsccc.co.uk]
Slow left-armer Graeme White, who was on loan to Northants earlier this season, has been recalled to the 14-man Nottinghamshire squad for tomorrow`s cc match at Taunton.
Director of Cricket Mick Newell is considering playing two spinners.
Squad: Hales, Mullaney, Lumb, Wessels, Patel, David Hussey, Read, Shahzad, White, Fletcher, Adams, Gurney, Ball and James Taylor.
Director of Cricket Mick Newell is considering playing two spinners.
Squad: Hales, Mullaney, Lumb, Wessels, Patel, David Hussey, Read, Shahzad, White, Fletcher, Adams, Gurney, Ball and James Taylor.
Would that we had two fit and in-form spinners that we could consider playing!!
As it is I think we have one fit spinner in no particular form?
Although I suppose there is always Max Waller too but I seriously doubt we shall be seeing him vs Notts?
As it is I think we have one fit spinner in no particular form?
Although I suppose there is always Max Waller too but I seriously doubt we shall be seeing him vs Notts?
The skipper is back, in charge of a 12-man squad for tomorrow`s cc match. But no Alviro Petersen.
Squad: Trescothick, Buttler, Compton, Dockrell, Hildreth, Jones, Kieswetter, Kirby, Meschede, Jamie Overton, Thomas and Trego.
Squad: Trescothick, Buttler, Compton, Dockrell, Hildreth, Jones, Kieswetter, Kirby, Meschede, Jamie Overton, Thomas and Trego.
I suppose we could put JOS behind the stumps so that Notts can have a final check on how he measures up to Chris Read!!!! OK chaps it is only me having a little stir to see who raises their heads up through the mirky mist!!!
I think with Marcus apparently back into the swing of things we could get a good result and nearly catch up with Notts!!!
I think with Marcus apparently back into the swing of things we could get a good result and nearly catch up with Notts!!!
If he were to play tomorrow, I'd have to admit, albeit sadly, that I wouldn't be expecting him to tie anybody in Notts, that's for sure!
Events have conspired that I may be able to make my first appearance at the County Ground for three years, either Friday afternoon or Saturday morning. Would love to say hi and share a cold one with a few of you if you're around...
Great news, SP. Mike the Lense (unmistakable) and Tractor (the quiet fellow) know most of us. And Gimblett's Hill is the place to start.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Wow, the offers I've had already! I'll start on the Hill, don't you worry LoL...
Great place to be. Let's hope your presence inspires a 2010 performance. Enjoy SP!!!
So why no Petersen?
His work permit does not, presumably, end on a given date as soon as the T20 group stage is over, otherwise there'd be zero point in him coming back to Taunton?
I suppose perhaps it specified a given number of CC contests?
Annoying. And all quiet on the Rehman front.
As for today my instinct says we should bowl first...after T20 I sort of expect plenty of cavalier shots abd errors of judgement so I'd like to see Notts show our guys how NOT to do it first (and then hopefully we'll do something different)
His work permit does not, presumably, end on a given date as soon as the T20 group stage is over, otherwise there'd be zero point in him coming back to Taunton?
I suppose perhaps it specified a given number of CC contests?
Annoying. And all quiet on the Rehman front.
As for today my instinct says we should bowl first...after T20 I sort of expect plenty of cavalier shots abd errors of judgement so I'd like to see Notts show our guys how NOT to do it first (and then hopefully we'll do something different)
Wouldnt rule petersen out yet AG, cjm appears to have got his info from the main site which invariably doesn't tell the whole story. Tres wasn't mentioned as playing for 2nds midweek but he did and there have been other examples this year. Maybe they are waiting to see how he feels in morning as he only got back to Taunton yesterday afternoon!!
My guess was the same as yours ronnie - he's only just finished his stint for SA and may not be back here in time - AND the official site may be mistaken.
Weather update this morning.
We had a shower of rain about 8am, at 8.45 it is dull with a lot of cloud but in saying that there is an odd patch of blue sky to be seen.
No forecast of a hurricane today, humidity high and the outside temperature at this early hour is 19.5c.
We had a shower of rain about 8am, at 8.45 it is dull with a lot of cloud but in saying that there is an odd patch of blue sky to be seen.
No forecast of a hurricane today, humidity high and the outside temperature at this early hour is 19.5c.
That must have been an isolated shower, Mike.
I'm in a different part of TA1 and we've had not a drop of rain.
I don't want to worry poor AGod, but the forecast for Monday is very bad.
I'm in a different part of TA1 and we've had not a drop of rain.
I don't want to worry poor AGod, but the forecast for Monday is very bad.
It wasn't much a few large spots on rain running down the window, since my last post the blue bits are getting bigger.
Think the forecast is meant to be fine for today, but then more unsettled on subsequent days.
However, I get the impression from the wording used etc that they have little confidence in the forecast and no real idea how much rain there will be/how frequent showers will be/where they will occur etc
However, I get the impression from the wording used etc that they have little confidence in the forecast and no real idea how much rain there will be/how frequent showers will be/where they will occur etc
Bobstan - the beeb forecast says plenty of rain late on Sunday, but Monday's forecast is okay.... so let's hope that's right and the rain hits on Sunday night, not Monday day.
Yes, looks as though AP will have arrived too late. 20 hours ago he said he'd be "up at 2AM", to fly to England.
Cricinfo says we won the toss and elected to bat.
What's going on?
I changed my Fantasy team based on that!
What's going on?
I changed my Fantasy team based on that!
Where's Alf?
Injured or dropped?
I hope he's not being "rested", on account of Tuesday as that would be indicative of priorities being all wrong.
Injured or dropped?
I hope he's not being "rested", on account of Tuesday as that would be indicative of priorities being all wrong.
Quote:AGod
Where's Alf?
Injured or dropped?
I hope he's not being "rested", on account of Tuesday as that would be indicative of priorities being all wrong.
Read the OS and you will find your answer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Had to think for a mo what OS was! Just in case anyone else is as brain dead as me, Alf's out with a bruised heel!
It was right next to two crossed swords which had "wounded knee", written next to them.
Little James makes his way back to the hutch...I wonder if they give him a little wheel to run around on when he gets bored?
Harsh.
We've got both of their main CC run-scorers cheaply but, unfortunately, that's somewhat counter-balanced by Mullaney having made a bigger score than might have been anticipated.
We've got both of their main CC run-scorers cheaply but, unfortunately, that's somewhat counter-balanced by Mullaney having made a bigger score than might have been anticipated.
Can anyone at game give an indication of how the wicket is playing? It appears we are holding are own from the score.
Thanks
Thanks
Hussey needs to go soon or he'll move the game away from us at a rate of knots.
Good to see the back of big Sam.
Read has been in no sort of form but normally scores lots against us.
Read has been in no sort of form but normally scores lots against us.
Read dropped on the boundary by Meschede pulling Kirby at 86. Craig standing 5 meters in for no apparent reason could not get back to take what would have been an easy catch had he been on the boundary walking in... schoolboy stuff. Read was on 11 so might be an expensive error.
That sort of error seems to me to occur more often these days.
Fielding right on the boundary seems to have gone out of fashion, somewhat.
Fielding right on the boundary seems to have gone out of fashion, somewhat.
It cost us 14 runs. NC has just caught Read in the covers for 25 at 229. Hussey 50 off 78 balls with a six and 9 fours.
Mesc takes the new ball in the 82nd and Trigger takes Adams in the 83rd 270 for 8
Just started to pour down here, it looks like it's moving slowly over the channel as well.
A shower would make that track a little tasty.
A shower would make that track a little tasty.
Weird because the wind is blowing across them towards the Caddyshack according to the flags on said building.
Grey in the North (behind the CA) but bright sunshine everywhere else with 8 overs of the days play to go. A bit of damp overnight might not be what we want.
Grey in the North (behind the CA) but bright sunshine everywhere else with 8 overs of the days play to go. A bit of damp overnight might not be what we want.
I can see the Somerset coastline from my office window, this rain is most definitely on its way.
Let's hope it stays on the hills and doesn't get too far inland, a damp track would be a nightmare to bat on.
Let's hope it stays on the hills and doesn't get too far inland, a damp track would be a nightmare to bat on.
Meschede is bowling with the new ball. Notts tail enders are singularly not worried by him and are presently producing a 41partnership against it.
Why, Marcus, are Craig M an Pete Trego taking the new ball with 6 overs in the day to go and number 8 and 9 at the wicket?
Will Steve and Jamie get too tired if they end the day doing a bit of work or something?
No flaming idea I am afraid!!
Why, Marcus, are Craig M an Pete Trego taking the new ball with 6 overs in the day to go and number 8 and 9 at the wicket?
Will Steve and Jamie get too tired if they end the day doing a bit of work or something?
No flaming idea I am afraid!!
Kirby finally back after the nervousness of facing the new pill has been wasted!!
The end has taken the edge off a good bowling performance with the 9th wicket partnership making 57 runs and Notts ending on 327 for 8 when less than 300 was on the cards at about 5:30.
Decent day though. Kirby very very unlucky most of the day once more. Coupe of superb catches and a couple of elementary misses.
All to play for though.
Decent day though. Kirby very very unlucky most of the day once more. Coupe of superb catches and a couple of elementary misses.
All to play for though.
If there is a logic to captaincy decisions re our bowling today then can someone - anyone even - please explain it to me !
Well in a normal season with a normal Somerset batting output, then I'd take that for the first day.
As it is, given our CC batting form, I doubt Notts will be unhappy with that as one imagines that they don't envisage our lot blowing past their total.
Will certainly be disappointing if we don't get full bowling bonus points though.
Pleased that George got some wickets. How did spectators feel he bowled?
As it is, given our CC batting form, I doubt Notts will be unhappy with that as one imagines that they don't envisage our lot blowing past their total.
Will certainly be disappointing if we don't get full bowling bonus points though.
Pleased that George got some wickets. How did spectators feel he bowled?
May sound odd but a bad day in my opinion.
We have had so many bad days this year that this was one we really had a chance to WIN, as it is we have a best come out 50/50 if not behind given our poor batting form.
Up and down day but at 165-5 pre tea and 240-7 we just had to get them out today.
Jove drop of Mullaney was real schoolboy stuff, Mesch came in and let one go over his head, not 10 mins later Jos did same at deep mid wicket.
At start of the day with sun out and having lost the toss i'd have taken this, but given our poor batting form and mixed forecast for weekend it is already looking tough to win.
Very very possible IF we have a top batting day tomorrow but if we have yet another poor 1st innings batting effort we'll be fighting for at best draw by tea on day 2 and looking at only 5 games left to try and get these wins we need.
We have had so many bad days this year that this was one we really had a chance to WIN, as it is we have a best come out 50/50 if not behind given our poor batting form.
Up and down day but at 165-5 pre tea and 240-7 we just had to get them out today.
Jove drop of Mullaney was real schoolboy stuff, Mesch came in and let one go over his head, not 10 mins later Jos did same at deep mid wicket.
At start of the day with sun out and having lost the toss i'd have taken this, but given our poor batting form and mixed forecast for weekend it is already looking tough to win.
Very very possible IF we have a top batting day tomorrow but if we have yet another poor 1st innings batting effort we'll be fighting for at best draw by tea on day 2 and looking at only 5 games left to try and get these wins we need.
With some time forecast to be lost to weather and our poor batting form, I agree that a win is unlikely.
The Ordanance Survey (thanks for that, FE) is describing today as 'one of our best bowling performances of the season'.
Day one photos.
I would say this was a bit of a mixture today it is true to say all of the bowlers had good and bad spells. We need to take the last two early tomorrow.
George Dockrell waiting for the ball to return to him from David Hussey for a caught and bowled.
Chris Read hitting four runs.
David Hussey hitting six runs off George Dockrell.
I would say that Jamie Overton bowled too many short balls down the leg side lucky Samit Patel didn't connect with this ball.
Craig Kieswetter about to throw the ball into the air after catching Steven Mallaney off Jamie Overton.
Peter Trego even found time for some push-ups.
Steve Kirby in the middle of a good spell of bowling making James Taylor double over.
Marcus Trescothick leaning over to take this catch one handed low down to dismiss Michael Lumb off Craig Meschede.
The team thought it was a good catch and so did I with Marcus's mobility problems.
Marcus nearly had Michael Lumb before that off Peter Trego but the ball didn't carry.
This is the only sweeping I saw today it was from one of the ground staff.
I would say this was a bit of a mixture today it is true to say all of the bowlers had good and bad spells. We need to take the last two early tomorrow.
George Dockrell waiting for the ball to return to him from David Hussey for a caught and bowled.
Chris Read hitting four runs.
David Hussey hitting six runs off George Dockrell.
I would say that Jamie Overton bowled too many short balls down the leg side lucky Samit Patel didn't connect with this ball.
Craig Kieswetter about to throw the ball into the air after catching Steven Mallaney off Jamie Overton.
Peter Trego even found time for some push-ups.
Steve Kirby in the middle of a good spell of bowling making James Taylor double over.
Marcus Trescothick leaning over to take this catch one handed low down to dismiss Michael Lumb off Craig Meschede.
The team thought it was a good catch and so did I with Marcus's mobility problems.
Marcus nearly had Michael Lumb before that off Peter Trego but the ball didn't carry.
This is the only sweeping I saw today it was from one of the ground staff.
We are presently having a thunder storm in Taunton.
The link to my Photos on Photobucket - [s1152.photobucket.com]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:02:21:34:53 by Mike TA1.
The link to my Photos on Photobucket - [s1152.photobucket.com]Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:02:21:34:53 by Mike TA1.
Excellent photos, Mike.
I agree with Mike's overall assessment - and I think that the CricInfo report has it pretty much spot on. The highlights for me were excellent catches (by CK amnd MT) to claim the first two wickets.
I agree with Mike's overall assessment - and I think that the CricInfo report has it pretty much spot on. The highlights for me were excellent catches (by CK amnd MT) to claim the first two wickets.
Comedy moment of the season so far.
New ball taken just after 81 overs, after another 5 overs George came on, soon to be dispatched over the Tresco stand into the river.
