If Wales Online is anything to go by, Glamorgan are as good as beaten in this game, after Derbyshire bowled them out before lunch then extended their lead to 187 with four wickets in hand. "Glamorgan facing defeat against Derbyshire" says their headline tonight.
I'm not so sure it is that clear cut, as the indications after tea were that the wicket, which for two days had been damp underneath the top surface, was starting to flatten out a little. That should not take anything away from an outstanding fight by our middle/lower order, however, but we will need to continue to work hard to come away with the win points in this one.
Jon Clare has had a day to remember, with 5-17 this morning being followed by a belligerent unbeaten 40 after Ross Whiteley was run out shortly after tea. If these two talented young players continue in the vein they have shown in this game they both have the potential to be called up for England Lions in the not too distant future.
So too does David Wainwright and the three make up a terrific engine room of all round talent for Derbyshire. At 37-5 we were in real trouble today, but to then get through to the close on 152-6 was a superb effort. The problem has largely been one of negligible bounce and lavish movement, hence the large number of batsmen being bowled or leg before. It has not been, in short, the sort of track you would expect to see on a Test match ground.
Speaking of Wainwright, the left-handed all-rounder batted 47 overs and nearly three hours for his unbeaten 30, most of it made when the wicket was at its worst. Few would deem it an attractive innings, but in its importance to his adopted county it was beyond value. With no disrespect intended, it was not the sort of diligent, responsible innings one could have expected Greg Smith to have played in such a situation. After taking the wicket of Robert Croft with his only ball of the day, Wainwright could hardly have done any more for the Derbyshire cause today and he has become an instant favourite with the fans.
So what of the match? After a day of sunshine, Derbyshire's bowlers will hope for a little cloud cover tomorrow as Glamorgan embark on a likely chase of around 230. Any more will see Derbyshire fancy their chances; less will leave the game wide open.
Derbyshire are on top at the end of day two and have once again displayed an admirable fighting spirit as well as no little technical skill. They will need more of both tomorrow to conclude another very encouraging display with the win points.
Now that would shut up a few people, wouldn't it?
PS In other news, there was another encouraging spell by Matt Higginbottom today for Leeds/Bradford MCCU against Yorkshire as he continues his recovery from injury. He took the wickets of Anthony McGrath and Andrew Gale for just 16 runs having earlier made a belligerent unbeaten 31.
Now where's my sunglasses? That future is getting a bit bright for me...
Showing posts with label Glamorgan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Glamorgan. Show all posts
Friday, 13 April 2012
Thursday, 12 April 2012
Glamorgan v Derbyshire day one
Last night I suggested that Derbyshire might get an awakening in this match after the success of the Northamptonshire game. By tea time today it looked like I was pretty accurate in my forecast, as we slumped to 130 all out, but at 37-4 by the close Glamorgan are in big trouble.
Of course, Jim Allenby and Mark Wallace, a perennial thorn in Derbyshire's side, are still to come but at the end of another extraordinary day's cricket Derbyshire will be quietly pleased with today's performance. Batting was never easy and, with the batsmen having to go off a few times, there was the continual issue of restarting an innings against bowlers who were refreshed from a spell in the pavilion.
You could probably have written the script that Graham Wagg would be the star turn for the Welsh side, but the former Derbyshire star needs that sort of performance on a regular basis this year after a disappointing 2011. We all know that he can be dangerous with a bat in his hand too, but on this sort of track the next ball can always be the one with your wicket on it.
There was lavish movement for bowlers all day and perhaps the biggest achievement was the partnership between Ross Whiteley and David Wainwright that added 48 runs in the afternoon. I'm sure that Karl Krikken was hoping for 200-230 today, but in choosing to bat he must have seen a wicket that he expects to deterioriate as the game progresses. First innings lead is not beyond the realms of possibility if conditions are again overcast tomorrow and, of course, we put the ball in the right areas.
In that final session, Tony Palladino and Mark Footitt again bowled with hostility, while Jon Clare picked up his first wicket of the seasonwhen he got Ben Wright leg before. With none of their side yet having made double figures, Glamorgan were on the ropes when the end of the day came after seven this evening.
Yes, the first innings was disappointing and we'd have hoped for more. But Derbyshire have battled as I fully expected they would and are very much in this game at the end of day one.
On balance, I'd have them slightly ahead. Here's hoping I'm saying the same, or better, tomorrow.
Of course, Jim Allenby and Mark Wallace, a perennial thorn in Derbyshire's side, are still to come but at the end of another extraordinary day's cricket Derbyshire will be quietly pleased with today's performance. Batting was never easy and, with the batsmen having to go off a few times, there was the continual issue of restarting an innings against bowlers who were refreshed from a spell in the pavilion.
You could probably have written the script that Graham Wagg would be the star turn for the Welsh side, but the former Derbyshire star needs that sort of performance on a regular basis this year after a disappointing 2011. We all know that he can be dangerous with a bat in his hand too, but on this sort of track the next ball can always be the one with your wicket on it.
There was lavish movement for bowlers all day and perhaps the biggest achievement was the partnership between Ross Whiteley and David Wainwright that added 48 runs in the afternoon. I'm sure that Karl Krikken was hoping for 200-230 today, but in choosing to bat he must have seen a wicket that he expects to deterioriate as the game progresses. First innings lead is not beyond the realms of possibility if conditions are again overcast tomorrow and, of course, we put the ball in the right areas.
In that final session, Tony Palladino and Mark Footitt again bowled with hostility, while Jon Clare picked up his first wicket of the seasonwhen he got Ben Wright leg before. With none of their side yet having made double figures, Glamorgan were on the ropes when the end of the day came after seven this evening.
Yes, the first innings was disappointing and we'd have hoped for more. But Derbyshire have battled as I fully expected they would and are very much in this game at the end of day one.
On balance, I'd have them slightly ahead. Here's hoping I'm saying the same, or better, tomorrow.
Wednesday, 11 April 2012
Glamorgan v Derbyshire preview
Derbyshire won their opening Championship match in some style at the weekend, while Leicestershire roundly thrashed tomorrow's opponents, Glamorgan. That being the case, if the weather stays out of things Derbyshire should naturally vanquish tomorrow's Welsh opponents with ease.
Of course, you know as well as I do, if you have followed the game for any length of time, that cricket doesn't quite work like that. Just when you think you have it worked out and things are going swimmingly, it has a habit of creeping up on you, smacking you on the head, kneeing you in the groin and walking over your fallen body. Form can go just as quickly as it came, teams can raise their game and you can take things for granted.
This is what Karl Krikken and Wayne Madsen now need to guard against. We beat Northamptonshire - a team I would regard as better than Glamorgan - with a brilliant, focussed team performance that has rarely been bettered in recent years. Anything less than that could see us in trouble against opponents who will be smarting after a hefty defeat in the season opener.
The hosts have named the following 12, which of course sees Graham Wagg face his former team mates:
Rees, Walters, Bragg, Wright, Henriques, Allenby, Wallace (capt), Wagg, Croft, Owen, Cosker, Reed.
It's not a bad side, but by the same token there aren't many that I would swap into ours. Allenby is a dangerous player and we all know what Wagg can do, but there is no James Harris and Moises Henriques is as yet unproven, certainly on our tracks. The early season replacement for Marcus North, Henriques has a decent, if not spectacular record for New South Wales, though I would be surprised if he batted higher than Jim Allenby, a player that Derbyshire chased when he left Leicestershire.
As for Derbyshire, the old maxim "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" applies quite nicely. The only thing "broke" is Tim Groenewald's groin, so I would expect Jon Clare to take his place in the side. Mark Turner and Ally Evans will also be along just in case, but the Derbyshire side is likely to take the field as follows:
Guptill, Borrington, Madsen (captain), Durston, Redfern, Whiteley, Clare, Wainwright, Poynton, Palladino, Footitt.
The weather forecast isn't great for the next few days and that might legislate against a positive result. The reassurance against some recent trips to Wales, however, is that in Wainwright and Durston we have our own spin bowlers to counter Croft and Cosker. By the same token, our seam attack is stronger, as is the batting.
All we need to do now is prove that on the pitch - starting tomorrow.
Of course, you know as well as I do, if you have followed the game for any length of time, that cricket doesn't quite work like that. Just when you think you have it worked out and things are going swimmingly, it has a habit of creeping up on you, smacking you on the head, kneeing you in the groin and walking over your fallen body. Form can go just as quickly as it came, teams can raise their game and you can take things for granted.
This is what Karl Krikken and Wayne Madsen now need to guard against. We beat Northamptonshire - a team I would regard as better than Glamorgan - with a brilliant, focussed team performance that has rarely been bettered in recent years. Anything less than that could see us in trouble against opponents who will be smarting after a hefty defeat in the season opener.
The hosts have named the following 12, which of course sees Graham Wagg face his former team mates:
Rees, Walters, Bragg, Wright, Henriques, Allenby, Wallace (capt), Wagg, Croft, Owen, Cosker, Reed.
It's not a bad side, but by the same token there aren't many that I would swap into ours. Allenby is a dangerous player and we all know what Wagg can do, but there is no James Harris and Moises Henriques is as yet unproven, certainly on our tracks. The early season replacement for Marcus North, Henriques has a decent, if not spectacular record for New South Wales, though I would be surprised if he batted higher than Jim Allenby, a player that Derbyshire chased when he left Leicestershire.
As for Derbyshire, the old maxim "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" applies quite nicely. The only thing "broke" is Tim Groenewald's groin, so I would expect Jon Clare to take his place in the side. Mark Turner and Ally Evans will also be along just in case, but the Derbyshire side is likely to take the field as follows:
Guptill, Borrington, Madsen (captain), Durston, Redfern, Whiteley, Clare, Wainwright, Poynton, Palladino, Footitt.
The weather forecast isn't great for the next few days and that might legislate against a positive result. The reassurance against some recent trips to Wales, however, is that in Wainwright and Durston we have our own spin bowlers to counter Croft and Cosker. By the same token, our seam attack is stronger, as is the batting.
All we need to do now is prove that on the pitch - starting tomorrow.
Thursday, 14 July 2011
Derbyshire v Glamorgan day 4
Last night I suggested that a win today might ignite Derbyshire's promotion aspirations while cautioning that Glamorgan might fancy any chase under 320. After all, we had scored the best part of 400 runs yesterday, so the wicket was far from an elysian fields for bowlers.
