33-1 chasing 318.
Game on. Big first hour this afternoon for both sides and Key looks in ominously good form for the hosts.
We'll need to bowl and field at our very best to win and also to get the draw, but a couple of quick wickets swings it firmly our way.
We need a golden spell from someone and Needham to emulate Tredwell in taking wickets and bowling a good long spell at one end so the seamers can spell one another.
Gripping stuff. There's also a Test match going on, but we all know the real action is at Canterbury...
Monday, 3 August 2009
Kent v Derbyshire day 4
So, did we make a mess of things this morning, did Kent bowl well or is it swinging.
Kemp is a good cricketer, but normally takes wickets when it swings. What the rapid decline today has done is perhaps force a result one way or another. 318 from here is gettable, but if conditions are helpful, so are ten wickets.
We have the bowlers and the ability, not to mention the self belief. Early inroads are essential, but this will be a fascinating afternoon of cricket to complete a fine game. If it continues to swing, Jones, Wagg and Groenewald, backed by Smith, are every bit as good as their Kent counterparts.
The only concern is that they normally bat better in the second dig than in the first innings. Having said that, they need to make the highest score of the game to win - no mean feat.
Session by session updates and thoughts today as I have a day off and a leisurely one in prospect
Kemp is a good cricketer, but normally takes wickets when it swings. What the rapid decline today has done is perhaps force a result one way or another. 318 from here is gettable, but if conditions are helpful, so are ten wickets.
We have the bowlers and the ability, not to mention the self belief. Early inroads are essential, but this will be a fascinating afternoon of cricket to complete a fine game. If it continues to swing, Jones, Wagg and Groenewald, backed by Smith, are every bit as good as their Kent counterparts.
The only concern is that they normally bat better in the second dig than in the first innings. Having said that, they need to make the highest score of the game to win - no mean feat.
Session by session updates and thoughts today as I have a day off and a leisurely one in prospect
Sunday, 2 August 2009
Kent v Derbyshire Day 3
What a fascinating duel is taking place at Canterbury!
At the end of the third day, Derbyshire are exactly 250 runs ahead with six wickets left and the game very much alive going into the final day. Tomorrow's forecast is for light rain, which could ruin a potentially tight finish, but it will be interesting to see how both sides approach it.
Going into the game I suggested that we'd be delighted with a draw and that is easily within our compass unless we collapse tomorrow. With Hinds and Smith at the crease and plenty of batting to come, that should not be an issue and it is more a question of when Morris and Rogers decide to declare. They will be wary of Kent's potentially explosive and long batting line up on a wicket that does not appear to have deteriorated. The most likely result would appear to be a draw, but cricket is a funny game..
We ended up with a less-than-expected but still handy first innings lead thanks to Tim Groenewald's best Championship figures, before Chris Rogers (pictured) played the captain's innings we have been waiting for when it mattered most. Wayne Madsen got the unluckiest of dismissals - run out at the non-strikers end when the ball was tipped onto the stumps, before Garry Park came back to form with a fine 50 in a partnership with Rogers that took the game from the hosts.
Although both, together with Dan Redfern were dismissed after tea, Hinds and Smith saw us to stumps to leave the game beautifully poised. While I know Derbyshire would love a win, the draw points will be useful and will cement their place in the table, especially as Gloucestershire's game against Glamorgan looks destined for a draw, as do those of the chasing pack.
Another big day tomorrow then. They will all be from now until the end of the season.
Saturday, 1 August 2009
Kent v Derbyshire day 2
The more I read about cricket, the more I lament the fact that many of those doing the reporting don't seem to have a clue. Perhaps they're merely filling in their time before the football resumes next weekend, but the quality of journalism in some quarters is poor.
How about this gem from today's Times by Mark Baldwin
"They may be the top two teams in the LV County Championship second division, but you sensed throughout yesterday that a gulf in class existed between Kent and Derbyshire"
Oh, really? On a day that most others reckoned was pretty even? If I was John Morris I'd have that pinned up on the dressing room wall for the rest of this match, maybe even the rest of the season. Could a side have a greater incentive?
Derbyshire hit back in fine fashion today and could yet gain a valuable first innings lead. One suspects this will go to the wire and the top order must bat better second time around for sure, but this game is eminently winnable thanks to the multi-talented Graham Wagg who took 5 wickets, three with seam before lunch and two with spin afterwards
"Unexpected talent" says Sporting Life tonight. Really? In Derbyshire he bowled it last season and has done so regularly this year. Maybe the press need to return to days of having cricket specialist writers, rather than staff hacks who cover everything to some degree but little very well.
There are exceptions. Michael Henderson is always worth reading, even if you don't agree with him, but after that one can count the good writers on the fingers of one hand. Oh my Arlott, Cardus and Kilburn of long ago...
Back to today and we did very well to remove the dangerous Kent top order before lunch, but they bat long, with Parnell, an all rounder of some talent, at number nine. We've been held up by Tredwell, a player with an emerging reputation as an all rounder who must surely get a winter tour this year, yet could come out tomorrow and gain a lead that many cannot have expected.
Credit again to Tim Groenewald, another shrewd signing from Warwickshire. We have a unique swap arrangement going with the Brummies. We take players from them and they become excellent, they take them from us and they turn into... well, let's just call it the reverse Midas touch. I cite in one direction Messrs Munton, Welch, Wagg and Groenewald - in the other, Messrs Rankin, Botha and Clarke. My case is rested, m'lud.
We're not there as a team yet, but I would never discount this Derbyshire side. IF (big if) we can set Kent around 300 on the last day then this game is winnable, but we cannot assume to bowl them out cheaply twice as a matter of course. Wagg and Groenewald both did very well today and continued their recent excellent form, but to win this game I feel our spinners must emulate Tredwell, who will surely be the danger man second time around. With Wagg, Needham and Smith we have the resources, even before Redfern and perhaps Madsen are considered, but they need to bowl the right length and pace for the track.
Unless the weather again intervenes, the thinking money would be on a positive result here, with two innings gone in two days. It would be heartening - no, astonishing - if Derbyshire were to emerge victorious, but we have shown at least one member of the press corps that we aren't that far behind the favourites for the title in grit, ability or - yes I'll say it - class.
Big effort tomorrow lads. We know you can do it. Go get 'em.
How about this gem from today's Times by Mark Baldwin
"They may be the top two teams in the LV County Championship second division, but you sensed throughout yesterday that a gulf in class existed between Kent and Derbyshire"
Oh, really? On a day that most others reckoned was pretty even? If I was John Morris I'd have that pinned up on the dressing room wall for the rest of this match, maybe even the rest of the season. Could a side have a greater incentive?
Derbyshire hit back in fine fashion today and could yet gain a valuable first innings lead. One suspects this will go to the wire and the top order must bat better second time around for sure, but this game is eminently winnable thanks to the multi-talented Graham Wagg who took 5 wickets, three with seam before lunch and two with spin afterwards
"Unexpected talent" says Sporting Life tonight. Really? In Derbyshire he bowled it last season and has done so regularly this year. Maybe the press need to return to days of having cricket specialist writers, rather than staff hacks who cover everything to some degree but little very well.
There are exceptions. Michael Henderson is always worth reading, even if you don't agree with him, but after that one can count the good writers on the fingers of one hand. Oh my Arlott, Cardus and Kilburn of long ago...
Back to today and we did very well to remove the dangerous Kent top order before lunch, but they bat long, with Parnell, an all rounder of some talent, at number nine. We've been held up by Tredwell, a player with an emerging reputation as an all rounder who must surely get a winter tour this year, yet could come out tomorrow and gain a lead that many cannot have expected.
Credit again to Tim Groenewald, another shrewd signing from Warwickshire. We have a unique swap arrangement going with the Brummies. We take players from them and they become excellent, they take them from us and they turn into... well, let's just call it the reverse Midas touch. I cite in one direction Messrs Munton, Welch, Wagg and Groenewald - in the other, Messrs Rankin, Botha and Clarke. My case is rested, m'lud.
We're not there as a team yet, but I would never discount this Derbyshire side. IF (big if) we can set Kent around 300 on the last day then this game is winnable, but we cannot assume to bowl them out cheaply twice as a matter of course. Wagg and Groenewald both did very well today and continued their recent excellent form, but to win this game I feel our spinners must emulate Tredwell, who will surely be the danger man second time around. With Wagg, Needham and Smith we have the resources, even before Redfern and perhaps Madsen are considered, but they need to bowl the right length and pace for the track.
Unless the weather again intervenes, the thinking money would be on a positive result here, with two innings gone in two days. It would be heartening - no, astonishing - if Derbyshire were to emerge victorious, but we have shown at least one member of the press corps that we aren't that far behind the favourites for the title in grit, ability or - yes I'll say it - class.
Big effort tomorrow lads. We know you can do it. Go get 'em.
Friday, 31 July 2009
Kent v Derbyshire Day One
There were a number of things worthy of note about day one of the Clash of the Titans today. OK, that's maybe overdoing it, but you get my gist...