12th man comes on with box of balls, umpire didn't like any of them, after further delay a new one was found, umpire then borrowed Fletchers bat, put the ball on the floor, tapped the ball 3 times with the bat, then gave it back to George, very bizarre.
New ball taken just after 81 overs, after another 5 overs George came on, soon to be dispatched over the Tresco stand into the river.
12th man comes on with box of balls, umpire didn't like any of them, after further delay a new one was found, umpire then borrowed Fletchers bat, put the ball on the floor, tapped the ball 3 times with the bat, then gave it back to George, very bizarre.
We gave up on pacemen with the new ball after only 5 overs? Maybe we should not have taken it at all, then?
We gave new ball to Trego & Meschede, and then after 5 overs gave it to George, answers on a postcard....!?
And Kirbs with 6 overs to go to the end of play. Got a wicket with the fourth ball of it as Trigger got Adams in the 82nd and he nearly had Fletcher caught behind off the fourth ball of that over.
From then on Fletch and the number 8 put on 57 in the 10-ish overs left with us squandering the new ball on medium pacers for 4 or 5 of them.
From then on Fletch and the number 8 put on 57 in the 10-ish overs left with us squandering the new ball on medium pacers for 4 or 5 of them.
Agree that the Dockrell new ball decision seemed very odd.
The only thing I can think possible is that one of George's abilities, being a reasonably tall spinner, is to extract good bounce, and it was felt he might get more bounce with a hard new ball.
The only thing I can think possible is that one of George's abilities, being a reasonably tall spinner, is to extract good bounce, and it was felt he might get more bounce with a hard new ball.
Another lovely day in the Tresco stand,spoiled somewhat by the unusual tactics on taking the new ball.George was mediocre most of the day two scorching catches flattered his analysis, must have been clobbered for four sixes at least. Meschede only bowled five overs all day 1 -19 until the new ball. Kirby unlucky and should have been given the new ball pronto. Decisions by our captain hard to fathom sometimes.
You also wonder if PT and CM were given the new ball because SK and JO were deemed to be too tired?
In which case should surely have kept going with the old ball.
One other thought occurs - sometimes for reasons that maybe only some boffins understand - the ball seems to swing more on certain days for bowlers of a certain pace. Some days it will swing more for quicker bowlers, on others more for medium pacers. Had PT and CM been getting more swing than the quicker bowlers earlier in the day?
In which case should surely have kept going with the old ball.
One other thought occurs - sometimes for reasons that maybe only some boffins understand - the ball seems to swing more on certain days for bowlers of a certain pace. Some days it will swing more for quicker bowlers, on others more for medium pacers. Had PT and CM been getting more swing than the quicker bowlers earlier in the day?
If Steve Kirby wasn't rested enough for the new ball it is only the captains fault.
With fifteen over to go for the new ball he bowled Steve Kirby for the 65th over for five over that took it up to the 75th over with only five over to go for the new ball. By then Steve had bowled 18 overs in the day.
With fifteen over to go for the new ball he bowled Steve Kirby for the 65th over for five over that took it up to the 75th over with only five over to go for the new ball. By then Steve had bowled 18 overs in the day.
Trigger get Shazad to leave one he really shouldn't have and bowls him off stump fourth ball no addition to score
Fletcher is playing very very well and farming the strike effectively. George on at the River. After Kribs efforts yesterday it would be nice to see him get a wicket but these runs are vital.
Could getting the last 2/3 wickets in the CC be our achilles' heel this season?
I have a feeling "Old Boy" that you'll be reminded in due course that this may well have happened over previous seasons also.
It may have even cost us a title one year.
It may have even cost us a title one year.
Game seems to be drifting away from us at the moment, especially as we are going at 5 an over currently
I've been lamenting our lack of "killer instinct" with the opposition tailenders far longer than this season!
Still, at least they've FINALLY gone
Still, at least they've FINALLY gone
We have no real new ball penetration whenever it arrives. First thing in the morning or whenever it may arrive. It's why Gemaal probably won't be invited to stay and it is the one thing Steve desperately needs. It went with Willow losing it the season before he left and we've missed it ever since.
Having said that Fletcher marshalled the Notts resources very well and deserved his 50 but we may rue the 100 runs made at the end of the innings.
Mt and NC struggling at the moment with 4 maidens in a row at the start of our innings. Just have to be patient.
Having said that Fletcher marshalled the Notts resources very well and deserved his 50 but we may rue the 100 runs made at the end of the innings.
Mt and NC struggling at the moment with 4 maidens in a row at the start of our innings. Just have to be patient.
Prodding forward to a nothing ball, no foot movement, leading edge, regulation third slip catch by Mullany off Gurney.
Marcus has lost that edge that allowed him to get out of trouble without moving his feet when the ball is new. It nearly did for his England career and it is now doing for him far too often.
He needs to move away from the first few overs and the new ball and continue to plunder against the older ball and other bowlers.
It isn't a demotion or any kind of problem, it's just age and IMHO simple sense.
Marcus has lost that edge that allowed him to get out of trouble without moving his feet when the ball is new. It nearly did for his England career and it is now doing for him far too often.
He needs to move away from the first few overs and the new ball and continue to plunder against the older ball and other bowlers.
It isn't a demotion or any kind of problem, it's just age and IMHO simple sense.
Old boy I think we have many Achilles heels this season. No bowling penetration and batting had been pretty ordinary!! Trescothick needs to do something grockle maybe moving down is the answer but him getting out early just puts us under pressure constantly which at the moment we can't cope with!!
Quote:Ronniesabre
Old boy I think we have many Achilles heels this season. No bowling penetration and batting had been pretty ordinary!! Trescothick needs to do something grockle maybe moving down is the answer but him getting out early just puts us under pressure constantly which at the moment we can't cope with!!
Ronnie I'm with you. I have been suggesting most of the season since he started failing that Marcus's problem is the new ball. I wasn't there this morning so I don't know how he was out, but as he now has two ready made openers in Compton and Jones, is he perhaps too stubborn, or is it professional pride that stops him moving down to 5 or 6? I hate saying it, but would a new captain put him there and make the decision for him? For the last few matches we really do need to get the openers to make some progress. The problem is that we have relied on Marcus to give a flying start in the CC for 7 or 8 years now, and perhaps it is stopping somebody seeing the wood for the trees.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:13:12:29 by old boy!.
Off for a lot of rain this time. Big storm moving in from the Quantocks and very grey all around. 70 for 1 2:25
Four or Five would be a good move for MT and add a couple of years to his career. BR did it with success.
Would also add some competition to the middle order. Might have a hole at three but depending on who the team could get in as an extra opening bowler – overseas or qualified – then could tempt Petersen or someone else of that calibre to fill it.
Would also add some competition to the middle order. Might have a hole at three but depending on who the team could get in as an extra opening bowler – overseas or qualified – then could tempt Petersen or someone else of that calibre to fill it.
Yep we're on the same page with that one Ron and I think it's a good point to ask if another captain would continue to open with him (though I don't particularly think he's stubborn but may not be able to see this wholly objectively).
Chris looks the part and it was obvious from ball one that he was moving himself into position and solidly getting behind the ball.
I want to see MT making bowlers pay for having the audacity of thinking they can bowl to him At the moment he is any opening bowler's rabbit!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:14:39:51 by Grockle.
Chris looks the part and it was obvious from ball one that he was moving himself into position and solidly getting behind the ball.
I want to see MT making bowlers pay for having the audacity of thinking they can bowl to him At the moment he is any opening bowler's rabbit!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:14:39:51 by Grockle.
Tea at 3:20 - very grey and all the covers on with rain coming down again. May be the end of the day I'm afraid people.
Doesn't help our relegation effort does it? What a total mess we have got ourselves into!!!
Puddling on the outfield. Usually means the end of the days play. Bet they don't call it off until nearly 6.
I agree with the above posts re MT moving dwn the order, and my stance re Marcus as Captain has been recorded quite a few times this year.
Surprising though, unless I am mis-reading these stats, Marcus is still our leading scorer in the CC this year:
[www.espncricinfo.com]
(Go to 'stats' & then 'tournament averages').
We have only one player (NC) averaging above 40.
Not a very pretty state of affairs.
Grizzzly
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:16:15:29 by Grizzzly.
Surprising though, unless I am mis-reading these stats, Marcus is still our leading scorer in the CC this year:
[www.espncricinfo.com]
(Go to 'stats' & then 'tournament averages').
We have only one player (NC) averaging above 40.
Not a very pretty state of affairs.
Grizzzly
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:16:15:29 by Grizzzly.
You are close Grizzzly and a little better than you think but not much. [stats.espncricinfo.com]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:17:23:40 by Mike TA1.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:17:23:40 by Mike TA1.
Just seen a forecast fir next 2 days. Looks like very little play left if that's correct. 6 points and advantage Surrey I would say!!! I'm p@@@@@@ off now!!
Thanks Mike.
I guess the current match stats don't bring up AP's numbers !
Grizzzly
I guess the current match stats don't bring up AP's numbers !
Grizzzly
Day two photos.
Not so many today for obvious reasons.
It looks like Chris Jones can be our other opening batsman after today he almost was.
Some of Chris Jones shot were times so well that they didn't look like four's when he hit them.
This shot was four runs.
I wasn't going to show any more photos of Marcus Trescothick getting out but I had not many photos to choose from today.
Harry Gurney bowled this ball to marcus getting a thick outside edge and was caught by Steven Mallaney.
You can see the ball just going into Steven Mallaney's hands.
For those of you who haven't seen Luke Fletcher bowl this is him bowling, BJ would love him in his rugby team.
Luke Fletcher caught by Craig Kieswetter bowled by Jamie Overton.
The first wicket of the day was Ajmal Shahzad bowled by Peter Trego.
Not so many today for obvious reasons.
It looks like Chris Jones can be our other opening batsman after today he almost was.
Some of Chris Jones shot were times so well that they didn't look like four's when he hit them.
This shot was four runs.
I wasn't going to show any more photos of Marcus Trescothick getting out but I had not many photos to choose from today.
Harry Gurney bowled this ball to marcus getting a thick outside edge and was caught by Steven Mallaney.
You can see the ball just going into Steven Mallaney's hands.
For those of you who haven't seen Luke Fletcher bowl this is him bowling, BJ would love him in his rugby team.
Luke Fletcher caught by Craig Kieswetter bowled by Jamie Overton.
The first wicket of the day was Ajmal Shahzad bowled by Peter Trego.
Game over now then, just HAVE to get another 83 overs in to get ideally 4 or 5 batting points.
Only 5 games to go and still feel we need at least 2 wins.
Really not looking forward to September, going to be 3 weeks of nervous watching and checking of Surrey scores.
Surrey home game is now HUGE, crucial 4 days to determine our survival...
Only 5 games to go and still feel we need at least 2 wins.
Really not looking forward to September, going to be 3 weeks of nervous watching and checking of Surrey scores.
Surrey home game is now HUGE, crucial 4 days to determine our survival...
Yeah it's still in their hands (and the weather's to some extent) and it's certainly not over yet.
Weather is my huge fear now.
It has played it's hand in this game, as well as our failiure to push home 165-5 and 240-7.
There are 3 huge games left in the relegation battle
Somerset v Derbyshire
Surrey v Derbyshire
Somerset v Surrey
If rain effects say our Derby game but not Surreys then nothing we can do about it.
I am very pessimistic on Abdur arriving and am becoming less and less confident we have the ability to take 20 wickets in a match, quickly enough to force wins, especially coupled with our up to now rare ability to score 350/400 totals.
I cling to the hope that thus far Surrey and Derbyshire have been as bad if not worse than us. If however one of those strings 2 wins together we are going to struggle to match them with only 5 left.
It has played it's hand in this game, as well as our failiure to push home 165-5 and 240-7.
There are 3 huge games left in the relegation battle
Somerset v Derbyshire
Surrey v Derbyshire
Somerset v Surrey
If rain effects say our Derby game but not Surreys then nothing we can do about it.
I am very pessimistic on Abdur arriving and am becoming less and less confident we have the ability to take 20 wickets in a match, quickly enough to force wins, especially coupled with our up to now rare ability to score 350/400 totals.
I cling to the hope that thus far Surrey and Derbyshire have been as bad if not worse than us. If however one of those strings 2 wins together we are going to struggle to match them with only 5 left.
Weather is mine too. Check the only cc game with rain interruptions so far this round.
Rain ruined draw then?
Good to see Jones making some more runs.
Sorry, I'm not sure I want to see Tresco out there at the Oval on Tuesday.
It's not just about the complete absence of form at first-team level. It's also about a recent record of not doing much in the knockout phase of one-day games. And it's about the fact that I think we are at least a bit more flexible with our T20 plans when Alf is captain.
Sorry, I wouldn't pick him although I've no doubt we will do,
Good to see Jones making some more runs.
Sorry, I'm not sure I want to see Tresco out there at the Oval on Tuesday.
It's not just about the complete absence of form at first-team level. It's also about a recent record of not doing much in the knockout phase of one-day games. And it's about the fact that I think we are at least a bit more flexible with our T20 plans when Alf is captain.
Sorry, I wouldn't pick him although I've no doubt we will do,
Well it is said in 'certain places' that he will not play and even if he does he will not captain.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:21:34:28 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:21:34:28 by Grockle.
I really don't share this lack of confidence in Tresco.
I for one hope he plays Tuesday and opens, and captains.
For all he has done for us he has earned the right to decide himself when he feels the time is right to drop down, stand down.
Our team still looks far stronger with him than without to me. He has surely earned the right over past 18/20 years to have a dodgy patch of form?
If we look at the stats he is still in the top 6 batters in all forms of the game this season.
Given how much superior he has been to rest of our line up for so many years the fact he is now "only" performing to a similar level to the rest does not mean he should not be playing or have to move down in my opinion.
Class is permanent, and I am confident he has plenty more runs left for us opening the innings, if others do not agree that is fine.
I for one hope he plays Tuesday and opens, and captains.
For all he has done for us he has earned the right to decide himself when he feels the time is right to drop down, stand down.
Our team still looks far stronger with him than without to me. He has surely earned the right over past 18/20 years to have a dodgy patch of form?