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I'm delighted to say that I was wrong as Derbyshire, for the second time in as many games, thrashed a pretty decent side and in doing so put themselves very much back in the promotion reckoning. Again, having said last night that we have fielded better attacks this season, I am delighted to say that I was wrong. On paper that may well have been the case, but on the pitch, where it matters, the attack rose to the occasion and the visitors never looked like getting the runs. Especially when Tony Palladino (pictured), en route to another five-wicket haul, removed their talismanic skipper Alviro Petersen for a duck.
The former Essex seamer now has 34 Championship wickets at 22 each and has proved an inspired signing by John Morris. What has impressed me when I have seen him is that he bowls a full, wicket-taking length that always gives him a chance. Occasionally, when a batsman is going for it, such a length can cost a few runs, but Palladino has done remarkably well and thoroughly justified his move 'oop north.'
Conversely, Mark Turner has had his struggles since moving from Somerset and has had a few disparaging comments go his way via message boards. He has struggled for rhythm, but ironically it was when he quickly removed both Mark Wallace and James Harris that I knew we would win. Both are capable of batting for a long time, and with the wicket's reputation for flattening out after the seam has done the same on the ball, I didn't expect the win, if we got it, to be anywhere near so emphatic. Turner apparently bowled with good pace and took key wickets to go with his valuable first innings runs. He can be proud of his efforts in this game and I hope that it is the start of the good times for an amiable lad.
The wickets were shared around and Jon Clare took another two, giving him 24 for the season at 29 each. With 343 runs at the same average he is on course for the mini-double of 500 runs and 50 wickets and his return to full fitness has been one of the plus factors of the season. Having said that, such things are not especially hard to find right now.
Clare's first innings century turned the tide of a game going against us, though the initial work was done by the admirable Dan Redfern. now the leading scorer in the Championship with 659 runs at an average of 39. The young left-hander is surely going to score his first century this season and is on course for a thousand runs at his present rate of progress. He has long looked a player of talent, but his technique looks more secure and he will have a major part to play in our future. Similarly Chesney Hughes also passed 600 runs in this match. While he has not always looked as secure as he did at times last season, Hughes has done very well in his second year. At times he can look a little leaden footed against spin, especially when he has to force them as was the case in the T20, but his promise is evident and at 20 he is a real talent.
Then of course there's Ross Whiteley, who regular readers will know I have been praising for a good part of the last couple of seasons. At the moment his batting is more a series of delightful cameos, as evidenced in the T20 and again today, but here is another locally-produced lad who could be an asset for years. I was also pleased to see him get the final wicket today. His bowling needs a little more work and he has a tendency to drop one onto leg stump each over, but Whiteley has the potential to be an all-rounder for Derbyshire and make the number six berth his own in the long term.
It was stirring stuff, a fine team effort, well handled by the skipper. When you think that this win came about without a major contribution from Messrs Guptill, Madsen, Durston and Smith, it helps to reinforce somewhat forcibly the point that the chairman made with the blueprint for the future. There are good lads outside this side - Borrington, now a record-breaker in the Premier League; Poynton, a forcing batsman and ever-improving wicket-keeper; Knight, a left arm spinner of remarkable potential; Burgoyne, an all-rounder; Slater, a solid batsman and Sheikh, whose best is yet to come as a left-arm bowler of slippery pace. All that and I've not mentioned Jake Needham, who I still think will come again next summer.
Add into the mix that we had three youngsters in the Midlands Under-15 side for the Bunbury Festival and you see what remarkable work is going on in the academy and Second XI. I'm hoping that the weather holds as I hope to make it to Leek next Monday to see the Seconds on a flying visit down south. Sadly no first team games for me, but I look forward immensely to seeing some of the young tyros who will play a part in an exciting future.
The club site today highlights another good performance from them against Warwickshire, with Borrington and Matt Lineker adding 168 for the first wicket, Lineker making 125 and Borrington 66. While the prolific Lineker has had his struggles this summer, it is good to see him scoring with increasing regularity as it has progressed. With runs from Poynton and Needham, there was still time for Ally Evans to reduce Warwickshire to 30-3 in reply to 349-6. Evans, from the Carlton Cricket Club in Edinburgh via Loughborough University, has some impressive performances to his portfolio this summer and could be one to watch. Certainly, while occasionally erratic he takes wickets, not the worst of habits for a young bowler..
As I close, I note that there are six points between us in fifth place and Middlesex in second. There is absolutely no reason why we couldn't be the team making the late charge. Successive wins tells you we're a team growing in form and confidence.
The others will be noting that, bet your bottom dollar.
Come on the 'shire!
I'm delighted to say that I was wrong as Derbyshire, for the second time in as many games, thrashed a pretty decent side and in doing so put themselves very much back in the promotion reckoning. Again, having said last night that we have fielded better attacks this season, I am delighted to say that I was wrong. On paper that may well have been the case, but on the pitch, where it matters, the attack rose to the occasion and the visitors never looked like getting the runs. Especially when Tony Palladino (pictured), en route to another five-wicket haul, removed their talismanic skipper Alviro Petersen for a duck. The former Essex seamer now has 34 Championship wickets at 22 each and has proved an inspired signing by John Morris. What has impressed me when I have seen him is that he bowls a full, wicket-taking length that always gives him a chance. Occasionally, when a batsman is going for it, such a length can cost a few runs, but Palladino has done remarkably well and thoroughly justified his move 'oop north.'
Conversely, Mark Turner has had his struggles since moving from Somerset and has had a few disparaging comments go his way via message boards. He has struggled for rhythm, but ironically it was when he quickly removed both Mark Wallace and James Harris that I knew we would win. Both are capable of batting for a long time, and with the wicket's reputation for flattening out after the seam has done the same on the ball, I didn't expect the win, if we got it, to be anywhere near so emphatic. Turner apparently bowled with good pace and took key wickets to go with his valuable first innings runs. He can be proud of his efforts in this game and I hope that it is the start of the good times for an amiable lad.
The wickets were shared around and Jon Clare took another two, giving him 24 for the season at 29 each. With 343 runs at the same average he is on course for the mini-double of 500 runs and 50 wickets and his return to full fitness has been one of the plus factors of the season. Having said that, such things are not especially hard to find right now.
Clare's first innings century turned the tide of a game going against us, though the initial work was done by the admirable Dan Redfern. now the leading scorer in the Championship with 659 runs at an average of 39. The young left-hander is surely going to score his first century this season and is on course for a thousand runs at his present rate of progress. He has long looked a player of talent, but his technique looks more secure and he will have a major part to play in our future. Similarly Chesney Hughes also passed 600 runs in this match. While he has not always looked as secure as he did at times last season, Hughes has done very well in his second year. At times he can look a little leaden footed against spin, especially when he has to force them as was the case in the T20, but his promise is evident and at 20 he is a real talent.
Then of course there's Ross Whiteley, who regular readers will know I have been praising for a good part of the last couple of seasons. At the moment his batting is more a series of delightful cameos, as evidenced in the T20 and again today, but here is another locally-produced lad who could be an asset for years. I was also pleased to see him get the final wicket today. His bowling needs a little more work and he has a tendency to drop one onto leg stump each over, but Whiteley has the potential to be an all-rounder for Derbyshire and make the number six berth his own in the long term.
It was stirring stuff, a fine team effort, well handled by the skipper. When you think that this win came about without a major contribution from Messrs Guptill, Madsen, Durston and Smith, it helps to reinforce somewhat forcibly the point that the chairman made with the blueprint for the future. There are good lads outside this side - Borrington, now a record-breaker in the Premier League; Poynton, a forcing batsman and ever-improving wicket-keeper; Knight, a left arm spinner of remarkable potential; Burgoyne, an all-rounder; Slater, a solid batsman and Sheikh, whose best is yet to come as a left-arm bowler of slippery pace. All that and I've not mentioned Jake Needham, who I still think will come again next summer.
Add into the mix that we had three youngsters in the Midlands Under-15 side for the Bunbury Festival and you see what remarkable work is going on in the academy and Second XI. I'm hoping that the weather holds as I hope to make it to Leek next Monday to see the Seconds on a flying visit down south. Sadly no first team games for me, but I look forward immensely to seeing some of the young tyros who will play a part in an exciting future.
The club site today highlights another good performance from them against Warwickshire, with Borrington and Matt Lineker adding 168 for the first wicket, Lineker making 125 and Borrington 66. While the prolific Lineker has had his struggles this summer, it is good to see him scoring with increasing regularity as it has progressed. With runs from Poynton and Needham, there was still time for Ally Evans to reduce Warwickshire to 30-3 in reply to 349-6. Evans, from the Carlton Cricket Club in Edinburgh via Loughborough University, has some impressive performances to his portfolio this summer and could be one to watch. Certainly, while occasionally erratic he takes wickets, not the worst of habits for a young bowler..
As I close, I note that there are six points between us in fifth place and Middlesex in second. There is absolutely no reason why we couldn't be the team making the late charge. Successive wins tells you we're a team growing in form and confidence.
The others will be noting that, bet your bottom dollar.
Come on the 'shire!
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
Glamorgan v Derbyshire day 2
In what is pleasantly starting to sound like a broken record, that was another good day's cricket by Derbyshire. The icing on the cake would have been the dismissal before stumps of South African star Alviro Petersen, but he's a good player and there is no disgrace in having to work for his wicket.
Derbyshire would have been pleased with their total and there were solid contributions down the order. I thought today was the day for Dan Redfern to get that elusive first century, but he can be proud of his efforts this season. He is ten short of 500 runs and currently averages a respectable 35.
Then it was time for the bowlers and while Tim Groenewald again made early inroads, it was Jon Clare who stole the show with five wickets for the first time this season. The youngster has had a little stick from some areas, but we need to remember that he has had two years of injury problems that need psychological as much as physical recovery time. A shoulder injury is difficult for a bowler and, as I've written before, there is a nagging doubt in the back of your mind that if you put everything into it, everything could go again. He's now got 18 Championship wickets at 27 and has bowled well in spells in the shorter forms. While his batting has yet to return to the promise of his first season, Clare is young enough to come again and have a lot to offer Derbyshire cricket.
