Hants @the Ageas 2021 Four Day Cricket


By Farmer White et al
May 16 2021

Hampshire invite us to an empty Ageas Bowl and we accept the invitation... Farmer White will tell you more!!

County Championship Group 2. Hampshire v Somerset. 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th May 2021. AGEAS Bowl.

Hampshire. J.J. Weatherley, I.G. Holland, T.P. Alsop, S.A. Northeast, J.M. Vince (c), L.A. Dawson, F.S. Organ, L.D. McManus (w), K.J. Abbott, K.H.D. Barker, Mohammad Abbas.

Somerset. T.A. Lammonby, E.J. Byrom, T.B. Abell (c), J.C. Hildreth, G.A. Bartlett, L.P. Goldsworthy, S.M. Davies (w), C. Overton, L. Gregory, J.H. Davey, M.J. Leach.

Toss. Somerset. Elected to field.

First day 6th May – Somerset battle through

For the third time in their five matches to date in this competition Somerset won the toss and elected to field. Poor W.G. Grace must be wondering what the world of cricket has come to. Somerset also fielded first when Leicestershire won the toss and elected to bat. They have won all three of the matches in which they have fielded first thus far. The only match they have lost was the one in which the opposition won the toss and elected to field. The opposition on that occasion was Gloucestershire. Poor W.G. And perhaps by the end of the day even Grace was beginning to have doubts about his famous dictum. Or perhaps it is just that we live in a different cricketing world. For, by the end of a day on which they bowled Hampshire out for 79 and ground out a lead of 63 with still five wickets standing, Somerset had done more than enough to justify their decision.  

It was a day in which only 221 runs were scored in 96 overs and nearly seven hours of cricket. But 15 wickets fell against a cacophonous background of demanding, imploring and despairing appeals for leg before wicket and caught behind. The cause was a ball moving in the air and off the seam. At times the bowlers did everything but pray to the umpires, but the umpires stood, for the most part, as motionless and unanswering as stone idols. Every appeal has the committed supporter holding their breath as the decision is awaited. The time before it becomes clear that the finger will not be raised, or is, seems interminable, whichever side the watcher supports. There was a lot of suspended breathing on the first day of this match. The umpire’s arms moved enough though to send back three batsmen caught behind by Steven Davies and another three leg before wicket.

The Somerset bowlers settled quickly to their task as the match began under sunny skies, the shadows on the square as sharp as if they had been cut out with scissors. In the fifth over, Gregory with that easy flowing, lazy looking, run up and action of his moved a ball away late from Holland. Holland, attempting to drive, edged straight into Overton’s midriff at second slip. There is rarely any escape when the ball is edged there or anywhere else in Overton’s vicinity at slip. Hampshire were 7 for 1, I sat a little more upright in my chair and the sun falling on the Blackdowns beyond my laptop suddenly looked all the brighter.

Overton, Gregory and Davey took the first 19 overs between them, Davey replacing Overton after Overton’s fourth over and then Overton replacing Gregory after his eighth. The quality of the bowling, the patience which the bowlers showed as they repeatedly tested the batsmen and implored the umpires, together with the helpfulness of the pitch was all reflected in a score at the end of those 19 overs of 31 for 2. The first ball of the 16th over had crashed into the left-handed Alsop’s pad. Davey, angling the ball in from around the wicket, and the slip cordon had let out an enormous appeal, convinced it seemed of the rightfulness of their cause. The umpire thought otherwise and remained remorselessly statuesque as the appeal first stopped in its tracks and then faded away in disappointment. To the next ball, Alsop, if not statuesque, did not move far forward in the crease, was struck on the pad as the ball came in, the umpire lifted his finger and Somerset supporters in front of their screens breathed again.

The Somerset bowlers had been remorseless in keeping the batsmen under constant threat with accuracy and movement in the air and off the pitch. When Abell, an increasingly effective fourth seamer for Somerset this year, replaced Davey he did not allow the pressure to relax one iota. The five overs he bowled up until lunch cost two runs. Abell bowled in combination with the single-minded accuracy and probing pace of Overton at the other end. A score of 32 for 2 after 20 overs, with the constant threat of wickets which such bowling in such conditions brings, brought further pressure of its own. Weatherley pushed Overton into the covers and set off instantly for a single. When George Bartlett hit the striker’s end stumps Northeast was not close enough to even begin grounding his bat. Hampshire were 36 for 3 and Weatherley stood head bowed at the bowler’s end.

Within an over Abell had beaten Weatherley and then, two balls later, with a perfectly directed late outswinger found the edge of his defensive push. Davies skipped one step to his right, took as straightforward a catch as any wicketkeeping catch is, and Hampshire had sunk from 26 for 1 to 36 for 4. 37 for 5 in the 23rd over when Dawson, off his fourth ball, tried to turn Overton to leg. He was caught at second slip by Gregory moving smoothly to his left to catch a waist-high ball just as he might a wayward tennis ball on the beach. There was no need for a back to my chair now, for I was bolt upright, eyes locked in a stare at the happenings taking place just three feet away from me on my laptop. Laptops across Somerset must have looked back at owners with just such eyes as the bowlers put ball after ball on a spot which gave the batsmen no rest and little opportunity.

Vince, perhaps the one remaining batsman who might offer a major threat to Somerset hinted at it when he clipped Overton over midwicket for four. Any doubts creeping into the Somerset mind, or hopes into the Hampshire one, were dispelled in Overton’s next over by the ball of the morning, although that is a claim which might attract a number of challengers. It was straight, cut in markedly off the pitch, took the inside edge and crashed into the stumps. Vince 6, Hampshire 42 for 6. 43 for 6 at lunch after 29 overs. The score, albeit in helpful conditions, did not flatter the bowlers. The pressure placed on the batsmen was intense and continuous, the leeway offered, none. The lunchtime analyses of the bowlers give clear evidence of that. Gregory 8-5-9-1. Overton 11-5-16-2, Davey 5-1-13-1, Abell 5-3-2-1. It took a minute or two to absorb all that I had seen before I could leave my chair and find some lunch.

It was not a day to return late to your seat, although it took an over or two for the bowlers to re-create the pre-lunch intensity. Davey was glanced by Organ to the fine leg boundary and Gregory driven through the covers for four by McManus. Nineteen runs came from the first four overs after lunch and the first pangs of anxiety began to trouble the pit of the Somerset stomach, perhaps balanced on the emotional sporting seesaw by the first strands of hope at the other end for Hampshire supporters. No Somerset supporter, especially those of us who were there will ever forget Abbott’s 17 wickets for 86 runs here in 2019. Somerset would have to face him in this match and Mohammed Abbas too who has been in outstanding form for Hampshire this year. This pitch might suit both, and Somerset could not afford a partnership which might bring any sort of total which would give them a base from which to pressurise the Somerset batting.

Then, as the partnership looked like it might develop, Gregory cut a ball back into McManus just enough to beat the inside edge of a drive and hit the stumps. McManus 13, Hampshire 65 for 7. 68 for 8 when, in his next over, Gregory bowled wide of off stump and, like McManus, Organ attempted to drive. This time Gregory found the inside edge and Davies took the catch. Hampshire simply could not get a foothold in the innings and the Somerset bowlers did not let up from applying ball after ball of unrelenting pressure. Davey induced a hint of outswing to Abbott, but it was enough to find the edge of a defensive bat and for Davies to take the catch diving across Hildreth at first slip. In Gregory’s next over, Barker played a slashing drive which sent the ball through backward point for four. When he repeated the stroke two balls later, the connection was sufficient only to send the ball into Davies gloves and Hampshire had a total of 79 to defend. That it took 40.3 overs to make stands alongside the ten wickets as testimony to the sheer excellence of the Somerset bowling. Bowling which, except for two or three overs during the attempted break out by McManus and Organ, never really gave the Hampshire batsmen any opportunity to establish themselves.

The question on the minds of most Somerset supporters would now have been: can the batsmen withstand the bowling assault which would undoubtedly come from Mohammad Abbas and Kyle Abbott? Tom Banton had had a nightmare start to the season as an opening batsman and had been replaced by Eddie Byrom who had gained a reputation in 2018 as an intensely defensive opening batsman who could hold an end secure, at least until the shine had been removed from the ball. Here, we saw a different Byrom. By the end of Barker’s first over he had seven runs after two attempts to turn the ball to leg. The first flew past the slips for four and the second went where intended for three. A straight drive off Abbas in the second over of the innings brought four more. Lammonby began more circumspectly to the movement which Barker was finding and departed lbw to the final ball of Barker’s over, having defended every ball. It fitted the pattern of most of Lammonby’s dismissals this year. When, in the next over, Byrom attempted to drive Abbas again he was caught at gully for 11 and Somerset were 11 for 2 and in familiar territory. Suddenly 79 looked a little more daunting and visions of 2019 swirled around the Somerset mind.

