After the euphoria of yesterday, Derbyshire were back down to earth today as they had to work hard for wickets on the third day against Gloucestershire.
The visitors ended the day 37 ahead with just two wickets down and with Kiwi overseas ace Kane Williamson having completed an excellent century. The wicket appears to have eased considerably, at least according to reports and the likelihood is that this game is heading for a draw.
Of course, some heavy cloud tomorrow morning might change things, but having been forced to follow on it is unlikely that the visitors will be disposed to setting us a feasible target in the last innings. I said before the game that their batting was stronger than their bowling and so it has transpired, but Derbyshire again stuck to their task well and can still be satisfied with their efforts as the game enters its final day.
If the visitors set anything remotely possible I could see us having a go, as that is the style of this Derbyshire side. Yet I have a feeling that they will declare at tea, 260 ahead and around 40 overs to go.
Tomorrow will tell.
In closing tonight, warm congratulations to Martin Guptill, Wes Durston, Jonathan Clare and Tony Palladino on their county caps. All four players have made a large contribution to our improved fortunes over the past couple of seasons and fully deserve their awards.
Here's hoping that we see them in Derbyshire colours for many years to come!
Our only chance now is to get amongst them early on. We have to make the first hour pay or a draw will be the outcome. It was a bit disappointing yesterday but credit Gloucestershire for digging themselves out of a hole. If we can get then 6 or 7 down at lunch,victory could yet be ours.
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