First up, Derbyshire ended their innings having posted a competitive score and once again one that didn't look likely in the early afternoon. At 127-5 we were looking down a barrel of a score less than 200 and no batting points. To close with three in an all out score of 303 was a considerable achievement.
Once again Chris Rogers got us off to a flyer, but again got out just after reaching a fine 50. Wayne Madsen failed for once, but everyone does from time to time. Nor did the middle order make much impression, although Dan Redfern promised much in his 29 that contained seven boundaries.
It was again Wavell who held us together. He had four sixes by the time he had reached 40 and played a fine hand with his 74. 233-9 still looked vulnerable, however and we were again indebted to the late order and Jones the bat in particular. Steffan must be the best number 11 we've ever had and with successive fifties now must be looking for all rounder status...
It was again indicative of the fighting spirit instilled in the side by John Morris and Derbyshire would be quite satisfied with their final tally, especially when four wickets went to off spinner James Tredwell and Kent should have to bat last on this track. Jake Needham also did well at the other end, but his may well turn out to be a starring role as the game progresses.
It was interesting to see that Nantie Hayward was left out of the starting line up today. He's not yet hit his straps since his arrival, while Wagg, Jones and Groenewald have bowled consistently in recent matches. I'm sure his time will come, but it was a tough decision and full credit to the coach for making it.
Groenewald struck a telling blow with the last ball of the day after three expensive overs, when he tempted Denly into fishing outside his off stump and edging to the safe hands of Chris Rogers at slip. Kent closed at 49-1 and tomorrow is set to be a fascinating day's cricket. Early wickets are crucial for Derbyshire as the hosts will resume with in-form skipper Rob Key accompanied by overseas star Martin Van Jaarsveld. Get through that pair quickly and we're ahead in a very even game. If we don't. there's a lot of leather chasing in prospect.
First up, Derbyshire ended their innings having posted a competitive score and once again one that didn't look likely in the early afternoon. At 127-5 we were looking down a barrel of a score less than 200 and no batting points. To close with three in an all out score of 303 was a considerable achievement.
Once again Chris Rogers got us off to a flyer, but again got out just after reaching a fine 50. Wayne Madsen failed for once, but everyone does from time to time. Nor did the middle order make much impression, although Dan Redfern promised much in his 29 that contained seven boundaries.
It was again Wavell who held us together. He had four sixes by the time he had reached 40 and played a fine hand with his 74. 233-9 still looked vulnerable, however and we were again indebted to the late order and Jones the bat in particular. Steffan must be the best number 11 we've ever had and with successive fifties now must be looking for all rounder status...
It was again indicative of the fighting spirit instilled in the side by John Morris and Derbyshire would be quite satisfied with their final tally, especially when four wickets went to off spinner James Tredwell and Kent should have to bat last on this track. Jake Needham also did well at the other end, but his may well turn out to be a starring role as the game progresses.
It was interesting to see that Nantie Hayward was left out of the starting line up today. He's not yet hit his straps since his arrival, while Wagg, Jones and Groenewald have bowled consistently in recent matches. I'm sure his time will come, but it was a tough decision and full credit to the coach for making it.
Groenewald struck a telling blow with the last ball of the day after three expensive overs, when he tempted Denly into fishing outside his off stump and edging to the safe hands of Chris Rogers at slip. Kent closed at 49-1 and tomorrow is set to be a fascinating day's cricket. Early wickets are crucial for Derbyshire as the hosts will resume with in-form skipper Rob Key accompanied by overseas star Martin Van Jaarsveld. Get through that pair quickly and we're ahead in a very even game. If we don't. there's a lot of leather chasing in prospect.
Jim Allenby
Well, we've won the toss and elected to bat at Canterbury, so its all up to the batsmen now to set a solid base for this game.
Speaking of batsmen, it was interesting to read last night that Jim Allenby has probably played his last game for Leicestershire after rejecting a new contract. Especially interesting as the Leicester Mercury last night said that "Kent, Northamptonshire and Derbyshire were all supposed to be interested in Allenby".
If that was all, I'd fancy our chances. I think we're a better side than Northamptonshire, especially when one removes the South African contingent next season, while Kent have a strong side. Whether he fancies a move down south is anyone's guess (though its a lovely part of the country) and despite his protestations to the contrary, money talks. I would be amazed if Warwickshire, Durham and Lancashire weren't in the chase too, as well as Nottinghamshire. Lancashire may well see him as a replacement for Francois du Plessis, while Nottinghamshire want someone to replace Mark Ealham.
I've said on this blog before that I really like him and would love to see him at Derby, but it is a sign of how we are improving as a side that one asks the question - who would he replace?
For me, he is like for like with Greg Smith, but the South African-born player is much improved and gives good balance to the side. Wavell has done really well this season and Dan Redfern is one of the country's brightest talents, while Garry Park has also had a solid first full season. There are many periods in our recent history where Allenby would have walked into any of the batting positions, so that in itself is a sign of our improvement. His career record is not spectacular, but mid-30's for an aggressive batsman is still acceptable and in one day cricket he has found his forte as a punishing hitter at the top of the order, while bowling tight medium pace at the end of the innings
He is, apparently, available for the remainder of this season and would give a great boost to our promotion hopes, but I would be truly astonished, not to mention seriously impressed, if he ended up at Derby.
Speaking of batsmen, it was interesting to read last night that Jim Allenby has probably played his last game for Leicestershire after rejecting a new contract. Especially interesting as the Leicester Mercury last night said that "Kent, Northamptonshire and Derbyshire were all supposed to be interested in Allenby".
If that was all, I'd fancy our chances. I think we're a better side than Northamptonshire, especially when one removes the South African contingent next season, while Kent have a strong side. Whether he fancies a move down south is anyone's guess (though its a lovely part of the country) and despite his protestations to the contrary, money talks. I would be amazed if Warwickshire, Durham and Lancashire weren't in the chase too, as well as Nottinghamshire. Lancashire may well see him as a replacement for Francois du Plessis, while Nottinghamshire want someone to replace Mark Ealham.
I've said on this blog before that I really like him and would love to see him at Derby, but it is a sign of how we are improving as a side that one asks the question - who would he replace?
For me, he is like for like with Greg Smith, but the South African-born player is much improved and gives good balance to the side. Wavell has done really well this season and Dan Redfern is one of the country's brightest talents, while Garry Park has also had a solid first full season. There are many periods in our recent history where Allenby would have walked into any of the batting positions, so that in itself is a sign of our improvement. His career record is not spectacular, but mid-30's for an aggressive batsman is still acceptable and in one day cricket he has found his forte as a punishing hitter at the top of the order, while bowling tight medium pace at the end of the innings
He is, apparently, available for the remainder of this season and would give a great boost to our promotion hopes, but I would be truly astonished, not to mention seriously impressed, if he ended up at Derby.
Thursday, 30 July 2009
Kent v Derbyshire preview
Over achievers or genuine promotion contenders? It is probably safe to say that one game will not change anything substantially, but we'll get a better idea of Derbyshire's credentials by the end of this weekend's top of the table clash at Canterbury against Kent.
Top of the table clash. That's right, Derbyshire in a top of the table clash. Who'd have "thunk" it? The disappointments of the Twenty/20 are consigned to the dustbin of history as Derbyshire have shown themselves a decent side at "proper" cricket. We're still unbeaten and now in the second half of the Championship season.
The signing of Wayne Madsen appears to have given us that rarity of Derbyshire cricket, a good opening pair. I'd probably go back to the Barnett/Bowler combo to find a good, as opposed to decent, opening pair. Wayne currently sits with a Bradmanesque average of 97, while the skipper is averaging mid-40's without having produced the really big score that we know he is capable of.
The middle order too have all done well. Garry Park has scored steadily in his first full season, as has Dan Redfern. A lot of people will not understand the mental demands of first class cricket and these two young players have done well. Wavell has been a great success this year, while Greg Smith has emerged from being a "nearly" player to a fine cricketer after several years of knocking at the door.
To that established top six can tomorrow be added Freddie Klokker, who is preferred to Tom Poynton. Poynton is one for the future, but we know Klokker is steady behind the stumps and a fair batsman too, eminently capable of a score at number seven. With Graham Wagg at eight, John Morris then has a decision to make on the bowling front.
It is any three from five with Tim Groenewald, Jake Needham, Steffan Jones, Ian Hunter and Nantie Hayward in the 13-man squad. Much will depend on the pitch, but with James Tredwell taking regular wickets for Kent, one assumes the ball may turn so Jake Needham could get an outing here. Steffan Jones has bowled well since his return, so the final place may well be between Ian Hunter, Tim Groenewald and Nantie Hayward.
Hunter has done well this season but has dropped back in the pecking order lately. Groenewald has got steadily better and bowled very well at Cheltenham, while his batting improves with every game. Hayward hasn't yet really fired, but how do you leave out a Test bowler of some reputation? This could be the big occasion that will spark him into life. Morris may ease the dilemma by playing Groenewald AND Hayward while leaving the spin to Wagg, Smith and Redfern. We should also remember that Madsen is an off spinner of some ability with first class wickets in South Africa to his name.