Abell and Hildreth were now at the wicket for Somerset and Hildreth soon made his intent clear with a neat cut off Abbas for an all-run four. Two fours came from Abell in an over from Abbott, one driven through the off side and one edged past the slips. In Abbott’s next over Hildreth clipped a ball off his legs for four more and Somerset were suddenly within a boundary of being halfway to Hampshire’s first innings total. But, in conditions such as these, hope can so easily come before a fall. A ball later, Hildreth tried to play Abbott into the on side, was struck on the pad and Somerset were 36 for 3. One more wicket now and Somerset’s score would match Hampshire’s at the same point in their innings. It was a crucial moment. Pressure on the bowlers to push home the opportunity of advantage that had just opened up. Pressure on the batsmen to withstand the bowlers and re-establish the advantage Abell and Hildreth had been developing for Somerset.

What developed from that crucial point were two fighting partnerships for Somerset which for intensity and determination matched that shown by the bowlers in the Hampshire innings. The ball still moved in the air and off the pitch, and Hampshire had the bowlers to use it. But first Abell and Bartlett and then Abell and Goldsworthy, who showed the grit and application he had shown in his debut against Middlesex a week ago, took Somerset from 36 for 3 to 137 for 5. 101 runs which may turn out to have had the value of cricketing gold dust on this pitch. They took 31 overs of the most intense concentration as both bowlers and batsmen applied pressure and both at times seemed to be gaining the upper hand. But, as the score gradually mounted and the wickets held firm, the bowlers began to look less threatening and, towards the end, perhaps a little disheartened at times.

In the five overs from the fall of Hildreth to a brief shower bringing an early tea, Abell and Bartlett concentrated hard on defending their wickets, eked out just five runs, and Bartlett survived a huge lbw appeal from Barker. Somerset were 45 for 3 in the 18th over, 34 runs behind. After tea Bartlett drove Abbott through the covers and Abell pulled Holland imperiously through midwicket, both for four. But from there, as the Hampshire bowlers came again, the next five overs realized four runs, a plethora of appeals and Bartlett was dropped low at second slip. Then, in an over from Holland, ten runs came. A three from each batsman and a four driven through extra cover by Bartlett. Four byes then took Somerset into the lead, still just three wickets down. When Abell drove Barker through midwicket for the second all-run four of the innings the score reached 90 for 3. Somerset were just 11 runs ahead but those seven standing wickets and the obvious determination of the batsmen must have being weighing heavily on Hampshire hearts, just as they were lifting Somerset ones.

But the appeals were still coming from the Hampshire bowlers, almost by the over, and the bat was being beaten as the pitch continued to offer up aid. In such conditions against top first-class bowling every batsman has his term. Here it was Bartlett. After an hour and a half at the wicket he finally misjudged a lifting ball from Abbott, attempted to steer it to third man and edged it high to Dawson at second slip. Somerset were 90 for 4 but Bartlett had made 27 critical runs as once again he had scored runs for Somerset when they were most needed.

Bartlett’s departure brought Lewis Goldsworthy to the wicket after his two crucial innings in the last match against Middlesex. The first had helped bring Somerset’s first innings to within distant range of Middlesex’s, and the second had been critical in Somerset’s winning second innings. Here he scored 24. Like Bartlett’s innings, relatively small in numbers, huge, to use the modern parlance, in the context of Somerset’s innings. At first, as against Middlesex, he barely scored as Abell gradually took Somerset forward at the other end, but perhaps gave an indication that he knows how to lay the foundations for an innings. He had faced 22 balls before he scored a run as it took Somerset nine overs to add ten runs after the fall of Bartlett, the bowlers perhaps again sensing an opportunity.

Goldsworthy was at the end of his 11th over at the crease before he found the boundary, and that off an inside edge past the stumps as the bowlers continued to threaten. Eventually he began to accelerate, just as he had against Middlesex, with a glance to the fine leg boundary and a steer to third man for three, both off Barker. A four driven through extra cover off Holland hinted at more to come. But his innings had had its term and a ball from Holland cut in sharply, may have shaved the inside edge of the bat, and struck the stumps. Goldsworthy, in just his second match, had made 24 in 12 minutes under an hour and a half at the crease, but crucially had stayed with Tom Abell while they added 47 runs. They had taken Somerset 57 into the lead.

And all the time, Somerset’s fighting captain had stood firm, not immune to being beaten, surviving appeals and leaving one or two balls uncomfortably close to the stumps as is the standard fare for any batsmen surviving long in these conditions. But, along the way, he had scored 52 runs in over three and a half hours at the crease, an exceptional piece of concentration, determination and skill in the prevailing conditions against the quality of pace bowling on show. He reached the boundary only six times in that three and a half hours, not least with the neatest of glances off Abbot. It is a stroke which used to take Abell’s wicket too often, but at which he now seems to be becoming more adept by the match.

A cut through backward point of equal quality brought up Abell’s fifty. He will score more fluent fifties and he will make more runs in three and a half hours, but he will rarely make 52 more valuable or hard-won runs than the ones he scored on the first day of this match. He took Somerset into the second day, with himself and nightwatchman Jack Leach at the wicket, 63 runs ahead of Hampshire with five wickets standing in some of the most bowler-friendly they are likely to face. The match is far from won for Somerset, there will be opportunities aplenty for Hampshire to come back and there is much for Somerset still to do. But, for the moment, perhaps W.G Grace may be thinking again about his dictum.

Close. Hampshire 79 (L. Gregory 4-26). Somerset 142 for 5. Somerset lead by 63 runs with five first innings wickets standing

For more on this and other games click on the link to Farmer's own website or follow the reports in the match thread

Hants @the Ageas 2021 Four Day Cricket
Posted by: Grockles.com (IP Logged)
Date: 16/05/2021 22:19

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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:17:16:43:23 by Grockle.

Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 14:45

Banton has duly been axed and replaced, in the squad, by Eddie Byrom, per the official site.

Eddie hasn’t exactly been flying in the seconds, though, so I wonder if we’ll see Tom L, Tom A, George, James, L Gold and SD as the top six and back to four seamers?

MDL, Cove, L Gregory and JD are all available and in the travelling party.

Hopefully Banton scores well in the seconds and comes into contention for a middle order place, later in the season.



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:15:12:12:18 by Grockle.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Scrumper (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 16:04

Strange that Bants isn't playing in the 2nds this week then.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 16:24

Damn I was hoping Brooks would be in the squad so we could use

"Hants Lewis and BrooksieDavey" as the title.... Daaaaamn!

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 17:00

I think we definitely need four seamers at Southampton. I suppose we could leave out Tom L, but he’s rather a different case from Tom B, in that he has at times looked in decent touch this season. So Eddie and Roelof as twelfth men? As to Tom B, is he mentally shot as much as technically not up to it? If he is, he may need a rest.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 17:29

He had previously been on the T20 treadmill and, thus, away from home a lot. It’s possible he needs a break and time to take stock and work out whether he really does want to commit to red ball or to return to the international T20 circuit.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 18:28

I don't think Tom is 'technically' not up to 'it' He just isn't presently comfortable as a new ball batsman. His technical ability in other ways, finding the boundary in unorthodox ways etc is very good but the skill of opening an innings in a patient and sometimes dogged fashion against the best of the other side's pace attack at full fitness may be something he isn't up to just yet

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 18:51

I wonder whether Tom B wanted to open or was persuaded to. Square pegs and all that, as someone else posted recently.

Hope he gets his mojo back. He is a stunningly talented played.

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Railboy (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 19:19

There is also the Elephant in the room of a Number 11 only bowling 7 overs in a match. I’m sure that wasn’t the plan when selecting 3 seamers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 19:34

And with a total wash out forecast for Saturday, it might be that seven batsmen and no Leachy is the way to go.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 21:47

Former Warwickshire seamer Keith Barker has recovered form injury and joins the Hampshire 14-man squad for tomorrow`s match.

21-year -old batsman Felix Organ, who also bowls off-spin, also joins the 12 who travelled to The Oval last week, where Hampshire suffered their biggest losing margin since 1911.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Scrumper (IP Logged)
Date: 05/05/2021 23:00

Felix Organ? Sounds like a Viz character.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 08:24

Quote:
Scrumper
Felix Organ? Sounds like a Viz character.
It's a shame we don't have a Holding in the team - we could have 'The batsman's Holding the bowler's Organ'!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bishop Odo of Cluny (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 10:26

If Miles Hammond gets back into the Gloucestershire team we could have Hammond b Organ.

I’m sure he pulls out all the stops.

And so forth.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 10:56

My word, this pitch looks "well grassed."

I would think Tom Abell, having won the toss and inserted, would be very disappointed if we're not batting shortly after tea (assuming this track plays anything like it looks).