If we look at the stats he is still in the top 6 batters in all forms of the game this season.
Given how much superior he has been to rest of our line up for so many years the fact he is now "only" performing to a similar level to the rest does not mean he should not be playing or have to move down in my opinion.
Class is permanent, and I am confident he has plenty more runs left for us opening the innings, if others do not agree that is fine.
Sorry WSM but he doesn't.
No player has that right no matter how much they have done for the county. If he plays I also hope he scores tons and returns to form but he must do what is right for the side and accept the judgement of those others who make these decisions. He is part of that and will get his say I am sure.
Presently the stuff about Tuesday is only rumour picked up in an unguarded conversation but his lack of form in the opening position is not a rumour and is becoming too much of an issue to simply be ignored because it is Marcus.
I'd be happy to see him play - but not to open because Chris and Craig are working well. If Petersen is available I'm not sure whether he ought to also be drafted in because it may strengthen but it does mess up the present unit. Certainly, either for Nick (no disrespect to him) I would support.
No player has that right no matter how much they have done for the county. If he plays I also hope he scores tons and returns to form but he must do what is right for the side and accept the judgement of those others who make these decisions. He is part of that and will get his say I am sure.
Presently the stuff about Tuesday is only rumour picked up in an unguarded conversation but his lack of form in the opening position is not a rumour and is becoming too much of an issue to simply be ignored because it is Marcus.
I'd be happy to see him play - but not to open because Chris and Craig are working well. If Petersen is available I'm not sure whether he ought to also be drafted in because it may strengthen but it does mess up the present unit. Certainly, either for Nick (no disrespect to him) I would support.
What about the fact that he's seldom done much in one-day knockout games in recent times?
I think the last time he managed a match-winning innings in one of these games was in the T20 semi against Northants the year where we got murdered by Dwayne Smith in the final?
He may have missed one or two of the knock-out games since then, due to injury?
But if you think that, since that Northants game, we've played, what three more T20 semi-finals plus two T20 finals, two Pro 40 QFs, two Pro 40 sfs and two Pro 40 Finals, then it's not a great record?
That's 11 knock-out games since that Northants game of which Tres has probably played at least 8 or 9?
I suspect that every other major first-team batsman - including even Compton (who did well vs Warks in the Pro 40 Final) has at least one 50 in those games, whereas I'm not sure Tres has a 50 in any of those contests?
I think the last time he managed a match-winning innings in one of these games was in the T20 semi against Northants the year where we got murdered by Dwayne Smith in the final?
He may have missed one or two of the knock-out games since then, due to injury?
But if you think that, since that Northants game, we've played, what three more T20 semi-finals plus two T20 finals, two Pro 40 QFs, two Pro 40 sfs and two Pro 40 Finals, then it's not a great record?
That's 11 knock-out games since that Northants game of which Tres has probably played at least 8 or 9?
I suspect that every other major first-team batsman - including even Compton (who did well vs Warks in the Pro 40 Final) has at least one 50 in those games, whereas I'm not sure Tres has a 50 in any of those contests?
I see AP as a must play, Grockle, for Tuesday given record in County cricket at the Oval. The man loves it there.
Unless and until the club say otherwise, then I also assume that he's come back purely for the T20?
That's unless and until we get an announcement that he's staying on until the end of the season because the Home Office are messing us around re:Rehman.
Unless and until the club say otherwise, then I also assume that he's come back purely for the T20?
That's unless and until we get an announcement that he's staying on until the end of the season because the Home Office are messing us around re:Rehman.
I think it is very very easy to push for change but if/when he goes people will be saying how much we miss him.
In my opinion he does deserve to be supported through a dodgy spell.
He got us off to several good starts in the early YB40 games.
If you ask me who I think has the capability of getting us off to the best start Tuesday Tresco or Jones then I am firmly in the Tresco camp. He may not have done a huge amount in our big one day finals, but he is a proven international player, he has performed in many huge high profile games and i'm confident will do again.
I really don't think all this speculation about his position is good for the club.
At this point in our season the players and team need supporting, not questioning.
I'm hoping maybe he gets a knock Monday in a dead draw and that may help him with pressure off for a few dead sessions.
In my opinion he does deserve to be supported through a dodgy spell.
He got us off to several good starts in the early YB40 games.
If you ask me who I think has the capability of getting us off to the best start Tuesday Tresco or Jones then I am firmly in the Tresco camp. He may not have done a huge amount in our big one day finals, but he is a proven international player, he has performed in many huge high profile games and i'm confident will do again.
I really don't think all this speculation about his position is good for the club.
At this point in our season the players and team need supporting, not questioning.
I'm hoping maybe he gets a knock Monday in a dead draw and that may help him with pressure off for a few dead sessions.
No argument from me. I'm for a unit that got us there taking us to the finals and I'm not sure at the moment Marcus improves our chances in this game.
Then again I said the same about picking Andy and Richard in the 2005 Finals and I was as wrong as wrong can be there!!
Then again I said the same about picking Andy and Richard in the 2005 Finals and I was as wrong as wrong can be there!!
Yeah but Lancs deciding to bet on a wet pitch was a huge assist to AC and RJ!!!!
You could not have anticipated Lancs being that foolish!!
You could not have anticipated Lancs being that foolish!!
I'm more than happy to see the club and his fellow players help Marcus through his 'dodgy' spell. I'm sure they are doing that.
But what if the solution to this is that Marcus is no longer an opener? Is it opener or nothing? He has done lots for us in many different positions and he still can.
As I said in the report today, moving down the order is no kind of demotion any more than moving fielding position is as you get older.
His job is to make as many runs for the club for as long as he can where he is most effective. It may be that elongating his career means he plays at 3 or 4.
Justin did it to effect, Marcus is a better batsman than Justin.
It seems very much that his lack of foot movement, not a problem in the past has become a problem. Not because he has changed anything but because he has lost a fraction of a second in determining the flight of the ball and moving at speed to counter it.
Balls he used to hit full, because he was ahead of the flight, he is now glancing. Balls he used to have the speed to leave he is now hitting. It's a new ball at the start of an innings. It was always the time to get him but he was too fast. He's not as fast. Put hi in a different place with a different speed of ball and he is a stoke maker capable of making huge scores.
Leave him where he is and you may leave him high and dry making no contribution, disturbing the morale of the team and finally retiring before his time.
Stubbornness is not an option and Marcus is not infallible or only capable of opening in impressive manner. Only an opinion and no personal criticism of one of the best batsmen I've ever seen.
Part of "class being permanent" is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:22:26:02 by Grockle.
But what if the solution to this is that Marcus is no longer an opener? Is it opener or nothing? He has done lots for us in many different positions and he still can.
As I said in the report today, moving down the order is no kind of demotion any more than moving fielding position is as you get older.
His job is to make as many runs for the club for as long as he can where he is most effective. It may be that elongating his career means he plays at 3 or 4.
Justin did it to effect, Marcus is a better batsman than Justin.
It seems very much that his lack of foot movement, not a problem in the past has become a problem. Not because he has changed anything but because he has lost a fraction of a second in determining the flight of the ball and moving at speed to counter it.
Balls he used to hit full, because he was ahead of the flight, he is now glancing. Balls he used to have the speed to leave he is now hitting. It's a new ball at the start of an innings. It was always the time to get him but he was too fast. He's not as fast. Put hi in a different place with a different speed of ball and he is a stoke maker capable of making huge scores.
Leave him where he is and you may leave him high and dry making no contribution, disturbing the morale of the team and finally retiring before his time.
Stubbornness is not an option and Marcus is not infallible or only capable of opening in impressive manner. Only an opinion and no personal criticism of one of the best batsmen I've ever seen.
Part of "class being permanent" is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:03:22:26:02 by Grockle.
I think the morale of the team is an important point, Grockle.
Obviously I cannot 'prove', this but I suspect that seeing Tres struggle undermines the confidence of those players that have played with him for a while. In the past he'd make batting look easy even when a number of the others may have been finding it difficult.
So I fear that the thought that might form in some minds is 'Yikes, if Banger is struggling then batting must be tough'.
Obviously I cannot 'prove', this but I suspect that seeing Tres struggle undermines the confidence of those players that have played with him for a while. In the past he'd make batting look easy even when a number of the others may have been finding it difficult.
So I fear that the thought that might form in some minds is 'Yikes, if Banger is struggling then batting must be tough'.
Quote:Grockle
Marcus is a better batsman than Justin.
Big statement that, Grockle.
I'm a massive fan of Marcus, but more runs, better average, more hundreds ........ Langer every day.
Matter of opinion FE and cricket has more to it than statistics - would have thought you would have got that part of me this year...
Marcus was a better batsman than Langer was by the time they were playing together in the same side which might be partly where this view has come from.
I think he is more adaptable, more aggressive and more exciting to watch.
Not particularly interested who has the bigger numbers. I don't tend to watch the numbers and they don't really get my blood pumping or my face smiling - sorry guys.
Not particularly interested who has the bigger numbers. I don't tend to watch the numbers and they don't really get my blood pumping or my face smiling - sorry guys.
I was merely using the numbers to illustrate the subjectivity of your statement.
I concur in this case with the deity: at the time one could compare like for like in Somerset colours, Banger was in his pomp, whilst Alfie was just past his.
I'd still put him down on the "all time greats" list higher than Marcus, I'm afraid.
Had Marcus been able to sustain a 15+ year international career? Who knows.
As you say: opinions.
I concur in this case with the deity: at the time one could compare like for like in Somerset colours, Banger was in his pomp, whilst Alfie was just past his.
I'd still put him down on the "all time greats" list higher than Marcus, I'm afraid.
Had Marcus been able to sustain a 15+ year international career? Who knows.
As you say: opinions.
I think somebody might be confusing "better" with "prefer"...though of course, that's just my opinion.
I think the point that Marcus deserves supporting through a rough patch must have an end date, mustn't it ?
Failing which, I'm sure a certain Mr Boycott, (or perhaps his Granny), would still be opening for England !
Grizzzly
Failing which, I'm sure a certain Mr Boycott, (or perhaps his Granny), would still be opening for England !
Grizzzly
Completely agree about morale being important, not only is
it a downer for Somerset when Marcus gets out early but it also gives a huge boost to the opposition. Jones is playing really well and should open.
it a downer for Somerset when Marcus gets out early but it also gives a huge boost to the opposition. Jones is playing really well and should open.
And yes, Grizzly, at some point, if things do not improve, Somerset will need somebody at the club to be brave and have 'the chat', with Marcus.
Whether the content of that chat should involve suggesting that Marcus simply take a break or consider standing down from the captaincy (if the pressure of being captain of a struggling side is part of the problem) or consider moving down the order, I don't know.
But the club's cricketing management will be failing the club if the problems continue but they just wait for Marcus to make his own mind up. Earlier in the season, when Marcus's form was comparitively much better than it is now, Marcus was describing his own form as a 'work in progress'
Well, all progress has not only stopped but gone sharply into reverse.
I think it's in the nature of these things that guys like DN or AH are probably going to be able to identify both the cause of the problem and, hopefully, suggest a solution more rapidly than the batsman suffering through them.
Whether the content of that chat should involve suggesting that Marcus simply take a break or consider standing down from the captaincy (if the pressure of being captain of a struggling side is part of the problem) or consider moving down the order, I don't know.
But the club's cricketing management will be failing the club if the problems continue but they just wait for Marcus to make his own mind up. Earlier in the season, when Marcus's form was comparitively much better than it is now, Marcus was describing his own form as a 'work in progress'
Well, all progress has not only stopped but gone sharply into reverse.
I think it's in the nature of these things that guys like DN or AH are probably going to be able to identify both the cause of the problem and, hopefully, suggest a solution more rapidly than the batsman suffering through them.
In harmony with Grockle and Agod on Tres - there's a first!!
Tres is looking out of sorts and the team need him to do better. However that should happen.
He smashed the Unis for a huge score but couldn't translate that into runs for the firsts. Perhaps age is catching up and a place down the order would be best.
Tres is looking out of sorts and the team need him to do better. However that should happen.
He smashed the Unis for a huge score but couldn't translate that into runs for the firsts. Perhaps age is catching up and a place down the order would be best.
Your post of 22.23 Grockle outlines the problem AND the solution, much of which I agree with. I will always get to the ground as quickly as possible if Marcus is likely to be batting. BUT I do believe that there are better options for our opening positions than him now, as he heads for his very late 30s. Batting in the middle order would, IMO give him the chance to build on those very big scores we have come to expect from him, and avoid the dangers of a new cherry at the start of every innings.
As far as the solution (how do we get him to move down) I believe that it has to be done by the guy with the title to do it (and presumably what he is paid for) THE DIRECTOR OF CRICKET!
As far as the solution (how do we get him to move down) I believe that it has to be done by the guy with the title to do it (and presumably what he is paid for) THE DIRECTOR OF CRICKET!
Is not the problem as much our expectations of him?
If Hildy, Kiesy, Jos was having the same run would we be calling for them to be dropped?
I understand what people are saying but he is getting a harder time as we all are used to him averaging 50+ every season and being our best batsmen.
This year he is just on a par rather than that level above.
I agree the opposition are buoyed by getting him for a low score, but that is the case for every sides good player.
On that logic nobody would play their best player as the opposition will be happy if they get him out!
If Hildy, Kiesy, Jos was having the same run would we be calling for them to be dropped?
I understand what people are saying but he is getting a harder time as we all are used to him averaging 50+ every season and being our best batsmen.
This year he is just on a par rather than that level above.
I agree the opposition are buoyed by getting him for a low score, but that is the case for every sides good player.
On that logic nobody would play their best player as the opposition will be happy if they get him out!
Sorry WSM but I am absolutely NOT suggesting that he should be dropped - he is an intregral part of the team. As long as his ankles stand the strain I would think he could still be banging out runs for us well into his early 40s. If moving him from opener to middle order with licence to kill, is considered demotion then I have to disagree.
There's a lot to be said for experience like Tres's in the middle order - think of the likes of Katich, Goodwin, North, McKenzie, Benkenstein, Ramps when at Surrey - they're off the top of my head. If we're happy with Jones opening and Nick stays, I think that's the way to go...