The key to success will be making inroads into a much vaunted top order, where Joe Denly and Rob Key score heavily, paving the way for prolific South African Martin Van Jaarsveld and Geraint Jones. Indeed, the game could become a fair old battle of the Saffers, with Smith, Park, Groenewald, Madsen and Hayward on our side and Van Jaarsveld, Justin Kemp, Ryan McLaren and Wayne Parnell on theirs.
There's no news of Kent's side at this stage, although with veteran Pakistani all rounder Azhar Mahmood in the side they bat long and bowl well. It promises to be a battle royal, so here's hoping that the weather keeps out of it and the best team wins.
And its us...
Top of the table clash. That's right, Derbyshire in a top of the table clash. Who'd have "thunk" it? The disappointments of the Twenty/20 are consigned to the dustbin of history as Derbyshire have shown themselves a decent side at "proper" cricket. We're still unbeaten and now in the second half of the Championship season.
The signing of Wayne Madsen appears to have given us that rarity of Derbyshire cricket, a good opening pair. I'd probably go back to the Barnett/Bowler combo to find a good, as opposed to decent, opening pair. Wayne currently sits with a Bradmanesque average of 97, while the skipper is averaging mid-40's without having produced the really big score that we know he is capable of.
The middle order too have all done well. Garry Park has scored steadily in his first full season, as has Dan Redfern. A lot of people will not understand the mental demands of first class cricket and these two young players have done well. Wavell has been a great success this year, while Greg Smith has emerged from being a "nearly" player to a fine cricketer after several years of knocking at the door.
To that established top six can tomorrow be added Freddie Klokker, who is preferred to Tom Poynton. Poynton is one for the future, but we know Klokker is steady behind the stumps and a fair batsman too, eminently capable of a score at number seven. With Graham Wagg at eight, John Morris then has a decision to make on the bowling front.
It is any three from five with Tim Groenewald, Jake Needham, Steffan Jones, Ian Hunter and Nantie Hayward in the 13-man squad. Much will depend on the pitch, but with James Tredwell taking regular wickets for Kent, one assumes the ball may turn so Jake Needham could get an outing here. Steffan Jones has bowled well since his return, so the final place may well be between Ian Hunter, Tim Groenewald and Nantie Hayward.
Hunter has done well this season but has dropped back in the pecking order lately. Groenewald has got steadily better and bowled very well at Cheltenham, while his batting improves with every game. Hayward hasn't yet really fired, but how do you leave out a Test bowler of some reputation? This could be the big occasion that will spark him into life. Morris may ease the dilemma by playing Groenewald AND Hayward while leaving the spin to Wagg, Smith and Redfern. We should also remember that Madsen is an off spinner of some ability with first class wickets in South Africa to his name.
The key to success will be making inroads into a much vaunted top order, where Joe Denly and Rob Key score heavily, paving the way for prolific South African Martin Van Jaarsveld and Geraint Jones. Indeed, the game could become a fair old battle of the Saffers, with Smith, Park, Groenewald, Madsen and Hayward on our side and Van Jaarsveld, Justin Kemp, Ryan McLaren and Wayne Parnell on theirs.
There's no news of Kent's side at this stage, although with veteran Pakistani all rounder Azhar Mahmood in the side they bat long and bowl well. It promises to be a battle royal, so here's hoping that the weather keeps out of it and the best team wins.
And its us...
Well, well, well
So the ECB have decided to leave the Championship alone and with the same number of games as at present. Good news!
Firstly because we're a decent side at that game, but also because it is still (and in my eyes will always be) THE form of cricket. A match will ebb and flow but you get a good idea of who can play the game from 4-day cricket, rather than who can hit the ball hard and occasionally get lucky. I'm doing some good one-day players a disservice here, but I'll take 4-day cricket over hit and giggle any day.
Mind you, the news on the extension of the Twenty/20 to two north/south divisions was also a step in the right direction. Apart from the fact that there are more beatable sides in the south right now. The north group will presumably be Derbyshire, Durham, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Yorkshire. No escape from the strong sides we've played thus far, but at least some different opposition which has to be a good thing. The matches will be played Thursday - Sunday evenings to maximise crowd potential, while there will be no restriction on the number of overseas players who can be registered, but there will be on how many can play. Methinks that there'll be little difference. I can't think Derbyshire will register players who they can't afford to simply watch matches.
The really good news is that we'll be getting Sunday cricket back. Yay! Slightly tempered by the fact that a 40-over competition may be made up of two 20-over innings per side. Why this fixation with 20 overs? There's nothing wrong with a 40 over game and if we're to lose 50 over cricket, its not that far removed as to make a major difference. I just hope that the ECB see sense and at least allow a one-day tournament that is not manic from ball one.
John Morris said recently that players were shattered after a 20-over game. Imagine how they'll feel after a weekly double 20-over bash! By all means retain 40-over cricket. If you read this blog regularly you'll know how I've always enjoyed it and regular Sunday afternoon cricket will attract fans. It is, after all, the one day of the week when most people can actually go. Let's just keep it to sensible proportions.
If the ECB are "dropping" plans for a second 20-over competition (also known as "the players don't want it and we can't get sponsors"), surely we don't need double twenty over games on a Sunday? Administrators eh? Don't you just love 'em? One option is apparently to have no limitation on bowlers. So we're sorted - just re-sign Langeveldt and let him bowl at one end all season...
Mind you, when I first read last night about a double innings 40-over competition I wondered what time they'd be starting and finishing. 160 overs in a day... now THAT'S value for money!
Onto other things - I'd love to have been a fly on the wall at Edgbaston after groundsman Steve Rouse's comments about the wickets there.
He said that he'd like to leave more grass on them to help the bowlers more but "they are scared of losing". "They" being Ashley Giles and his merry band, who effectively gained promotion last year by boring draws with batsmen feasting on featherbed tracks. Surely you have to back your players? If Derbyshire left more grass on the tracks (like we did in the Barnett era) I think we'd do well with our current seam attack, but we'd also be first to incur penalty points. Cynical? Moi?
Finally, I see Glamorgan have given Robert Croft a new 2-year contract, which is flexible "to allow him to coach and do promotional work". I think they're absolutely right as he is still a fine bowler. Just as long as they schedule promotional work for him for the duration of our games against them next year. Assuming we're not promoted, of course, when we'll be well out of his way.
Firstly because we're a decent side at that game, but also because it is still (and in my eyes will always be) THE form of cricket. A match will ebb and flow but you get a good idea of who can play the game from 4-day cricket, rather than who can hit the ball hard and occasionally get lucky. I'm doing some good one-day players a disservice here, but I'll take 4-day cricket over hit and giggle any day.
Mind you, the news on the extension of the Twenty/20 to two north/south divisions was also a step in the right direction. Apart from the fact that there are more beatable sides in the south right now. The north group will presumably be Derbyshire, Durham, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Yorkshire. No escape from the strong sides we've played thus far, but at least some different opposition which has to be a good thing. The matches will be played Thursday - Sunday evenings to maximise crowd potential, while there will be no restriction on the number of overseas players who can be registered, but there will be on how many can play. Methinks that there'll be little difference. I can't think Derbyshire will register players who they can't afford to simply watch matches.
The really good news is that we'll be getting Sunday cricket back. Yay! Slightly tempered by the fact that a 40-over competition may be made up of two 20-over innings per side. Why this fixation with 20 overs? There's nothing wrong with a 40 over game and if we're to lose 50 over cricket, its not that far removed as to make a major difference. I just hope that the ECB see sense and at least allow a one-day tournament that is not manic from ball one.
John Morris said recently that players were shattered after a 20-over game. Imagine how they'll feel after a weekly double 20-over bash! By all means retain 40-over cricket. If you read this blog regularly you'll know how I've always enjoyed it and regular Sunday afternoon cricket will attract fans. It is, after all, the one day of the week when most people can actually go. Let's just keep it to sensible proportions.
If the ECB are "dropping" plans for a second 20-over competition (also known as "the players don't want it and we can't get sponsors"), surely we don't need double twenty over games on a Sunday? Administrators eh? Don't you just love 'em? One option is apparently to have no limitation on bowlers. So we're sorted - just re-sign Langeveldt and let him bowl at one end all season...
Mind you, when I first read last night about a double innings 40-over competition I wondered what time they'd be starting and finishing. 160 overs in a day... now THAT'S value for money!
Onto other things - I'd love to have been a fly on the wall at Edgbaston after groundsman Steve Rouse's comments about the wickets there.
He said that he'd like to leave more grass on them to help the bowlers more but "they are scared of losing". "They" being Ashley Giles and his merry band, who effectively gained promotion last year by boring draws with batsmen feasting on featherbed tracks. Surely you have to back your players? If Derbyshire left more grass on the tracks (like we did in the Barnett era) I think we'd do well with our current seam attack, but we'd also be first to incur penalty points. Cynical? Moi?
Finally, I see Glamorgan have given Robert Croft a new 2-year contract, which is flexible "to allow him to coach and do promotional work". I think they're absolutely right as he is still a fine bowler. Just as long as they schedule promotional work for him for the duration of our games against them next year. Assuming we're not promoted, of course, when we'll be well out of his way.