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 11:04

Saying that, the pitch based on the feed looks a lot different to the closer-up picture that appears next to it on our website.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 11:39

Not sure why we’ve picked Leachy, given the forecast suggesting that we’ll only get 3 days of play.

Pitch looks painfully slow and not much bounce, so I can see why we didn’t pick MDL on it, so maybe the answer is simply management don’t want to consider the youngsters and so Leach is preferable to Brooks, even if the SLA doesn’t bowl much?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 11:45

Decent bowling from Lewis.

This looks a “kiss the surface,” type of deck - which suits him, rather than a “bang it in,” pitch.

Of course, “kiss the surface,” also likely to suit M Abbas.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 11:58

Very good to see the Bishop in our midst again - I can't recall seeing a posting from him for a very long time, though as I know his real identity I remained certain he has been with us in spirit.

LoL

Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:06:12:18:56 by Loyal of Lhasa.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 12:03

Was just about to post that I agreed with Gibson that Alsop should have been given out lbw to JD, but JD beat me to it by winning a subsequent appeal against the same batsman.

Good job, Josh.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bobstan (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 12:20

You may need to PM me , LoL, to remind me of the identity of the Bishop.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 12:29

Thanks, George!!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 12:32

Excellent from Tom. Very good pre-lunch session, we’ve been right on it.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 12:43

Let’s get Vince and their cheating keeper, McManus too before lunch.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bishop Odo of Cluny (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 12:43

Quote:
Bobstan
You may need to PM me , LoL, to remind me of the identity of the Bishop.

It will remain a mystery. I thought your vox humana might pipe up on my organ puns, to be honest.

Thank you, LoL. I always make sure to have a look at the board every now and then. I have mostly been training the next generation of Grockles, one of whom was heard singing, as he drifted off to sleep last night, “‘E be up yon wurzel tree, an’ oi be after ‘e.”

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 12:48

Why is Tom bowling to only 2 slips Vs McManus, who has yet to score?

I think that’s a mistake.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:06:12:48:27 by AGod.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:00

Wonderful morning, but there’s a danger Abbas will be near-unplayable on this.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:03

I have been dredging my sink of a mind to search for appalling puns to link with the Happy Member and shall avoid all hints of Swell to Great.

LoL

Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:04

Yes. I think, BJ, we might as well play in one day mode on this. If we bat in circumspect fashion, Abbas will possibly bowl 17-11-7-7 or something ridiculous.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:05

“Wasted on thee,” as Fred would have said to McManus, had he bowled that final ball before lunch that Cove ripped past him.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:06

I have to say as well, BJ, that the selection of Leachy, which I thought was a bit odd at the start, now looks rather misguided.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:08

Is it just me or does this sad video about Alan Igglesden have no sound?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bagpuss (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:17

Not sure about the selection, but Hampshire have chosen to play two spinners in Dawson and Organ (plus Barker to bowl left arm over to create rough).

Two bowling points in the bag by lunch on day one. That'll do nicely. Amazing how the fielders make the bowling look even better if they hang onto catches.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bishop Odo of Cluny (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:19

Quote:
Loyal of Lhasa
I have been dredging my sink of a mind to search for appalling puns to link with the Happy Member and shall avoid all hints of Swell to Great.

I’m sure you have litanies of organ puns, but I appreciate your not bellowing them at us.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:25

Point taken about the catching, Bagpuss, of course, but even allowing for that, this has been our most consistent first innings bowling effort so far this season, IMO.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:33

Re- Hampshire’s selection. If they thought it was going to turn, wouldn’t they have played Crane? Though I’m sorry they haven’t - I sometimes think the long-hop is his stock ball.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:43

Yes. I, too, wish Crane were playing.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 13:45

Certainly, Dawson’s presence is meaningless, in that regard, since Dawson gets picked as a batsman, regardless of conditions.

I’d suggest that Organ may be in the side because they think he bats better than seam alternatives such as Wheal or the other seamer that has dropped out from the last game.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 14:06

Good job, Lewis Gregory.

I was concerned that they were threatening a mini revival but that’s nipped that in the bud.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 14:38

79 then.

With Abbas and Abbott, how competitive will that prove?

If we just let their new ball bowlers bowl at us, then there’s arguably no logical reason to expect us to do better than they did... I mean maybe if we get through the new ball spell not too many down, then you can wonder whether our support seam bowling is better than theirs and will give us an edge there?

I think that going for our shots to try to transfer some pressure back onto the bowlers may be the way to go here? I mean if we score 150 that would be a huge lead in the context of this match?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 14:41

Three bowling points in the bag and we've already avoided the follow-on. Let's score a minimum of 250 by lunch tomorrow and then bowl Hampshire out again before Saturday's downpours arrive.

LoL

Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 14:47

If we get 250 on this then there should be medals all round, LoL!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:06:14:47:23 by AGod.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 14:54

Horrendous drop by McManus (if there was a nick).

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 15:02

11 for 2.

I think this match will be over by tea tomorrow.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 15:18

Goodness, I didn't miss much overnight then !

Well done our bowlers, especially Lewis major.

Hoping for a very dull rest of the day.

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 15:20

You’ll be lucky, Grizz!!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 15:49

13 wkts in 53 overs so far today. One every four overs.

96 overs in a day so, if the wicket rate continues, that would imply 24 wkts falling today ... só Hants 4 down, in their second knock, at the close....

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Mike TA1 (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 16:33

Quote:
AGod
If we get 250 on this then there should be medals all round, LoL!

Who is the Head groundsman ? (Sm102)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 16:51

Simon Lee!!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 16:52

Abbas is moving the ball too much, in terms of the one going away from the bat, to get many nicks at the moment.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 17:28

Quote:
Bishop Odo of Cluny
If Miles Hammond gets back into the Gloucestershire team we could have Hammond b Organ.
I’m sure he pulls out all the stops.

And so forth.

It's only really a Hammond Organ experience if a Leslie is also involved (rock band trivia comment).

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 17:33

Good stand between Tom and George but now the door is open again.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 19:04

L Gold looked really good, under pressure, again.

Good effort from George, particularly Vs Abbas.

Excellent battling knock from the skipper.

It would be great to see him really go on tomorrow so as to reduce the chances of our being left with a nasty run chase vs Abbas and Abbott.

I think that was our best day of the season so far, all told - exemplary bowling, held the catches and fought hard with the bat.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Wickham (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 20:30

Agreed, AG.

A splendid captain’s innings by Abell.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Owain Glyndwr (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 20:45

I've been out all day. Did I miss much?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Wickham (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 20:56

You didn’t miss as much as McManus did, Big Jim.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bagpuss (IP Logged)
Date: 06/05/2021 23:45

😂😂😂😂😂😂

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 02:39

Nice sunny day forecast for Friday, so hopefully that will help our batting efforts.

Good to see Tom A. battling through to an unbeaten half century.

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 08:26

I couldn't watch very much yesterday, but it seems a great performance with the ball, and some real grit with the bat.
Hopefully we can push on to somewhere above 200, or even 250, today and then put them under some real pressure.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Farmer White (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 08:32

Here is my First Day Report:

[farmerwhite.co.uk]

Farmer

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 09:09

Somerset should send Jack Leach out to bat this morning with a remit to shoot from the hip.

If it fails, they still have three accredited batsmen in the hutch. But should he plunder 20 or 30 runs in the first half-hour, the all-important momentum (with Somerset for most of yesterday) will be up-and-running again.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:07:09:10:29 by cricketjerry-mouse.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 09:20

Jack could equally irritate the heck out of them by hanging around. If he could help us get through the initial burst from Abbott and Abbas, that would make the subsequent job of Davies, Cove and L Gregory a lot easier.

They don't have a Finn type to bounce Leachy out at short leg

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 10:41

Yesterday's play was never less than gripping. Who needs the IPL?

Leach is now being selected as a specialist nightwatchman - today's the day to pass his previous highest score

LoL

Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 11:17

Kyle Abbott has previous for this fixture in 2018 (5/31 and 6/40) and 2019 (9/40 and 8/46). If we don't have to bat again that will greatly increase our chances

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 11:24

Yes, LoL, despite tomorrow’s forecast, I should not have questioned the great man’s selection, for precisely the reason that you cite.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 11:33

Leachy on fire!!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Railboy (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 11:37

Scrub my earlier comment about Jack's inclusion in the side. I concur with LoL , he is in the side as a specialist nigh watchman and any bowling he may or may not be required to do is incidental.
Looking at the forecast though, we may need to wrap this one up today. Another 120 runs in quick time then bowl them out before stumps!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 11:42

I was just about to write that this was desultory stuff from an apparently demoralised Hants attack... and then Abbott came up with a peach to account for Tom.

It confirms that lavish movement is still feasible ... and, as such, I suspect it may have alarmed the Hants batsmen as much as it will have pleased their bowlers.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 11:52

Great stuff from Leachy.