As for the rest of this game, I'd be surprised if we enforced the follow on, even if we were in a position to do so. Rather I think tomorrow will be a case of moving 450 on - ideally - before declaring after tea and allowing time to get them out again on the last day.
That's my thoughts, but to be honest, this time tomorrow I'm expecting to be sipping an ice cold San Miguel at a beach bar in a quiet stretch of the Costa Brava, chilling nicely after our first leisurely meal in Spain. I will be checking the score beforehand though and hoping for good news to start our holiday.
I'll be blogging when I have the chance in the next 10-12 days - so don't desert me now!
See you soon.
Derbyshire would have been pleased with their total and there were solid contributions down the order. I thought today was the day for Dan Redfern to get that elusive first century, but he can be proud of his efforts this season. He is ten short of 500 runs and currently averages a respectable 35.
Then it was time for the bowlers and while Tim Groenewald again made early inroads, it was Jon Clare who stole the show with five wickets for the first time this season. The youngster has had a little stick from some areas, but we need to remember that he has had two years of injury problems that need psychological as much as physical recovery time. A shoulder injury is difficult for a bowler and, as I've written before, there is a nagging doubt in the back of your mind that if you put everything into it, everything could go again. He's now got 18 Championship wickets at 27 and has bowled well in spells in the shorter forms. While his batting has yet to return to the promise of his first season, Clare is young enough to come again and have a lot to offer Derbyshire cricket.
As for the rest of this game, I'd be surprised if we enforced the follow on, even if we were in a position to do so. Rather I think tomorrow will be a case of moving 450 on - ideally - before declaring after tea and allowing time to get them out again on the last day.
That's my thoughts, but to be honest, this time tomorrow I'm expecting to be sipping an ice cold San Miguel at a beach bar in a quiet stretch of the Costa Brava, chilling nicely after our first leisurely meal in Spain. I will be checking the score beforehand though and hoping for good news to start our holiday.
I'll be blogging when I have the chance in the next 10-12 days - so don't desert me now!
See you soon.
Sunday, 26 June 2011
Glamorgan v Derbyshire preview
After a heartening few days in the T20, it is back to business in the Championship tomorrow as we head down to Wales for a match against Glamorgan. I just hope we have enough players to make the journey and that we've not had half our boys offered a deal by Warwickshire after today's win. Ashley's after players, you know...
When you look at the terrific bowling by young tyros Hughes and Knight the recent performances are especially heartening, as is the manner in which Ross Whiteley has gone about his business at number six. He has a long way to go, but I am very hopeful that Whiteley will make the number six berth his own, as a batsman who can bowl a few overs or as a genuine all-rounder.
It was surprising but good to see Garry Park play today and I assume that he will be replaced by Dan Redfern tomorrow, allowing him time to recover before the big game against Nottinghamshire next weekend. I would see the following Derbyshire side:
Madsen, Guptill, Durston, Hughes, Redfern, Whiteley, Sutton, Clare, Groenewald, Knight, Palladino.
There may be consideration for a return by Jake Needham, who could well be in the travelling party, though his playing may be dependent on the fitness of Jon Clare, who only bowled two overs today.
As for Glamorgan, Graham Wagg is fit to play against us and takes his place in the following 12:
AN Petersen (captain), GP Rees, WD Bragg, MJ Powell, BJ Wright, J Allenby, MA Wallace (wicket-keeper), JAR Harris, GG Wagg, RDB Croft, DA Cosker and WT Owen.
The presence of Croft and Cosker suggests that the ball will turn and whoever wins the toss is likely to bat, then hope to score 350-plus. We go into the game after back-to-back T20 wins and some very impressive cricket and shouldn't fear anyone.
These are encouraging days with some good standards. Keep them going boys.
When you look at the terrific bowling by young tyros Hughes and Knight the recent performances are especially heartening, as is the manner in which Ross Whiteley has gone about his business at number six. He has a long way to go, but I am very hopeful that Whiteley will make the number six berth his own, as a batsman who can bowl a few overs or as a genuine all-rounder.
It was surprising but good to see Garry Park play today and I assume that he will be replaced by Dan Redfern tomorrow, allowing him time to recover before the big game against Nottinghamshire next weekend. I would see the following Derbyshire side:
Madsen, Guptill, Durston, Hughes, Redfern, Whiteley, Sutton, Clare, Groenewald, Knight, Palladino.
There may be consideration for a return by Jake Needham, who could well be in the travelling party, though his playing may be dependent on the fitness of Jon Clare, who only bowled two overs today.
As for Glamorgan, Graham Wagg is fit to play against us and takes his place in the following 12:
AN Petersen (captain), GP Rees, WD Bragg, MJ Powell, BJ Wright, J Allenby, MA Wallace (wicket-keeper), JAR Harris, GG Wagg, RDB Croft, DA Cosker and WT Owen.
The presence of Croft and Cosker suggests that the ball will turn and whoever wins the toss is likely to bat, then hope to score 350-plus. We go into the game after back-to-back T20 wins and some very impressive cricket and shouldn't fear anyone.
These are encouraging days with some good standards. Keep them going boys.
Saturday, 24 April 2010
Derbyshire v Glamorgan day 4
I've said pretty much all I need to say about Derbyshire's performance in this match. All I can add is that it was a thoroughly professional run chase this morning.
Nothing spectacular, except for one six by Garry Park, no attempts to finish it in an hour, but more importantly no alarms. We lost Paul Borrington early, but the skipper and Garry Park then took us to the target with cool skill that was satisfying for all of us. Only two fours for the skipper in his fifty, which must be some form of record for him.
The win takes us to second place in the table, behind Sussex but ahead of Leicestershire who have played a game less. In short, we are up with the promotion contenders in the early part of the season and cannot do more than that.
Next up - Northampton on Tuesday in the Championship, while unbeaten Sussex host unbeaten Leicestershire at Hove. Something has to give...
Nothing spectacular, except for one six by Garry Park, no attempts to finish it in an hour, but more importantly no alarms. We lost Paul Borrington early, but the skipper and Garry Park then took us to the target with cool skill that was satisfying for all of us. Only two fours for the skipper in his fifty, which must be some form of record for him.
The win takes us to second place in the table, behind Sussex but ahead of Leicestershire who have played a game less. In short, we are up with the promotion contenders in the early part of the season and cannot do more than that.
Next up - Northampton on Tuesday in the Championship, while unbeaten Sussex host unbeaten Leicestershire at Hove. Something has to give...
Friday, 23 April 2010
Derbyshire v Glamorgan day 3
Those two little pals of mine.... Peterson and...er....Smith.
With apologies to calypso lovers everywhere (so many tune in to this blog, you wouldn't believe it) I can't recall the last time a Derbyshire SPIN duo took us to within sight of victory in a Championship match.
Well I can, actually. It was probably Geoff Miller and Fred Swarbrook, unless it was Geoff Miller and Dallas Moir. There's a few observations about today to get through, so I'll crack on.
Firstly, Greg Smith. A well known brand of lager doesn't arrange cricket matches, but if they did, they'd have sorted Greg Smith's. A wicket in the first innings, four in the second and a career-best unbeaten 165 in between. Yup, that's a fine display.
All things being equal, we should win this game before lunch tomorrow. I don't think it will necessarily be easy, but with nine wickets in hand and ninety-five to win we would need to produce the mother of all cobblers displays to lose from here. Had our opposition had Robert Croft in the side I would have had more concerns, but I expect us to win tomorrow and move to the top of the table.
We did very well to bowl out Glamorgan today when lacking one of our three seamers, with Graham Wagg unable to bowl at all. Steffan Jones and Tom Lungley made early breakthroughs and there were again wickets for the admirable Mr Peterson, but Smith ripped out the late middle order with his off spin to take Derbyshire to a good position with a day to go.
Credit is also due to Garry Park, who followed a good knock with two key wickets today. He is another player who is emerging as a key member of the side and gives us good balance, while Peterson has made one of the quickest positive impressions of any Derbyshire overseas import. Only two an over went from him today, putting pressure on scoring from the other end, where Smith bowled beautifully. For an average player (eh, Steve James?) he played a blinder and in this form must attract the national selectors attention at some point. There's not many out there can bat stylishly, bowl seam, spin and field brilliantly and if he maintains this form it will be to everyone's benefit.
Two other observations. Firstly, there was great discipline from the bowlers and no byes in a very tidy display by Lee Goddard. Steffan Jones said yesterday that the bowlers have been working on hitting the top of off stump and keeping tight lines, which looks to be reaping dividends. Jones himself hit his bowling straps in this game and his stand today made a huge difference to the course of the match. Last night I suggested another thirty runs would be useful. We got 78 from the last pair, a superb effort.
Finally, mention should be made of the pitches at the County Ground this season. Two matches, two results. Won one (hopefully), lost one, but the groundsman, Neil Godrich, can only provide a result track and the rest is down to the players. If he can keep them like that for the rest of the season, with two good spinners we won't be too far away when it matters.
Let's just finish it tomorrow lads, then it's off to that batting paradise known as Bristol...
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
Derbyshire v Glamorgan preview
Even if I was Welsh I would struggle to convince myself that Glamorgan were one of the country's top sides, but Robert Croft and Jamie Dalrymple must be looking forward to tomorrow as if it was the night before Christmas. Their respective records against us might suggest that they were taken over by the spirits of Jim Laker and Wally Hammond respectively whenever the Derbyshire fixture was in the offing. While someone suggested on 606 that Croft may not play, I would be stunned if he didn't.
Australian Mark Cosgrove is another to reveal a penchant for our bowling in the past, so anyone expecting an easy win in the game that starts tomorrow will be in for a shock. We may do so, but will need to show better with the bat than against Leicestershire.
One or two players need to find their form, but often this is just a couple off the middle of the bat away. Garry Park will soon be back to his form of last season, while Dan Redfern is rested and the experienced John Sadler comes in to bolster the middle order. Paul Borrington has had three starts in four knocks and did better than most in the second innings at Derby, so deserves further opportunities at this stage.
John Morris may have been tempted to introduce Chesney Hughes after a brilliant 129 against Leicestershire Seconds to win us that game, but the financial penalties for doing so in the Championship may legislate against it at this stage.