Problem is the struggles that MT has had with spin this season. On account of that, I hardly feel he's going to be queuing up to move down the order?
In terms of whether moving down the order is a "demotion"? It would be if Tres was told to move down the order as opposed to opting to do so, IMO.
In terms of whether moving down the order is a "demotion"? It would be if Tres was told to move down the order as opposed to opting to do so, IMO.
To be honest he's been there very little so I'm not sure you have enough to say he has had a 'problem' with spin.
Moving down the order is NOT 'dropping' him or demoting him in any sense. It is accepting the ravages of time and taking action to use him in the most effective position for Somerset.
Absolutely persisting down here at Bicknoller Towers this morning - not much hope of resumption this morning I'm afraid.
Moving down the order is NOT 'dropping' him or demoting him in any sense. It is accepting the ravages of time and taking action to use him in the most effective position for Somerset.
Absolutely persisting down here at Bicknoller Towers this morning - not much hope of resumption this morning I'm afraid.
Actual weather was worse than forecast yesterday and sounds like it's (even) worse than forecast today.
Usually, the forecasts tend to over-state the chance of bad weather but it seems to have gone the other way on this occasion.
Usually, the forecasts tend to over-state the chance of bad weather but it seems to have gone the other way on this occasion.
Grockle re: Tres and spin, it's true that he's not always survived often enough to face it.
But he started the season in slightly better form against the new ball and that led to three dismissals to off-spin from his first four balls faced.
That was twice to Batty and then to Jeetan Patel. I don't remember for sure, but I think Patel then got Tres very quickly in the second dig too, after Tres had made mince-meat of the Warks seamers immediately after declining to enforce the follow-on?
I think the problem is mainly off-spin rather than anything else, but if Tres were to move down for our next CC match, Patel would be lying in wait again.
Admittedly, there aren't that many teams that regularly field an off-spinner in CC1, as most prefer a slow left-armer.
However, we still have games with Warks (Patel again), Surrey (Batty again) and Middx (Rayner - I think Rayner has also picked him up this season?)
But he started the season in slightly better form against the new ball and that led to three dismissals to off-spin from his first four balls faced.
That was twice to Batty and then to Jeetan Patel. I don't remember for sure, but I think Patel then got Tres very quickly in the second dig too, after Tres had made mince-meat of the Warks seamers immediately after declining to enforce the follow-on?
I think the problem is mainly off-spin rather than anything else, but if Tres were to move down for our next CC match, Patel would be lying in wait again.
Admittedly, there aren't that many teams that regularly field an off-spinner in CC1, as most prefer a slow left-armer.
However, we still have games with Warks (Patel again), Surrey (Batty again) and Middx (Rayner - I think Rayner has also picked him up this season?)
Correction, it was Batty once, then Patel twice to make up the three dismissals from four balls faced.
Rayner didn't play vs Somerset at Taunton.
And, in fact, I think Marcus has faced only one off-spinner - a youngster from Durham - since the game vs Warks.
So you are right, Grockle, there is no very recent evidence of Marcus struggling vs off-spin but the only evidence that we do have from this season is not promising.
Rayner didn't play vs Somerset at Taunton.
And, in fact, I think Marcus has faced only one off-spinner - a youngster from Durham - since the game vs Warks.
So you are right, Grockle, there is no very recent evidence of Marcus struggling vs off-spin but the only evidence that we do have from this season is not promising.
And Jones is out already. Would scarcely be a surprise if another collapse ensues.
The rain is coming over the country from the South West so it is all coming past us. Looks no better tomorrow until mid afternoon. This game seems done and dussted
You type the words and Somerset try to prove you wrong. Might have been better if the rain had stayed.
Chris gone first over and Nick not long after him with 5 runs added.
Chris gone first over and Nick not long after him with 5 runs added.
Nice wee session for us there. Derby look like they may beat Sussex too. Nice to see some teams making a fight of it in this relegation dogfight.
A Derbyshire win cannot be ruled out. But I highly doubt it will happen.
But I also highly doubt we'll get many batting points even if there is some play after lunch tomorrow, or what have you, what with now having two new batsmen having to start from 75 for 3.
But I also highly doubt we'll get many batting points even if there is some play after lunch tomorrow, or what have you, what with now having two new batsmen having to start from 75 for 3.
Well it looks like it is on and off this morning! They are back on the park.
I may have spoken too soon about Derbyshire at Hove.
Paging, Mr Magoffin:
Dear Steve - please bowl at your best to ensure Derbyshire do not win this one....
Paging, Mr Magoffin:
Dear Steve - please bowl at your best to ensure Derbyshire do not win this one....
In case no one noticed, Jos's last boundary in the 36th over included his 2000th first class career run.
Well done that man!
Well done that man!
apparently umpires came out for a look but started drizzling again as they walked off.
Get your rain dance out again - at the moment we are being threatened with a 2:35pm resumption....
More rain forecast by about 4, I think.
But will we manage to make our remaining 15 wickets last that long?
But will we manage to make our remaining 15 wickets last that long?
When we had them 160-5 - well never mind - even that might have been too many for us. I think we will blame the weather!
Of course JOS might save us by playing the sort of innings that will guarantee him a place in the Notts top four!!!
Of course JOS might save us by playing the sort of innings that will guarantee him a place in the Notts top four!!!
Yes, Old Boy, a chance to impress his new employers, I'd guess!!
And, yep, we'll blame the weather.
"It was awfully difficult out there in poor light and with drizzle around".
And, yep, we'll blame the weather.
"It was awfully difficult out there in poor light and with drizzle around".
Pathetic absolutely pathetic/
I try to be optimistic and constructive but I just cant anymore.
It really is simple, we are not good enough, full stop.
Too easy to sit here and see we have a great team on paper, games are not played on paper.
Individually I am sure all our top 7 would get into any other division 1 side, and probably do well.
For some reason for us, this season it hasn't worked.
We rarely even compete in matches these days let alone get anywhere near winning.
Is it Nosworthy, Hurry, Tres, something is seriously wrong, this 4 day season has been too bad for too long for it to be brushed off as a blip.
If we go down then there is every chance Nick+Jos will leave.
I say again we just will not go out and sign 3/4 quality domestic players, it will not happen.
If the rain doesn't save us here then can not see any way the batters will, the lot of them are completely shot in terms of form and confidence.
I try to be optimistic and constructive but I just cant anymore.
It really is simple, we are not good enough, full stop.
Too easy to sit here and see we have a great team on paper, games are not played on paper.
Individually I am sure all our top 7 would get into any other division 1 side, and probably do well.
For some reason for us, this season it hasn't worked.
We rarely even compete in matches these days let alone get anywhere near winning.
Is it Nosworthy, Hurry, Tres, something is seriously wrong, this 4 day season has been too bad for too long for it to be brushed off as a blip.
If we go down then there is every chance Nick+Jos will leave.
I say again we just will not go out and sign 3/4 quality domestic players, it will not happen.
If the rain doesn't save us here then can not see any way the batters will, the lot of them are completely shot in terms of form and confidence.
The soft under-belly which had appeared to have been banished, in CC cricket, under Brian Rose is back with bells on, WSM.
You have to look for players below the radar and take a punt of sorts. I'm sure there are players out thre out of contract who would do a job!! Nosworthy has to find them they won't come to us!!!
Although we have managed nearly 12 overs since the last wicket, so there's still a glimmer...
We've already allowed Fletcher figures that look like Glenn McGrath so how about allowing fat Sam Patel figures of Bishen Bedi?
I'm sure we can do it if only we put our minds to it...
I'm sure we can do it if only we put our minds to it...
New username soon " belowaverageside" or maybe just use an an adjective such as " useless" "pathetic"
Quote:AGod
I'm sure we can do it if only we put our minds to it...
So the big question to be answered is : -
Why can't the team put their minds to it, and secondly why are they still earning a living from playing the game if they are seemingly unprepared to do so?
No confidence, form or conviction.
I would think they are expecting to lose every time they cross the white line in a CC game.
If we're honest, I'm not sure the bowling has been particularly wonderful this season, either.
I would think they are expecting to lose every time they cross the white line in a CC game.
If we're honest, I'm not sure the bowling has been particularly wonderful this season, either.
Not for the first time this season, George Dockrell shows rather more stickability than some of the batsmen.
Exactly my thoughts, for the last 5 years I have been ultra positive, every time I go down I expected to win, obviously it didn't happen each time but I expected it.
Now I go down expecting us to lose and fail, whilst hoping we do well.
This morning I went down hopeful at 70-1 but I was honestly expecting us to lose 4 or 5 and face a real battle to save follow on.
As it was we lost 3 wickets for 11 runs and I gave up at lunch. We have now lost another 3 in no time and are still miles away from the follow on.
Now I go down expecting us to lose and fail, whilst hoping we do well.
This morning I went down hopeful at 70-1 but I was honestly expecting us to lose 4 or 5 and face a real battle to save follow on.
As it was we lost 3 wickets for 11 runs and I gave up at lunch. We have now lost another 3 in no time and are still miles away from the follow on.
At least Craig M is offering a bit of entertainment and this may do him good ahead of Tuesday.
I do believe that we will be relegated, I'm afraid, even if Surrey do not win a game all season (which is certainly possible) because they've been much more solid with the bat than we have and will accrue more batting bonus points, IMO, than us between now and the end of the season.
Although of course a comparison between us and Surrey might be irrelevant if Derbys are about to turn a corner.
I do believe that we will be relegated, I'm afraid, even if Surrey do not win a game all season (which is certainly possible) because they've been much more solid with the bat than we have and will accrue more batting bonus points, IMO, than us between now and the end of the season.
Although of course a comparison between us and Surrey might be irrelevant if Derbys are about to turn a corner.
With Craig M making this knock and Alf presumably to come back from injury for the trip to Edgbaston, then I reckon Trego's place could be in jeopardy for the next CC game?
His CC batting this season has been so underwhelming that we could just bring Alf in for him on the basis of a straight choice between two bowlers and this innings might get Craig M promoted to number 7 in the order?
His CC batting this season has been so underwhelming that we could just bring Alf in for him on the basis of a straight choice between two bowlers and this innings might get Craig M promoted to number 7 in the order?
What I've seen of CM makes me feel that he is a replacement for JOS's position rather than Trego's. His style is so much like JOS's whereas Pete's style always looks like brute force, when he is going well - incidently how many golden ducks has Pete achieved in his career?.
Weather has closed in all round,and its raining steadily.Cannot see any hills in any direction.That could be it for the day
Surely silly name calling wherever it comes from is pointless. Some views and opinions are frustrating but I believe this is a free country, and as long as views meet legal requirements, one can say anything.
Forecast to rain until lunch-time tomorrow.
I suppose there might be a chance, late in the day, to go out and scrape together one batting point?
I suppose there might be a chance, late in the day, to go out and scrape together one batting point?
I am sure that either Andy Hurry or Tres will state at the close of play - “we can take a lot of positives away from this game.”
What unmitigated tripe that would turn out to be.
I am reminded of the positiveness (if one is foolish enough to describe it as that) of a Glamorgan CCC gateman, at a match played against Somerset at Neath in the 1960’s.
A Welsh radio station broadcast live reports from their home games, and I tuned in to hear the following story: -
“A Glamorgan member walked up to the entrance gate after play had started on the first morning, and before entering the ground asked the steward on the gate “how are we doing?”, to which the steward replied - “It’s OK – we’re on top.”
The member looking satisfied walked into the ground, and seeing the scoreboard reading 7 runs for the loss of 6 wickets appeared quite content.
However, he soon turned hard on his heels and made his way back to the gate.
“What do you mean?” he asked the steward – “we are batting – not Somerset.”
“I know” said the steward, “but it’s 7 for 6. We have now scored more runs than we have lost wickets, so we must be on top!”
[cricketarchive.com]
What unmitigated tripe that would turn out to be.
I am reminded of the positiveness (if one is foolish enough to describe it as that) of a Glamorgan CCC gateman, at a match played against Somerset at Neath in the 1960’s.
A Welsh radio station broadcast live reports from their home games, and I tuned in to hear the following story: -
“A Glamorgan member walked up to the entrance gate after play had started on the first morning, and before entering the ground asked the steward on the gate “how are we doing?”, to which the steward replied - “It’s OK – we’re on top.”
The member looking satisfied walked into the ground, and seeing the scoreboard reading 7 runs for the loss of 6 wickets appeared quite content.
However, he soon turned hard on his heels and made his way back to the gate.
“What do you mean?” he asked the steward – “we are batting – not Somerset.”
“I know” said the steward, “but it’s 7 for 6. We have now scored more runs than we have lost wickets, so we must be on top!”
[cricketarchive.com]
Well at least two of the young guys have made runs, Clarence.
Dockrell got a few wickets which might lead to a return of a bit of confidence and form?
Beyond that? No positives whatsoever. Another opponent able to fight back from what seemed a fairly unpromising position and another unholy batting collapse. Plus ca change.
Dockrell got a few wickets which might lead to a return of a bit of confidence and form?
Beyond that? No positives whatsoever. Another opponent able to fight back from what seemed a fairly unpromising position and another unholy batting collapse. Plus ca change.
I said this a couple of months back - we have an excellent limited overs side. I'm off to Surrey Tuesday very optimistic of us getting a win. I'm also quietly confident of the YB40 finals day.
But other than Compton who's not in the fantastic form
Of last year anyway, we don't have a team that can play the 4 day game.
Out of interest, do you really think sides will be desperate for Jos bearing in mind he's far from the finished article in the 4 day game. I can see him getting an IPL call up along with England duties - will he actually play that much cricket & be worth a starting place in a 4 day line up? Also you'd have to have 2 1st team wicket keepers. Craig is surely the more valuable of the 2, though don't get me wrong, I want to keep them both!
But other than Compton who's not in the fantastic form
Of last year anyway, we don't have a team that can play the 4 day game.
Out of interest, do you really think sides will be desperate for Jos bearing in mind he's far from the finished article in the 4 day game. I can see him getting an IPL call up along with England duties - will he actually play that much cricket & be worth a starting place in a 4 day line up? Also you'd have to have 2 1st team wicket keepers. Craig is surely the more valuable of the 2, though don't get me wrong, I want to keep them both!