I would be quite happy if Hants had to bat for 20 mins before their lunch.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bagpuss (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 12:13

Would like to think we could get up near 300 but new ball due in 10 overs may put paid to that.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 12:15

The new ball flies to the boundary more often Bagpuss....hopefully.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 13:03

Quote:
Loyal of Lhasa
Three bowling points in the bag and we've already avoided the follow-on. Let's score a minimum of 250 by lunch tomorrow and then bowl Hampshire out again before Saturday's downpours arrive.

Well some idiot came up with that suggestion and got it all wrong. 272 is rather more than 250 and there is power to add. Some others suggested that achieving 250 would be miraculous.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Flyboy (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 13:04

That was a fun session. Looking forward to the next batting point.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 13:11

Yes, excellent morning, also tactically- no point in trying to poke around all day on this. Looks like Northants are taking a similar approach against Sussex.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 13:42

Excellent from Craig.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 14:07

Dissent from Abbas, I’d say, after what looked a no-hoper appeal against L Gregory,

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Mike TA1 (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 14:29

Here is a thought.

I think I am correct in saying Somerset can't declare because it will stop Hants of getting a third bowling point.

If Somerset desperately wanted to declare now, would they have to deliberately lose a wicket so they could declare?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 14:32

Not so, Mike. Somerset can declare provided that there is a motivation for it *other* than denying Hants the bonus point.

In my judgment, tomorrow’s forecast would be sufficient justification for a declaration, should Tom opt for one.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 14:33

Abbas’s leg cutter has consistently moved too much, throughout. You’d have to be Viv or Tendulkar to nick those.

Cove gone, so one imagines any thought of a possible declaration is at an end.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 15:20

What a wonderful scorecard to wake up to.

That's a simply tremendous effort by all of the middle/lower order, especially Craig who really is worth his weight in gold.

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 15:27

Track suddenly looking more docile.

Hopefully, this is just the temporary effect of the roller. It was doing pelnty of Abbas and Abbott with the second new ball.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 15:59

Tea may have come at a good time. Make them start again.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 16:48

Thank you, Craig.

Good disciplined, patient stuff from Somerset. Hants battled hard.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Mike K (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 16:48

1 down 9 to go

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 17:16

Starting to leak a bit now, all of a sudden, as Alsop tries to push things along.

Could use another soon.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 18:15

Craig Overton has put in some hard yards today. Great effort sir!!

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 18:19

Thanks, Craig. Super stuff.

Abbott can be a dangerous lower order batsman so happy to see the back of him.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Scrumper (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 18:24

Maybe we should all clap for Craig at 8pm?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 18:52

Will England take him?

Eng like all of Jimmy, Broad, Woakes, Jof, Wood, Stone and S Curran. So that's 7 guys that might still be ahead of him in the deluded eyes of the England selectors?

Of those 7, I think only the first 3 ought to be (under English conditions), really, and if Eng want Jimmy and Broad to go Down Under, then one assumes that they will use them sparingly?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Goonie goo goo (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 19:14

What more can Overton do to get a go with England v N Z ? Fully deserves a crack now no doubt

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 19:44

He’d be richly deserving. Leading England qualified wicket taker last year. Leading wicket taker, from anywhere, this year. Height, pace, bounce, aggression, accuracy, consistency and movement. England took him Down Under last time ... and he’s improved considerably since then. So he’s got to have a great shot for the Oz tour. And you’d think they’d want to get a look at him in at least one home Test this summer if they’re seriously thinking of taking him to Australia.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 20:12

Whatever we ended up having to stump up for Craig's new contract, we still got a bargain !

Hats off to everyone in the team for a superb effort today.

A few hours rain rest tomorrow, then back at 'em.

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 20:52

Quote:
Goonie goo goo
What more can Overton do to get a go with England v N Z ? Fully deserves a crack now no doubt

The stats quoted today sum it up 2% of England players come from Somerset and large double figure %s come from the Home or Pennine counties.

If Craig wants England he's gotta be in the selectors eye and the South West is hardly on their map.

It's not what you can do. It's about how convenient it is for those the ECB listen to to see you without going out of their way too far to do their job.

Being a Somerset cricketer in UK cricket is like being a capable womon in a supposedly equal opportunity industry.

We are the Rachel Heyhoe Flint statue supporters in the ECB's MCC. It isn't going to change

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Goonie goo goo (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 21:09

I just said he deserved a go at it as per performances go. If the other cobblers is true then it’s our benefit

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Des Platt (IP Logged)
Date: 07/05/2021 22:33

I’m a happy man tonight re Cove’s performance ( not Covid as my spellcheck put the other day after months of correcting it to Covid )

I just love watching him. There is always something happening in the game when he is batting, bowling or fielding. I know I’ve often mentioned it on here before, so apologies for repetition but among my favourite cricket watching memories is his nine wickets at Scarborough in 2017 when he so richly deserved 10. Although he didn’t get him out in either innings, he made Handscomb look rather scared and I got the distinct impression that PH didn’t like it up him. He was nothing like as quick then but he certainly looked it in that match due to his hostility and the bounce that he got from just short of a length and it was that which made me think that he would be a good choice for that Ashes tour where he certainly wasn’t disgraced although he had bad luck.

He has usually batted well when I’ve seen him too (except against Maharaj). I realise that saying this is probably punishable by death when I next cross the Somerset border but I actually have more confidence in him batting than I do our living legend.

I love his evident passion playing for Somerset too although there are occasions it could do with being tempered



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:07:22:34:12 by Des Platt.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 08:38

I love the track at North Marine Road - quick and bouncy, probably the best track in the land. And Somerset almost always excel there , our normal result standing in fairly stark contrast to our record at Headingley. Mr Caddick had some very pleasurable outings at North Marine Road, too. And even our batting often fires well there. I remember Shane Lee making 161 (or thereabouts) which the locals thought easily one of the best innings that they had ever seen on the ground.

As for Peter Handscomb? He strikes me as a very unimpressive individual, I'm afraid. Anthony Gibson has been talking about the gulf in demeanour and apparent attitude between Tom Abell and Handscomb in the recent match at Taunton. The latter, apparently, did not much more than shuffle around, looking somewhat morose, with his hands in his pockets and barely seemed to engage in any dialogue with his bowlers. If I recall correctly, he didn't pull up too many trees when he was the overseas player in CC2 for Gloucestershire. I'd forgotten all about his Yorkshire stint which, I assume, implies that he didn't necessarily cover himself in glory up there, either. He seems to have been a somewhat bizarre choice as Middx Captain and that county should be worried, in my view, if they really have so little leadership ability in their ranks that they had to import a guy who doesn't seem to be any great shakes as a leader himself.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: jsolo (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 08:51

County Cricket Links Blog--Updated through Round 5 Day 1-2. Links to scores, scorecards, full match and highlight videos, match reports (have added match reports from The Cricketer, more details on dropped catches). I am putting together links blog to the Women's County Championship T20 competition. Learning a lot about English villages. smiling smiley Should be ready for prime time soon. Irish domestics coming up next.

County Cricket Links Blog--Round 5--Day 1-2


Enjoy

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: cricketharris (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 09:57

Our Overton is truly Tower Bridge to his brother’s London, nay, Hammersmith.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:08:09:57:52 by cricketharris.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 11:02

From The Hampshire twitter:
"A delayed start to day three at @TheAgeasBowl but the forecast looks to be improving as the day goes on"

I would expect for some play today and believe the ground drains quickly. Somerset must fancy their chances of some quick wickets

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 11:05

Well, the rain may slow the outfield, which could increase the pressure on the Hants’ batsmen. A bit of sweating under the covers might provide 30-45 mins of extra life, upon the resumption, as well and a combination of cloud cover and slightly warmer temperatures may promote a bit more swing. So things should be in our favour.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Des Platt (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 11:40

Yes, AGod, I forget whether it was 2018 or 19 when we put a shocking performance in at Headingley and it’s possibly not an exaggeration to say that we might have won the championship if we could’ve played at Scarborough that year.

I noticed that about Handscomb at mid off with his hands in his pockets. The only time he really intervened, he seemed to completely mess up one of his bowlers who was bowling well and then started trying to bowl exclusively yorkers at Lewis Goldsworthy ; they all ended up as either low full tosses or half volleys . I’d forgotten about his spell at Gloucestershire but you were right that he was underwhelming at Yorkshire. In that match he got single figure scores in both innings and although I think it was TG/ LG who got him , his experiences at the other end certainly unnerved him.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:08:17:23:17 by Des Platt.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 12:14

It looks unremittingly grim at Hedge End, but the ground staff are walking around on the covers, so one assumes that the rain has stopped and that they are contemplating some sort of mop up operation.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 12:19

It's pretty dry now along the coast here in West Sussex with a drying wind. The BBC weather forecast this morning suggested that it should be good drying conditions in Southampton region from now on, so hopefully there will be some play later today in bowler friendly circumstances...
The live feed shows some covers have been removed already

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 12:19

And now it looks as though one cover is being slowly dragged away.