As for the bowling, I am sure we are all delighted to see the return of all rounder Graham Wagg, while Mark Footitt and Tim Groenewald are also rested to allow for the return of Tom Lungley and Jake Needham.
The Second XI game also saw a century for Needham and fifty for Lungley. The best way to earn a chance is in doing your stuff in the Seconds, by scoring runs and taking wickets. My guess is that Needham will miss out, leaving a seam attack of Wagg, Jones, Lungley and Smith, with Peterson's slow left arm reassuring for our fans after recent seasons bereft of quality spin.
I hope that we see a return to the Oval Derbyshire tomorrow and for the following days. My hunch is for a draw in this one, but I just hope we're not due to face Mr Croft on the last afternoon...
Derbyshire likely side
Rogers
Madsen
Borrington
Park
Smith
Sadler
Peterson
Wagg
Goddard
Jones/Needham
Lungley
Glamorgan
GP Rees
MJ Cosgrove
MJ Powell
JWM Dalrymple (captain)
BJ Wright
J Allenby
MA Wallace
RDB Croft
DS Harrison
DA Cosker
CP Ashling
HT Waters
Australian Mark Cosgrove is another to reveal a penchant for our bowling in the past, so anyone expecting an easy win in the game that starts tomorrow will be in for a shock. We may do so, but will need to show better with the bat than against Leicestershire.
One or two players need to find their form, but often this is just a couple off the middle of the bat away. Garry Park will soon be back to his form of last season, while Dan Redfern is rested and the experienced John Sadler comes in to bolster the middle order. Paul Borrington has had three starts in four knocks and did better than most in the second innings at Derby, so deserves further opportunities at this stage.
John Morris may have been tempted to introduce Chesney Hughes after a brilliant 129 against Leicestershire Seconds to win us that game, but the financial penalties for doing so in the Championship may legislate against it at this stage.
As for the bowling, I am sure we are all delighted to see the return of all rounder Graham Wagg, while Mark Footitt and Tim Groenewald are also rested to allow for the return of Tom Lungley and Jake Needham.
The Second XI game also saw a century for Needham and fifty for Lungley. The best way to earn a chance is in doing your stuff in the Seconds, by scoring runs and taking wickets. My guess is that Needham will miss out, leaving a seam attack of Wagg, Jones, Lungley and Smith, with Peterson's slow left arm reassuring for our fans after recent seasons bereft of quality spin.
I hope that we see a return to the Oval Derbyshire tomorrow and for the following days. My hunch is for a draw in this one, but I just hope we're not due to face Mr Croft on the last afternoon...
Derbyshire likely side
Rogers
Madsen
Borrington
Park
Smith
Sadler
Peterson
Wagg
Goddard
Jones/Needham
Lungley
Glamorgan
GP Rees
MJ Cosgrove
MJ Powell
JWM Dalrymple (captain)
BJ Wright
J Allenby
MA Wallace
RDB Croft
DS Harrison
DA Cosker
CP Ashling
HT Waters
Saturday, 13 June 2009
Derbyshire v Glamorgan day 3
In 1926, England recalled the veteran Wilfred Rhodes for the crucial final Test at the Oval and he played a leading part in their victory over Australia to win the Ashes.
In 1956, they recalled the veteran Cyril Washbrook to bolster the batting and again the decision produced dividends as he made 98 at Headingley when England claimed a huge win.
Is it beyond the realms of possibility that England should this year recall Robert Croft for the first Test at Cardiff?
No, I've not taken leave of my senses. I know the little spinner isn't the most lithe of players these days, but his batting can still prove obdurate and no one will convince me that he is not still the best spinner available to England. Graeme Swann bowled well in the winter and is probably now our first choice ahead of Monty Panesar and Adil Rashid, but I know who I'd fancy, on his home turf, to give the Australian left handers some grief in the first Test match. If England win that match it could set the tone for the series. There is little to choose between the seam attacks, but the Australians don't have a spinner worthy of the name, hence the inclusion of Marcus North as middle order all rounder. Many will recall North as a useful, but no more than that, bowler for Derbyshire a season or two back, but no one would put £50 on him winning Australia a Test match in England.
Croft just might. He knows the Cardiff track well and again today produced a master class in off spin to put the brakes on our second innings and his side in the box seat going into tomorrow's final day. Greg Smith and Graham Wagg did well for Derbyshire but Cosker, Dalrymple and Croft are a far more threatening combination and it would appear that we erred in omitting Mark Lawson from this side on a wearing pitch. The leggie may have been in his element tomorrow, but for us to have a realistic chance our last four wickets need to take us up to a lead of 200. Less than that and I think we've had it. Sorry.
Given that Dalrymple could probably bring an ice lolly stick out with him tomorrow and score 50, we'd have to bowl exceptionally well and catch everything. It is hard to see us dismissing Cosgrove, Powell and Wallace cheaply twice, so heroics are required from somewhere.
Wavell is still in there, but needs to stay in as his run out of Greg Smith turned the game this afternoon, just when it appeared we were gaining the ascendancy. He and Steve Stubbings had turned around the loss of three early wickets and the loss of Stubbo and Smith in quick succession changed the direction of the game.
I'm always concerned when Buck goes off like a train, as he seldom scores heavily when he does do. It's strange how we never seem to bat well against Glamorgan. They don't have a great attack on paper, but usually seem to have enough for us. OK, they've got a tubby little off spinner - what else do they need?
The weather may be a factor in tomorrow's cricket, but I have to say that at this stage I can only see one winner. Breaking it gently, it ain't us...
On the up side, we at least figured out how to dismiss Jamie Dalrymple this morning. A long hop worked like a charm. Let's hope that he displays similar carelessness in the second innings.
In 1956, they recalled the veteran Cyril Washbrook to bolster the batting and again the decision produced dividends as he made 98 at Headingley when England claimed a huge win.
Is it beyond the realms of possibility that England should this year recall Robert Croft for the first Test at Cardiff?
No, I've not taken leave of my senses. I know the little spinner isn't the most lithe of players these days, but his batting can still prove obdurate and no one will convince me that he is not still the best spinner available to England. Graeme Swann bowled well in the winter and is probably now our first choice ahead of Monty Panesar and Adil Rashid, but I know who I'd fancy, on his home turf, to give the Australian left handers some grief in the first Test match. If England win that match it could set the tone for the series. There is little to choose between the seam attacks, but the Australians don't have a spinner worthy of the name, hence the inclusion of Marcus North as middle order all rounder. Many will recall North as a useful, but no more than that, bowler for Derbyshire a season or two back, but no one would put £50 on him winning Australia a Test match in England.
Croft just might. He knows the Cardiff track well and again today produced a master class in off spin to put the brakes on our second innings and his side in the box seat going into tomorrow's final day. Greg Smith and Graham Wagg did well for Derbyshire but Cosker, Dalrymple and Croft are a far more threatening combination and it would appear that we erred in omitting Mark Lawson from this side on a wearing pitch. The leggie may have been in his element tomorrow, but for us to have a realistic chance our last four wickets need to take us up to a lead of 200. Less than that and I think we've had it. Sorry.
Given that Dalrymple could probably bring an ice lolly stick out with him tomorrow and score 50, we'd have to bowl exceptionally well and catch everything. It is hard to see us dismissing Cosgrove, Powell and Wallace cheaply twice, so heroics are required from somewhere.
Wavell is still in there, but needs to stay in as his run out of Greg Smith turned the game this afternoon, just when it appeared we were gaining the ascendancy. He and Steve Stubbings had turned around the loss of three early wickets and the loss of Stubbo and Smith in quick succession changed the direction of the game.
I'm always concerned when Buck goes off like a train, as he seldom scores heavily when he does do. It's strange how we never seem to bat well against Glamorgan. They don't have a great attack on paper, but usually seem to have enough for us. OK, they've got a tubby little off spinner - what else do they need?
The weather may be a factor in tomorrow's cricket, but I have to say that at this stage I can only see one winner. Breaking it gently, it ain't us...
On the up side, we at least figured out how to dismiss Jamie Dalrymple this morning. A long hop worked like a charm. Let's hope that he displays similar carelessness in the second innings.
Wednesday, 10 June 2009
Derbyshire v Glamorgan preview
I can just picture the scene at the Glamorgan team hotel tonight.
Jamie Dalrymple sits there, across from Robert Croft, watched by the rest of the players.
"I'll bid a century, an unbeaten half century and five wickets" says the Glamorgan skipper.
"Fifty and twelve wickets" replies the rotund little spinner, as his team mates look on knowingly and nod in agreement.
Yep, a jokey start tonight, trumped only by my daughter as I told my old man that Derbyshire were unchanged going into tomorrow's game
"That's terrible" she said, "you'd think they'd have time to wash their clothes in between games..."
Boom and indeed boom. Derbyshire are indeed unchanged for tomorrow's game and a good result is important for us. The game at Chesterfield was ruined by the weather, but we gained useful brownie (and batting) points before the end of the match. A century for the skipper and good knocks by young guns Redfern and Park. The only downside was that most of the others got a good start then got out, yet to be fair, we'd take a score of 400 in the first innings more often than not.
So tomorrow's side is:
Chris Rogers
Steve Stubbings
Garry Park
Dan Redfern
Wavell Hinds
Greg Smith
James Pipe
Graham Wagg
Tom Lungley
Ian Hunter
Mark Lawson
Chris Rogers will be hoping to continue his bright start and keep his name in the minds of the Aussie selectors. Their early elimination from the world 20/20 will not sit easily with their winning psyche and, having only selected six batsmen for the Ashes tour, have few options available if players fall from form or are injured. I hope it doesn't happen, but the possibilities will focus Buck's mind without doubt and I predict a bumper return for the skipper.
As for Glamorgan, they have selected the following squad:
GP Rees
MJ Cosgrove
BJ Wright
MJ Powell
JWM Dalrymple (captain)
WD Bragg
MA Wallace (wicket-keeper)
JAR Harris
RDB Croft
DS Harrison
DA Cosker
GJP Kruger
AJ Shantry
The thinking money would be on Shantry and Cosker dropping out, but Derbyshire will have to combat their nemesis, Mr Croft, to win this game. He has an extraordinary record against us and is still a fine player. Dalrymple too is Bradmanesque against us this season, while the threat of Mark Cosgrove is obvious. We have a battle on our hands to win this game, but have the talent to do so. There's still no sign of Nantie Hayward's work permit so we have to wait to see the explosive South African paceman. There's a good article on him in today's Derby Telegraph, so follow the link on the left to find out more - he certainly seems a character...
