Derbyshire 242 and 16-2
Gloucestershire 331 (Mustard 107 not, Dent 94, Palladino 5-74)
Derbyshire trail by 73 runs
Apologies for the lack of blog last night, but everyday life got in the way and meant that a reflection on the day's play had to wait until this morning.
Were it not for the late loss of two big wickets, which saw both our openers back in the pavilion, we didn't do too badly on Thursday, in limiting the first innings deficit to 89 runs. Tony Palladino led by example in taking five wickets, while both Tom Milnes and Callum Parkinson reinforced their recent good impression with tight spells and a couple of wickets each.
The team selection puzzled again though, with Matt Critchley selected, batting six but only bowling four overs. That long tail is likely to see another early finish, unless it wags with greater vigour than it managed in the first innings.
As for the opposition, Chris Dent scored well against us again, not quite on the Nick Browne scale, but another opener who would love to face us every week and scores heavily when he does. Meanwhile Phil Mustard scored what was his first championship ton for five years, although he has been some way removed from a four-day regular for Durham.
Will we see him at Derby next year? I hope so, because at present the side is crying out for an experienced player or two with the nous and gumption to battle it out when the going gets tough.
Phil Mustard or Niall O'Brien? Either would do me. No disrespect intended to Harvey Hosein, whose glove work is excellent, but a number seven who can score good runs and nurse the tail to respectability is absolutely crucial if we are to be more competitive next year.
A few more, too...
It's rubbish Peakfan, the whole season has been a washout bar a couple of good one day performances. Chris Grant has got a mammoth task on his hands this autumn/Winter, not just to improve this weak squad, but to make sure there are still going to be bums on seats at the start of next season. Who would carry on paying to watch this mediocrity when you could as easily go to your local village green and catch a game for free. Huge changes needed at Derbyshire.
ReplyDeleteWhat potential would there be in an O'Brien or Mustard playing solely as a batsman, allowing Harvey further first team experience lower down the order? He is the future, after all, and needs game and experience.
ReplyDeleteChris
Wow, we've actually been competitive today and have set Gloucestershire a big target. Could this be our first victory of the season?.
ReplyDeleteJosh Clarke did well for the Seconds this week. A century and 36* to carry us to victory over the local rivals. We also had South African Daryn Smit playing as wicketkeeper for us.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone heard any rumours about us offering a contract to Clarke or Tom Wood for next season?
Gareth
Heard them Gareth but until they are confirmed by the club (or otherwise) I don't get overly excited.
ReplyDeleteBoth would make eminent sense though and would be exciting additions to the squad. They have the weight of runs in local cricket to justify a crack at the top level.
What they make of it is up to them - IF that chance is offered.
Chris - not sure of playing Mustard or O'Brien as a batsman only. I think we have - or should have - better options.
ReplyDeleteThough if we did sign Smit, he could bat and bowl, leaving Harvey the gloves if it was felt appropriate.