Perhaps lunch at 12.50 and a start at 1.30 might not be completely outside the realms of possibility?

I guess a 2pm or 2.30 pm start might be more realistic, though.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Roger ivanhoe (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 12:35

Inspection at 1.40 according to BBC website.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 13:36

I watched a few overs of the Middx game and they already lost their night watchman and Robbie White, who dragged on, so it’s Gubbins stick and I imagine Middx are going to be beaten in double quick time. They have the look of group whipping boys, I’m afraid.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 14:43

Inspection at 3pm.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Farmer White (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 14:44

Somewhat belatedly, here is the link to my Second Day Report:

[farmerwhite.co.uk]


And, for ease of reference, here is the link to my First Day Report:

[farmerwhite.co.uk]

Farmer

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Farmer White (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 15:18

Further inspection at 4.00 pm.

Farmer

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 15:24

Good grief. Kevan James and co were full of stories of how “quick drying,” the Rose Bowl is supposed to be.

Is there, one wonders, a certain lack of urgency from the home outfit to get everything dried out? Something that would be there, were they on top.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 15:28

Hmmm, beginning to agree AG. The times I've clicked on the live feed the 'work' to clear the ground has seemed at best half hearted, and often non existent.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 15:54

Yep the blotter didn’t really move for 45 minutes until after the 3 pm inspection

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:26

The pitch is finally uncovered. So they must be about to start sometime soon?

After all this delaying they deserve to lose ALL their remaining wickets today.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Farmer White (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:30

5.30. 16 overs.

Farmer



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:08:16:31:49 by Farmer White.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:34

Great, but why does it take another hour from now to get them on??

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:35

Not bothering to start until 5.30pm.

A joke.

Only 16 overs.

I hope Hants end up in Div 3 in September.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:36

Because they’re doing their level best to avoid it, Rod.

This has been a joke today.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: rodders (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:41

In fairness the umpires decide not Hants CCC ! They are meant to be without bias so ....?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:46

But the umpires aren’t the ones tasked with getting the ground ready!

Yesterday the Hants commentators were insistent that the ground dries in a trice and that no long delay should be expected (after cessation of rain) based on the forecast. The actual weather seems to have been more or less as forecast.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:48

It’s all very Edgbaston last season where Warks seemed to fail to truly make best endeavours to get the game on, allowing their massively outplayed side to escape with an extremely fortuitous draw.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:48

If the Umpires felt that any home county were not trying sufficiently hard to get a pitch uncovered and ready then presumably there would be some sort of sanction applied?
It always seems that there are interminable delays getting games going again after weather interruptions. Again I would assume it's the Umpires that decided on the timing, but a whole hour is frustratingly excessive and does nothing to promote Cricket to the spectator

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:50

There are a number of umpires on the circuit who aren’t shy about taking decisions that mean more time in the dressing room.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 16:54

Always amazes me how long it takes to get games going again It seems like the umpires go out, check it, add an hour and then work out a time to start 15 minutes after.

Never makes any sense and seems to have very little to do with how much work the groundstaff are or are not doing

(Sm72)



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:08:16:54:44 by Grockle.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 18:09

Ridiculous. Any excuse to get off the field. Tom making his feelings known, by the looks of it.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 18:11

Well done Umpires, no urgency to get it going, and now as it gets late, bad light!
Edit - did anyone see how black the sky was at Lords and the lights shining really bright, but that game continued - No consistency, that's what is so annoying.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:08:18:15:08 by Rod1883.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 18:14

Tom determined to not let them off for their cosy cup of tea and lazy relaxation in the pavilion. Good.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 18:22

Disgraceful way to end the day's play. The Umpires role should be to show urgency and make all efforts to get the game played. This sort of nonsense will drive the game into the arms of the franchised 100 competition.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 18:25

A fourth important victim for Craig Overton, but Lewis Gregory was very poor in the few overs bowled.

In poor light, it is absolutely vital to attack the stumps, but at the most the batsmen only had to play two deliveries in every six from Lewis. A wasted opportunity, especially after he had bowled so well in the first innings.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 18:29

LG certainly wasn’t at his best and the attack looks unduly reliant on Cove in this innings. I’d have whipped Gregory off after about 3 overs of that stuff, and given JD a go.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 19:34

Anyone looks poor in comparison to Craig. His best bowling is 6/24 against Cardiff MCCU in 2019. That record is looking vulnerable here

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Whome (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 19:58

Wet outfield, bad light, umpires decisions, what would we have to complain about without this?
Sit back and relax because we will win this at a canter.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 21:06

The thing that was so obvious was the fact that there were two particilar strips of the outfield that were obviously much wetter than the rest. Although this was made obvious by the umpires at each inspection , there was no attempt to use the blotter right up until the 4pm inspection. I looked through parts of the footage and the blotter was motionless for over an hour, with many of Simons ground staff stood around talking to each other.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Farmer White (IP Logged)
Date: 08/05/2021 21:59

Here is the link to my Third Day Report:

[farmerwhite.co.uk]


And, for ease of reference here are the links to:

Second Day Report

[farmerwhite.co.uk]

First Day Report

[farmerwhite.co.uk]

Farmer

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 07:26

Yep, Nellie - exactly... they should have brushed the worst of the water over the boundary and then got to work with the squeegee thing but, instead, there seemed to be little or no interest in working to get the playing area ready ASAP.

I find it *very* hard to believe that they would have seemed so uninterested, had the home side been in the ascendancy.

Hopefully, Hants get what they deserve today, though I'm a little worried that - after the first few overs with the new ball (with which LG bowled well) - only Cove has really looked like taking wickets in this second innings. From a wicket-taking point of view, others surely need to come to the party, too, today. I'd give JD a go first up, rather than Gregory, after the unthreatening way in which Lewis bowled last night. I think we're going to need Leachy to wring something out of this strip, too.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Mike TA1 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 08:23

I thought the rules were, you go off for bad light when the artificial light take over from the natural light.

Have they got bad lighting, because there was very little sign of shadow from the players caused by the lighting?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: wsm fan (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 08:35

I am as biased and loyal a Somerset follower as anyone but i really dont buy into this anti Somerset theory.

The umpires in county cricket are awful when it comes to rain & restarts, but they are consistently awful. They didnt not play yesterday in some anti Somerset agenda passed down from the ECB to stop us winning.

The same with the pitch penalty. Given the weather we had choices, we go normal and come second or push it to the absolute limits to try and win our first title ever & risk the resulting consequences. We took option 2 and are dealing with the fall out.

The same for England recognition. In the old days maybe yes there was a big county bias but not anymore. There is a huge network of scouts watching everyone. Caddick Johnson Tres Compo Craig Lewis Jack Dom Banton etc in more recent times.
I'm Hildys biggest fan but his peak years have coincided with a very settled England top 6. He was never bashing the door down when the gaps arose. He has said this himself.
Career records arent a stick to beat the selectors with, its about being in form when the gaps arise and taking your chance.

I'd be chuffed to bits if Craig makes the test squad this summer but so would fans of Stone Robinson Woakes Wood Curran etc.
The main thing is he is at the absolute top of his game, fit, firing, it will always come if you keep quietly doing the right things consistently. Especially bowlers, gaps always happen & rotation is a clear England policy. Jimmy & Broad have 12/18 months left at the very best.



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:09:08:48:15 by wsm fan.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 08:47

But - forgetting being chuffed to bits, WSM, you must agree that - based on County form - Craig Overton is more deserving of a place than the likes of Stone and Curran? In other words, even without being biased, Craig is surely deserving?

Stone and Wood are seldom fit for long and Archer has his fitness issues too.

Craig is almost certain to be absorbed into the "bubble," and it will be immensely annoying for Somerset if all he then does is carry drinks.

If England have been paying attention, they'd know that Chris Woakes - unimpeachable home record though he has - is no kind of a prospect for overseas tours and, knowing the England selectors, they will have more than half an eye on the clash with the main enemy Down Under this winter.

The England plan for Down Under - in their ideal world, would be to take the two veterans for one last hurrah, and to have all of Joff, Wood and Stone fit, plus take one other big, tall bowler (for which Craig would be very much in the frame). In reality, the chances of all of Joff, Wood and Stone being fit to tour are about 3%, which only improves Craig's chances of touring even further.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 08:48

I don't think it's anti Somerset wsm - it's just the poor, inconsistent, and lackadaisical attitude and performance of the ground staff, Umpires and authorities.
I know it's difficult to really judge the light from a camera view, but as Mike says there were no clear shadows from the lights, but at Lords the sky was black with lights shining really bright where they played on.
Surely the Umpires should be ensuring that the groundstaff are making every effort to get the game restarted instead of standing around and not using the blotter etc etc etc
As I said previously, this apparent attitude of abandoning play at every opportunity will drive people away from 'traditional' cricket into the arms of the flash bang wallop '100'.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 08:52

As for Somerset?