It was interesting to read that Derbyshire want to beat - sorry play - the Australians in a one day game to alleviate the boredom while the Aussies watch the world play 20/20. It would be a good run out for both sides and especially for the fans, but if it happens I hope that we play a first choice side, rather than resting the big names. We had an excellent record against touring sides for a number of years and it was a joke that we were not offered a game on this tour.
Finally, I've been more interested than usual in watching the world 20/20 and how bowlers are starting to gain the ascendancy. I would not have thought it possible for South Africa to defend their total last night, but superbly disciplined bowling saw them to the narrowest of wins. The way in which the top bowlers are dropping the ball into the blockhole is an education and batsmen are finding it very hard to combat. I wonder how long it will be before someone takes guard at 20 yards, in the hope of playing these yorkers as full tosses before they dip? There's a rare skill in bowling ball after ball in the blockhole like that and I dare say that some fans, those who only want to see sixes and fours, are not happy about it. Nor about the likes of Broad bowling round the wicket and bowling fast pitched up deliveries across the right hander that they can only hit in one place. For me, anything that addresses an imbalance between bat and ball is to be encouraged. Now let's see how some of these innovative batsmen combat it!
Jamie Dalrymple sits there, across from Robert Croft, watched by the rest of the players.
"I'll bid a century, an unbeaten half century and five wickets" says the Glamorgan skipper.
"Fifty and twelve wickets" replies the rotund little spinner, as his team mates look on knowingly and nod in agreement.
Yep, a jokey start tonight, trumped only by my daughter as I told my old man that Derbyshire were unchanged going into tomorrow's game
"That's terrible" she said, "you'd think they'd have time to wash their clothes in between games..."
Boom and indeed boom. Derbyshire are indeed unchanged for tomorrow's game and a good result is important for us. The game at Chesterfield was ruined by the weather, but we gained useful brownie (and batting) points before the end of the match. A century for the skipper and good knocks by young guns Redfern and Park. The only downside was that most of the others got a good start then got out, yet to be fair, we'd take a score of 400 in the first innings more often than not.
So tomorrow's side is:
Chris Rogers
Steve Stubbings
Garry Park
Dan Redfern
Wavell Hinds
Greg Smith
James Pipe
Graham Wagg
Tom Lungley
Ian Hunter
Mark Lawson
Chris Rogers will be hoping to continue his bright start and keep his name in the minds of the Aussie selectors. Their early elimination from the world 20/20 will not sit easily with their winning psyche and, having only selected six batsmen for the Ashes tour, have few options available if players fall from form or are injured. I hope it doesn't happen, but the possibilities will focus Buck's mind without doubt and I predict a bumper return for the skipper.
As for Glamorgan, they have selected the following squad:
GP Rees
MJ Cosgrove
BJ Wright
MJ Powell
JWM Dalrymple (captain)
WD Bragg
MA Wallace (wicket-keeper)
JAR Harris
RDB Croft
DS Harrison
DA Cosker
GJP Kruger
AJ Shantry
The thinking money would be on Shantry and Cosker dropping out, but Derbyshire will have to combat their nemesis, Mr Croft, to win this game. He has an extraordinary record against us and is still a fine player. Dalrymple too is Bradmanesque against us this season, while the threat of Mark Cosgrove is obvious. We have a battle on our hands to win this game, but have the talent to do so. There's still no sign of Nantie Hayward's work permit so we have to wait to see the explosive South African paceman. There's a good article on him in today's Derby Telegraph, so follow the link on the left to find out more - he certainly seems a character...
It was interesting to read that Derbyshire want to beat - sorry play - the Australians in a one day game to alleviate the boredom while the Aussies watch the world play 20/20. It would be a good run out for both sides and especially for the fans, but if it happens I hope that we play a first choice side, rather than resting the big names. We had an excellent record against touring sides for a number of years and it was a joke that we were not offered a game on this tour.
Finally, I've been more interested than usual in watching the world 20/20 and how bowlers are starting to gain the ascendancy. I would not have thought it possible for South Africa to defend their total last night, but superbly disciplined bowling saw them to the narrowest of wins. The way in which the top bowlers are dropping the ball into the blockhole is an education and batsmen are finding it very hard to combat. I wonder how long it will be before someone takes guard at 20 yards, in the hope of playing these yorkers as full tosses before they dip? There's a rare skill in bowling ball after ball in the blockhole like that and I dare say that some fans, those who only want to see sixes and fours, are not happy about it. Nor about the likes of Broad bowling round the wicket and bowling fast pitched up deliveries across the right hander that they can only hit in one place. For me, anything that addresses an imbalance between bat and ball is to be encouraged. Now let's see how some of these innovative batsmen combat it!
Wednesday, 29 April 2009
Glamorgan v Derbyshire day 2
We had our first poor day of the season in Cardiff today, as Glamorgan posted over 400 and then removed both Steve Stubbings and Wavell Hinds as we limped to 37-2 in reply.
The seam bowlers stuck to their task quite well, with Wagg, Hunter and Park all returning economical figures, but Jake Needham and Jon Clare were more expensive than usual. From only managing to score at two an over yesterday, the hosts rattled along to their declaration total in the final session, with Powell and Dalrymple both reaching fine centuries.
Losing Stubbo was bad, but the loss of Wavell Hinds to the final ball of the day was a blow. Wavell hasn't appeared to be close to form so far this year and Kolpak or not will need to work at his game to maintain a place. With Dom Telo looking good on Sunday and Dan Birch and John Sadler also waiting on a chance, Wavell needs to get some runs under his belt.
There's still no sign of Chris Rogers and neither the club site nor the Derby Telegraph are mentioning it. I'd have hoped that someone in Australia, perhaps from the cricket world or maybe a political figure might have intervened by now as most of the players elsewhere waiting on visas have now arrived, Danish Kaneria being the latest. It poses the question as to whether Rogers submitted the correct documentation. I hope so, but surely either the authorities in Australia or the club must have some idea of when he is likely to come over? With Stuart Law currently injured we're lacking a batsman of proven class and experience at the top of the order, though Garry Park continues to impress as an all round cricketer.
The bottom line for this game is that we're likely to get a draw. Tomorrow's forecast for Cardiff when I saw it this morning was on the foul side of horrible and I'd guess that there will be little cricket there tomorrow. That would leave us to bat for points on the final day, or avoid losing 18 wickets. I would hope that the former is a possibility and would hope the latter a non starter.
So a mediocre day today but I'm not despondent. With a young side there'll be ups and downs and we must expect that until they gain more experience. Enjoy the good days and tolerate the bad ones - that's my message tonight.
Now time for bed. Survived the nets tonight, hit a good few in the middle and hit the stumps a few times too. As long as I can make it down stairs in the morning everything in the garden will be rosy...
I'll close with a text joke I got today which I enjoyed. It said "I think I've got that swine flu....I've got rashers all over!"
No doubt you can get oinkment for that sort of thing.
I'll get me coat. See you tomorrow.
The seam bowlers stuck to their task quite well, with Wagg, Hunter and Park all returning economical figures, but Jake Needham and Jon Clare were more expensive than usual. From only managing to score at two an over yesterday, the hosts rattled along to their declaration total in the final session, with Powell and Dalrymple both reaching fine centuries.
Losing Stubbo was bad, but the loss of Wavell Hinds to the final ball of the day was a blow. Wavell hasn't appeared to be close to form so far this year and Kolpak or not will need to work at his game to maintain a place. With Dom Telo looking good on Sunday and Dan Birch and John Sadler also waiting on a chance, Wavell needs to get some runs under his belt.
There's still no sign of Chris Rogers and neither the club site nor the Derby Telegraph are mentioning it. I'd have hoped that someone in Australia, perhaps from the cricket world or maybe a political figure might have intervened by now as most of the players elsewhere waiting on visas have now arrived, Danish Kaneria being the latest. It poses the question as to whether Rogers submitted the correct documentation. I hope so, but surely either the authorities in Australia or the club must have some idea of when he is likely to come over? With Stuart Law currently injured we're lacking a batsman of proven class and experience at the top of the order, though Garry Park continues to impress as an all round cricketer.
The bottom line for this game is that we're likely to get a draw. Tomorrow's forecast for Cardiff when I saw it this morning was on the foul side of horrible and I'd guess that there will be little cricket there tomorrow. That would leave us to bat for points on the final day, or avoid losing 18 wickets. I would hope that the former is a possibility and would hope the latter a non starter.
So a mediocre day today but I'm not despondent. With a young side there'll be ups and downs and we must expect that until they gain more experience. Enjoy the good days and tolerate the bad ones - that's my message tonight.
Now time for bed. Survived the nets tonight, hit a good few in the middle and hit the stumps a few times too. As long as I can make it down stairs in the morning everything in the garden will be rosy...
I'll close with a text joke I got today which I enjoyed. It said "I think I've got that swine flu....I've got rashers all over!"
No doubt you can get oinkment for that sort of thing.
I'll get me coat. See you tomorrow.
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
Glamorgan v Derbyshire Day One
Not much to report tonight, as a seriously curtailed first day ended with the home side 78-2 scored at just two an over.
With Cossie the Aussie only scoring at one an over, the bowling must have been pretty accurate. Cosgrove has a reputation back home as a bit of a dasher and is known as Baby Boof in tribute to his similarities to Darren Lehmann. If he makes half the batsman the legendary ex-Yorkshire pro was he will do them fine.
Graham Wagg took another two wickets to confirm his fine start to the season but Glamorgan will have been pleased to win the toss on a track that is likely to spin as the game wears on. With Derbyshire selecting both their spinners and the hosts fielding both Croft and Dalrymple, the chances are that the last day will see the slow bowlers in operation. The loss of time today will make the task of forcing a win for either side difficult, however.
The forecast appears brighter tomorrow so we'll know a little more about match prospects by the end of the day.
Final nets for me tomorrow before the season starts in earnest the week after. I'm planning on following the advice of Verinder Sehwag to Paul Collingwood in the IPL.
"See it then hit it".
