And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
By Grockle et al
July 19 2021
As the hiatus in the Blast and the Championship arrives we go into the Royal London trophy under the captaincy of Ben Green. Can we be as successful in the trophy we are defending as those we hope to raise soon? A Quarter Final with Lanacashire awaits us in the T20 in late August and we have 'Diivision 1' Championship games on hold for September but what will the next month have in store for a younger Somerset side than we usually see?
With a game against Cornwall on Tuesday as a possible 'test' run out for the Royal London side, it is worth having a look at the possible line up for the 50 over tournament before we see how they gell against the local neighbours and then Derbyshire at the County Ground on Sunday. I have no inside information about the line up/squad so please post below any suggestions for changes or queries about my view of the side.
Ben Green has a new role as captain and all rounder in a new look side for this competition. Many of the household names are missing from his rosta... but not all of them.
One will assume that Steve Davies will keep his role as opener in the side to provide that experience at the front end of our batting line-up. The question may be more about who will open with him. Eddie Byrom may step back into the role or the skipper may take the position himself - he has done this before and has been identified by a number of commentators this season as a person suited to the role.
George Bartlett may take the number 3 position though he has been struggling of late and is not known as someone who pushes the score along at the start of an innings - losing Will Smeed late to the franchises may have changed the thought processes here. Lewis Goldsworthy may be seen as more of a one day number 3 and it may depend on how the first wicket falls and who it is returning to the pavilion
It is highly unlikely that James Hildreth will relinquish the number 4 spot and we will need his weight and skill at the start of the middle order whether it is to deal with collapses or to set a base for a push on. Whichever batsmen are not used in the front 4 will be fighting to make a case for coming in at number 5 and probably 6.
With James Rew involved in the 'India B' game Davies will probably also take the gloves in the early games but I was looking forward to seeing the young keeper come into the middle order and taking some of the pressure off in the later games. He seems to have caught the eye of those away from Taunton so we have to hope he gets the chance to put the gloves on for county 50 over games when he returns. One would assume that Bracey will get the nod in the 'international' so Rew should be keen to get behind the stumps on his return.
Goldsworthy is our only spinner with experience left after the franchise purge - we should asssume that Jack Leach will be pulled away for England duty and therefore will be COVID compromised for most of these games. Sam Young is classified as a right arm spinner but I have little information on his bowling prowess or his present level of form or availability.
Other bowling duties will fall on the shoulders of a largely inexperienced and untested attack at least in the early exchanges. Josh Davey is hoped to be close to returning and he will lead the line when avialable because of the absence of COve and now the 'Marchant of Menace' (another late 'steal' by the franchises). Green will expect to be part of the bowling attack and Jack Brooks has been moving from strength to strength in the white ball campaigns culminating in a very good performance against Gloucestershire on Sunday night. Until Josh returns BrookseyFerret may be the only seamer with long term experience. Kasey Aldridge has had the taste of first team cricket this year while Ned Leonard and Sonny Baker showed some promise in the early friendlies at the start of the season and have been working in the seconds. Ollie Sale had run outs with variable success last year in the tournaments that did go ahead and he is moving back towards fitness - how far that puts him away from 'match' fitness and how rusty he will be may be something we see before this campaign is finished.
Will we be competitive? Where there is a will there is a way. The experience of Davies, Hildreth and Brooks will be crucial. The fitness of Davey could be key to the early games. I don't see the one day 'stroke player' in this side. I don't see the replacement for Banton or Trego or Smeed. It could be Goldsworthy or even Byrom who showed an eye in the T20 a season or so ago... it hasn't been there recently. Then again, Hildreth is no slouch and there's always the BIG Brooks bat at the tail end. We may accumulate but I don't think we will speed away with games using the bat.
Can we take wickets? Yes but 10? Not so sure. The bowlers are going to have to step up because they may find themselves defending lower than average 50 over scores and they may have to keep runs down while removing the other sides power men without an extensive slow ball attack. I'm not sure how well that will work out myself but I would like to see some of the newer players getting the chance to stick it to the opposition with the ball.
It is an imposed position that Somerset find themselves in but it is certainly not without it's excitement or opportunites for people on the playing staff to get a chance before their time in some circumstances. Responsibility has come early for more than one player who will turn out in these games and no one shoulders more of it than Ben Green. We need to get behind him and the side whatever the results because they will be working to give us the best they can every time they step onto the pitch in the county colours.