With Buttler we won't miss his cc runs as he's hardly made any. Average is about 30 or so. I Suppose its what we might miss. That too might not be a lot if he's away with England and at the ipl. If he doesn't want to stay he knows where the door is. If he wants to stay then knuckle down and become the best he can be!!
That we continue to perform dreadfully in the Championship must surely be symptomatic of problems behind the scenes ?
I just can't see any other explanation as to why a team with so much latent talent, can't convert it to on the field performances - at least some of the time.
I also don't know where our spirit & fight has gone. Soft underbelly is putting it kindly at the moment.
As I said a few CC games ago, I don't see Marcus's position as Captain as sustainable any more.
When I first said that, some said it would serve no purpose to change skipper during the season, but can someone tell me what have we gained by waiting ?
Seems to me that with every miserable day that this CC season goes on, it becomes more evident that the change will have to be made sooner or later, so we surely might just as well get on with it, lance the boil & hopefully improve from there.
Remember what happened when ITB was sacked (sorry, I mean resigned
), as England Captain ?
I seem to recall that things turned out rather well for all concerned.
Grizzzly
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:04:18:12:18 by Grizzzly.
I just can't see any other explanation as to why a team with so much latent talent, can't convert it to on the field performances - at least some of the time.
I also don't know where our spirit & fight has gone. Soft underbelly is putting it kindly at the moment.
As I said a few CC games ago, I don't see Marcus's position as Captain as sustainable any more.
When I first said that, some said it would serve no purpose to change skipper during the season, but can someone tell me what have we gained by waiting ?
Seems to me that with every miserable day that this CC season goes on, it becomes more evident that the change will have to be made sooner or later, so we surely might just as well get on with it, lance the boil & hopefully improve from there.
Remember what happened when ITB was sacked (sorry, I mean resigned
), as England Captain ?
I seem to recall that things turned out rather well for all concerned.
Grizzzly
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:04:18:12:18 by Grizzzly.
If Rehman does not turn up and we end up keeping AP then I think I'd make two changes to the side for the next CC match - Petersen for Tresco and Alf for Trego.
If Rehman is available then he will probably play instead of Dockrell - although it may turn enough at Edgbaston to play two spinners, if George is deemed to be in good enough form. But I'd still make the Alf for Trego change and think long and hard about bringing in Barrow or Abell for Trescothick and having Jones open with Compton.
If Rehman is available then he will probably play instead of Dockrell - although it may turn enough at Edgbaston to play two spinners, if George is deemed to be in good enough form. But I'd still make the Alf for Trego change and think long and hard about bringing in Barrow or Abell for Trescothick and having Jones open with Compton.
Well I did warn you that there were problems but I got slapped down of course. Work it out gang - numbers 4,5,6 and 7 got less than 30 between them and number 8 gets a 50. We deserve to be relegated the way we are playing both batting and bowling. Won't stop me paying my money and always supporting but that is the truth. Too many not earning their wages I fear. As for our DOC nuff said really.
Never mind we might win the village green stuff I guess !
Never mind we might win the village green stuff I guess !
You did say there were problems rodders. Are they enough to be causing the kind of pathetic performances on the pitch you think?
Exactly FE, they really will never drop him.
He may, of his own accord rest, stand down at some point if he feels that best but I don't see anybody making the call to drop him.
I'm not going to go back and forward on this again but who do Surrey want to face Tuesday, Tres or Jones, who has the potential in a high profile Sky 1-4 final to score 70 off 40 balls?
I know he's not in great form, but i'd back him g=for Tuesday.
The Sky crew will be all over us if Tres is stood down and it will take everything away from the match and be a total 'TRES' sideshow.
Anyway, lets pray for rain tomorrow first, then we can get on that bus at a reasonable time so we can get up to the Oval ready for the big day Tuesday.
He may, of his own accord rest, stand down at some point if he feels that best but I don't see anybody making the call to drop him.
I'm not going to go back and forward on this again but who do Surrey want to face Tuesday, Tres or Jones, who has the potential in a high profile Sky 1-4 final to score 70 off 40 balls?
I know he's not in great form, but i'd back him g=for Tuesday.
The Sky crew will be all over us if Tres is stood down and it will take everything away from the match and be a total 'TRES' sideshow.
Anyway, lets pray for rain tomorrow first, then we can get on that bus at a reasonable time so we can get up to the Oval ready for the big day Tuesday.
Einstein once defined insanity as 'doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results'.
I would hope that club management would now be at least considering changes and, in particular, thinking that some of those that have been out there for all of this season's dire CC campaign should perhaps be subject to being changed.
Derbyshire may possibly have got a lift from making a couple of changes and we're at the point where we've little left to lose by doing the same. Just stubbornly keeping going appears unlikely to make the difference...
I would hope that club management would now be at least considering changes and, in particular, thinking that some of those that have been out there for all of this season's dire CC campaign should perhaps be subject to being changed.
Derbyshire may possibly have got a lift from making a couple of changes and we're at the point where we've little left to lose by doing the same. Just stubbornly keeping going appears unlikely to make the difference...
Given that Tres has only ever put up one performance of that type in a T20 knock out game as far as I can recall - semi-final vs Northants, It would seem very unlikely that he'll do it on Tuesday in his current form.
Cool AG you keep saying it. Who is the change that is going to make a difference then?
Exactly, I am as frustrated as anyone, but I keep hearing groans at the ground and on here, along lines of x, y, z is rubbish, lets drop him, but who for?
If in the next match we have a top 7 of Compo, Abell, Jones, Barrow, Gregory, Kiesy, Meschede, do we all feel that is the answer?
If in the next match we have a top 7 of Compo, Abell, Jones, Barrow, Gregory, Kiesy, Meschede, do we all feel that is the answer?
If we're talking about Tuesday, Grockle, then from the last game I think the change is AP for Tres.
For the CC game in Birmingham it depends on whether AP is available (in which case that is the change) or whether it's AR.
For the CC game in Birmingham it depends on whether AP is available (in which case that is the change) or whether it's AR.
Ronnie - I believe so yes. They seem to be deeply entrenched now and I cannot see much likelihood of resolution without headline grabbing " news ". Hope I am wrong but I think we will be relegated before the s*** is finally allowed to hit the you know what !
I think many supporters will be very surprised when all comes into the open !
I think many supporters will be very surprised when all comes into the open !
But until then it's meaningless saying it exists really Rodders unless you are going to put any kind of detail on it.
We've had this on here before - none of which came out to be anything at all and the poster shown to be - well not really in the know at all.
And it would mean a little more if you were here when things were going better and not just when there was something to stir about - sorry but there it is.
It may be true but there's only your word for it at the moment and none of us know anything about your points of reference at all.
We've had this on here before - none of which came out to be anything at all and the poster shown to be - well not really in the know at all.
And it would mean a little more if you were here when things were going better and not just when there was something to stir about - sorry but there it is.
It may be true but there's only your word for it at the moment and none of us know anything about your points of reference at all.
If there's anything all that dramatic in terms of discord I'm surprised the press haven't already got the story.
These 'deep seated problem'' rumours have been floating about the supporting public for over a decade or more (from the days of the 'Middlesex Mafia' stuff of the late 90's).
Sometimes it is disgruntled players, sometimes it is outside people with their own agendas.
Some have been researched and some had little kernels of truth within them but nobody I know has ever found any major truth in them or referred to them again after initial investigation.
They also don't float about a place where it is hard to keep anything secret if it is true.
Sometimes it is disgruntled players, sometimes it is outside people with their own agendas.
Some have been researched and some had little kernels of truth within them but nobody I know has ever found any major truth in them or referred to them again after initial investigation.
They also don't float about a place where it is hard to keep anything secret if it is true.
I am surprised that you can call someone on this forum a "slimy petty-minded moron" and apparently get away with it. I once called our moderator "ignorant" and my post was immediately removed and I was given a final warning.
As someone who moves in media echelons Grockle, do you by chance have any idea what Vic Marks regards as the primary issues behind of our current predicament ?
Grizzzly
Grizzzly
I've no idea, cricketharris, whether any of the insults sent in averageside's direction hold water but one does wonder whether averageside is actually a Somerset fan or rather a 'troll', who perhaps supports some other County and only posts on here to get a reaction.
Quote:cricketharris
I am surprised that you can call someone on this forum a "slimy petty-minded moron" and apparently get away with it. I once called our moderator "ignorant" and my post was immediately removed and I was given a final warning.
Well obviously, as you found out, you can't 'get away with it' as the comment and it's equally unacceptable reply have both been removed.
Two points of clarification.
Firstly your post was dealt with 'immediately' because it was made in the progress of a conversation that the moderator was actually involved in at the time so it was dealt with in real time.
Secondly you were not given a "final warning" for your post. I think you were given your 'first official warning' and the reason was explained to you by PM. The same will occur here.
Rather than simply complaining about it on the public forum Cricketharris, the most 'helpful' way of dealing with it if it offends you, is to PM me and I can then deal with it by referral. Had you done so, the speed of response might have been quicker as I have been out at the County Ground all day and not online - PM's come onto my phone as e-mails.
Sorry if the less than 6 hour response is not to your taste but we can't have everything in life.
Grockle you believe whatever you wish as is your right. You wouldn't really expect me to elaborate of course as we all know.
Just out of interest, what is your reasoning / excuse / guess for this disaster of a CCC season ?
If the answer is you do not know, then by definition you cannot know I am wrong can you ?
I will say no more but I repeat I will always be paying my money and be there supporting.
Just out of interest, what is your reasoning / excuse / guess for this disaster of a CCC season ?
If the answer is you do not know, then by definition you cannot know I am wrong can you ?
I will say no more but I repeat I will always be paying my money and be there supporting.
Surely Vic is still Chairman of the Cricket Committee AG ?
One would hope in that role, that he has some kind of grip on what is going on !
Grizzzly
One would hope in that role, that he has some kind of grip on what is going on !
Grizzzly
It's difficult to know what to say after yet another disappointing display, in which case, for once, I won't.
I'm not saying you are right or wrong Rodders because you provide nothing for me to make that assessment on.
"I know something you don't know" is pointless and always has been.
If you know something then put it up. If you can't then it's just wind.
Talk about it when you have some substance or your words mean absolutely nothing.
People who have 'nothing' never elaborate.
People who have something, talk about it when there is something to talk about that can be released.
Met a few of the former on here in the past. The latter tend to check their facts in more than one place and talk about it when the factual basis mean it is possible to.
I'm not particularly party to the 'media echelons' Grizzz but I do tend to hear things that keep floating up and occasionally I am given stuff that can be talked about.
My own rules are that I don't put things in the public domain here if it is something a person who earns a living reporting has until they have.
Anything that comes my way you see on here has come from at least two different acceptable sources or is a public statement generally available around the ground.
The only things I know that you don't are things you will soon be aware of from other sources or not yet proved to be factual.
If you want a reputation as a source of information you have to be a source of information and not a source of unsupported rumour
Works for me..
"I know something you don't know" is pointless and always has been.
If you know something then put it up. If you can't then it's just wind.
Talk about it when you have some substance or your words mean absolutely nothing.
People who have 'nothing' never elaborate.
People who have something, talk about it when there is something to talk about that can be released.
Met a few of the former on here in the past. The latter tend to check their facts in more than one place and talk about it when the factual basis mean it is possible to.
I'm not particularly party to the 'media echelons' Grizzz but I do tend to hear things that keep floating up and occasionally I am given stuff that can be talked about.
My own rules are that I don't put things in the public domain here if it is something a person who earns a living reporting has until they have.
Anything that comes my way you see on here has come from at least two different acceptable sources or is a public statement generally available around the ground.
The only things I know that you don't are things you will soon be aware of from other sources or not yet proved to be factual.
If you want a reputation as a source of information you have to be a source of information and not a source of unsupported rumour
Works for me..
Day three photos (what there is of them)
Due to the bad weather today with rain falling a lot of the time I had very little chance of taking many photos today, the light was so bad Notts put the spinners on even with the spinners on they still went off early because of bad light.
I am going away from cricket for the first two photos because of the good cause this represent.
The first Big Pink Balloon race which was launched at The County Ground today. The event is supporting the OSNA Fund Breast Cancer charity and we saw thousands of balloons launched .
The aim is to raise £75,000 to buy an Osna unit for the Breast Care Department at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton
This photo show the moment of the release of the balloons.
The balloons are on their way.
I have a family connection on this subject and I hope it raises a lot of money.
Ajmal Shahzad taking a tumble after delivering the ball.
Craig Meschede hitting the ball straight past the bowler for four runs.
To me this was a low percentage shot by Jos Buttler that didn't come off, he was caught by Ajmal Shahzad fielding near the boundary off the bowling of Samit Patel.
James Hildreth going for a pull shot off Andre Adams only to be caught by Luke Fletcher once again near the boundary.
Sorry there is no more photos blame the weather.
Due to the bad weather today with rain falling a lot of the time I had very little chance of taking many photos today, the light was so bad Notts put the spinners on even with the spinners on they still went off early because of bad light.
I am going away from cricket for the first two photos because of the good cause this represent.
The first Big Pink Balloon race which was launched at The County Ground today. The event is supporting the OSNA Fund Breast Cancer charity and we saw thousands of balloons launched .
The aim is to raise £75,000 to buy an Osna unit for the Breast Care Department at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton
This photo show the moment of the release of the balloons.
The balloons are on their way.
I have a family connection on this subject and I hope it raises a lot of money.
Ajmal Shahzad taking a tumble after delivering the ball.
Craig Meschede hitting the ball straight past the bowler for four runs.
To me this was a low percentage shot by Jos Buttler that didn't come off, he was caught by Ajmal Shahzad fielding near the boundary off the bowling of Samit Patel.
James Hildreth going for a pull shot off Andre Adams only to be caught by Luke Fletcher once again near the boundary.
Sorry there is no more photos blame the weather.
All I can say is I'm glad the disruptive posts have been removed and referenced, as it saves me continually scrolling through trying to find them.