At this stage of the season I'll settle for one out of two and the ability to move unhindered on Thursday morning... see you tomorrow night
With Cossie the Aussie only scoring at one an over, the bowling must have been pretty accurate. Cosgrove has a reputation back home as a bit of a dasher and is known as Baby Boof in tribute to his similarities to Darren Lehmann. If he makes half the batsman the legendary ex-Yorkshire pro was he will do them fine.
Graham Wagg took another two wickets to confirm his fine start to the season but Glamorgan will have been pleased to win the toss on a track that is likely to spin as the game wears on. With Derbyshire selecting both their spinners and the hosts fielding both Croft and Dalrymple, the chances are that the last day will see the slow bowlers in operation. The loss of time today will make the task of forcing a win for either side difficult, however.
The forecast appears brighter tomorrow so we'll know a little more about match prospects by the end of the day.
Final nets for me tomorrow before the season starts in earnest the week after. I'm planning on following the advice of Verinder Sehwag to Paul Collingwood in the IPL.
"See it then hit it".
At this stage of the season I'll settle for one out of two and the ability to move unhindered on Thursday morning... see you tomorrow night
Monday, 27 April 2009
Glamorgan v Derbyshire preview
No Stuart Law tomorrow as his finger injury, as I reported the other night, has turned out to be a break. Its hard to say how long that may keep him out for, but he'll be sorry to miss the Lancashire game this weekend .
Derbyshire have taken 13 to Wales, namely:
Stephen Stubbings
Garry Park
Dom Telo
Dan Redfern
Wavell Hinds
Greg Smith
James Pipe (captain and wicketkeeper)
Graham Wagg
Jonathan Clare
Jake Needham
Mark Lawson
Ian Hunter
Tim Groenewald
Dom Telo looks set for a start in place of Stuart Law, while the bowling line-up will depend on the look of the wicket tomorrow. It is unlikely we'll go without a spinner, so the final side will probably see the top eight, plus Ian Hunter, with the other two places between the remainder. A lack of bounce may see Lawson and Groenewald miss out, but I'll be keen to see the final decision around 10.45am tomorrow. However you look at it, we've a young side out and I'll be keen to see how they perform.
As for Glamorgan, our old nemesis Mr Croft returns. I read on 606 that with Rees, Cosgrove and Croft Glamorgan must have the country's fattest squad, but all three are good cricketers and Croft's omission from one day games is strange. Their side lines up:
Gareth Rees
Mark Cosgrove
Ben Wright
Michael Powell
Jamie Dalrymple (captain)
Tom Maynard
Mark Wallace (wicketkeeper)
Robert Croft
David Harrison
James Harris
Adam Shantry
Garnett Kruger
One of the seamers will drop out for the hosts, who will have two spinners in skipper Dalrymple and Croft. With our injuries and absent players we will have to work hard to get a result but the side are capable of doing so. It would be nice to see Wavell Hinds get a score, but thus far the Derbyshire success has been firmly based on a team ethic and that will again be the key.
After this game we don't play another Championship match until June. How nice would it be to go into the one day matches clear at the top? Don't get me wrong, there'll be a few defeats along the way and the usual moaners will be out, but I suspect that this season will at least be one of progress, and we can ask no more than that.
See you tomorrow.
Derbyshire have taken 13 to Wales, namely:
Stephen Stubbings
Garry Park
Dom Telo
Dan Redfern
Wavell Hinds
Greg Smith
James Pipe (captain and wicketkeeper)
Graham Wagg
Jonathan Clare
Jake Needham
Mark Lawson
Ian Hunter
Tim Groenewald
Dom Telo looks set for a start in place of Stuart Law, while the bowling line-up will depend on the look of the wicket tomorrow. It is unlikely we'll go without a spinner, so the final side will probably see the top eight, plus Ian Hunter, with the other two places between the remainder. A lack of bounce may see Lawson and Groenewald miss out, but I'll be keen to see the final decision around 10.45am tomorrow. However you look at it, we've a young side out and I'll be keen to see how they perform.
As for Glamorgan, our old nemesis Mr Croft returns. I read on 606 that with Rees, Cosgrove and Croft Glamorgan must have the country's fattest squad, but all three are good cricketers and Croft's omission from one day games is strange. Their side lines up:
Gareth Rees
Mark Cosgrove
Ben Wright
Michael Powell
Jamie Dalrymple (captain)
Tom Maynard
Mark Wallace (wicketkeeper)
Robert Croft
David Harrison
James Harris
Adam Shantry
Garnett Kruger
One of the seamers will drop out for the hosts, who will have two spinners in skipper Dalrymple and Croft. With our injuries and absent players we will have to work hard to get a result but the side are capable of doing so. It would be nice to see Wavell Hinds get a score, but thus far the Derbyshire success has been firmly based on a team ethic and that will again be the key.
After this game we don't play another Championship match until June. How nice would it be to go into the one day matches clear at the top? Don't get me wrong, there'll be a few defeats along the way and the usual moaners will be out, but I suspect that this season will at least be one of progress, and we can ask no more than that.
See you tomorrow.
Sunday, 26 April 2009
Derbyshire v Glamorgan FP Trophy
Although in the end it was much harder work than looked likely when we were 80-0, Derbyshire won today's game with a professional performance by 4 wickets and with 4 overs in hand.
There was a mid-innings wobble when the spinners came on and tied things down (just as happened in their innings) but ultimately Garry Park showed again why John Morris signed him with a controlled, unbeaten 43 from 81 deliveries. Accompanied by Graham Wagg he saw us across the line when 29 were required, Wagg wasting little time in his unbeaten cameo of 19.
Earlier Tim Groenewald took a key early wicket and the man we wanted, Mark Cosgrove, went to a caught and bowled by Greg Smith. Only the Glamorgan skipper, James Dalrymple, stayed for long and he could never score quickly enough to set a really tough score. Groenewald impressed on his debut and praise is also due to the relatively inexperienced spin duo of Mark Lawson and Jake Needham, who bowled tight spells in the middle of the innings. Dan Redfern also showed the merits of having extra bowlers with a useful five over stint and the Glamorgan total always looked gettable.
When Redfern and Stubbings set off at a rate of knots and we were 80-0 in 17 overs it looked a breeze, yet again the advent of experienced duo Cosker and Dalrymple slowed the scoring. Wavell went cheaply again and is due some runs and the game's levelling powers showed when Greg Smith, unbeaten against Surrey in the Championship match, went first ball. At 108-4 Derbyshire were rocking but Dom Telo, playing in the place of the injured Stuart Law (finger) played a bright innings before he was bowled.
James Pipe then came in to play another bright cameo, but when he was run out with 29 still required, it was left to Wagg and the admirable Park to see us home.
So, still unbeaten this season. Next stop is another Championship match against Glamorgan, when the thinking money would be on a turning track and Robert Croft making an appearance. While not the best of sides, Glamorgan have some fair players and this one came down to our seamers doing better than theirs as back up to the "stranglers" of spin, while Park showed himself a player of fine ability.
Finally honourable mention for Dan Redfern, who again showed what a fine prospect he is with a beautiful knock at the top of the innings. I maintain he is the best young batsman I've seen at Derbyshire since Kim Barnett and if he does as well as the ex-skipper we'll have some happy hours ahead.
There was a mid-innings wobble when the spinners came on and tied things down (just as happened in their innings) but ultimately Garry Park showed again why John Morris signed him with a controlled, unbeaten 43 from 81 deliveries. Accompanied by Graham Wagg he saw us across the line when 29 were required, Wagg wasting little time in his unbeaten cameo of 19.
Earlier Tim Groenewald took a key early wicket and the man we wanted, Mark Cosgrove, went to a caught and bowled by Greg Smith. Only the Glamorgan skipper, James Dalrymple, stayed for long and he could never score quickly enough to set a really tough score. Groenewald impressed on his debut and praise is also due to the relatively inexperienced spin duo of Mark Lawson and Jake Needham, who bowled tight spells in the middle of the innings. Dan Redfern also showed the merits of having extra bowlers with a useful five over stint and the Glamorgan total always looked gettable.
When Redfern and Stubbings set off at a rate of knots and we were 80-0 in 17 overs it looked a breeze, yet again the advent of experienced duo Cosker and Dalrymple slowed the scoring. Wavell went cheaply again and is due some runs and the game's levelling powers showed when Greg Smith, unbeaten against Surrey in the Championship match, went first ball. At 108-4 Derbyshire were rocking but Dom Telo, playing in the place of the injured Stuart Law (finger) played a bright innings before he was bowled.
James Pipe then came in to play another bright cameo, but when he was run out with 29 still required, it was left to Wagg and the admirable Park to see us home.
So, still unbeaten this season. Next stop is another Championship match against Glamorgan, when the thinking money would be on a turning track and Robert Croft making an appearance. While not the best of sides, Glamorgan have some fair players and this one came down to our seamers doing better than theirs as back up to the "stranglers" of spin, while Park showed himself a player of fine ability.
Finally honourable mention for Dan Redfern, who again showed what a fine prospect he is with a beautiful knock at the top of the innings. I maintain he is the best young batsman I've seen at Derbyshire since Kim Barnett and if he does as well as the ex-skipper we'll have some happy hours ahead.
Saturday, 25 April 2009
Derbyshire v Glamorgan preview
Hopefully by the time I finish this piece Derbyshire will be close to winning their first Championship match of the season, a victory that will take them into their FP Trophy campaign in good heart.
Their opponents, Glamorgan, lost their opening game last weekend and on the face of it offer our easiest opponents in the group, but we all know that cricket is a funny game...
The Welsh side travel to Derby with the following 12-man squad:
Gareth Rees
Mark Cosgrove
Michael Powell
Tom Maynard
Jamie Dalrymple (captain)
Ben Wright
Mark Wallace (wicket-keeper)
James Harris
David Harrison
Dean Cosker
Garnett Kruger
Adam Shantry.
No place for Robert Croft (which I think is a mistake given his penchant for bowling against Derbyshire) and all-rounder Alex Wharf is out for weeks. Gareth Rees took a liking to our attack last season and his partnership with "Baby Boof" Mark Cosgrove offers potential for the summer. The Australian scored a memorable double century at Derby a couple of years back and we'll want to remove him early or be chasing a big total. Michael Powell is a good batsman and Jamie Dalrymple a useful all rounder, but I don't look at their side in awe.