Craig Overton is going to be heavily involved with England over the next 3-4 seasons. Assuming sustained fitness, that seems all but certain.

And we're already short on pace bowling options this season, even with Craig leading the attack every week.

Jack Brooks is not one for the future, and he doesn't look capable in the present.

This club almost certainly needs to recruit a bare minimum of two and, really, three new pace bowling options, going forward.

Pace bowlers don't grow on trees.

Despite our top order batting issues, Andy Hurry is surely going to have to adopt a "two overseas pacemen," strategy, going forward, given that it's unlikely that we can simltaneously recruit lots of pace bowlers from other counties?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 08:53

Mike - your understanding of the regulations on light is entirely correct.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: wsm fan (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 08:59

There is way way more to it.

Yes Craig is flying now, but it is VERY tough to break into that inner circle. Rightly or wrongly England have their inner group which once in are under different rules.
Woakes Wood Jof Jimmy Broad Sammy C arent worried in April May about taking county wickets. Craig & Ollie Rob need to bash the door down with performances.

The IPL has or would gave affected June NZ selection.
Stokes is huge in effecting the balance of the 11 selected.
The following white ball series will affect who may, may not get selected for tests.
Add to that injuries and their general summer rotation plans.

I couldnt be anymore bias in wanting him to make it (well maybe him & his family!) but i'm sure Higgins & Robinson fans would say the same plus the 7 or 8 already in the inner circle who will feel they have already "made it" so to speak and be deserving of kudos/history built on previous performances.

The main thing is Craig is at the absolute top of his game and still growing/improving.
Keep doing the right things & everything else takes care of itself.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: wsm fan (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 09:04

Quote:
Rod1883
I don't think it's anti Somerset wsm - it's just the poor, inconsistent, and lackadaisical attitude and performance of the ground staff, Umpires and authorities.
I know it's difficult to really judge the light from a camera view, but as Mike says there were no clear shadows from the lights, but at Lords the sky was black with lights shining really bright where they played on.
Surely the Umpires should be ensuring that the groundstaff are making every effort to get the game restarted instead of standing around and not using the blotter etc etc etc
As I said previously, this apparent attitude of abandoning play at every opportunity will drive people away from 'traditional' cricket into the arms of the flash bang wallop '100'.

Spot on. Its awful across the board in the county game, especially in red ball with minimum or no crowds, a total lack of urgency all round, but for all counties, not just Somerset.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Goonie goo goo (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 09:29

If it’s consistent then why were Middx and glos playing yesterday in light which looked ridiculous? Btw Alex wharf has slept in today I heard so no play before lunch

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 09:30

I don’t think Higgins will be in with a shout at all, WSM. England like pace and height and he doesn’t really have either. I’m not necessarily saying that I agree with that - given a seaming English track this summer, maybe Higgins could be effective against somebody like India.

Certainly, Ryan Higgins - in my view - has a zero percent chance of being taken Down Under.

Craig has the attributes to succeed both at home and away from home. Higgins is sort of a poor man’s Woakes and Woakes’ away record is horrendous at Test level. Personally, I rate Ben Coad more highly than Higgins, but Ben is another with a shaky fitness record.

Objectively speaking, I’d say Craig has the attributes to replace Broad’s role in the England team. Woakes - for home games - will probably be stepped up into Jimmy’s role. And England will pray for sustained fitness from their outright fast options (but their prayers are likely to go unanswered).

I think that - since the start of last season - Craig has been giving Somerset performances of Andy Caddick type quality.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Roger ivanhoe (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 09:38

Certainly I have felt a lack of consistency from umpires, and PITCH inspectors for many seasons, but in fairness to the umpires at Lords yesterday, when the light got very bad Gloucester had 8 wickets in hand and only needing around 40 runs to win, and they was only one likely result, and both teams wanted the game finished, also certainly SKY would not have wanted to hang around for another day, just for an hour or so of play today.

Meanwhile its up to our team to take their opportunities TODAY and get the job done A.S.A.P.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 09:43

SKY almost certainly had an influence at Lord’s yes. But that’s another maddening inconsistency. As events at Lord’s proved, it’s perfectly possible to play safely in that light, so it shouldn’t require Sky to make it happen.

I also see little point in the regulation about the lights. Who cares if they provide more light than the natural light? The priority should be to keep the show on the road. If most of the light needs to come from the floodlights? So be it. The pink ball day night stuff was deemed safe with the lights providing all of the light, so...

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 11:31

Hants look like they're going to take quite some shifting.

It might be a case of second new ball or bust.

Perhaps a lapse in concentration from Vince might be our best chance of a breakthrough prior to that second new ball?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 11:34

Happy Birthday Anthony Gibson

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bobstan (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 11:46

You and Blowers, lalala. And Taunton's MP.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 11:53

Weatherley's epic vigil finally ended - bravo Josh!!!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 12:00

The selection percentages suggest a little less balance in the selection processes wsm and the international youth policies do not pass through into the first team as often as people think.. James, Rob Turner, Neil Edwards, Arul, Woodman, Trenouth and many others.

There was a period of time when James inconsistency would have worked against him but had he gone to Surrey in the days of the Unicorns can anyone really say he would not have had at least 1 game? Is Craig really further down the pecking order than the second Curran?

I don't think the policy is 'anti Somerset' any more than it's anti Northants or Derbyshire or Leics etc.... it's just lazy Home Counties M1 corridor ambivalence which means provincial players need to be good for longer and need to bang on the door harder to be noticed or talked about by those selectors listen to including scouts and those they send to look. It's institutional 'cricketism' if anything

When would Banger have played (and he would have done) had Duncan not been involved in THAT game v Glamorgan?

Just makes it harder to keep good but impatient players. Jos? Bet it was in Jamie's mind. Still amazed Graham Rose never played but I'm sure there's Gloucs fans who can name as many. Kim Barnet? Mark Alleyne? Who had nothing like the international careers you would have thought.

(Sm72)



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:09:13:59:09 by Grockle.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 12:14

Lovely bowling by Josh & a well deserved two wickets, aided by Dawson having a mind blank by playing no shot.

Well worth getting up at 4 a.m. to watch on you tube on a grimy spring morning here !

As for Craig & England, he can't do more than he is right now. His batting will also surely be a consideration and help his case. When it comes to the trip down under, it can't harm his chances that he managed to bowl out Steve Smith in prime form last time around.

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Des Platt (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 12:45

I’m sure Craig has a big part to play this winter. I hope he can do the job that Chris Tremlett did with great success at Perth, Melbourne and Sydney 2011/11.

Does anyone know what pace in miles per hour that Craig now gets up to? Tremlett actually was not lightning quick supposedly but on the hostility index he was well up there



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:09:12:47:16 by Des Platt.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 12:49

To be fair, Grockle, Banger hadn’t really done anything consistent to warrant merit based Test selection. I mean In those first 5-6 seasons, he played two truly stunning innings, the first - as a 19 year old, Vs Anil Kumble on a Bunsen at Wantage Road ... and the second being that knock Vs Kallis that Duncan Fletcher saw. But, overall, MT was averaging about 32, which didn’t scream “Pick me for England.”

In terms of James Hildreth, his great misfortune is that his one truly great season - 2010 - coincided with a time when there were zero vacancies in a strong and settled England batting line-up. James complained, the other week, that many people who lack his overall record have got their chance as a result of one great season... but the reality is that it’s all about timing in those cases .. there has to be a vacancy.

That said, there’s no doubt in my mind that an above average but far from great county cricketer is much more likely to be given a random England call if he happens to play for Surrey and, to a lesser extent, for the other “traditional,” TMCs.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 12:59

I interrupt your regular programming to say that soon to be Division 3 bound (perhaps!?) Essex are about to suffer a humiliating defeat to Notts.

Notts will have won 3 matches in 3 years, two of them Vs Essex.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Des Platt (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 13:05

Re Banger, Michael Vaughan always used to be mentioned in the same context as someone whose county figures did not justify tests but Fletcher saw something extra in him.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 13:06

I fear that our bowling attack will be *very* tired for next week’s game vs Surrey.

I hope it’s a good batting track and we can win the toss and bat to provide them some extra recovery time.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 13:38

I wasn't an advocate for James in the nougties. His seasons tended to be big scores intermittently among 'OK' stuff but I have no doubt he would have had a cap in the last decade had he played in London.

I'm presently amazed how on the fringe Craig is.... he gets a look and then is overlooked. The 'good team-man' mentality still seems to exist along with the 'one from the provinces' mentality. The sooner the old @#$%& leave the selection group the better but it never seems to change anything.