It is going to be an interesting month in Taunton and in some other stranger one day venues around the country. Looking forward to it.
And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockles.com (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 15:09
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:07:24:18:07:30 by Grockle.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:07:24:18:07:30 by Grockle.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: hantssabre (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 15:19
See the Club are now providing their own commentary on all RLC and CC streamed matches from now on so will have to try and sync the BBC commentary if we still want to listen to Mr Gibson.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 15:58
Really? Weird (for CC)
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 15:59
I hope it’s not the T20 crew of “dissected the fielders,” fame.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 16:05
Must have something to do with their Trade Nation and WPA deal I would assume.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: hantssabre (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 16:17
Sam Dalling and Harry Everett are the commentators and it is a linkup with WPA. I know Sam does the T20 commentary but not sure about Harry
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 16:27
He's certainly done ganes this season
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Mike TA1 (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 16:48
I thought for a minute we were going to hear Grockle and Nicky again commentating. 
Remember them days?
Remember them days?
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Scrumper (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 17:38
Is there any news on Derbyshire's ability to raise a team for Sunday? They cancelled their last 2 T20 games.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: BristolSteve (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 18:38
Shame about the BBC radio on the livestreams, we're definitely going to be light in the bowling department, you still need another player to get the 11.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 18:52
Well we mention 13 plus Rew but if Davey is unfit there may he an issue because I'm not personally sure about Ollie Sale and Sam Young (he is mentioned on the squad list but I lnow no nore than that). There are Academy players (Sonny Baker is one) but I have no idea sbout their status other than their bowling would have to be restricted.
Are there other candidates outside the squad/students?
Are there other candidates outside the squad/students?
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 19:19
Bracey is COVID compromised so it looks like James Rew will play tomorrow
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 19:31
For 50 over purposes, I don’t think there’d be meaningful restrictions on Leonard and Baker, Grockle.
The restrictions that exist are about maximum number of overs per spell (I think it’s about 6) and maximum number of overs in a day (I think that number is about 16? I’m sure somebody else will know). So a couple of 4 over spells and one 2 over spell or even two 5 over spells would be fine.
The restrictions that exist are about maximum number of overs per spell (I think it’s about 6) and maximum number of overs in a day (I think that number is about 16? I’m sure somebody else will know). So a couple of 4 over spells and one 2 over spell or even two 5 over spells would be fine.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Old Boy! (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 19:32
Although we are the holders the Royal London has been so degraded, why waste money on overseas stars. Just use it as a means to give everyone of our promising youngsters a game - perhaps throw in a few ladies and don't worry about the results.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 19/07/2021 20:29
The thing I’m not sure about is player availability as soon as they are knocked out of the other rubbish.Will they immediately be available for any knockout stages,or do you stick with the players who got you there.At the end of the day it’s still first class at the moment and silverware is silverware
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 10:26
One consolation is that, thanks to our Academy, we shall be much better able than most counties to cope with losing 2/3 of our side. On the spinner front - I notice the ex-Glos spinner George Drissell has been playing most of the season for our 2nds. I’ve never seen him bowl; but does anyone know if the club rates him, or might even have been considering him for a short-term contract at a time like this?
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 10:43
One problem is that the Hundred will use so many players, due to Covid, that even new players from our Academy or whatever that happen to start well and have a good few games will then be taken away to sit on the bench for one of the franchises or suddenly thrown into high pressure fixtures (very possibly well before they are ready).
The worthless ECB should have “ring fenced,” the two competitions .- so that all players for each competition must be registered at the start. Even if that meant naming bigger initial Hundred squads, it would be preferable to the situation which we now face.
The worthless ECB should have “ring fenced,” the two competitions .- so that all players for each competition must be registered at the start. Even if that meant naming bigger initial Hundred squads, it would be preferable to the situation which we now face.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: brt1919 (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 10:52
I know we’ve all had a moan about the 100, but your intro just makes me shake my head Grockles. This is NOT meant as any criticism of any player, but seeing who is being snapped up at the last minute kind of devalues the 100 too. It’s supposed to be a celebration of the worlds top players, but it’s almost at the point now of if you’ve played a few matches for your county, you’re in the 100. I know also the 100 is aimed at a different crowd, but surely with all the coverage it’s getting, it’s about saying this player has scored 1000’s of runs for such & such, not this player has just started to break into his county team.