Wednesday, 29 July 2009
Quiet week..
Not much to report just now. As they say in the old westerns, just before the first injun arrow hits someone - its too quiet...
Still, it will all kick off on Friday with a game and a half against Kent. If we can get a result of any kind against them I'll start to think we could get a promotion berth this year as for me they have a very fine side. "Too good for division 2" is a silly thing to say, as they played badly in division 1 last year, but they're a team in form and with some very good players.
More on that tomorrow in a preview of the game.
As for the Seconds, they're playing Yorkshire at present and would have been disappointed with a total of 288 at York. Adil Rashid bowled 35 overs for the hosts, with the main contributors for us being Steve Stubbings (47) Dominic Telo (52) and Ross Whiteley (71 not out). Whiteley impresses me and could make a push for a place next season, but neither Stubbo nor Telo got the big score they need to earn a first team recall. The second day of the game today was a total washout, so it will all be down to a declaration and run chase if things improve tomorrow.
Thanks to my good friend David for a little piece from the Daily Telegraph, where David English was talking of the top youngsters who have emerged through the Bunbury Cricket Festival and mentioned Dan Redfern as one of them. Dan has done OK for a first full season and will emerge a better player for his experiences. It cannot have done him any harm having batted with Stuart Law, Chris Rogers and Wavell Hinds and being able to pick their brains. I have very high hopes for the talented Mr Redfern and hope that he stays with Derbyshire for a long time.
Elsewhere Graeme Welch played his first game for three years for Saffron Walden Cricket Club and took 4-38. We will all remember Pop as a fine servant at Derbyshire and it is good to see he is back on the pitch after his career was ended by injury.
It was also interesting to see the photos on the club site from the "match" against Quarndon that rain changed to a six hitting contest. There's a good photo of John Morris with a trademark shot over mid wicket, as well as a remarkable one of Chris Rogers, who was apparently hitting sixes batting RIGHT HANDED! Now that is impressive - just as long as he's saved some for this weekend...
Still, it will all kick off on Friday with a game and a half against Kent. If we can get a result of any kind against them I'll start to think we could get a promotion berth this year as for me they have a very fine side. "Too good for division 2" is a silly thing to say, as they played badly in division 1 last year, but they're a team in form and with some very good players.
More on that tomorrow in a preview of the game.
As for the Seconds, they're playing Yorkshire at present and would have been disappointed with a total of 288 at York. Adil Rashid bowled 35 overs for the hosts, with the main contributors for us being Steve Stubbings (47) Dominic Telo (52) and Ross Whiteley (71 not out). Whiteley impresses me and could make a push for a place next season, but neither Stubbo nor Telo got the big score they need to earn a first team recall. The second day of the game today was a total washout, so it will all be down to a declaration and run chase if things improve tomorrow.
Thanks to my good friend David for a little piece from the Daily Telegraph, where David English was talking of the top youngsters who have emerged through the Bunbury Cricket Festival and mentioned Dan Redfern as one of them. Dan has done OK for a first full season and will emerge a better player for his experiences. It cannot have done him any harm having batted with Stuart Law, Chris Rogers and Wavell Hinds and being able to pick their brains. I have very high hopes for the talented Mr Redfern and hope that he stays with Derbyshire for a long time.
Elsewhere Graeme Welch played his first game for three years for Saffron Walden Cricket Club and took 4-38. We will all remember Pop as a fine servant at Derbyshire and it is good to see he is back on the pitch after his career was ended by injury.
It was also interesting to see the photos on the club site from the "match" against Quarndon that rain changed to a six hitting contest. There's a good photo of John Morris with a trademark shot over mid wicket, as well as a remarkable one of Chris Rogers, who was apparently hitting sixes batting RIGHT HANDED! Now that is impressive - just as long as he's saved some for this weekend...
Monday, 27 July 2009
Further thoughts...
It is interesting to see how the voting is going on next year's professional need at this stage, with slightly more feeling that we need a batsman than a bowler.
Someone who came into my mind yesterday when I was doing a little random surfing was Aussie James Hopes, a good all rounder. A player who has not yet made the Australian Test side but is a regular in the one-day set up, bowls good brisk fast medium and is a regular "death" bowler. He also opens the batting in one day cricket, especially Twenty/20.
The Queenslander hasn't the most spectacular statistics, averaging around 30 with both bat and ball, but at 31 he is coming to his peak. Crucially, he may be affordable. He is not quite so high profile as Andrew Symonds and Shane Watson, but carries less baggage than the former and is less injury prone than the latter.
Many of you may recall he was lined up to play for us in 2007 but required a shoulder operation. At the time he said that he had always wanted to play County cricket and was bitterly disappointed at missing out.
Hopes would at that time have been a Dave Houghton signing so I don't know how John Morris rates him, but he could be another option for the county for 2010.
So too might fellow all rounder Andrew McDonald, four years Hopes' junior but pushing for a place in the Australian side. He had a good game against Northamptonshire in the recently completed fixture, scoring a quick 75 and taking 4-15 in 11 overs. I've heard stories that Leicestershire were lining him up for 2010 but have no idea of the accuracy of those stories.
Who knows? If Chris Rogers earned a recall this winter we may yet see Buck at the County Ground next season, but there'll be a few ideas floating around in the coming months...
Someone who came into my mind yesterday when I was doing a little random surfing was Aussie James Hopes, a good all rounder. A player who has not yet made the Australian Test side but is a regular in the one-day set up, bowls good brisk fast medium and is a regular "death" bowler. He also opens the batting in one day cricket, especially Twenty/20.
The Queenslander hasn't the most spectacular statistics, averaging around 30 with both bat and ball, but at 31 he is coming to his peak. Crucially, he may be affordable. He is not quite so high profile as Andrew Symonds and Shane Watson, but carries less baggage than the former and is less injury prone than the latter.
Many of you may recall he was lined up to play for us in 2007 but required a shoulder operation. At the time he said that he had always wanted to play County cricket and was bitterly disappointed at missing out.
Hopes would at that time have been a Dave Houghton signing so I don't know how John Morris rates him, but he could be another option for the county for 2010.
So too might fellow all rounder Andrew McDonald, four years Hopes' junior but pushing for a place in the Australian side. He had a good game against Northamptonshire in the recently completed fixture, scoring a quick 75 and taking 4-15 in 11 overs. I've heard stories that Leicestershire were lining him up for 2010 but have no idea of the accuracy of those stories.
Who knows? If Chris Rogers earned a recall this winter we may yet see Buck at the County Ground next season, but there'll be a few ideas floating around in the coming months...
Sunday, 26 July 2009
Changes afoot
Those who are frustrated by the proliferation of overseas players in the English County game will have their prayers answered for next season, when the new legislation comes into force on visas for overseas players.
Essentially, this will mean that any cricketer wishing to play County cricket in the UK must have played either one Test in the past 2 years, 5 Tests in the past 5 years or 15 one day internationals in the past 5 years.
It will have huge implications for Counties. Northamptonshire, for example, will be unable to sign Nick Boje and Andrew Hall, Lancashire Francois du Plessis. Derbyshire will not be able to sign Nantie Hayward, nor Chris Rogers. The latter may get a Test match over the winter if Phil Hughes doesn't return to form (or before the end of the summer), but as things stand he cannot return for next season.
On the other hand, Wavell Hinds WILL be able to re-sign and, judging by the fact that he has just (deservedly) been awarded his County cap, he probably will do. Hinds has been a great success in all formats of the game this season and has been a huge contributor to a happy dressing room.
This will mean that the search for overseas players next season will be even more competitive and should mean that they are of a higher standard. Given that the new regulations require recent international participation and that many centrally contracted players will not wish to add to their playing commitments (nor be allowed to in some cases), the pot of available players will be much smaller.
Therein lies Derbyshire's problem. We have the smallest playing budget (for salaries) of any of the first class counties. Fact. This is the stumbling block with any of the "name" players who come on the market, as we would struggle to compete with the bigger counties, especially those on the Test Grounds. The likelihood is that if we sought a player on the radar of Lancashire, Surrey or Nottinghamshire, to use a few examples, we would be unsuccessful if money was the sole motivator of the player concerned. This is where sweeteners such as the captaincy, or "a challenge" come into play. Realistically, however, money talks...
One would assume that the appeal of Chaminda Vaas, who has recently quit Test cricket, will be considerable, but the crazily congested international calendar today suggests that few of the stars from India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka would have time for a full English season, even if they had the inclination. Lucrative tournaments in such places as Dubai proliferate and with IPL commitments too, there will be fewer players prepared to commit to a 6-month county slog.
This, of course, makes the role of the Academy so crucial at Derbyshire. Whether we like it or not, at some point the wealthier counties will come sniffing after our prize assets and we have plenty. In coming years, the likes of Wagg, Redfern, Borrington, Smith and Madsen (the latter unaffected by the new regulations with his Italian passport) will not lack for suitors and John Morris acted sensibly in tying up the cream of our talent on long term deals. We will need to continue to source under performing players elsewhere and bring them on, as well as identifying talented youngsters from various sources around the country. One would hope that loyalty will still have a place in the game, but could anyone reading this tell me honestly that if the chance to earn 50% more for their job came up elsewhere that they wouldn't be tempted?