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Des Platt (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 14:02

That was absolutely plum

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 14:10

Terrific bowling and a terrific catch by Steve.

:-)

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 14:15

Should be OK now. Though of course Organ will grind it out...

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 14:37

Cove has limped off, though Gibson seems convinced it’s just a toenail that has fallen off. Let’s hope that’s all it is.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Nailsea_Fizz (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 15:05

no lets' not, let's panic and blame our Management for inadequate provision before we know the full extent of the inconvenience to Craig.

Davey steps up again as fully expected, we even took two wickets whilst Craig put his feet up for a while.

Hampshire holding out nicely they might even get to Tea.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 15:15

Stupid post, as per usual.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 15:16

Taking forever to get rid of Hants.

I think we can see the effect of eight points for a draw here. Hants fighting, tooth and nail really. Fair play to them.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 15:43

Patience is a virtue.

Wish I had some !

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: wsm fan (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:02

2 wickets session 1
2 wickets session 2 including their best player.
Session 3 now 37 overs at their 8 10 & 11.
Absolutely nothing to be remotely worried about.
Brilliant 4 day display YET again 💪



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:09:16:23:08 by wsm fan.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:17

Need Leachy to come up with something. Seamers cream crackered by now.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:19

30 odd overs in an innings is one hell of an effort from Mr Overton

But Hampshire's belief has to grow with every over - it makes the last afternoon exciting but you have to ask whether this would be an issue if we had had at least another hour yesterday at any time in the day.

Ahh well makes cricket worth the watch.

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:20

Craig is in his 39th over in this innings. Not sure that's a good thing.

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:23

No, it’s not a good thing, Grizz.

If Eng are paying attention, it must greatly increase the chances of a “He must rest,” order being handed down for the next game.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bagpuss (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:24

It is 39 overs spread over 3 days though.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:30

Unplayable from Cove. Barker not a chance in hell of nicking it. His Godfather May have done so, but not him.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:31

Beyond frustrating.

Perhaps time to try something different - Lammonby, maybe?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: That Bloke With The Dog (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:43

Never mind how Cove got down to take that catch - I wouldn't be able to get up again!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:44

26 overs left.

We may very well be wishing, even more, that Hants had got a wriggle on in getting the outfield dried out yesterday, now.

You have to give a lot of credit to their players, though, for what has been an epic rearguard action, full of defiance and spirit.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:44

At last an organ transplant!

LoL

Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:46

Hard lines, Organ. Magnificent defiance from him.

Phew!!!

We should, surely, be able to wrap Abbas up quite quickly, albeit Barker will try to protect him.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:53

Come on, Josh - end this NOW

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: That Bloke With The Dog (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:53

The umpire had to give one of those lbws in the end!

Brilliant from Davey.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:55

That was out.

What the hell was the umpire doing?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 16:56

Finally, he gives the next one.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:00

Our best performance - by far - of the season.

Cove immense and Josh extremely good.

We didn’t really put a foot wrong .. and kept plugging away today in frustrating circumstances.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Mike K (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:03

Anthony ‘David Coleman’ Gibson getting a bit carried away with that last wicket but understandable in the circumstances

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:04

I think the seamers must be pretty knackered. MDL must, surely, play vs Surrey - perhaps as one of four main seamers, if Eng don’t pull Cove from the match.

That said, I think Tom Abell is bowling really well so maybe I should say 5 main seamers.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Sloop John B (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:06

Very well played lads. Fine win. Esp well done to Craigo and Josh in second innings.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Mike K (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:08

One word PHEW!!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:09

Tom Abell's innings was important and does he have a little more 'umph' in his bowling as well?

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:10

Phew !

Great effort to win at Hants. and all credit to them for putting up one hell of a battle.

There will be some sore bodies out there right now.

With two more games this coming week and next, there will surely have to be a rest for either Craig or Josh v. Surrey, meaning that Jove v Cove might not happen for a while yet.

Grizzers

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:20

Not even sure that Jamie will be picked by Surrey. He’s hardly been in the wickets. It may depend on whether or not Kemar Roach is back from injury.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: That Bloke With The Dog (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:20

That workload today suggests that England might have already told us that Cove is banned from the next match.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:24

Perhaps, Bloke with dog.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:48

Couldn't watch a lot today, but kept popping in and out to see how things were going. Went to the pub at ~3.20pm as it seems we do better when I don't watch!
Well done Hampshire (county of my birth) for a very obdurate batting display.
Well done Somerset on a great win, some tired bodies after that I'm sure.
Thank goodness that the nonsense that we saw yesterday with Umpire's decisions on light and some pretty tardy work to get the field fit for play didn't count against us!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 17:55

Rod - as the commentary on our official site implies... if it had taken us even a couple more overs to wrap up the Hants innings?

The umpires likely would have refused to take the field, citing the light.

As it was, they conferred about the light before allowing the one ball we needed!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 18:02

Wasn't aware of that AG - absolutely disgraceful....

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 18:40

For one horrible moment when the light meter went on the stumps for the start of our second innings, was convinced they were going to walk straight off again. Vince did everything he could to get into the umpires ear, and slow it down

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: sfwithers (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 18:55

Well, Somerset's openers have come in for a lot of criticism this season, but what a second innings today! They knocked off the target in drizzle and poor light at an average of 12 runs an over without losing a wicket. Hats off, I say! Hats off!

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 18:58

Quote:
sfwithers
Well, Somerset's openers have come in for a lot of criticism this season, but what a second innings today! They knocked off the target in drizzle and poor light at an average of 12 runs an over without losing a wicket. Hats off, I say! Hats off!
smiling smiley

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 19:28

That's the Hampshire Rose Bowl jinx well and truly exorcised. What a fine sustained effort it was and Craig Overton looking every bit an England player.

I agree it's about time the rules are changed regarding bad light, which only encourages the worst negativity.

Well done Somerset anyway, that next Gloucestershire clash is looking very interesting

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: wsm fan (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 19:31

I hope we enjoyed Craig in this match as it may be we see very little of him again this season.

After 47 overs v Middlesex and 51 overs this week he HAS to be in that New Zealand bubble.

The whole point of the ECB bowling contracts are to have the control to TELL counties to rest bowlers. If 98 overs inside 10 days doesnt qualify im not sure what does.

Sadly its self inflicted by SCCC as by only playing 3 main seamers 2 weeks running it has inevitably led to crazy workloads for our stand out bowler.

A NZ bubble "could" be formed in time to exclude him playing the Glos match.

A month in the test bubble is possible.

Then maybe 1 of the July rounds before his 5/6 week stint with the Southern Brave starts.

Oh, and if the NZ month goes well it may well lead to August/Sept him being busy with the India series.

If we are lucky he may be allowed to play the BWT final i guess 😉

JK will call it a great opportunity for another squad member to step up, not sure we have a spare Craig O ready & waiting sadly.....



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:09:19:39:01 by wsm fan.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 19:42

We mustn’t play Brooks instead of Cove. There’s no point. If we need to play four main seamers then one of the novices should join JD, LG and MDL. At this point, Brooks carries little or no threat and he’s always been a relatively expensive bowler.

It’s been a good start to the season, the shock Gloucs defeat apart, but I think it will be really hard to keep it going as - minus Cove - we seem to lack the ability to put four decent frontline pacemen on the field.

We’ll have to hope that Baker, Leonard or Aldridge can really hit the ground running or, if management insist on Brooks, then we’re going to have to hope for a very sudden improvement in his form and fitness.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:10:07:29:06 by AGod.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: wsm fan (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 19:53

We were understocked before the season for a 6 month campaign even with Craig.

Without him we are half the attack. He is our leader, the others feed off him.
His accuracy and threat means batters see him off, or try to (and fail). Therefore taking risks at the other end.
51 overs for 82 runs is simply outstanding.
He does his job superbly well BUT makes life easier for the others.
4 wins from 5 puts us in a great position so hopefully we can maintain top 2 regardless now.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Goonie goo goo (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 19:58

Bubble starts on 28th may . I’d be inclined to get him rested against Surrey to play v Gloucs . Hurry carries the can over the fact we have little bowling resource . He knew brooks would be struggling so why didn’t he reinforce further . There’s no plan here as far as I can see

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 20:29

Quote:
sfwithers
Well, Somerset's openers have come in for a lot of criticism this season, but what a second innings today! They knocked off the target in drizzle and poor light at an average of 12 runs an over without losing a wicket. Hats off, I say! Hats off!

Very true, even though Lammonby once again failed to score...

If the umpires had not allowed the fourth innings to start, there would have been riots throughout the land and they would have been summoned to Lord's for a dressing down.

It was a much longer day than I had hope for or expected, but we got there in the end.

LoL

Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 20:37

I see that our friends from Chelmsford are struggling a little and I feel that the least we can do is to let them have eight of our points to keep them going through a long season. I am sure ECB rules will allow that.