I think the point I’m getting at is we now have 2 devalued competitions whereas before it was ‘only’ going to be the Royal London Cup. It would just have made so much more sense to postpone the 100 for another summer - we’ve still got the possibility of isolation pings & positive tests etc. I don’t mind the idea of a slightly under strength Royal London comp next season if most counties are missing say 5 players & with the incentive on counties to give their academy players a chance. Football has gone the same way with the League Cup, it took a while, but most people now accept that for many teams it’s a chance in the early rounds to give that vital experience. But reading your post, when we’re at the point where we’re losing academy players too to call ups, it’s all just, well………
Anyway, it is what it is & I’m still looking forward to seeing the next generation of Somerset players give their all - the academy set up has done brilliantly in recent times so let’s hope the future is rosy
I think the point I’m getting at is we now have 2 devalued competitions whereas before it was ‘only’ going to be the Royal London Cup. It would just have made so much more sense to postpone the 100 for another summer - we’ve still got the possibility of isolation pings & positive tests etc. I don’t mind the idea of a slightly under strength Royal London comp next season if most counties are missing say 5 players & with the incentive on counties to give their academy players a chance. Football has gone the same way with the League Cup, it took a while, but most people now accept that for many teams it’s a chance in the early rounds to give that vital experience. But reading your post, when we’re at the point where we’re losing academy players too to call ups, it’s all just, well………
Anyway, it is what it is & I’m still looking forward to seeing the next generation of Somerset players give their all - the academy set up has done brilliantly in recent times so let’s hope the future is rosy
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 12:46
No argument from me brt.
I've enjoyed Will Smeed batting this year but he has no 'pedigree' simply because he has had little time at the crease. He should be left alone to play his apprenticeship and 'develop' his game in what the ECB themselves have called a 'development' competition' but panic sets in and the need to have 12/15 in the franchise squad means that Will will arrive and savour the 'big boy' game. With the bias that will exist he may not play unless injury forces them to do it so he may sit out this important part of his season to keep the 100 seemingly stable. It may do nothing for his game - it's like Banton making up the numbers of an England ODI side. if you aren't going to play these young lads then leave them with their counties playing cricket!!
MdL is justifiable cover but he was not picked up because he is a veteran fast bowler and they were up for the younger stars. However he has shown good quality bowling in the white ball game this season and maybe they made a mistake not picking him in the first time - there are some 'veterans' in the 100 whose name is more than their performance if you get what I mean.
The 100 was a WASP veteran competition with diversity coming in the form of Windies stars. The 'coaches' are WASP veterans (non UK based) some 'coach in name only. They've then filled up from the domestic game they have pilloried and moaned about while skimming the considerable cream off it.
It's a fake BIG competition which has become a poor man's Blast! with less balls. I have not time for it - I'd rather watch young guys coming through from the academies in the 50 over than a name who has seen better days bowling 5 balls in multicolour crisp packet shirts to massage the egos of the cricket authority 'bigwigs' who have no idea where the grass roots of this game are!!
Rant over Stuff the 100
I've enjoyed Will Smeed batting this year but he has no 'pedigree' simply because he has had little time at the crease. He should be left alone to play his apprenticeship and 'develop' his game in what the ECB themselves have called a 'development' competition' but panic sets in and the need to have 12/15 in the franchise squad means that Will will arrive and savour the 'big boy' game. With the bias that will exist he may not play unless injury forces them to do it so he may sit out this important part of his season to keep the 100 seemingly stable. It may do nothing for his game - it's like Banton making up the numbers of an England ODI side. if you aren't going to play these young lads then leave them with their counties playing cricket!!
MdL is justifiable cover but he was not picked up because he is a veteran fast bowler and they were up for the younger stars. However he has shown good quality bowling in the white ball game this season and maybe they made a mistake not picking him in the first time - there are some 'veterans' in the 100 whose name is more than their performance if you get what I mean.
The 100 was a WASP veteran competition with diversity coming in the form of Windies stars. The 'coaches' are WASP veterans (non UK based) some 'coach in name only. They've then filled up from the domestic game they have pilloried and moaned about while skimming the considerable cream off it.
It's a fake BIG competition which has become a poor man's Blast! with less balls. I have not time for it - I'd rather watch young guys coming through from the academies in the 50 over than a name who has seen better days bowling 5 balls in multicolour crisp packet shirts to massage the egos of the cricket authority 'bigwigs' who have no idea where the grass roots of this game are!!
Rant over Stuff the 100
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 16:56
I don't know whether the club plan is going to be to mainly bowl guys like Brooks and Davey and supplement them with just one or two younger bowlers, or whether the plan is mainly to roll with the younger guys.