South African Garnett Kruger should lead the attack with support from England hopeful James Harris and from David Harrison, while veteran Cosker's wily slow left arm needs watched. Their keeper Mark Wallace is a good player too, competent behind the stumps and scorer of enough runs to have England aspirations of his own (especially if he played elsewhere).
As for Derbyshire, John Morris has announced a 14-man squad as follows:
Stubbings
Redfern
Law
Hinds
Park
Smith
Pipe
Wagg
Groenewald
Clare
Needham
Lungley
Hunter
Lawson.
I'd see that top eleven as pretty much the side, with Tim Groenewald set to make his debut, according to John Morris in the Derby Telegraph. I'd heard yesterday from a couple of sources that Stuart Law had suffered a broken finger but that doesn't appear to be the case. Ian Hunter may well be rested after his work in the four day matches so far which would leave arguably the longest batting line-up in a long while with Clare at 10 and Needham at 11. Given the former scored centuries last year and Needham averages 20-plus in first class cricket, one could argue that there is no tail. Although, of course, they need to prove that where it matters.
There are also 8 bowlers in there if required, assuming that Stuart Law is not required to bowl. Wavell may not be risked as a bowler after his calf strain, but I look at that side and see one of great potential. With hard work and a little luck when it matters they can certainly get the FP Trophy campaign off to a good start.
On a different tack, I wrote earlier in the week that I was unsure about Garry Ballance's future at Yorkshire, having seen a couple of newspapers and websites list him as being released. The reality is that he is on a three-year deal there and Yorkshire are paying his way through University. So he's unlikely to feature much before June but is still very much involved. He looked a good player and I'll watch his career with interest.
Their opponents, Glamorgan, lost their opening game last weekend and on the face of it offer our easiest opponents in the group, but we all know that cricket is a funny game...
The Welsh side travel to Derby with the following 12-man squad:
Gareth Rees
Mark Cosgrove
Michael Powell
Tom Maynard
Jamie Dalrymple (captain)
Ben Wright
Mark Wallace (wicket-keeper)
James Harris
David Harrison
Dean Cosker
Garnett Kruger
Adam Shantry.
No place for Robert Croft (which I think is a mistake given his penchant for bowling against Derbyshire) and all-rounder Alex Wharf is out for weeks. Gareth Rees took a liking to our attack last season and his partnership with "Baby Boof" Mark Cosgrove offers potential for the summer. The Australian scored a memorable double century at Derby a couple of years back and we'll want to remove him early or be chasing a big total. Michael Powell is a good batsman and Jamie Dalrymple a useful all rounder, but I don't look at their side in awe.
South African Garnett Kruger should lead the attack with support from England hopeful James Harris and from David Harrison, while veteran Cosker's wily slow left arm needs watched. Their keeper Mark Wallace is a good player too, competent behind the stumps and scorer of enough runs to have England aspirations of his own (especially if he played elsewhere).
As for Derbyshire, John Morris has announced a 14-man squad as follows:
Stubbings
Redfern
Law
Hinds
Park
Smith
Pipe
Wagg
Groenewald
Clare
Needham
Lungley
Hunter
Lawson.
I'd see that top eleven as pretty much the side, with Tim Groenewald set to make his debut, according to John Morris in the Derby Telegraph. I'd heard yesterday from a couple of sources that Stuart Law had suffered a broken finger but that doesn't appear to be the case. Ian Hunter may well be rested after his work in the four day matches so far which would leave arguably the longest batting line-up in a long while with Clare at 10 and Needham at 11. Given the former scored centuries last year and Needham averages 20-plus in first class cricket, one could argue that there is no tail. Although, of course, they need to prove that where it matters.
There are also 8 bowlers in there if required, assuming that Stuart Law is not required to bowl. Wavell may not be risked as a bowler after his calf strain, but I look at that side and see one of great potential. With hard work and a little luck when it matters they can certainly get the FP Trophy campaign off to a good start.
On a different tack, I wrote earlier in the week that I was unsure about Garry Ballance's future at Yorkshire, having seen a couple of newspapers and websites list him as being released. The reality is that he is on a three-year deal there and Yorkshire are paying his way through University. So he's unlikely to feature much before June but is still very much involved. He looked a good player and I'll watch his career with interest.
Wednesday, 3 September 2008
Derbyshire v Glamorgan day two
If we are to win this game we'll require a second innings run chase.
Hopefully the Welsh boyos are more amenable to setting a target than the Bears were last week. With Robert Croft leading them to near the 350 mark and then rain eating into the day, there is little that Derbyshire can do than beat the follow on tomorrow and then perhaps declare at 250, maybe 300.
There is every likelihood that there will be more interruptions over the next two days, which will put more pressure on beating Gloucestershire and Leicestershire. Both are results we could achieve, especially now the former have lost Marcus North to Australian training, but we need luck with the weather and don't look like even having three days in which to do it here.
A few words about a couple of players. First Dan Birch, who seems much more composed at the crease these days and who I hope is offered another deal as he is gradually coming to terms with County cricket. Second for Graham "Sobers" Wagg. As a dangerous batsman, clever left arm seamer and brilliant fielder he is a huge asset to the side. Now that he has added slow left arm to his talents he is pretty much indispensable.
Just need to perfect those Chinamen over the winter Waggy!
Hopefully the Welsh boyos are more amenable to setting a target than the Bears were last week. With Robert Croft leading them to near the 350 mark and then rain eating into the day, there is little that Derbyshire can do than beat the follow on tomorrow and then perhaps declare at 250, maybe 300.
There is every likelihood that there will be more interruptions over the next two days, which will put more pressure on beating Gloucestershire and Leicestershire. Both are results we could achieve, especially now the former have lost Marcus North to Australian training, but we need luck with the weather and don't look like even having three days in which to do it here.
A few words about a couple of players. First Dan Birch, who seems much more composed at the crease these days and who I hope is offered another deal as he is gradually coming to terms with County cricket. Second for Graham "Sobers" Wagg. As a dangerous batsman, clever left arm seamer and brilliant fielder he is a huge asset to the side. Now that he has added slow left arm to his talents he is pretty much indispensable.
Just need to perfect those Chinamen over the winter Waggy!
Tuesday, 2 September 2008
Derbyshire v Glamorgan day 1
Gareth Rees must dream of playing us.
In six innings against us the youngster has three centuries and two fifties. If we could hypnotise the lad and tell him that they were Derbyshire, he'd be a cert for the Ashes side next summer and would put the Aussies to the sword!
He had his luck today but everyone needs that and I'd reckon at 257-8 the game is fairly even. If we can roll them over for 275 tomorrow then make 400-450 we will be in the box seat, but the captain needs more support than he got at Edgbaston. With Robert Croft still there they'll entertain hopes of getting above 300 and we've missed Charl Langeveldt in this game. I suspect the South African may have fancied that track and we would have been batting by now. That should not detract from an outstanding spell by Jon Clare, after a quiet couple of games. 4-16 in 13 overs is impressive in anyone's language and he was well supported by Graham Wagg, while Wavell popped up with another late wicket.
Wave reminds me of Basil d'Oliveira as a bowler. Not too fast, not too dangerous looking, but very good at breaking a partnership and keeping things steady. If he could only capture his best batting form we would be pretty chuffed, but that has so far eluded him. Maybe tomorrow.
Actually, the groundstaff will do well to get prepared for a prompt start after the late storm, but we can ill afford any delays in this game. What looks like a long and useful batting line up REALLY needs to produce the goods to build on what has been a useful day.
In six innings against us the youngster has three centuries and two fifties. If we could hypnotise the lad and tell him that they were Derbyshire, he'd be a cert for the Ashes side next summer and would put the Aussies to the sword!
He had his luck today but everyone needs that and I'd reckon at 257-8 the game is fairly even. If we can roll them over for 275 tomorrow then make 400-450 we will be in the box seat, but the captain needs more support than he got at Edgbaston. With Robert Croft still there they'll entertain hopes of getting above 300 and we've missed Charl Langeveldt in this game. I suspect the South African may have fancied that track and we would have been batting by now. That should not detract from an outstanding spell by Jon Clare, after a quiet couple of games. 4-16 in 13 overs is impressive in anyone's language and he was well supported by Graham Wagg, while Wavell popped up with another late wicket.
Wave reminds me of Basil d'Oliveira as a bowler. Not too fast, not too dangerous looking, but very good at breaking a partnership and keeping things steady. If he could only capture his best batting form we would be pretty chuffed, but that has so far eluded him. Maybe tomorrow.
Actually, the groundstaff will do well to get prepared for a prompt start after the late storm, but we can ill afford any delays in this game. What looks like a long and useful batting line up REALLY needs to produce the goods to build on what has been a useful day.
Monday, 1 September 2008
Derbyshire v Glamorgan preview
John Morris says that his team are going for the win in an all or nothing attempt against Glamorgan, starting tomorrow at the County Ground.
I hope so, because they have done well to enter September still in the frame. They will need to keep a wary eye on the weather but one would hope that if we got four days a home win would follow. Realistically, the side may need to approach this as a 3-day fixture and push for the win points.
There's little news of the Derbyshire side. All we know is - nothing really. It would appear from the BBC site that Dan Birch has not yet recovered from injury so that may earn a reprieve for Rikki Clarke. Whether he deserves it is questionable as his batting form has been shocking and he's done little bowling of late.
The brave decision - almost too brave - would be to replace Clarke with the fit again Tom Lungley, who bowls so well at Derby. I was about to type that this would weaken the batting, but on recent form I'm not so sure. It would certainly improve the bowling resources and would be a bold signal of intent. While the same site says that both Tom New and James Pipe are in the Derbyshire squad, I have a feeling that Pipe will be back in the side. We should be grateful for the thoroughly professional job that Tom New did in Pipe's absence, and the lad let no one down.
My best guess at tomorrow's team would be:
Chris Rogers (captain)
Paul Borrington
Dan Redfern
Wavell Hinds
Greg Smith
James Pipe
Jon Clare
Graham Wagg
Tom Lungley
Charl Langeveldt
Nayan Doshi
Four good seamers and Wavell's wobblers to back them up, with spin from Doshi, Smith and Redfern. I think that Pipe is a place too high at six in that side, but there are precious few options for Morris. John Sadler might make a few, but Dom Telo has struggled in both XIs this season and isn't really an option.