As for the cricket, it is now as predictable as one of my shopping trips to Street.
As for the cricket, it is now as predictable as one of my shopping trips to Street.
Poor to read (and now see photographic evidence) of Hildreth and Buttler throwing their wickets away to boundary catches. Scarcely what is required when trying to stop the rot of a collapse.
Quote:Botham
All I can say is I'm glad the disruptive posts have been removed and referenced, as it saves me continually scrolling through trying to find them....
Had others not self policed the disruptive post you made the other day Botham that too would have been "removed and referenced"
Had I posted what you did to Hants Fan - you and Cricketharris would probably have been racing each other to be the first to complain.
I am glad others responded to it so you could not try the 'victimisation' defence you attempt to use with me.
Butlers shot just looks like a slog from that angle. We really should put him up the order and try and develop his batting properly!! Hopefully everyone can see sense and this happens.
I was not the only one to shout 'No' as he played it. It was not there to hit and it was aimed at the man put there should he have been daft enough to play it.
The difference between what Jos presently is and what he could become is the ability to NOT do that kind of thing!!
The difference between what Jos presently is and what he could become is the ability to NOT do that kind of thing!!
I was possibly more disappointed with NRDC's mode of dismissal, than those of Hildreth and Buttler, as it seemed so out of character.
Well, we were doing fine while I was there! Good to put some faces to names and share mutual joys and frustrations with those I met on our rare excursion to the Wet Country. Don't need to see thunder and lightning like that again for a while, so not sure when I'll make it down again.
Bobstan - sorry to miss you also - I had planned to re-visit the Hill later in the afternoon, but once it became obvious they wouldn't be out again for some time (as it turned out, at all), we left around 3.15.
If you could all do my share of cheering and encouragement for the rest of the season (at least), that would be much appreciated.
PS My wife was quite taken by the flats - till she looked up the prices on her phone interweb! Otherwise, we agreed that the place we used to visit frequently in the 70s and 80s is now a bit of a hotch-potch - and Mrs SP guessed the only ground with four pavilions?!
Bobstan - sorry to miss you also - I had planned to re-visit the Hill later in the afternoon, but once it became obvious they wouldn't be out again for some time (as it turned out, at all), we left around 3.15.
If you could all do my share of cheering and encouragement for the rest of the season (at least), that would be much appreciated.
PS My wife was quite taken by the flats - till she looked up the prices on her phone interweb! Otherwise, we agreed that the place we used to visit frequently in the 70s and 80s is now a bit of a hotch-potch - and Mrs SP guessed the only ground with four pavilions?!
Yes, I read that Compton was caught at cover and wondered if that also represented a loose shot.
Sorry to have missed you, SP.
It was particularly disappointing today that three batsmen gave their wickets away: Compton spooning a catch to cover; Hildreth top-edging a hook, which he didn't get in position to play properly; and Buttler pulling a long-hop down the throat of long-on, when there were acres of space at mid-wicket. On the brighter side, Meschede played well; and Dockrell also did pretty well.
Notts' bowling was far more disciplined than ours - there were few loose deliveries; and they bowled a consistently threatening line and length.
Like some other posters, I would be inclined to freshen the side up a bit, assuming that some of the current Seconds players are in reasonable form.
Finally, the company was, as so often in Taunton, excellent.
It was particularly disappointing today that three batsmen gave their wickets away: Compton spooning a catch to cover; Hildreth top-edging a hook, which he didn't get in position to play properly; and Buttler pulling a long-hop down the throat of long-on, when there were acres of space at mid-wicket. On the brighter side, Meschede played well; and Dockrell also did pretty well.
Notts' bowling was far more disciplined than ours - there were few loose deliveries; and they bowled a consistently threatening line and length.
Like some other posters, I would be inclined to freshen the side up a bit, assuming that some of the current Seconds players are in reasonable form.
Finally, the company was, as so often in Taunton, excellent.
Yes Shep/Wickham it was "Pseudonym Hill" for a while today and yesterday - and that isn't including the ones we don't know who kept themselves to themselves. Nice to see one and all.
I think Dibble is worth a shot, we have given him a new contract.
I'm not sure he is going to come in and do huge damage but he is one sensible change we could make.
I was baffled a bit to our under use of Jove in this game, I like the use of him in short spells but why oh why did he not open Saturday morning when we only had 9, 10, 11 to knock over, surely blasting out the tail is one of his uses!?
On the assumption AP is not playing the Warwicks game then what changes to the top 7 from this game.
Lets forget the dropping of Tres, it will not happen.
So who of other 6 do we drop? and for who?
I assume we keep Kiesy and Compo, so do we think Hildy, Jos or Trego are at risk?
Only batting prospects i'd guess are Gregory or Barrow, neither of whom have taken their chances thus far, the odd glimpse but on the whole both underachieved so far.
I'm not sure he is going to come in and do huge damage but he is one sensible change we could make.
I was baffled a bit to our under use of Jove in this game, I like the use of him in short spells but why oh why did he not open Saturday morning when we only had 9, 10, 11 to knock over, surely blasting out the tail is one of his uses!?
On the assumption AP is not playing the Warwicks game then what changes to the top 7 from this game.
Lets forget the dropping of Tres, it will not happen.
So who of other 6 do we drop? and for who?
I assume we keep Kiesy and Compo, so do we think Hildy, Jos or Trego are at risk?
Only batting prospects i'd guess are Gregory or Barrow, neither of whom have taken their chances thus far, the odd glimpse but on the whole both underachieved so far.
Quote:Ronniesabre
With Buttler we won't miss his cc runs as he's hardly made any. Average is about 30 or so. I Suppose its what we might miss. That too might not be a lot if he's away with England and at the ipl. If he doesn't want to stay he knows where the door is. If he wants to stay then knuckle down and become the best he can be!!
Ronnie, I agree with every word of that.
The fact that Buttler is the 'local kid on the block' carries no weight of sympathetic allegiance from me.
Our club only wants players who want and desire to play for us and thereby give their all.
Should they not desire to give that, then the sooner they go the better.
CP (10 : 4)
I'm not sure that there's any evidence that Jos is giving less than 'his all'.
Unfortunately, in common with many other Somerset batsmen, he does seem to be somewhat drawn - like a moth to a flame - to playing flashy shots rather than occupying the crease and batting time in CC games.
I come back to something Brian Rose said - that he would never want to see Somerset playing attritional cricket with the bat in the CC. I got the impression that this was a bit of a dig at Lancs and Warks.
Well, I'm sorry, but how many teams in recent times have won the CC with a free-wheeling cavalier batting line-up?
It seems to me that teams that win the CC do tend to think in terms of crease occupation with the bat.
Unfortunately, in common with many other Somerset batsmen, he does seem to be somewhat drawn - like a moth to a flame - to playing flashy shots rather than occupying the crease and batting time in CC games.
I come back to something Brian Rose said - that he would never want to see Somerset playing attritional cricket with the bat in the CC. I got the impression that this was a bit of a dig at Lancs and Warks.
Well, I'm sorry, but how many teams in recent times have won the CC with a free-wheeling cavalier batting line-up?
It seems to me that teams that win the CC do tend to think in terms of crease occupation with the bat.
Who would Adam (who hasn't been picked when available this season) come in for WSM? Alf? Steve? Jamie? Pete? Craig M?
I have no idea whether he has shown any more commitment or is any more dangerous than any of them. I know he has not got a great injury record and not such a good batting record but hey if you've given up on the people in the team give him a go.
Can't personally see how he improves morale if he is as weak or weaker than any of the others and one would assume he would have been in had he been stronger.
More pressure on the batting line-up if you do that of course.
Your loyalty to MT does you credit but he won't be in for Jos in a T20 or Pete (we need his bowling) Alviro will replace Nick and that leaves James.
But as you seem unwilling to move MT from 1 or 2 it will be Chris Jones.
Sorry, that does not improve our T20 side in the present year. Either he takes a middle order position instead of Hilda or he breaks up and makes less effective the unit that has won us games in the last fortnight.
I have no idea whether he has shown any more commitment or is any more dangerous than any of them. I know he has not got a great injury record and not such a good batting record but hey if you've given up on the people in the team give him a go.
Can't personally see how he improves morale if he is as weak or weaker than any of the others and one would assume he would have been in had he been stronger.
More pressure on the batting line-up if you do that of course.
Your loyalty to MT does you credit but he won't be in for Jos in a T20 or Pete (we need his bowling) Alviro will replace Nick and that leaves James.
But as you seem unwilling to move MT from 1 or 2 it will be Chris Jones.
Sorry, that does not improve our T20 side in the present year. Either he takes a middle order position instead of Hilda or he breaks up and makes less effective the unit that has won us games in the last fortnight.
Quote:wsm fan
I think Dibble is worth a shot, we have given him a new contract.
I'm not sure he is going to come in and do huge damage but he is one sensible change we could make.
I was baffled a bit to our under use of Jove in this game, I like the use of him in short spells but why oh why did he not open Saturday morning when we only had 9, 10, 11 to knock over, surely blasting out the tail is one of his uses!?
On the assumption AP is not playing the Warwicks game then what changes to the top 7 from this game.
Lets forget the dropping of Tres, it will not happen.
So who of other 6 do we drop? and for who?
I assume we keep Kiesy and Compo, so do we think Hildy, Jos or Trego are at risk?
Only batting prospects i'd guess are Gregory or Barrow, neither of whom have taken their chances thus far, the odd glimpse but on the whole both underachieved so far.
Will Tresco not be dropped because it's a terrible idea or because we have nobody with the cojones to make the decision?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:04:23:17:29 by AGod.
And to be honest Trego should be at risk for the next CC game. Has struggled for wickets and been a big part of the collapsible batting line-up with numerous early dismissals.
This is the issue I think.
We all feel that the 11 from this game are good players, so it's not obvious who to drop to bring Dibble in.
Maybe Trego, maybe Kirby? Whoever it is there will be a case for defending the one that goes, but maybe it is time to do something.
I am personally against dropping Tres as I honestly feel he will come good very soon.
We are in a huge mess in the 4 day stuff and you'd like to think our proven, experienced are the ones most likely to get us out of it (if anyone can)
I'm not sure we can expect to bring in Barrow, Gregory, Abell and expect them to keep us in division 1.
We are all just speculating as things are not working, we all want things to be better, but to be honest none of us no the solution to get the best out of players that we "know" are (or were?) far better than they have shown us in the first 10.5 games this season.
We all feel that the 11 from this game are good players, so it's not obvious who to drop to bring Dibble in.
Maybe Trego, maybe Kirby? Whoever it is there will be a case for defending the one that goes, but maybe it is time to do something.
I am personally against dropping Tres as I honestly feel he will come good very soon.
We are in a huge mess in the 4 day stuff and you'd like to think our proven, experienced are the ones most likely to get us out of it (if anyone can)
I'm not sure we can expect to bring in Barrow, Gregory, Abell and expect them to keep us in division 1.
We are all just speculating as things are not working, we all want things to be better, but to be honest none of us no the solution to get the best out of players that we "know" are (or were?) far better than they have shown us in the first 10.5 games this season.
The scores from this match combined with recent second Xi form does make me wonder whether Dave Nosworthy's methods are working far better with/being better received by our young players.
Maybe DN is getting through to the younger guys?
Maybe his methods are less well-suited to experienced players and/or our more experienced players are simply not all that open to a fresh approach after so many years of BR?
Maybe DN is getting through to the younger guys?
Maybe his methods are less well-suited to experienced players and/or our more experienced players are simply not all that open to a fresh approach after so many years of BR?
I am as frustrated as the next person but I don't know what to suggest. I look at the 11 names on the sheet and I rate every one...but it's not happening. Why is it not happening? I don't know but have to think it is something that is at club level rather than player level, and the conclusion is that it became apparent with the appointment of a new DOC. Note I say became apparent, rather than began because I am still at a total loss to understand what it is that is causing 11 + talented individuals to lose the collective plot. I shall renew my membership next season whatever- the first year I don't will be because there will be a headstone explaining the reason!! If it's any comfort I renewed my season ticket for the rugby at Newcastle Falcons for last season and watched them run away with Div2- andwatch them go this season as a revitalised outfit.
May change this thread title to "Sense of Proportion" for some
Today was going to be a very difficult day for any side batting.
Being put on in highly damp conditions with heavy cloud cover and poor light was going to make batting difficult. Being pulled off almost immediately and then put back on again wasn't going to help the situation for new batsmen. Poor shot selection didn't help but it wasn't exactly a surprise. Notts are also an effective bowling side.
Once it settled, the batsman with a brain made some runs
First Division Championship cricket is by no means lost - we play the four sides around us before the end of the year plus one other.
Derbyshire won today - not good - but it did not bring them past us and Surrey are 11 plus whatever comes from this game points (but with a game in hand) behind us.
The issue is HOW to improve and win games but the games are still there to win. It is the margin that is getting tighter. All is certainly not lost but the need for improvement is getting more and more important. This is still in our hands.
But if MT is going to come good WSM I'd rather it was NOW if it is not too much trouble.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:04:23:51:45 by Grockle.
Today was going to be a very difficult day for any side batting.
Being put on in highly damp conditions with heavy cloud cover and poor light was going to make batting difficult. Being pulled off almost immediately and then put back on again wasn't going to help the situation for new batsmen. Poor shot selection didn't help but it wasn't exactly a surprise. Notts are also an effective bowling side.
Once it settled, the batsman with a brain made some runs
First Division Championship cricket is by no means lost - we play the four sides around us before the end of the year plus one other.
Derbyshire won today - not good - but it did not bring them past us and Surrey are 11 plus whatever comes from this game points (but with a game in hand) behind us.
The issue is HOW to improve and win games but the games are still there to win. It is the margin that is getting tighter. All is certainly not lost but the need for improvement is getting more and more important. This is still in our hands.
But if MT is going to come good WSM I'd rather it was NOW if it is not too much trouble.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:04:23:51:45 by Grockle.
Our average 1st innings score this year is 255.
We have the lowest batting points total in division 1 and several others have played less games.
We have no batter who has scored more than 562 (Alviro) and we are at August 4th.