But I think it would be fair to say that the second half of today's game with Cornwall has really not gone according to plan. Too many extras. Too many loose balls. And far too many missed chances in the field... not sure that putting Leachy at slip a few days before he gets called for the Test was too smart - spent some time wringing his hand after one of the dropped chances.
George Thomas, however, made an explosive entrance with that bat. I'm a bit disappointed not to have seen him bowl, since Parsie (on commentary) said that he's also a good bowler (so possibly a better bet than bowling Eddie Byrom, if so).
Guys like Eddie Byrom and George Bartlett are going to have to step it up, if newcomers like Thomas are going to produce pyrotechnics like that... otherwise there's a danger of being overtaken in squad positioning terms.
But I think it would be fair to say that the second half of today's game with Cornwall has really not gone according to plan. Too many extras. Too many loose balls. And far too many missed chances in the field... not sure that putting Leachy at slip a few days before he gets called for the Test was too smart - spent some time wringing his hand after one of the dropped chances.
George Thomas, however, made an explosive entrance with that bat. I'm a bit disappointed not to have seen him bowl, since Parsie (on commentary) said that he's also a good bowler (so possibly a better bet than bowling Eddie Byrom, if so).
Guys like Eddie Byrom and George Bartlett are going to have to step it up, if newcomers like Thomas are going to produce pyrotechnics like that... otherwise there's a danger of being overtaken in squad positioning terms.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 17:21
Sorry if it's already been mentioned (and I'm not sure I'm even on the right thread), but who is keeping wicket for Somerset today?
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: brt1919 (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 17:22
But for management & fans, that’s a perfect situation - and arguably for the players too to know that they have to keep working hard because their is still more competition for places
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 17:30
Jamie Baird is the keeper
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 17:37
Issue of accuracy in the Cornwall game I'm afraid but it's better to get it out of the way now than on Sunday. We need a tighter bowling performance against Derbyshire. But a decent run out for the boys seeing the 'big stage' for the first time and well done to Cornwall who were never 'sacrificial lambs' in this one
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 17:39
Well batted Scot Harvey with 93 in a 5 wicket victory over Somerset by Cornwall. He made 93 and really deserved a ton.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: hantssabre (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 17:47
Good win by Cornwall. Not too many positives from a Somerset perspective other than the batting of George Thomas
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 18:30
Only Maynard’s incompetent crew joined us in losing to Minor County opposition today.
However, some guy called Craig has 4-10 from six overs vs Essex in an afternoon game, for Cambs.
However, some guy called Craig has 4-10 from six overs vs Essex in an afternoon game, for Cambs.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 20:25
Baker,Leonard and Aldridge bowled with a lot of enthusiasm today and all three bowled well in spells.Whether it was just nerves or the fact that there was plenty of bounce , but the radar wasn’t firing with two many wides and a bit too much short bowling.They are fairly similar in the way all three bowl,so you possibly couldn’t get away with playing all 3 in the same game.
I also think they will benefit with the experience of Davies ,Hildreth ,Davey and Brooks playing alongside them.
I think add Goldworthy Green and Bartlett to the 4 above and I think we’d be in a much better position to rotate the younger players around them
I also think they will benefit with the experience of Davies ,Hildreth ,Davey and Brooks playing alongside them.
I think add Goldworthy Green and Bartlett to the 4 above and I think we’d be in a much better position to rotate the younger players around them
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 20/07/2021 20:41
I think Aldridge and Leonard both like to bowl a little short. They will learn to bowl a tighter line if they’re going to bowl that length (tighter to off stump).
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 12:48
Was looking at the sides Hampshire and Essex put out today.Essex are almost at full strength, including Simon Harper ? Has he not been snapped up by anyone? I suppose it’s all they’ve got left to play for
Essex side;
Will Buttleman
Alastair Cook
Tom Westley(c)
Michael Pepper
Paul Walter
Ryan ten Doeschate
Adam Wheater(wk)
Simon Harmer
Aron Nijjar
Shane Snater
Jamie Porter
Essex side;
Will Buttleman
Alastair Cook
Tom Westley(c)
Michael Pepper
Paul Walter
Ryan ten Doeschate
Adam Wheater(wk)
Simon Harmer
Aron Nijjar
Shane Snater
Jamie Porter
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 13:05
Yeah, Essex’s season is over, to all intents and purposes.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 14:27
Big money still talks.