LoL

Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 21:28

Have to agree, ggg... there is little evidence of planning that goes beyond “keep everything crossed that everyone stays fit,” so far as our pace bowling resources are concerned.

Perhaps I’m wrong and management actually have a lot of faith in one or more of Aldridge, Leonard and Baker and see them as fully capable of good contributions in the CC, as soon as this season.

If, however, they don’t have such faith, then I’m afraid that “fingers crossed,” seems to have been all there was.

I mean, really you need at least 6 pacemen you trust in your squad to cover injuries, loss of form, rotation etc... and if you’re a “4 pacemen every week,” team as we had been for the past several years (up until two games ago), then that number should ideally be 7.

We have only 5 “senior pacemen,” in the club, one of whom we do not control and who may play very little between now and the end of the season and another one of whom was known to be coming off a very serious injury.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:09:22:17:16 by AGod.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 22:04

The strange thing about this CC set up is that you can win 8 out of 10 games, then lose to the other qualifier twice , and ultimately carry only 2 or 3 points through . This would give you very little chance with only 4 other games to play,.
Therefore Gloucester will be a must win if we have any intention on Winning the CC assuming they carry on as they are at present.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 22:13

Maybe Tim Southee or Trent Boult might fancy a couple of warm up games the next couple of weeks

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 22:19

Yes, Nellie C - that’s exactly right. If we lose at Bristol? It would barely be worth qualifying for The Div One,” stage UNLESS Gloucs failed to qualify with us (and, of course, if Gloucs beat us at Bristol they would then be most unlikely to fail to qualify for the next stage).

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Scrumper (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 23:22

I can't imagine our management voluntarily resting Cove, even against a very weak opposition.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: wsm fan (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 23:29

Volunteer?
Somerset get no say.
The ECB own Craig not us.
He is on an ECB bowling contract.
If they say rest our response is "how long"
The more in their thoughts he becomes the less they will let him play for us.
That's how it works.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Scrumper (IP Logged)
Date: 09/05/2021 23:33

Make him wear a wig then, it's not like he's tagged.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 00:01

Ref Craig... we aren't the only county with this problem and nothing has been said yet. The Craig we had 3 yrears ago would not have been able to put in this workload and be of any use next Thursday or the Thursday after so before we write the season off because he may be rested maybe a 'thank you' for winning a game for the county?

If he is rested and in case the perfect solution everyone but our entitely inept management saw coming and seem to have done nothing about does not come to pass (and it probably won't) then we will have to use the resources we have at our disposal.

Looking at that rather than whinging about all those bowling stars we didn't sign I have to agree that unless Brooksie has come on in leaps and bounds it might be time to blood someone.

MdL should be back, Josh has done this workhorse stuff before but I'm still not sure personally how fit he is so Lewis will be stepping up and with Tom as supplement 4th (thought he bowled very well this game). The question is who fills that other option? I hope they don't pick Jack B on seniority if he is going to be a liability, Kasey won't ready one would think so...... are the other guys in with a chance? Leonard took 4 in the last secomds innings I believe. It's an interesting time but you have to do it sometime.

I assume we'll spend the next few days thinking about this and they'll comevup with something else.

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 06:53

Yes, exactly, selection on the basis of seniority alone is precisely what should be avoided.

There've been zero indications from the seconds that Brooks has really found form.

IF conditions vs Surrey happen to be absolutely perfect for swing bowling then, I suppose a case could possibly still be made for Jack B......... *however* from what I've seen conditions that assist swing make Sonny Baker more than a little dangerous...

If Craig has to rest, they can bring MDL in. I do wonder if MDL has spent two weeks with his feet up precisely because they intend to ask him to shoulder an abnormally high workload (for him) as part of an attack in which Tom continues to operate as the fourth main seamer. That is, maybe we knew that these games vs Middx and Hants would be Craig's last two games and so the plan was to recharge MDL's batteries as much as humanly possible.

Perhaps it will be L Greg, Josh, MDL and Tom A vs Surrey and Gloucs and we just hope and pray they then stay fit for three other games in the group that are to follow.

If not? It's blood the youngsters (which I'd be happy with given no relegation), fall back on Brooks (not an attractive option) or......... well the only other choice would be to exploit the loan market.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 07:31

And, yes, WSM, I'm sure we all very much enjoyed Craig's performance in this match ... it was immense... so much so that, even if England don't insist that he rests, we really *ought* to rest him from a workload management standpoint, vs Surrey anyway.

If I was making the decision and if England said "Cove must sit out one of the next two rounds," without specifying which, then I'd definitely rest him vs Surrey and then unleash him vs Gloucs. BUt I fear we've seen the last of Cove for this season.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Railboy (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 12:12

Producing conditions that may give Jack L a little more help will surely be a more productive way of reducing the burden on our seamers. So far this season his impact with the ball has been on a par with our opening bats.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 12:59

Well... actually he’s batted a lot better than our openers!

But, yes, very limited impact with the ball.

Surely we ought to be able to produce something that will turn in the second half of the match, but that doesn’t turn big on day one?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Bagpuss (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 15:06

I can't help thinking if we had been able to produce pitches like that to order, that's what we'd have had these last few years.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 15:54

Let's hope the newish groundsman (only 4 home CC tracks thus far) has more success, in that regard, than Simon Lee did.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:10:15:59:46 by AGod.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 16:34

The new guy Karvelas is among the wickets for the Seconds again. I see that Cricinfo has him down as English, though all his first-class cricket has been in RSA. 27 years old, but a useful looking record. Anyone know how seriously we’re looking at him?

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 16:47

Yeah They have been talking him up so maybe they have been looking (shock horror! Say it ain't so!!) and maybe planning ahead 🤯😱😱 Think you also might be right in the planning ref MdL and COve. Maybe they aren't as lazy and inept as first perceived?

It may not be an international superstar but hey they don't always come good or become available. I'm with you AG. If we have to go young then Baker had something about him.

Ref support for Jack L? Well they haven't used the other string to the Goldsworthy bow yet and I'm sure RvdM would be happy to oblige if you want the experience.

(Sm72)

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 18:03

I hadn't noticed the bit where is says "England," on Kervelas' s profile, BJ.

I did, however, read a longish interview with him and there was zero indication of him being English.

What I found out about him included:

- He was on the MCC Young Cricketers programme.

- He has played for least four county second XIs before.

- He has played a lot in league cricket in Kent and a bit in Warks.

- He played against us, for Kent second XI two years ago. In the second innings, he saw off Marcus and 4 other players.

On Wikipedia he's listed as South African.

However, it's possible - perhaps - that he might have qualified for England by residence, by now? I mean he's played for a laundry list of English sides!?

[heritage.derbyshireccc.com]

The interview, which I read about him dates from March 2020 and is here:

[bowledthroughthegate.weebly.com]

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 18:07

Anyway... I've been watching the guy bowl. He looks, to me, like somebody that knows how to bowl. I don't honestly believe that we've stumbled across a world beater, or anything as fortuitous as that. But I think that IF he is eligible to be signed, then we may have found a guy who can do a useful job for us. He seems fairly accurate and he gets some bounce. He showed a bit of pluck with the bat, last time out, too, batting for a long time to help see out a draw with Gloucs.

p.s Ben Green bowled rather well today.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: cricketharris (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 19:01

Scott Hawkins was our groundsman last season, too, AGod.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 19:21

AGod is correct: Two home CC matches last season and two so far in this one.

LoL

Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:11:10:29:46 by Loyal of Lhasa.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: cricketharris (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 21:59

Was that all there was last season? Goodness, it’s all a haze to me.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Farmer White (IP Logged)
Date: 10/05/2021 22:46

What a performance that was! Here, finally, is my take on the final day:

Link to Final Day Report:

[farmerwhite.co.uk]


And, for ease of reference, here are the links to the other three days:

Third Day Report:

[farmerwhite.co.uk]

Second Day Report:

[farmerwhite.co.uk]

First Day Report:

[farmerwhite.co.uk]

Farmer

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 11/05/2021 00:03

We we've gone to the leagues before when in need.

We got a decent season out of David Stiff (only one though) We picked up Paul Jarvis when others had pretty much finished with him and he did us some good for a while.

There was another we tried about that time who didn't come good, can't for the life remember his name. Gemaal Hussain wasn't a success Mike Parsons had a few good ones. Alf was.... older but not pulling up trees elsewhere until.....

If the resources are about and the backroom guys think they may do a job... give them the chance if we need 'em as backups.

(Sm72)



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:05:11:10:44:45 by Grockle.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 11/05/2021 09:48

Completely agree.

Re: Hants vs Somerset
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 11/05/2021 15:34

Me too. Had a brief look at Karvelas today and agree with AG’s assessment. He might also be a bit quicker off the pitch than batsmen expect. Looks like a potentially useful squad member for a year or two while our youngsters mature. No more, but also no less.

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