As for the morning news about Clarke, I'm not sure what I think. Last winter I was really pleased when the news of his signing broke and I looked forward to the season and how he would do. In 40 years of watching the county, the only player who came close to the disappointment afforded by Clarke was Lawrence Rowe. The West Indian never made a century for us, but he played some beautiful cameos and at least finished the season with an average of 38. Rikki would give a lot for that right now and has patently not delivered. Added to the fact that he is probably the highest earner on the staff (with the possible exception of Chris Rogers) then we are entitled to feel short changed.
A fit, in form and fully motivated Clarke would have been a huge asset to this side. I know he has had house moves and babies to contend with, but there should have been some signs of form in his play and there have been precious few. I am sure that John Morris knows what will happen at the end of the season and could well appreciate having the extra financial "clout" freed up by cancelling Clarke's contract. It is interesting to see the name of Michael Vaughan banded about in the press as looking for a fresh challenge and while he is linked with Warwickshire (who isn't) the ex-England skipper would be an intriguing possibility.
Back to tomorrow's game and Glamorgan are missing the hugely talented England Under 19 bowler James Harris. Our regular bete noir Robert Croft is in the side, however and he must be looking forward to tomorrow as he always takes our wickets. Cynics may say that its because they have no one else, but what we mustn't do is take this for granted. I've played and seen enough cricket to know that it will turn you over if you do. Their listed squad is:
GP Rees
RN Grant
DL Hemp
MJ Powell
JWM Dalrymple
TL Maynard
MA Wallace
AG Wharf
RDB Croft
JN Gillespie
DA Cosker
AJ Shantry
DS Harrison
I would expect them to leave out Cosker, the left arm spinner and one of the seamers, either Shantry or Harrison. That would leave an attack of ex-Aussie Test bowler Gillespie, Wharf, Shantry/Harrison with Croft and Dalrymple for spin. They have a side with batsmen who can fire (remember Rees in the first game?) with Tom Maynard earning good reviews and Wallace an able wicket-keeper batsman.
Derbyshire should have the beating of them, however. A 10.30am start might make for early moisture and movement and that would be to the liking of our seam attack. We wouldn't fancy chasing a fourth innings total against Mr Croft, however, so this is set for a good game.
Come on lads!
I hope so, because they have done well to enter September still in the frame. They will need to keep a wary eye on the weather but one would hope that if we got four days a home win would follow. Realistically, the side may need to approach this as a 3-day fixture and push for the win points.
There's little news of the Derbyshire side. All we know is - nothing really. It would appear from the BBC site that Dan Birch has not yet recovered from injury so that may earn a reprieve for Rikki Clarke. Whether he deserves it is questionable as his batting form has been shocking and he's done little bowling of late.
The brave decision - almost too brave - would be to replace Clarke with the fit again Tom Lungley, who bowls so well at Derby. I was about to type that this would weaken the batting, but on recent form I'm not so sure. It would certainly improve the bowling resources and would be a bold signal of intent. While the same site says that both Tom New and James Pipe are in the Derbyshire squad, I have a feeling that Pipe will be back in the side. We should be grateful for the thoroughly professional job that Tom New did in Pipe's absence, and the lad let no one down.
My best guess at tomorrow's team would be:
Chris Rogers (captain)
Paul Borrington
Dan Redfern
Wavell Hinds
Greg Smith
James Pipe
Jon Clare
Graham Wagg
Tom Lungley
Charl Langeveldt
Nayan Doshi
Four good seamers and Wavell's wobblers to back them up, with spin from Doshi, Smith and Redfern. I think that Pipe is a place too high at six in that side, but there are precious few options for Morris. John Sadler might make a few, but Dom Telo has struggled in both XIs this season and isn't really an option.
As for the morning news about Clarke, I'm not sure what I think. Last winter I was really pleased when the news of his signing broke and I looked forward to the season and how he would do. In 40 years of watching the county, the only player who came close to the disappointment afforded by Clarke was Lawrence Rowe. The West Indian never made a century for us, but he played some beautiful cameos and at least finished the season with an average of 38. Rikki would give a lot for that right now and has patently not delivered. Added to the fact that he is probably the highest earner on the staff (with the possible exception of Chris Rogers) then we are entitled to feel short changed.
A fit, in form and fully motivated Clarke would have been a huge asset to this side. I know he has had house moves and babies to contend with, but there should have been some signs of form in his play and there have been precious few. I am sure that John Morris knows what will happen at the end of the season and could well appreciate having the extra financial "clout" freed up by cancelling Clarke's contract. It is interesting to see the name of Michael Vaughan banded about in the press as looking for a fresh challenge and while he is linked with Warwickshire (who isn't) the ex-England skipper would be an intriguing possibility.
Back to tomorrow's game and Glamorgan are missing the hugely talented England Under 19 bowler James Harris. Our regular bete noir Robert Croft is in the side, however and he must be looking forward to tomorrow as he always takes our wickets. Cynics may say that its because they have no one else, but what we mustn't do is take this for granted. I've played and seen enough cricket to know that it will turn you over if you do. Their listed squad is:
GP Rees
RN Grant
DL Hemp
MJ Powell
JWM Dalrymple
TL Maynard
MA Wallace
AG Wharf
RDB Croft
JN Gillespie
DA Cosker
AJ Shantry
DS Harrison
I would expect them to leave out Cosker, the left arm spinner and one of the seamers, either Shantry or Harrison. That would leave an attack of ex-Aussie Test bowler Gillespie, Wharf, Shantry/Harrison with Croft and Dalrymple for spin. They have a side with batsmen who can fire (remember Rees in the first game?) with Tom Maynard earning good reviews and Wallace an able wicket-keeper batsman.
Derbyshire should have the beating of them, however. A 10.30am start might make for early moisture and movement and that would be to the liking of our seam attack. We wouldn't fancy chasing a fourth innings total against Mr Croft, however, so this is set for a good game.
Come on lads!
Friday, 16 May 2008
Glamorgan v Derbyshire day 2
Houston, we have a problem...
After two days in Wales we're facing a bigger uphill climb than someone standing at the bottom of Everest. Having posted a semi-decent first innings only thanks to the lower order (again), our bowlers have had some serious tap and we are already behind with the home side still having seven wickets in hand.
As Charles Gibson says on the BBC 606 site, we need to start posting a first innings total and things will be easier for us. Geoff Boycott has often commented on looking at a batting total and then considering if it looks as healthy with two more wickets down. We're losing two, sometimes three quick wickets in most innings and at the moments there's nothing can be done about it. John Sadler, Dominic Telo and to a lesser extent Steve Stubbings are all out of touch at present, but there's really no alternative. With Greg Smith still out for a while, Wavell Hinds not arriving (if he signs the Kolpak deal) until June and Dan Redfern and Paul Borrington in the middle of exams, we have no other batsmen.
We've also chosen this innings for what appears to be our least disciplined bowling of the season, with only Jon Clare and Jake Needham bowling with anything like the required control. With Langeveldt, Wagg and Doshi all going for above four an over, Glamorgan have made hay and we're set for our first defeat of the season unless we bowl much better today and then bat considerably better.
It would be unfair to be too harsh, as I don't think we've become world-beaters overnight, but with the exception of Clare, Needham and captain for the game Chris Rogers, we've performed pretty poorly here. I just hope that this is a blip and that we've simply had a bad one, rather than having over-performed to date with this being what we can expect as the norm.
It was interesting seeing Robert Croft reach his 900 wicket milestone in this game. Were it not for the games against us each year, he'd be on about 750, as we always seem to make him look like a cross between Jim Laker and Muttiah Muralitharan. If Glamorgan get a lead of 150 or more he'll be keen to get out there and head for the thousand.
Hopefully later today I'm reporting on an improved day for us, we can only hope so.
Apologies for the less frequent articles this week, but having sustained a cracked rib in a 20/20 on Tuesday evening (I didn't pick up a full toss from a quick bowler), we've had a surprise visit from my best mate over from America for a couple of days. As they say in all the best circles, normal service will be resumed as soon as possible - i.e. over the weekend!
After two days in Wales we're facing a bigger uphill climb than someone standing at the bottom of Everest. Having posted a semi-decent first innings only thanks to the lower order (again), our bowlers have had some serious tap and we are already behind with the home side still having seven wickets in hand.
As Charles Gibson says on the BBC 606 site, we need to start posting a first innings total and things will be easier for us. Geoff Boycott has often commented on looking at a batting total and then considering if it looks as healthy with two more wickets down. We're losing two, sometimes three quick wickets in most innings and at the moments there's nothing can be done about it. John Sadler, Dominic Telo and to a lesser extent Steve Stubbings are all out of touch at present, but there's really no alternative. With Greg Smith still out for a while, Wavell Hinds not arriving (if he signs the Kolpak deal) until June and Dan Redfern and Paul Borrington in the middle of exams, we have no other batsmen.
We've also chosen this innings for what appears to be our least disciplined bowling of the season, with only Jon Clare and Jake Needham bowling with anything like the required control. With Langeveldt, Wagg and Doshi all going for above four an over, Glamorgan have made hay and we're set for our first defeat of the season unless we bowl much better today and then bat considerably better.
It would be unfair to be too harsh, as I don't think we've become world-beaters overnight, but with the exception of Clare, Needham and captain for the game Chris Rogers, we've performed pretty poorly here. I just hope that this is a blip and that we've simply had a bad one, rather than having over-performed to date with this being what we can expect as the norm.
It was interesting seeing Robert Croft reach his 900 wicket milestone in this game. Were it not for the games against us each year, he'd be on about 750, as we always seem to make him look like a cross between Jim Laker and Muttiah Muralitharan. If Glamorgan get a lead of 150 or more he'll be keen to get out there and head for the thousand.
Hopefully later today I'm reporting on an improved day for us, we can only hope so.
Apologies for the less frequent articles this week, but having sustained a cracked rib in a 20/20 on Tuesday evening (I didn't pick up a full toss from a quick bowler), we've had a surprise visit from my best mate over from America for a couple of days. As they say in all the best circles, normal service will be resumed as soon as possible - i.e. over the weekend!
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