Surrey, who flew over Singapore middle-order batsman Tim David for their last two T20 Blast matches (unsuccessfully) , have retained his service for the Royal London Cup. David has regularly played in the Big Bash in Australia.
Surrey, who flew over Singapore middle-order batsman Tim David for their last two T20 Blast matches (unsuccessfully) , have retained his service for the Royal London Cup. David has regularly played in the Big Bash in Australia.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 14:33
Along with Amla
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 14:37
I didn’t realise that all 6 CcDiv1 teams are also all left in the T20 so there are 12 teams who need to be extra competitive to keep their members happy
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 14:46
Yeah, apart from Kent and Sussex, teams have either had good seasons in both comps or else moderate/bad ones in both comps.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 15:06
Essex, full strength team or no, already in big trouble Vs Hants. Shame.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Mike TA1 (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 15:55
Should be an easy win for Surrey, against Yorkshire, Yorkshire 165 all out, Surrey 113 for 3 in 28 overs.
This made me look twice.
Kent 87 - for 3 wickets (13.1 overs)
Durham 405 - for 4
This made me look twice.
Kent 87 - for 3 wickets (13.1 overs)
Durham 405 - for 4
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: hantssabre (IP Logged)
Date: 22/07/2021 16:40
See our friend Mr Dernbach is leaving Surrey at the end of the season. Any takers!
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 24/07/2021 10:56
If we are generally considering putting out a side capable of winning this tournament what actually is the strongest team we could put out tomorrow. Possibly;
Steve Davies(wk)
Ed Byrom
Lewis Goldworthy
James Hildreth
George Bartlett
George Thomas
Ben Green (c)
Kasey Aldridge
Josh Davey
Jack Leach
Jack Brookes
Steve Davies(wk)
Ed Byrom
Lewis Goldworthy
James Hildreth
George Bartlett
George Thomas
Ben Green (c)
Kasey Aldridge
Josh Davey
Jack Leach
Jack Brookes
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 24/07/2021 11:00
Actual squad named today;
Ben Green, Kasey Aldridge, Sonny Baker, George Bartlett, Eddie Byrom, Jack Brooks, Josh Davey, Steve Davies, James Hildreth, Lewis Goldsworthy, Jack Leach, Ned Leonard, James Rew and Sam Young.
So no Thomas in squad
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:07:24:11:02:32 by nelliec.
Ben Green, Kasey Aldridge, Sonny Baker, George Bartlett, Eddie Byrom, Jack Brooks, Josh Davey, Steve Davies, James Hildreth, Lewis Goldsworthy, Jack Leach, Ned Leonard, James Rew and Sam Young.
So no Thomas in squad
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:07:24:11:02:32 by nelliec.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 24/07/2021 13:23
Maybe they think it is a little early but having seen him he may be what they are missing ie. A middle order run maker. Can't see who is going to push the score in the middle order, especially if they push Lewis up yhe order to 3.
It is an interesting team selection
It is an interesting team selection
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 24/07/2021 13:54
Don’t know much about Rews batting .Green is the obvious one to push it along ,and maybe Josh Davey could develop his batting a bit more at 8
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Bobstan (IP Logged)
Date: 24/07/2021 14:35
I feared that some idiot might come on here and say that while Rew's batting is something of an unknown quantity Kanga is a star.
Thank goodness nobody has.
Thank goodness nobody has.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 24/07/2021 14:45
If we had a Kanga in our squad, I’m sure they would have done!
Anyway, the batting looks reasonable to me, although it would be helped if Steve Davies were to finally resemble the white ball batsman we all thought we were getting. We could do with Hildreth rolling back the years, too.
I’m surprised the non abomination playing England contingent haven’t already been summoned for the Test.
Once Leachy does go, then the bowling will be obviously the weaker of the two suits, at least on paper.
Do we have any Academy spinner on the books, at all, who might come in when Leachy goes?
Anyway, the batting looks reasonable to me, although it would be helped if Steve Davies were to finally resemble the white ball batsman we all thought we were getting. We could do with Hildreth rolling back the years, too.
I’m surprised the non abomination playing England contingent haven’t already been summoned for the Test.
Once Leachy does go, then the bowling will be obviously the weaker of the two suits, at least on paper.
Do we have any Academy spinner on the books, at all, who might come in when Leachy goes?
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 24/07/2021 16:10
Young is identified as bowling some... quantity and quslity unknown by yours truly.