For next season, various names were bandied around at Derby last week among people I spoke to. Cameron White, the Aussie who did so well for Somerset in 2006 was one, Vaas was another. Shahid Afridi is another whose name has been mentioned in despatches, but all of these players are likely to cost serious money and to have a number of suitors for their services should they opt for a county stint.
Andrew Symonds, unlikely to play more international cricket after his various transgressions, is another but a number will be scared off by his reputation.
Perhaps the best option for Derbyshire (and one which would get my vote) would be engaging Charl Langeveldt as overseas professional for 2010 IF he plays for South Africa again in coming months and therefore becomes eligible again. He played a key role with our bowlers last year, in the same vein that Michael Holding did for Kim Barnett some years ago. Someone who would take the ball when it was going wrong and either keep it tight or get a breakthrough. In this year's Twenty/20, the thing we lacked was the bowler who could give 4 tight overs. This in turn puts pressure on scoring at the other end where the bowler often benefits. Derek Morgan attributed a lot of his wickets to the batsmen relaxing after Gladwin and Jackson came off, while Colin Tunnicliffe got wickets with the pressure exerted by Mike Hendrick.
Langers was a jewel last season and if fully fit would give us a terrific seam attack for 2010 that Morris could rotate to keep fresh. Langeveldt, Wagg, Hunter, Clare, Smith, Groenewald and Jones (who I would sign) could be supplemented by Sheikh and Whiteley in a talented line up.
Some may argue that our greater need is for a batsman, but I'm not so sure. Much will depend on other moves in the coming months, but with Borrington and Madsen as potential openers and Park, Redfern, Hinds and Smith to follow, John Sadler and perhaps one other batsman would help make up a good line up. For me, Sadler deserves another year. He's scored heavily and consistently in league and Second XI this year but has been kept out by the good form of those in the side. I'm less sure about the claims of Steve Stubbings, Dominic Telo and Dan Birch. Like Tom Lungley, I see them all as vulnerable this season. I'd be sad to see Stubbings go as he's been a fine servant, but we need to move forward. Telo has not scored the runs we would have hoped for, while Birch's immobility in the field and inconsistency with the bat suggest he will be released, especially after the recent suspension.
Tom Lungley presents a dilemma. On his day he is a fine bowler, but he's had one good season in five and a lot of injuries. I'd prefer to see Steffan Jones engaged as a 100% tryer in all conditions who has a better than most fitness record. Maybe Lungley will get and benefit from an opportunity elsewhere. Time will tell.
On the subject of Steffan, over 90% of those voting in the last poll would like to see him at Derby next year. I'm one of them. Now for this week's - at this stage, do you think our greater need for next season is a batsman or a bowler as overseas player?
Essentially, this will mean that any cricketer wishing to play County cricket in the UK must have played either one Test in the past 2 years, 5 Tests in the past 5 years or 15 one day internationals in the past 5 years.
It will have huge implications for Counties. Northamptonshire, for example, will be unable to sign Nick Boje and Andrew Hall, Lancashire Francois du Plessis. Derbyshire will not be able to sign Nantie Hayward, nor Chris Rogers. The latter may get a Test match over the winter if Phil Hughes doesn't return to form (or before the end of the summer), but as things stand he cannot return for next season.
On the other hand, Wavell Hinds WILL be able to re-sign and, judging by the fact that he has just (deservedly) been awarded his County cap, he probably will do. Hinds has been a great success in all formats of the game this season and has been a huge contributor to a happy dressing room.
This will mean that the search for overseas players next season will be even more competitive and should mean that they are of a higher standard. Given that the new regulations require recent international participation and that many centrally contracted players will not wish to add to their playing commitments (nor be allowed to in some cases), the pot of available players will be much smaller.
Therein lies Derbyshire's problem. We have the smallest playing budget (for salaries) of any of the first class counties. Fact. This is the stumbling block with any of the "name" players who come on the market, as we would struggle to compete with the bigger counties, especially those on the Test Grounds. The likelihood is that if we sought a player on the radar of Lancashire, Surrey or Nottinghamshire, to use a few examples, we would be unsuccessful if money was the sole motivator of the player concerned. This is where sweeteners such as the captaincy, or "a challenge" come into play. Realistically, however, money talks...
One would assume that the appeal of Chaminda Vaas, who has recently quit Test cricket, will be considerable, but the crazily congested international calendar today suggests that few of the stars from India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka would have time for a full English season, even if they had the inclination. Lucrative tournaments in such places as Dubai proliferate and with IPL commitments too, there will be fewer players prepared to commit to a 6-month county slog.
This, of course, makes the role of the Academy so crucial at Derbyshire. Whether we like it or not, at some point the wealthier counties will come sniffing after our prize assets and we have plenty. In coming years, the likes of Wagg, Redfern, Borrington, Smith and Madsen (the latter unaffected by the new regulations with his Italian passport) will not lack for suitors and John Morris acted sensibly in tying up the cream of our talent on long term deals. We will need to continue to source under performing players elsewhere and bring them on, as well as identifying talented youngsters from various sources around the country. One would hope that loyalty will still have a place in the game, but could anyone reading this tell me honestly that if the chance to earn 50% more for their job came up elsewhere that they wouldn't be tempted?
For next season, various names were bandied around at Derby last week among people I spoke to. Cameron White, the Aussie who did so well for Somerset in 2006 was one, Vaas was another. Shahid Afridi is another whose name has been mentioned in despatches, but all of these players are likely to cost serious money and to have a number of suitors for their services should they opt for a county stint.
Andrew Symonds, unlikely to play more international cricket after his various transgressions, is another but a number will be scared off by his reputation.
Perhaps the best option for Derbyshire (and one which would get my vote) would be engaging Charl Langeveldt as overseas professional for 2010 IF he plays for South Africa again in coming months and therefore becomes eligible again. He played a key role with our bowlers last year, in the same vein that Michael Holding did for Kim Barnett some years ago. Someone who would take the ball when it was going wrong and either keep it tight or get a breakthrough. In this year's Twenty/20, the thing we lacked was the bowler who could give 4 tight overs. This in turn puts pressure on scoring at the other end where the bowler often benefits. Derek Morgan attributed a lot of his wickets to the batsmen relaxing after Gladwin and Jackson came off, while Colin Tunnicliffe got wickets with the pressure exerted by Mike Hendrick.
Langers was a jewel last season and if fully fit would give us a terrific seam attack for 2010 that Morris could rotate to keep fresh. Langeveldt, Wagg, Hunter, Clare, Smith, Groenewald and Jones (who I would sign) could be supplemented by Sheikh and Whiteley in a talented line up.
Some may argue that our greater need is for a batsman, but I'm not so sure. Much will depend on other moves in the coming months, but with Borrington and Madsen as potential openers and Park, Redfern, Hinds and Smith to follow, John Sadler and perhaps one other batsman would help make up a good line up. For me, Sadler deserves another year. He's scored heavily and consistently in league and Second XI this year but has been kept out by the good form of those in the side. I'm less sure about the claims of Steve Stubbings, Dominic Telo and Dan Birch. Like Tom Lungley, I see them all as vulnerable this season. I'd be sad to see Stubbings go as he's been a fine servant, but we need to move forward. Telo has not scored the runs we would have hoped for, while Birch's immobility in the field and inconsistency with the bat suggest he will be released, especially after the recent suspension.
Tom Lungley presents a dilemma. On his day he is a fine bowler, but he's had one good season in five and a lot of injuries. I'd prefer to see Steffan Jones engaged as a 100% tryer in all conditions who has a better than most fitness record. Maybe Lungley will get and benefit from an opportunity elsewhere. Time will tell.
On the subject of Steffan, over 90% of those voting in the last poll would like to see him at Derby next year. I'm one of them. Now for this week's - at this stage, do you think our greater need for next season is a batsman or a bowler as overseas player?
Derbyshire v Middlesex
I had the very great pleasure in attending part of the match against Middlesex last week.
It was a pleasure for several reasons. First off, I saw a competitive Derbyshire side play some good cricket on a track that always offered help to the bowlers. We could have lost in the end after John Morris gambled on a declaration, but the points left the county in a good position in second place in the table with this week's titanic battle against Kent ahead.
Secondly, I met some great fans while I was there. It was especially good to catch up with Chris, the man behind the excellent "In Morris We Trust" site. We've corresponded for some time but met for the first time last week and he's a top bloke and a 100% Derbyshire fan. We need fans like that, who will travel the country lending their support and Chris should be applauded for his efforts on behalf of the club.
I also had a long chat with Graham Wagg's Dad, John, who is one of the greatest characters I've met in a long time. He's a very, very funny guy and extremely easy to get on with. Both John and Chris will be pleased to know that my brand new Derbyshire baseball cap was worn around Blackpool on the way home this afternoon and improved the place a gazillion percent...