Only 2 batters average in the 40's.
We also have no bowler at this point having taken 30 wickets.
We have the lowest batting points total in division 1 and several others have played less games.
We have no batter who has scored more than 562 (Alviro) and we are at August 4th.
Only 2 batters average in the 40's.
We also have no bowler at this point having taken 30 wickets.
So what do you want to do? Wallow in it? Be my guest but don't ask me to join you.
Do yourself a favour WSM. If you've given up hope log off, shut down all access to the scores and wait until the end of September and then switch back on.
If you aren't looking for solutions and just want to tell us all how rubbish we've been this year and how it isn't going to change then please do yourself a favour and don't put yourself through it man. Have a holiday and come back refreshed to wail about the winter and second division cricket next year.
I thought it was all about the tough getting going and all that?
It isn't over until it is over but the philosophy won't solve the problem and what went before is only useful as a point of reference for how under par our performances have been and cannot be in the rest of August and September
If you are trying to persuade me personally that it is all beyond help then do yourself a favour and don't waste your time.
Do yourself a favour WSM. If you've given up hope log off, shut down all access to the scores and wait until the end of September and then switch back on.
If you aren't looking for solutions and just want to tell us all how rubbish we've been this year and how it isn't going to change then please do yourself a favour and don't put yourself through it man. Have a holiday and come back refreshed to wail about the winter and second division cricket next year.
I thought it was all about the tough getting going and all that?
It isn't over until it is over but the philosophy won't solve the problem and what went before is only useful as a point of reference for how under par our performances have been and cannot be in the rest of August and September
If you are trying to persuade me personally that it is all beyond help then do yourself a favour and don't waste your time.
Moved it for you Bob
Posted by: Bobstan (92.41.13.132)
Date: 04 August, 2013 21:50
These Swanns can break a man's arm, you know.
With tomorrow looking like a washout I doubt I shall be at the ground. Despite the less than satisfactory cricket and weather it has been nice to meet Grockles pals I have met before, such as MikeTA1, Bristol Rob, Tractor etc, and new acquaintances including old boy and Casomer. Wickham and LoL have had to put up with me for three days, but are looking surprisingly well on it. Regrettably I managed to miss Shepton Paul.
Also good to get a sighting of the most famous of all the migratory Birds, the Grockle.
Edited to admit that this should be on the Notts thread, with the exception of the Swann nonsense. It just sent me off at an ornithological tangent.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/08/2013 21:57 by Bobstan.
Posted by: Bobstan (92.41.13.132)
Date: 04 August, 2013 21:50
These Swanns can break a man's arm, you know.
With tomorrow looking like a washout I doubt I shall be at the ground. Despite the less than satisfactory cricket and weather it has been nice to meet Grockles pals I have met before, such as MikeTA1, Bristol Rob, Tractor etc, and new acquaintances including old boy and Casomer. Wickham and LoL have had to put up with me for three days, but are looking surprisingly well on it. Regrettably I managed to miss Shepton Paul.
Also good to get a sighting of the most famous of all the migratory Birds, the Grockle.
Edited to admit that this should be on the Notts thread, with the exception of the Swann nonsense. It just sent me off at an ornithological tangent.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/08/2013 21:57 by Bobstan.
Common sense prevailed
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:05:53:21 by Botham.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:05:53:21 by Botham.
As Grockle rightly says, all is far from lost, and we could still avoid relegation (This should be our main aim) and we could easily progress in both the T20 and YB40, and who knows even win some silverware.
However, the team do appear to be in crisis, and I am sure that somebody will remind me of the precise date that a certain D.B.Close was appointed Somerset captain.
What would we give for a D.B.Close character now, and who would anyone like to see taking up this role at our club ?
We desperately need a leader on the field, and not a committee of coaches, with differing agendas, sat on the bench.
I have been a member since 1954, and will always support my team,but come on GL and your management team, get proactive asap
However, the team do appear to be in crisis, and I am sure that somebody will remind me of the precise date that a certain D.B.Close was appointed Somerset captain.
What would we give for a D.B.Close character now, and who would anyone like to see taking up this role at our club ?
We desperately need a leader on the field, and not a committee of coaches, with differing agendas, sat on the bench.
I have been a member since 1954, and will always support my team,but come on GL and your management team, get proactive asap
Personally I would put dibble in for Kirby. He snarls a lot but take some wickets first and then snarl. Adam Is also a better bat.
Id have kirby as the bowling coach and only bowl when required.
Id have kirby as the bowling coach and only bowl when required.
Cary Castle - I'd give my left arm for Brian Close now.
Grockle - IF we avoid defeat today I think Surrey will be 8 behind with a game in hand, not 11. If we lose - and if the rain fails to show up then one suspects we would lose - then the gap would be only 5 points, I think?
.
As for your own 'sense of proportion post'?
You damned them yourself with this single line:
'The batsman with a brain made some runs'.
As for Notts? Truth is they've not been a very good bowling side this season but, of course, put them against our shambolic batting group and they look good, as did Derbyshire. Until yesterday no regular bowler had an average of below 30 for a struggling Notts bowling side.
I'm sure most of us are beyond tired of excuses being made for our much bally-hooed but utterly ineffectual batting group. The time for indulging people and for sacred bovines is at an end.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:07:21:21 by AGod.
Grockle - IF we avoid defeat today I think Surrey will be 8 behind with a game in hand, not 11. If we lose - and if the rain fails to show up then one suspects we would lose - then the gap would be only 5 points, I think?
.
As for your own 'sense of proportion post'?
You damned them yourself with this single line:
'The batsman with a brain made some runs'.
As for Notts? Truth is they've not been a very good bowling side this season but, of course, put them against our shambolic batting group and they look good, as did Derbyshire. Until yesterday no regular bowler had an average of below 30 for a struggling Notts bowling side.
I'm sure most of us are beyond tired of excuses being made for our much bally-hooed but utterly ineffectual batting group. The time for indulging people and for sacred bovines is at an end.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:07:21:21 by AGod.
As for the club's 'plan B', I hope it's simply keep either AP or Arafat if AR cannot come.
Don't want Elgar back as his shot-selection was about as reliable as Hildreth's.
Don't want Elgar back as his shot-selection was about as reliable as Hildreth's.
I would say that if the management think that the CC team as picked is good enough, then we have a huge problem. There are youngsters eager and ready to go - eg: Dibble, Barrow, Gregory, Abel, etc - can putting one or two of them in the team weaken it???
Old Boy - if the youngsters have all just been given new contracts (and most of them have) then there is presumably some level of faith in them somewhere?
And if you are going to use them then a logical time to do so would appear to be;
a) When they have some second XI form behind them
b) When the habitual first-teamers are letting you down week after week after week.
And if you are going to use them then a logical time to do so would appear to be;
a) When they have some second XI form behind them
b) When the habitual first-teamers are letting you down week after week after week.
Could someone in the Taunton area offer a view on the prospects of play, please.
The weather in Bicknoller is very wet and windy. We are some 15 miles away in the Quantocks. If you want to know what it is like nearer the ground then the left hand weather link will give you the position presently at Richard Huish College which is just a couple of miles from the ground.
No idea what the 'damned' comment is about AG
Yep the points aspect is wrong (too busy working out where Derby were - that's the 11 point aspect). Surrey are only 5 behind us aren't they? (79 v 74)
Other than that your whole post seems to spend far too much time being intelligent to actually make much sense - sorry.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:10:17:37 by Grockle.
No idea what the 'damned' comment is about AG
Yep the points aspect is wrong (too busy working out where Derby were - that's the 11 point aspect). Surrey are only 5 behind us aren't they? (79 v 74)
Other than that your whole post seems to spend far too much time being intelligent to actually make much sense - sorry.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:10:17:37 by Grockle.
Tweet from Somerset Cricket at 10.00 says covers off and grey & overcast but at moment play looks likely.
Yes, five at the moment, Grockle and 8 if we manage to hang on for the draw (with or without the assistance of the weather). Maybe if Jamie has a bit of a slog we could even get to the dizzying heights of a 9 point gap if we get the one batting bonus point!
What I was saying, Grockle, was this:
Yes, yesterday was a stop-start day with some drizzle and other wet stuff.
But if conditions are difficult for batting that is surely more reason to eschew risk and try and be resolute and occupy the crease? To make the opposition work hard for their wickets?
On a day like that, one would hope, I feel, that, if our batsmen must perish, it should be to catches at the wicket, as opposed to wickets being given away at cover, long-on and long leg!
I’m sure somebody will say that a dismissal has the same bottom-line however it occurs, but I do think that getting out with daft shots only serves to encourage the opposition. If we get any significant amount of play today, then one imagines that the Notts’ bowlers will be feeling very good about their chances and especially so in light of some of the irresponsible dismissals from yesterday.
The truth is that, for whatever reason, this batting group has been shaky throughout the season. And there are no signs of improvement, in terms of the unit as a whole, so far as one can tell.
Yes, yesterday was a stop-start day with some drizzle and other wet stuff.
But if conditions are difficult for batting that is surely more reason to eschew risk and try and be resolute and occupy the crease? To make the opposition work hard for their wickets?
On a day like that, one would hope, I feel, that, if our batsmen must perish, it should be to catches at the wicket, as opposed to wickets being given away at cover, long-on and long leg!
I’m sure somebody will say that a dismissal has the same bottom-line however it occurs, but I do think that getting out with daft shots only serves to encourage the opposition. If we get any significant amount of play today, then one imagines that the Notts’ bowlers will be feeling very good about their chances and especially so in light of some of the irresponsible dismissals from yesterday.
The truth is that, for whatever reason, this batting group has been shaky throughout the season. And there are no signs of improvement, in terms of the unit as a whole, so far as one can tell.
Lets wish the openers all the very best. Particularly I would love Marcus to prove all us doubters wrong and smash the new ball all over the ground as he did in days of yore.
On the other hand if it is another failure, I can't believe that there won't be changes in the batting order for the last few CC games!
On the other hand if it is another failure, I can't believe that there won't be changes in the batting order for the last few CC games!
Sadly, Old Boy, I can believe that there probably won't be changes, even if the rain stays away long enough for it all to go pear-shaped again.
We've made it through four overs, so that is something.
We've made it through four overs, so that is something.
Leeds seems to be the only ground where they are not either playing or have established prospects of play so it looks like the forecast goddawful weather has not materialised.
Quote:AGod
Leeds seems to be the only ground where they are not either playing or have established prospects of play so it looks like the forecast goddawful weather has not materialised.
It's tipping it down here
Hi GM
Yeah, I think the general synopsis is meant to be bad stuff moving north and east but I would guess that it's already cleared through most of the country overnight/earlier this morning.
Yeah, I think the general synopsis is meant to be bad stuff moving north and east but I would guess that it's already cleared through most of the country overnight/earlier this morning.
Cleared?
Swansea is under two foot of water, it's raining so heavily it feels like you're walking under a super-duper power shower.
Will try and blow some over to you.
Swansea is under two foot of water, it's raining so heavily it feels like you're walking under a super-duper power shower.
Will try and blow some over to you.
Oh, I guess it will be on its way up from Exeter then.
Still, better that it gets here with us given nothing away than gets here with us having thrown our wickets away and hanging on at 60 for 5!
Still, better that it gets here with us given nothing away than gets here with us having thrown our wickets away and hanging on at 60 for 5!
Bright sunshine in Bicknoller but greyness on its way. May make it to lunchtime perhaps. After that it is anyone's guess.
According to the weather people there is a 50% chance of rain this afternoon in Taunton around about 3:00pm ut it is expected to dry up as the day goes on.
Not sure I'm happy with that. It means I shall brave the present uncertainty and go in but not sure what I will find when I get there!!
According to the weather people there is a 50% chance of rain this afternoon in Taunton around about 3:00pm ut it is expected to dry up as the day goes on.
Not sure I'm happy with that. It means I shall brave the present uncertainty and go in but not sure what I will find when I get there!!
So, where are you all then? Call yourself supporters? An excellent afternons play in prospect with both of our openers playing some nice shots. Weather is fine.
68 for 0 at the ground with 64 overs after lunch. MT is on 31 and NC is on 30. Both have survived chances. The skipper was dropped on 9 - regulation say those who were here and NC was given not out when he tried a shot to square leg that bounced up off something and was caught.
Notts were quite confident but the umpire said not out and Notts seemed pretty happy. Though most people thought it was legitimate. Bit of luck to us for a change.
Notts were quite confident but the umpire said not out and Notts seemed pretty happy. Though most people thought it was legitimate. Bit of luck to us for a change.
Seems Cricketharris and myself plus about 200 others are going to get some play. Heavy rain predicted by the BBC at 2 but it's clearing up over the hills It seems they have predicted the same since 10:45).
Who knows what is in store.... (sound of rubbing of hands together).
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:13:44:00 by Grockle.
Who knows what is in store.... (sound of rubbing of hands together).
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:13:44:00 by Grockle.
Well then AG they must obviously have believed that it bounced and were chancing their arm.
Where are we? I came down to Taunton Saturday & Sunday whilst the wife was at home in the sunshine of London. Back at work today & off to Suurey tomorrow to watch the other Somerset team in action.
Would be great if we could get at least a 100 opening partnership today, not to shut any posters here up, but simply to give a little confidence & of course, put off any fear of losing this game.
Would like something to change before the next match although I've absolutely no idea what. But in most team sports of businesses, if you have a sustained spell of underperformance, you make a change. Not necessarily anything drastic like sacking the manager or captain, could be just moving Marcus down the order, bringing in 1-2 of the younger players who haven't been affected by the slump, selecting Pete on the basis of his bowling only, rather than hoping his batting will save us. Just something to put a bit of life into the team. Just praying they're able to forget the CC form tomorrow & remember they're fantastic 20/20 players
Would be great if we could get at least a 100 opening partnership today, not to shut any posters here up, but simply to give a little confidence & of course, put off any fear of losing this game.