Another job for Lewis....
Another job for Lewis....
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 24/07/2021 23:02
Typically illuminating comment, Bobstan, Thanks for that. I think we need the reliably gloomy E Ore to lurk at Third Man.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Shepton Paul 2 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/07/2021 19:15
Can anyone help me on the current rules for attending One Day Cup games at Taunton, please?
- can only members attend?
- as I'm not a member this year, do I have to purchase a ticket in advance to attend?
- or can I just rock up on the day and pay on the gate, as we did in the old days?
- I don't particularly mind where I sit. Are tickets General Admission, or for allocated seats?
Thanks
- can only members attend?
- as I'm not a member this year, do I have to purchase a ticket in advance to attend?
- or can I just rock up on the day and pay on the gate, as we did in the old days?
- I don't particularly mind where I sit. Are tickets General Admission, or for allocated seats?
Thanks
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 25/07/2021 20:14
From the horses mouth
Can buy tickets on the gate. They recommend buying in advance simply because the seats are still allocated presently so it takes a bit of time at the gate but NOT members only and tickets arte available on the gate.
Thanks Spencer
Can buy tickets on the gate. They recommend buying in advance simply because the seats are still allocated presently so it takes a bit of time at the gate but NOT members only and tickets arte available on the gate.
Thanks Spencer
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Shepton Paul 2 (IP Logged)
Date: 25/07/2021 21:37
Thank you Grockle, and Spencer 
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Roger ivanhoe (IP Logged)
Date: 25/07/2021 22:13
Still seem to be errors with sending or not sending out tickets, several L.R. members had to go to St James entrance await for club office to issue tickets, then were told they had to walk round to the priory road entrance , but then had to wait until 1.p.m. to get into ground.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 03/08/2021 16:00
Surrey shambolically only made 132 today. So it's an early victorious trip home for Glamorgan.
Yorkshire also disappointed my expectations of them on Sunday, though have posted 320 against Warwickshire.
It's surely looking good for Somerset hwever I wouldn't want to see Lancashire any time soon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:08:03:16:05:49 by Somerset LaLaLa.
Yorkshire also disappointed my expectations of them on Sunday, though have posted 320 against Warwickshire.
It's surely looking good for Somerset hwever I wouldn't want to see Lancashire any time soon
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:08:03:16:05:49 by Somerset LaLaLa.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 03/08/2021 16:02
Beaten with about 25 overs to spare, Surrey!
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 03/08/2021 22:06
Keaton Jennings, Lancashire`s best batsman in white ball cricket so far this season, suffered a serious calf injury against Middlesex today and had to retire hurt.
He must be doubtful for Somerset`s T20 quarter-final against Lancashire at Taunton in three weeks time.
He must be doubtful for Somerset`s T20 quarter-final against Lancashire at Taunton in three weeks time.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Roger ivanhoe (IP Logged)
Date: 04/08/2021 12:43
Great News from SCCC Twitter today.
Marchant de Lange is back and raring to go for Somerset in the
@RoyalLondonCup
Marchant de Lange is back and raring to go for Somerset in the
@RoyalLondonCup
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 04/08/2021 12:44
👍👍👍👍👍
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 04/08/2021 15:25
Sadly that’s cancelled out by the loss of Ben Green, though, who is now in self isolation. That really affects the balance of the side - with management having added zero extra batting cover, we surely face having to operate with a very long tail?
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 04/08/2021 20:01
Tomorrow’s forecast is very annoying. It implies that, unless we win the game quickly, then the game will be washed out just as the team closes in on victory.. with rain forecast between 5 and 6.
In one of my favourite games at the Oval, we bowled them out in about 29 overs and then Mybs knocked the runs off in about 69 balls. A repeat would do nicely!
In one of my favourite games at the Oval, we bowled them out in about 29 overs and then Mybs knocked the runs off in about 69 balls. A repeat would do nicely!
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Onen hag all (IP Logged)
Date: 04/08/2021 20:53
We are certainly short of batting - but presumably George Bartlett could be brought in, however short of form? Otherwise Josh or Kasey at 7 - but then again they, Drissell and Marchant are all capable to some degree. And personally I‘d rather have a long tail composed of our own guys than one bolstered by an on-loan mercenary with no more connection to us than we have to any Blundred team.
And we still have a nice, penetrative attack.