Finally it was great to spend a good bit of time talking with Derbyshire coach John Morris. Again, we'd never met, but one only needs to spend a short time in his company to appreciate how much he cares about Derbyshire cricket and how committed he is to turning the side around. He's doing it too, no doubt about it. The Derbyshire of two years ago would have folded from the first day 138-7 to 160 all out. The partnership between Steffan Jones and Tim Groenewald was both heartening and exhilarating, both men showing genuine talent with the bat.
Tomorrow, when I have a little more time, I'll give you my thoughts on the overseas situation for next year. What I'll say at this stage is that they are my thoughts. John Morris gave nothing away and nor did I expect him to do. Yet when I left the County Ground some time after the play had finished on Wednesday, I did so with a firm conviction that the County are in extremely good hands. Fourteen points clear of third place in Division Two of the Championship, with seven games to go we effectively control our own destiny and that with a young side. A draw against Kent next week would be no bad result as long as we can pick up perhaps two more wins somewhere. If the batsmen continue to show grit and application while the bowlers continue to bowl good lines and show discipline and patience, we could yet be celebrating by the end of September.
More tomorrow. Nice to be back!
It was a pleasure for several reasons. First off, I saw a competitive Derbyshire side play some good cricket on a track that always offered help to the bowlers. We could have lost in the end after John Morris gambled on a declaration, but the points left the county in a good position in second place in the table with this week's titanic battle against Kent ahead.
Secondly, I met some great fans while I was there. It was especially good to catch up with Chris, the man behind the excellent "In Morris We Trust" site. We've corresponded for some time but met for the first time last week and he's a top bloke and a 100% Derbyshire fan. We need fans like that, who will travel the country lending their support and Chris should be applauded for his efforts on behalf of the club.
I also had a long chat with Graham Wagg's Dad, John, who is one of the greatest characters I've met in a long time. He's a very, very funny guy and extremely easy to get on with. Both John and Chris will be pleased to know that my brand new Derbyshire baseball cap was worn around Blackpool on the way home this afternoon and improved the place a gazillion percent...
Finally it was great to spend a good bit of time talking with Derbyshire coach John Morris. Again, we'd never met, but one only needs to spend a short time in his company to appreciate how much he cares about Derbyshire cricket and how committed he is to turning the side around. He's doing it too, no doubt about it. The Derbyshire of two years ago would have folded from the first day 138-7 to 160 all out. The partnership between Steffan Jones and Tim Groenewald was both heartening and exhilarating, both men showing genuine talent with the bat.
Tomorrow, when I have a little more time, I'll give you my thoughts on the overseas situation for next year. What I'll say at this stage is that they are my thoughts. John Morris gave nothing away and nor did I expect him to do. Yet when I left the County Ground some time after the play had finished on Wednesday, I did so with a firm conviction that the County are in extremely good hands. Fourteen points clear of third place in Division Two of the Championship, with seven games to go we effectively control our own destiny and that with a young side. A draw against Kent next week would be no bad result as long as we can pick up perhaps two more wins somewhere. If the batsmen continue to show grit and application while the bowlers continue to bowl good lines and show discipline and patience, we could yet be celebrating by the end of September.
More tomorrow. Nice to be back!
Sunday, 19 July 2009
Spectre on the horizon...
Following discussion on the 606 boards, I'd like to clarify the situation with regard to Chris Rogers and Derbyshire in 2010
Essentially, as things stand, Rogers would NOT be able to play for Derbyshire next season.
The regulations as they stand are that players must have either one Test in 2 years, 5 Tests in 5 years or 15 one day internationals in 5 years.
Rogers only Test appearance came in January 2008, which would mean that by April 2010he would no longer satisfy the visa requirements as his appearance would have been more than two years ago.
Of course, if he plays for the Aussies this winter it changes things a little, but as things stand, we will be back in the hunt for a new overseas player for 2010.
There's a few future articles in that one, I'm sure. If you've any ideas, why not let me know?
Essentially, as things stand, Rogers would NOT be able to play for Derbyshire next season.
The regulations as they stand are that players must have either one Test in 2 years, 5 Tests in 5 years or 15 one day internationals in 5 years.
Rogers only Test appearance came in January 2008, which would mean that by April 2010he would no longer satisfy the visa requirements as his appearance would have been more than two years ago.
Of course, if he plays for the Aussies this winter it changes things a little, but as things stand, we will be back in the hunt for a new overseas player for 2010.
There's a few future articles in that one, I'm sure. If you've any ideas, why not let me know?
Played two and unbeaten...
Yes, at this rate the prize money for the Pro 40 will be headed for the County Ground as both of our weekend games were rained off, leaving the sides with one point each.
The action now switches to the County Ground and the Championship with the weather forecast being key to this one. It would suggest that if we are to beat Middlesex we will need to do so in the equivalent of three days play, as the forecast showers have to hit us at some point.
I'll be away for a few days this week so possibly not in a position to blog every day. I will report on the game when I can though and will be following it closely.
I might even get a chanc to see some of it, so will keep the fingers crossed on that one!
Come on Derbyshire!
The action now switches to the County Ground and the Championship with the weather forecast being key to this one. It would suggest that if we are to beat Middlesex we will need to do so in the equivalent of three days play, as the forecast showers have to hit us at some point.
I'll be away for a few days this week so possibly not in a position to blog every day. I will report on the game when I can though and will be following it closely.
I might even get a chanc to see some of it, so will keep the fingers crossed on that one!
Come on Derbyshire!
Saturday, 18 July 2009
Farewell to Forty Overs
Mention 40-over cricket to me and my eyes are likely to mist over with a rush of nostalgia.
I saw my first game of cricket in 1967 (Derbyshire v Yorkshire at Chesterfield, final day) and saw a couple of games in 1968, then fell in love with cricket when we went to a few Player's County League matches, as it was then called, in 1969.
My appetite was really whetted by a game between Derbyshire and the International Cavaliers at Chesterfield in 1968, when Geoff Boycott (a Cavalier?)opened with South African Fred Goldstein with Barry Richards at number 3. Rain ruined the game, but not before the young Richards had hit 49 from 112-3 in 23 overs, with Derbyshire unable to bat. Les Jackson came out of retirement for that one and bowled 9-1-19-2 at the age of 47.
Even for a novice it was obvious that Derbyshire weren't very good at this game. Anything around 150 in 40 overs was usually too much for us. The "highlight" was watching us play an albeit strong Kent side at Chesterfield, when we batted through the 40 overs for 109 all out... David Smith carried his bat for 36 not out. My Dad reckoned he wanted it wrapped around his head batting all that time for so few and Kent won in a canter with Denness, Woolmer, Luckhurst, Knott and Underwood in their ranks.
The following year we actually turned things around and became good at it. We came third that year, thanks to some good captaincy by Ian Buxton and the addition of South African Chris Wilkins to the ranks. I loved to watch that man bat! My Dad worked down the pit and often took the chance of a snooze at the game, but I'd instructions to wake him when "Wilko" came in. He was that rarity, a player who would go for it from ball one. It was sometimes his undoing but he was a very good player who gave huge entertainment. Bowlers were unprepared for someone to walk down the pitch and hit them back over their heads as soon as he came in.
The thing is, the 40-over game worked because of its length. No run up past 15 yards at that time, eight overs per bowler, none of this power play stuff and pinch hitters were unheard of. Yet the game ebbed and flowed. You'd get a steady start, then the middle order would crank it up a bit (or get out quickly, if you supported Derbyshire) then the tail would either flail wildly or play some sensibly placed and timed shots to take the innings to a conclusion.
150-160 was a good score when it started, then as batsmen looked for new areas to score, 180, then 200 became attainable. Barry Richards was probably the first batsman I saw go inside out and hit over extra cover, while anyone who tried a reverse sweep would probably have been locked up, or at least dropped from the team.
The "sweeper" on the point boundary became a necessity, while even then the merits of slow bowlers against batsmen who failed to improvise was obvious. People like Brian Langford of Somerset (who once bowled his eight overs for no runs) became useful cricketers, while erstwhile journeymen like Brian "Tonker" Taylor of Essex, Tony Cordle of Glamorgan and Graham Burgess of Somerset became good at the game. Keith Boyce, John Shepherd, John Sullivan and others became names with their ability at the 40-over game, more so than perhaps other formats.
The timing was right. I loved getting up on a Sunday and going to a match (after Sunday dinner, mind) yet it was just as good settling down in front of the TV. Sunday cricket all afternoon from 1.55pm. The credits would roll and you'd get your first glimpse of the game, hoping it might be Derbyshire in an away game, but happy if it turned out to be Gloucestershire v Hampshire, Procter against Richards. With a full stomach, a glass of pop by your side and chocolate to hand, John Arlott's distinctive burr came out of the TV as he welcomed you to the day's game.
Arlott and Laker, broadcasting heaven! Both so knowledgeable, yet minimalistic by today's standards, only saying something when it was worthwhile. You'd sit enthralled listening to their comments and tales of cricketers past. It was even great when it rained and they simply talked to camera with Peter West or Peter Walker. They'd bring players in to chat and I still recall Peter Walker talking to Viv Richards about bowling.