Would like something to change before the next match although I've absolutely no idea what. But in most team sports of businesses, if you have a sustained spell of underperformance, you make a change. Not necessarily anything drastic like sacking the manager or captain, could be just moving Marcus down the order, bringing in 1-2 of the younger players who haven't been affected by the slump, selecting Pete on the basis of his bowling only, rather than hoping his batting will save us. Just something to put a bit of life into the team. Just praying they're able to forget the CC form tomorrow & remember they're fantastic 20/20 players
Given the awful forecast, I'd say crowd of 200 or so is actually pretty good, whatever cricketharris might think.
Especially as some will have splashed out for a trip to London tomorrow.
Especially as some will have splashed out for a trip to London tomorrow.
Is Gurney bowling too short?
That's what he did at Trent Bridge when I saw him last season - way too short.
That's what he did at Trent Bridge when I saw him last season - way too short.
Seeing as Nick has just lapped him to the Somerset for 4 you may be right - he's also a bit leg side as well.
Marcus got one that went away a little and took the top of the bat I think. Out for 39
Marcus got one that went away a little and took the top of the bat I think. Out for 39
Quote:AGod
Cannot see how Notts could possibly be pretty happy if NC really had hit it?
HEE HEE, you'd find something to contradict in an empty room.
Chris Jones getting some heavy duty "batting against spin" practice with Patel bowling with 4 and 5 around the bat.
Here we go. Push on for a lead of say 150 by half an hour after tea then get them in and have a dash at them. Easy peasy.
Well Nick is doing what he does so well and moving nothing anywhere unless forced to and Chris is sensibly following suit. Big black clouds are in the vicinity but none of them seem to ant to come and stop this.
I have to say I'd be happier to defend this to a draw rather than have the water "save us" as a morale and confidence booster but we all know that while there are balls to be bowled we can collapse into a whimpering heap in a matter of overs.
I have to say I'd be happier to defend this to a draw rather than have the water "save us" as a morale and confidence booster but we all know that while there are balls to be bowled we can collapse into a whimpering heap in a matter of overs.
Game over. The rain has hit in force and the outfield is puddling as we watch with the groundstaff unable to get the covers on in time
The game is finished officially 10 for Notts and 6 for us
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:15:43:31 by Grockle.
The game is finished officially 10 for Notts and 6 for us
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:15:43:31 by Grockle.
Quote:Big Jim
Notts chancing their arm?
Damned cheats.
Ahh - still struggling with the distinction aren't you BJ. You can't cheat if the officials deny your appeal because you don't get a dishonest advantage. The umpiring system worked and the umpire gave the correct decision.
Anyway no problem to me as I wasn't saying Notts attempted to fool the umpire - from where I was they seemed happy to leave it to the umpire to decide.
I was simply responding to AG who seemed to think, from his position, that the Notts reaction wasn't acceptance that the ball had bounced. I saw it live, he must have some kind of personal action replay wherever he is.
All this because Gareth Bale is off to Spain!!!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:16:00:04 by old boy!.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:16:00:04 by old boy!.
Not as far as you are concerned sir... I'm mentally ill - don't you remember? I was diagnosed by a medically qualified professional the other day.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:16:23:46 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:16:23:46 by Grockle.
They did seem to be putting a bit of pressure on the umpire with their cheering and group hugging with hardly a look at the umpire, unless that is normal for them.
Grockle - I'm not at ground. Didn't indicate any doubt about ball having bounced or not off Compton. You seemed to be saying that there was a strong appeal against him and that folks at the ground seemed to think it should have been out, but the appeal was turned down and Notts weren't bothered.
I was simply suggesting that it's unlikely that they would not be bothered - hence the implication being that those that thought it should probably have been given out were probably wrong.
I was simply suggesting that it's unlikely that they would not be bothered - hence the implication being that those that thought it should probably have been given out were probably wrong.
why let humour get in the way of a good argument Jim!! Humour is actually the best way of getting through most of our disappointments this year.
Mike - NC may have made them desperate!?
I remember once reading that R C Robertson-Glasgow had described a Chris Tavare knock against the Aussies as being:
"A denial of hope".
Maybe Compton was batting in a sufficiently determined mood that that's how Notts felt too!?
I remember once reading that R C Robertson-Glasgow had described a Chris Tavare knock against the Aussies as being:
"A denial of hope".
Maybe Compton was batting in a sufficiently determined mood that that's how Notts felt too!?
Thanks ever so much for your twopenneth Ron. Never avoid interfering when its nothing to do with you at all will you there's a good boy.
I've heard that ignoring spats with others is the best way not to keep them going - advice from somewhere - not sure where.
Anyway - back from the land of Richard to the game. Absolutely huge amounts of rain down here.
So much that in 10 minutes the game was abandoned.
There's a poor frontpage picture taken through the pressbox window that conveys the amount of rain. It just belted down.
Good work by Nick who was not going to be rushed and knew what his job was. Chris went to the only real problem ball Shahzad bowled and Marcus prodded again. James looked solid but only had one job which was to put NC in front of the bowler and walk up and down.
Hope no-oone going tomorrow gets any of the stuff we had. Brollies won't help in a deluge like that.
I've heard that ignoring spats with others is the best way not to keep them going - advice from somewhere - not sure where.
Anyway - back from the land of Richard to the game. Absolutely huge amounts of rain down here.
So much that in 10 minutes the game was abandoned.
There's a poor frontpage picture taken through the pressbox window that conveys the amount of rain. It just belted down.
Good work by Nick who was not going to be rushed and knew what his job was. Chris went to the only real problem ball Shahzad bowled and Marcus prodded again. James looked solid but only had one job which was to put NC in front of the bowler and walk up and down.
Hope no-oone going tomorrow gets any of the stuff we had. Brollies won't help in a deluge like that.
I had no way of judging if the appeal was good or not from where I was sat, the umpire was unsure that was why he ask the other umpire.
Right, sounds like it did not carry then, so not an actual chance given by NC.
Well that seems to be what the decision was as Nick was not replaced at the wicket by another batsman.
Please show me where I said you were mentally ill, Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:17:07:26 by Big Jim.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:17:07:26 by Big Jim.
Nah BJ I think we both know where that is and this is not the place for this stuff.
You want me to expand - send me a PM and we'll take this stuff off the main site.
You want me to expand - send me a PM and we'll take this stuff off the main site.
Hey Grockle don't be like that come on Im always a good "boy" you know that!!!
I have no desire to discuss anything with you, be that in person, or on this site.
Day four photos.
A draw is a draw is a draw but is it enough?
Chris Jones was really put through the mill with short ball from Harry Gurney, but he weathered the storm, so to speak.
The rest of the photos is the Marcus Trescothick story, we have seen it all today.
It is called “ The good, The bad, The ugly and The lucky”
First “The ugly”
A big wave of the bat only to be caught behind by Chris Read off Harry Gurney.
Next “The lucky” in two parts
Part one, a defensive shot from Ajmal Shahzad the ball came off the glove …..
Part two, only for the second slip to drop an easy catch.
Next “The Bad”
Marcus playing another defensive shot and missing the ball these are the shots he has been getting out too recently.
I am glad to finish on the good “The Good”
Marcus played some lovely shots today off his legs it was a pleasure to watch them, it looked at last we were going to see a big score from him, all was looking well until he had a big wave of the bat outside the off stump he got out to.
A draw is a draw is a draw but is it enough?
Chris Jones was really put through the mill with short ball from Harry Gurney, but he weathered the storm, so to speak.
The rest of the photos is the Marcus Trescothick story, we have seen it all today.
It is called “ The good, The bad, The ugly and The lucky”
First “The ugly”
A big wave of the bat only to be caught behind by Chris Read off Harry Gurney.
Next “The lucky” in two parts
Part one, a defensive shot from Ajmal Shahzad the ball came off the glove …..
Part two, only for the second slip to drop an easy catch.
Next “The Bad”
Marcus playing another defensive shot and missing the ball these are the shots he has been getting out too recently.
I am glad to finish on the good “The Good”
Marcus played some lovely shots today off his legs it was a pleasure to watch them, it looked at last we were going to see a big score from him, all was looking well until he had a big wave of the bat outside the off stump he got out to.
Cool BJ, works for me, your choice of course.
No sense of humour needed then and I'll live in hope...man (or is it mon?)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:18:50:05 by Grockle.
No sense of humour needed then and I'll live in hope...man (or is it mon?)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:05:18:50:05 by Grockle.
Does not sound very convincing from Tresco. I think all of his main issues still remain, I'm afraid.
Looks like an execrable attempt at a catch from fat Sam Patel.
Looks like an execrable attempt at a catch from fat Sam Patel.
It did seem a bit mixed AG, later on in the innings he started raising the bat in the air well out of the way of the ball, I was far happier seeing him do that.
Mike, not sure draw is enough but after yesterdays awful batting it was yet again best we could hope for.
We have Warwicks next away who aren't yet safe so will be very keen not to lose to us.
I have a glimmer of hope re the Middlesex away game, as they are in contention, if circumstances arise, they could be up for a contrived game come day 4 should it be needed.
No way Warwickshire will be, and zero chance Surrey will, guess Derby may be if they are sufficiently adrift to be prepared to try anything.
Lets hope for good news on Abdur in the coming days, it's possibly our best (only!) chance of getting 20 wickets fast enough to match our batting totals
We have Warwicks next away who aren't yet safe so will be very keen not to lose to us.
I have a glimmer of hope re the Middlesex away game, as they are in contention, if circumstances arise, they could be up for a contrived game come day 4 should it be needed.
No way Warwickshire will be, and zero chance Surrey will, guess Derby may be if they are sufficiently adrift to be prepared to try anything.
Lets hope for good news on Abdur in the coming days, it's possibly our best (only!) chance of getting 20 wickets fast enough to match our batting totals
Having seen a picture of the square at tea as they tried to get the covers on I think this thread should be entitled A Sense of Porpoise,
They tried to get them on in the very heavy rain and couldn't see far enough in front to get them sorted.
We were sitting near the electronic scoreboard when it suggested it was going to start and we heard the rain moving across the penthouse roof of the Pegasus flats. Got very wet from there to the press box at a flat run. Some of the cameramen on the roof got it a hell of a lot worse trying to get inside.
We were sitting near the electronic scoreboard when it suggested it was going to start and we heard the rain moving across the penthouse roof of the Pegasus flats. Got very wet from there to the press box at a flat run. Some of the cameramen on the roof got it a hell of a lot worse trying to get inside.
Quote:Grockle
Cool BJ, works for me, your choice of course.
No sense of humour needed then and I'll live in hope...man (or is it mon?)
No, it's man, as in adult human male, I'll leave the cringeworthy street-patois to others...dude.
The umpires never told the ground staff to put the sheets on the square when they went off for early tea, if they did it still wouldn't have made any difference.
When the groundsmen abandoned trying to cover up they were all soaked to the skin the water was running off of them.
The rain was so sudden all I could do was cover my camera up with a plastic bag first, by the time I had done that the rain was so hard I couldn't move from where I sat, I got soaked through before I could gather the rest of my bags together and move.
The life of a cameraman!
When the groundsmen abandoned trying to cover up they were all soaked to the skin the water was running off of them.
The rain was so sudden all I could do was cover my camera up with a plastic bag first, by the time I had done that the rain was so hard I couldn't move from where I sat, I got soaked through before I could gather the rest of my bags together and move.
The life of a cameraman!
Thanks BJ - wasn't sure because you've used both in the past.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:06:12:02:28 by Grockle.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2013:08:06:12:02:28 by Grockle.
That was weird Mike because the umpires had a long conversation with the groundstaff when they took the players off for what we assumed was an early tea because of the bad light and indications of bad weather to come.
We were waiting for them to start to put the covers on when the sound of the rain sweeping in started at the far end of the ground.
They had no chance once the rain started coming down. It was puddling on the ends of the wickets in minutes.
We were waiting for them to start to put the covers on when the sound of the rain sweeping in started at the far end of the ground.
They had no chance once the rain started coming down. It was puddling on the ends of the wickets in minutes.
The ground staff pushed the covers out ready because one of them had a phone call to say it was raining in Wellington (Somerset).
My apologies to Grockle and the regular posters here for giving way to my feelings in the, I agree, unacceptable way I did yesterday. I'd probably have removed the post myself before anyone else had a chance to see it if I currently had computer access for more than about two minutes a day.
No worries Mike, it was a slip and it was dealt with but the apology I'm sure is appreciated. many of us have been there!!
Quote:AGod
I remember once reading that R C Robertson-Glasgow had described a Chris Tavare knock against the Aussies as being:
"A denial of hope".
That was remarkably prescient (or unduly harsh), given that Tavare was only eleven when RCR-G died.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Quote:Grockle
Not particularly interested who has the bigger numbers. I don't tend to watch the numbers and they don't really get my blood pumping or my face smiling - sorry guys.
Always good to know that it's economists running the country!
Well, as always, despite the frustrations of the cricket and the weather, I enjoyed my visit to Taunton, probably the last for this season, and the companionship of good people on Gimblett's Hill.
There were some positive straws to clutch at, including the batting of Compton, Jones and Meschede - and in the second innings there were also glimpses of some form on the part of Hildreth and Trescothick. One of our posters comments that MT has lost his edge - on the evidence, opposing bowlers seem to know exactly where it is.
Although our cricket conversations at the County Ground are unceasing, for some of the time there were longeurs in which all there was to do was to observe the rain falling down and I found myself wondering whether the spectacle was more entertaining than one promised outside a shop in St James's Street that simply states Watch Batteries Fitted. Now that really is a spectator sport to rival snooker on the radio.
Incidentally, on the way into Taunton from Bridgwater there is a sign that says Cats Eyes Removed and I am wondering, in the light of her witty profile on Cricinfo, whether this is another string to the bow of Bagpuss.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Too much language in your head coupled with too much time on your hands sir.
I do not consider Loyal of Lhasa to be a sophistical rhetorician inebriated with the exuberance of his own verbosity.
I am in no position to give an opinion as to his state of sobriety - or indeed my own.
I am in no position to give an opinion as to his state of sobriety - or indeed my own.
The mystery to me is how he gets the left side of his straw hat to curl up as it does giving him a sort of Roy Rogers look!!!
... or whether he cares.
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Sixty-six Seasons a Somerset Supporter
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