And we still have a nice, penetrative attack.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 04/08/2021 21:52
Surrey, who lost by five wickets to Glamorgan at Cardiff yesterday, have named a 14-man squad captained by Hashim Amla:
Amla (c), Clarke, David, Dunn, Geddes, Kimber, McKerr, Moriarty, Patel, Reifer, Smith, Stoneman, Taylor, Virdi.
Amla (c), Clarke, David, Dunn, Geddes, Kimber, McKerr, Moriarty, Patel, Reifer, Smith, Stoneman, Taylor, Virdi.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 14/08/2021 17:46
One sided match at Chelmsford today, which would have been our likely destination if we qualified. This was despite Cook only making 16. Dom Bess's Yorkshire get the early trip home and Essex a day off before going to Cardiff
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 14/08/2021 18:48
Yeah… they have pretty much their entire first team, do Essex. So they shouldn’t pat themselves on the back too much.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 14/08/2021 20:00
The decision to let franchise players back after marginalising the Cup has turned this year into more of a farce.
Don't put it past the ECB to market the semis and final as 'exciting' because the 'stars' have returned.... it's all a cynical plan to play off the unexpected success of the RLODC despite their best efforts
Don't put it past the ECB to market the semis and final as 'exciting' because the 'stars' have returned.... it's all a cynical plan to play off the unexpected success of the RLODC despite their best efforts
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Scrumper (IP Logged)
Date: 14/08/2021 23:03
I am beginning to share your cynicism 
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 14/08/2021 23:28
Shocking comments (ninth paragraph from the end) in this article, suggesting that Somerset, had they progressed to a home playoff game, were considering playing behind closed doors, solely due to financial issues:
[www.thecricketer.com]
It’s surely time for the Club to provide some kind of update re our overall situation and outlook, as even acknowledging the obvious issues created by Covid, this suggests things are bleak indeed.
Grizzers
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:08:14:23:30:06 by Grizzers.
[www.thecricketer.com]
It’s surely time for the Club to provide some kind of update re our overall situation and outlook, as even acknowledging the obvious issues created by Covid, this suggests things are bleak indeed.
Grizzers
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:08:14:23:30:06 by Grizzers.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Scrumper (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 00:50
They'll be charging the seagulls next.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 09:28
Looking at the Essex site for the Chelmsford Yorkshire fixture they were capable of fully seated capacity. Members were allowed in without a ticket, general sales Friday, no payment at the gate. Catering was available, but at Edgbaston v Somerset it was hard to find a drink anyway.
Not sure if someone at Somerset made the comment about playing behind closed doors to show how daft it was to have one day's notice?
Admittedly this scheduling should never be repeated and at the very least, consider neutral venues for the semis
Not sure if someone at Somerset made the comment about playing behind closed doors to show how daft it was to have one day's notice?
Admittedly this scheduling should never be repeated and at the very least, consider neutral venues for the semis
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: cricketharris (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 12:07
Neutral grounds for the semis? Who do you think would fill the ground
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Nailsea_Fizz (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 12:58
Glos struggling, Surrey well on top.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 13:08
At 137/7 then, realistically, Gloucs will probably be beaten inside 40 overs.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Nailsea_Fizz (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 15:32
Glos stage a bit of a fight back.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 17:04
Tim David, of whom LoL spoke very favourably, has demolished Gloucs, in short order.
All over, bar the shouting.
All over, bar the shouting.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 18:11
Yes, Tim David certainly seems to be a man to watch - his second very rapid century in six days.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 15/08/2021 21:57
If push comes to shove, I think I’m going to have to support Surrey reserves Vs the Essex first team, whether that it’s in a semi final or final of this competition. I don’t want to see Essex inherit our mantle as Champions and, if they do so, I think it would be a hollow victory, since virtually none of their players were taken from them for T16.4 cricket.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: cricketjerry-mouse (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 00:38
Tim David won`t be `a man to watch` on the county circuit in this country for very much longer, LoL.
He plays his regional cricket in Singapore and T20 in Australia, and was flown over by Surrey at huge expense just to play for them in the RLC.