"How do you hold it to spin it then Viv"
"I don't"
"How do you mean?" said the slightly puzzled Walker
"I don't spin it, I just bowl it" grinned Richards.
There was no teletext, certainly no Internet for the score updates at this time and you'd wait for the rickety score updates from the other games throughout the afternoon. They looked like someone had done them with a set of stencils (and had never done it before).
Sussex v Derbyshire. Derbyshire are 21-1 in 8 overs. Quite good, we think. Good basis for a score. Mike Page will be in, then Wilkins.
Next time its 57-4 in 19. No news of who is out, but the lack of runs suggest one is Wilkins.
Then it's 113-8 in 36 overs. Ever the optimists, Dad and I convince ourselves that a late slog could take us to 140 which is defendable.
Later we find that we made 120 and Sussex are 95-1 in 26 overs. Even we can't convince ourselves at that point....
Halcyon days. The Refuge Assurance win in 1990 after John Player pulled out, with the batting line-up of the Gods. Barnett, Bowler, Morris, Kuiper, Adams. The amazing win over Kent at Chestefield that year, when the visitors hammered 276-4 in 40 overs and we got them with nearly 2 overs to spare, Barnett scoring an imperious century and Bowler and Morris lending superb support. Alan Ward taking 4 wickets in 4 balls at Derby, Hendo taking 6 for 7 against Nottinghamshire.
Great memories, days and players. The 40 over game will return, when the current fascination for 20 over cricket ends and people are looking for a form of the game that sits neatly between the sedate and the manic. I don't think 160 will trouble many sides, but if they get it back to Sunday at 2pm and stick it back on the TV, they'll make a lot of people very happy.
Especially me.
I saw my first game of cricket in 1967 (Derbyshire v Yorkshire at Chesterfield, final day) and saw a couple of games in 1968, then fell in love with cricket when we went to a few Player's County League matches, as it was then called, in 1969.
My appetite was really whetted by a game between Derbyshire and the International Cavaliers at Chesterfield in 1968, when Geoff Boycott (a Cavalier?)opened with South African Fred Goldstein with Barry Richards at number 3. Rain ruined the game, but not before the young Richards had hit 49 from 112-3 in 23 overs, with Derbyshire unable to bat. Les Jackson came out of retirement for that one and bowled 9-1-19-2 at the age of 47.
Even for a novice it was obvious that Derbyshire weren't very good at this game. Anything around 150 in 40 overs was usually too much for us. The "highlight" was watching us play an albeit strong Kent side at Chesterfield, when we batted through the 40 overs for 109 all out... David Smith carried his bat for 36 not out. My Dad reckoned he wanted it wrapped around his head batting all that time for so few and Kent won in a canter with Denness, Woolmer, Luckhurst, Knott and Underwood in their ranks.
The following year we actually turned things around and became good at it. We came third that year, thanks to some good captaincy by Ian Buxton and the addition of South African Chris Wilkins to the ranks. I loved to watch that man bat! My Dad worked down the pit and often took the chance of a snooze at the game, but I'd instructions to wake him when "Wilko" came in. He was that rarity, a player who would go for it from ball one. It was sometimes his undoing but he was a very good player who gave huge entertainment. Bowlers were unprepared for someone to walk down the pitch and hit them back over their heads as soon as he came in.
The thing is, the 40-over game worked because of its length. No run up past 15 yards at that time, eight overs per bowler, none of this power play stuff and pinch hitters were unheard of. Yet the game ebbed and flowed. You'd get a steady start, then the middle order would crank it up a bit (or get out quickly, if you supported Derbyshire) then the tail would either flail wildly or play some sensibly placed and timed shots to take the innings to a conclusion.
150-160 was a good score when it started, then as batsmen looked for new areas to score, 180, then 200 became attainable. Barry Richards was probably the first batsman I saw go inside out and hit over extra cover, while anyone who tried a reverse sweep would probably have been locked up, or at least dropped from the team.
The "sweeper" on the point boundary became a necessity, while even then the merits of slow bowlers against batsmen who failed to improvise was obvious. People like Brian Langford of Somerset (who once bowled his eight overs for no runs) became useful cricketers, while erstwhile journeymen like Brian "Tonker" Taylor of Essex, Tony Cordle of Glamorgan and Graham Burgess of Somerset became good at the game. Keith Boyce, John Shepherd, John Sullivan and others became names with their ability at the 40-over game, more so than perhaps other formats.
The timing was right. I loved getting up on a Sunday and going to a match (after Sunday dinner, mind) yet it was just as good settling down in front of the TV. Sunday cricket all afternoon from 1.55pm. The credits would roll and you'd get your first glimpse of the game, hoping it might be Derbyshire in an away game, but happy if it turned out to be Gloucestershire v Hampshire, Procter against Richards. With a full stomach, a glass of pop by your side and chocolate to hand, John Arlott's distinctive burr came out of the TV as he welcomed you to the day's game.
Arlott and Laker, broadcasting heaven! Both so knowledgeable, yet minimalistic by today's standards, only saying something when it was worthwhile. You'd sit enthralled listening to their comments and tales of cricketers past. It was even great when it rained and they simply talked to camera with Peter West or Peter Walker. They'd bring players in to chat and I still recall Peter Walker talking to Viv Richards about bowling.
"How do you hold it to spin it then Viv"
"I don't"
"How do you mean?" said the slightly puzzled Walker
"I don't spin it, I just bowl it" grinned Richards.
There was no teletext, certainly no Internet for the score updates at this time and you'd wait for the rickety score updates from the other games throughout the afternoon. They looked like someone had done them with a set of stencils (and had never done it before).
Sussex v Derbyshire. Derbyshire are 21-1 in 8 overs. Quite good, we think. Good basis for a score. Mike Page will be in, then Wilkins.
Next time its 57-4 in 19. No news of who is out, but the lack of runs suggest one is Wilkins.
Then it's 113-8 in 36 overs. Ever the optimists, Dad and I convince ourselves that a late slog could take us to 140 which is defendable.
Later we find that we made 120 and Sussex are 95-1 in 26 overs. Even we can't convince ourselves at that point....
Halcyon days. The Refuge Assurance win in 1990 after John Player pulled out, with the batting line-up of the Gods. Barnett, Bowler, Morris, Kuiper, Adams. The amazing win over Kent at Chestefield that year, when the visitors hammered 276-4 in 40 overs and we got them with nearly 2 overs to spare, Barnett scoring an imperious century and Bowler and Morris lending superb support. Alan Ward taking 4 wickets in 4 balls at Derby, Hendo taking 6 for 7 against Nottinghamshire.
Great memories, days and players. The 40 over game will return, when the current fascination for 20 over cricket ends and people are looking for a form of the game that sits neatly between the sedate and the manic. I don't think 160 will trouble many sides, but if they get it back to Sunday at 2pm and stick it back on the TV, they'll make a lot of people very happy.
Especially me.
Weather eh?
So last night was the expected washout and the action moves tomorrow to Old Trafford, where there are marginally better prospects.
After losing to Lancashire more easily than they would have liked in one day games this season, Derbyshire will hope for a better performance. There'll be no Andrew Flintoff this time, who took us apart at the County Ground, but Lancashire will doubtless field a strong side.
Derbyshire will rest Steffan Jones and Graham Wagg tomorrow for Tuesday's Championship game against Middlesex, which will give opportunities to Tom Lungley and the fit again Nantie Hayward. The forecast for much of next week is showery weather, but we'll be hoping for enough time for the game against the country's bottom club to unfold.
John Morris has also said that if we drop out of the hunt for prize money he will give opportunities to squad players to stake a claim for a place. There's a few young players - Ross Whiteley, John Sadler, Dominic Telo among them - who will want a chance to impress and improve their chances of a contract for next year.
Logic suggests the game will be another win for Lancashire, but Derbyshire CAN beat them if they bowl the right line and length. By all accounts they did so superbly at Cheltenham. I suspect that the game may end up being a 20-over bash anyway so we could be right back where it all went wrong.
News on Sky Sports this morning that plans for an additional 20-over competition for next season, the so-called P20, are close to being scuppered due to County opposition. Good. To accommodate it they would need to prune the Championship still further and quite frankly they are going to burn out players with this form of the game. Yesterday I wrote of my sadness at the demise of the 40-over game and in this morning's Derby Telegraph John Morris says that it is his favourite form of the game and that players were "worn out" at the end of a game. No wonder, with all the diving around they have to do. The days when Yorkshire's skipper told off Bill Bowes for diving to stop a ball are long gone, but the demands on seamers today in the field are substantial. I saw Stuart Broad hold a great catch at Lords yesterday and wondered whether Fred Rumsey, Ole Mortensen, Harold Rhodes and others would have got near it. They all need to be athletes today, for better or worse.
We need to preserve the Championship as the Holy Grail of the game, the one that makes us Test players and is the true form of the game. I suspect we'll end up with another extension to the 20-over competition where they play maybe 16 games, but I still think we will see more of the 40-over game. It isn't dead, it's simply recharging its batteries.