He plays his regional cricket in Singapore and T20 in Australia, and was flown over by Surrey at huge expense just to play for them in the RLC.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 09:40
In that case, I think I retract my previous comments about a meeting between Surrey and Essex.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 10:51
Well, I got that wrong about Tim David - but he certainly seems to have been a very good short term investment.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 12:25
The county able to field their best first teamers thrashes Yorkshire, Glamorgan and Surrey. It's becoming more obvious that the champion will be decided on player availability. Cook should stand down for the final
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 15:14
To be fair the strong white ball teams do tend to be those with few international call ups. Both Warks and Gloucs one day sides were successful when everyone was there all the time and didn't raise any selection flags elsewhere
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Nailsea_Fizz (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 15:54
Glam are in with a shout.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 16:24
Starting to fade.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 16:55
Glamorgan will need to ruin the bowling figures of Harmer, ten Doeschate and/or Westley to win. It's an unfair contest batting and bowling
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 18:10
... but they still won rather handsomely!
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: hantssabre (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 18:11
Well played Glamorgan!
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 18:47
Yes. I hope Glam or Durham win it… not the expensive import, David and the Brown Caps.
Essex should be embarrassed not to have won the competition, having had their first team throughout. Shame.
Essex should be embarrassed not to have won the competition, having had their first team throughout. Shame.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 19:23
Well done Cooke and Cullen who saw them over the line.
And Somerset had the pleasure of beating them in the group stage
And Somerset had the pleasure of beating them in the group stage
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 20:25
Quote:AGod
... and the Brown Caps.
At the two matches I've recently watched at the Joval the brown caps were wearing blue ones - unless my colour blindness is even worse than I thought.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 21:31
I'm assuming there will be no TV coverage of the final from either of the franchise broadcasters... if so the Final will be worse than 2019 when it was televised but totally ignored once it was over
No.. there is coverage from 12:30... but behind the pay wall of SKY it seems
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:08:16:21:39:46 by Grockle.
No.. there is coverage from 12:30... but behind the pay wall of SKY it seems
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:08:16:21:39:46 by Grockle.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 21:39
It's on Sky Sports Hundred (d/n). The Popsicles aren't playing
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 21:44
Yeah the 'eliminator" is on Friday
The Final is also going to be streamed on the Notts channel so it is sort of FTA
The Final is also going to be streamed on the Notts channel so it is sort of FTA
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 16/08/2021 21:48
Quote:Loyal of LhasaQuote:AGod
... and the Brown Caps.
At the two matches I've recently watched at the Joval the brown caps were wearing blue ones - unless my colour blindness is even worse than I thought.
I think Jamie Overton will have to go some, from here, to get Surrey’s ground named after him, LoL..
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 17/08/2021 11:29
AGod will be delighted that his friend from the Vatican lasted six balls without scoring this morning and then had to leave the chancel (though I suppose his innings today will guarantee selection for the Third Test.
It's a sure sign of my ageing that even the popes are looking younger these days...
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
It's a sure sign of my ageing that even the popes are looking younger these days...
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: hantssabre (IP Logged)
Date: 17/08/2021 11:46
Lol’s friend Mr David now gone cheaply too! Come on Durham
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 17/08/2021 13:00
I have to say that Jamie Smith, of whom it was said on MTWD, that he had declined a T 16.4 deal, looked a quality player when we played at the Oval in the CC, and he’s going well Vs Durham today, along with the former Durham man, Mark Stoneman.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 17/08/2021 17:36
And… Surrey are out. Shame.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 17/08/2021 19:27
Durham were without Meeks today, who had previously bowled well in the tournament. He's off to the sunny Carribean and will miss the final. Shame, a nice guy
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: AGod (IP Logged)
Date: 17/08/2021 20:33
The Meerkat had been their leading wicket taker.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Nailsea_Fizz (IP Logged)
Date: 17/08/2021 20:34
Another prediction gone away with the wind. Well played Durham and Glam, two best teams it seams.
Good luck trying to get any coverage on a Tjursfay afternoon in Nottingham
Good luck trying to get any coverage on a Tjursfay afternoon in Nottingham
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 18/08/2021 11:25
Is good to see a man willing to work getting some reward. It hasn't been an easy road for him but reports are that he has always been willing to learn and work at his game.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 19/08/2021 12:39
Durham won the toss and decided to field
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: Nailsea_Fizz (IP Logged)
Date: 19/08/2021 17:07
Good scrambling by Glamorgan tail to near 300, should be a close game hopefully given part of reply is under lights
Shame Durham re drafted in their Hundred players so kudos to Glamorgan for stinking to their guns with selection.
Shame Durham re drafted in their Hundred players so kudos to Glamorgan for stinking to their guns with selection.
Re: And here we are..... Defending the Royal London
Posted by: nelliec (IP Logged)
Date: 19/08/2021 19:53
Well played Glamorgan.Fully deserved.And we beat the champions!!!
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