After losing to Lancashire more easily than they would have liked in one day games this season, Derbyshire will hope for a better performance. There'll be no Andrew Flintoff this time, who took us apart at the County Ground, but Lancashire will doubtless field a strong side.
Derbyshire will rest Steffan Jones and Graham Wagg tomorrow for Tuesday's Championship game against Middlesex, which will give opportunities to Tom Lungley and the fit again Nantie Hayward. The forecast for much of next week is showery weather, but we'll be hoping for enough time for the game against the country's bottom club to unfold.
John Morris has also said that if we drop out of the hunt for prize money he will give opportunities to squad players to stake a claim for a place. There's a few young players - Ross Whiteley, John Sadler, Dominic Telo among them - who will want a chance to impress and improve their chances of a contract for next year.
Logic suggests the game will be another win for Lancashire, but Derbyshire CAN beat them if they bowl the right line and length. By all accounts they did so superbly at Cheltenham. I suspect that the game may end up being a 20-over bash anyway so we could be right back where it all went wrong.
News on Sky Sports this morning that plans for an additional 20-over competition for next season, the so-called P20, are close to being scuppered due to County opposition. Good. To accommodate it they would need to prune the Championship still further and quite frankly they are going to burn out players with this form of the game. Yesterday I wrote of my sadness at the demise of the 40-over game and in this morning's Derby Telegraph John Morris says that it is his favourite form of the game and that players were "worn out" at the end of a game. No wonder, with all the diving around they have to do. The days when Yorkshire's skipper told off Bill Bowes for diving to stop a ball are long gone, but the demands on seamers today in the field are substantial. I saw Stuart Broad hold a great catch at Lords yesterday and wondered whether Fred Rumsey, Ole Mortensen, Harold Rhodes and others would have got near it. They all need to be athletes today, for better or worse.
We need to preserve the Championship as the Holy Grail of the game, the one that makes us Test players and is the true form of the game. I suspect we'll end up with another extension to the 20-over competition where they play maybe 16 games, but I still think we will see more of the 40-over game. It isn't dead, it's simply recharging its batteries.
Friday, 17 July 2009
Contacting me
A couple of people have mailed me to say that they have problems commenting on articles with the Google identities etc.
If you want to get in touch and can't get around the software, please mail me at
peakfan36@yahoo.co.uk
I'll happily paste any comments into an article and reply to them when I can
Cheers!
If you want to get in touch and can't get around the software, please mail me at
peakfan36@yahoo.co.uk
I'll happily paste any comments into an article and reply to them when I can
Cheers!
Poll
Well, over 80% of you agree that the punishment of Dan Birch and Tom Lungley was justified in this week's poll.
While accepting that they're both playing for their professional futures and so there's an element of pressure, the club have an obligation to the younger Academy players and to trialists that the game is played in the right spirit.
Above all, there's the spirit of the game to uphold, so no defence admissible for me, I'm afraid.
Here's this week's poll to the left. Steffan Jones - worth signing for next season, or too old? I look forward to your comments.
While accepting that they're both playing for their professional futures and so there's an element of pressure, the club have an obligation to the younger Academy players and to trialists that the game is played in the right spirit.
Above all, there's the spirit of the game to uphold, so no defence admissible for me, I'm afraid.
Here's this week's poll to the left. Steffan Jones - worth signing for next season, or too old? I look forward to your comments.
Good win for Seconds
Nice to see news on the club site of the Seconds beating Scotland B at Glossop. It's especially good for me as there's good mirth potential at my club, but it is nice to see that John Sadler keeps knocking on the door with regular runs.
It is also interesting to see that Luke Radford took three wickets. He is a 21 year old all rounder whose Dad is Neal, of Worcestershire and England fame. Young Radford was at Loughborough UCCE with Paul Borrington and was on Warwickshire's Academy for a couple of years, where he was highly rated.
A back injury led to him re-modelling his action, but he's obviously now looking for a county chance. One to watch, perhaps.
Meanwhile, Northants have announced their squad for this evening's game, which is:
Rob White
Stephen Peters
Alex Wakely
Nicky Boje
Riki Wessels
Andrew Hall
David Willey
Johan van der Wath
Graham White
Lee Daggett
David Lucas
Mark Nelson
It is also interesting to see that Luke Radford took three wickets. He is a 21 year old all rounder whose Dad is Neal, of Worcestershire and England fame. Young Radford was at Loughborough UCCE with Paul Borrington and was on Warwickshire's Academy for a couple of years, where he was highly rated.
A back injury led to him re-modelling his action, but he's obviously now looking for a county chance. One to watch, perhaps.
Meanwhile, Northants have announced their squad for this evening's game, which is:
Rob White
Stephen Peters
Alex Wakely
Nicky Boje
Riki Wessels
Andrew Hall
David Willey
Johan van der Wath
Graham White
Lee Daggett
David Lucas
Mark Nelson
Stuey Law goes...
I called it right last night when I suggested that we may not need to use Stuart Law in the Pro 40.
With Wayne Madsen on board for the remainder of the season and the likes of John Sadler and Dominic Telo hoping for a chance to impress, there would have been little point in playing Law in the final year of 40-over cricket (for now).
He was not, in my opinion, an unqualified success but his greater contribution may have been in the dressing room, where Derbyshire did make a better fist of 20/20 batting this year and his experience would have helped. The high point was his innings of 95 at Northampton in the FP Trophy, but there was not a deluge of runs to follow.
Whether he returns for an optional second year will depend on recruitment over the winter. I am sure that Wayne Madsen will be with us next season and Paul Borrington will be with us full time too. IF we gained promotion in the Championship there may be a few players who see Derbyshire as an attractive proposition, but I cannot see wholesale changes over the winter as, quite honestly, there's a good squad coming together.
Still no definite team news for this evening, though the greatest concern may be the weather. John Sadler is in the squad after a century in the Seconds this week and Sads is making a strong case for retention through his weight of runs in the Second XI. His problem is that all of the first team are scoring regularly too, so there's no way in at present.
At the halfway stage of the season, Wavell Hinds, Chris Rogers, Garry Park and Greg Smith are all in with a good shout of making their 1,000 runs. Rogers has some ground to make up having missed three matches, but few would bet against the skipper on the usually drier tracks of August and September. Dan Redfern has also performed solidly in his first full season, with an average over 30, while Madsen would appear to have sewn up the opener's berth with his debut performance. It is hard luck on Sadler and also on Paul Borrington, who batted well in the early season at Loughborough. His time will come, however and I would see him as an integral part of the batting line up in coming seasons.
Whether the solid, professional beast that is the Derbyshire four-day side can translate to the Pro-40 remains to be seen. I'm sorry to see this competition go as I grew up on the John Player League and its various incarnations thereafter. For me it is still a great form of the game as a PROPER game of cricket can ebb and flow. I'm old enough to recall the disaster recoveries that Bob Taylor and Fred Swarbrook performed in the 1970's, as 85-7 became 165-8. You could still win matches with those scores at that time, before pinch hitters, power plays, reverse sweeps and heavy bats made 165 a standard 20-over tally. I feel a piece in homage to 40-over cricket coming on, but that's for another day.
Fingers crossed for tonight.
With Wayne Madsen on board for the remainder of the season and the likes of John Sadler and Dominic Telo hoping for a chance to impress, there would have been little point in playing Law in the final year of 40-over cricket (for now).
He was not, in my opinion, an unqualified success but his greater contribution may have been in the dressing room, where Derbyshire did make a better fist of 20/20 batting this year and his experience would have helped. The high point was his innings of 95 at Northampton in the FP Trophy, but there was not a deluge of runs to follow.
Whether he returns for an optional second year will depend on recruitment over the winter. I am sure that Wayne Madsen will be with us next season and Paul Borrington will be with us full time too. IF we gained promotion in the Championship there may be a few players who see Derbyshire as an attractive proposition, but I cannot see wholesale changes over the winter as, quite honestly, there's a good squad coming together.
Still no definite team news for this evening, though the greatest concern may be the weather. John Sadler is in the squad after a century in the Seconds this week and Sads is making a strong case for retention through his weight of runs in the Second XI. His problem is that all of the first team are scoring regularly too, so there's no way in at present.
At the halfway stage of the season, Wavell Hinds, Chris Rogers, Garry Park and Greg Smith are all in with a good shout of making their 1,000 runs. Rogers has some ground to make up having missed three matches, but few would bet against the skipper on the usually drier tracks of August and September. Dan Redfern has also performed solidly in his first full season, with an average over 30, while Madsen would appear to have sewn up the opener's berth with his debut performance. It is hard luck on Sadler and also on Paul Borrington, who batted well in the early season at Loughborough. His time will come, however and I would see him as an integral part of the batting line up in coming seasons.
Whether the solid, professional beast that is the Derbyshire four-day side can translate to the Pro-40 remains to be seen. I'm sorry to see this competition go as I grew up on the John Player League and its various incarnations thereafter. For me it is still a great form of the game as a PROPER game of cricket can ebb and flow. I'm old enough to recall the disaster recoveries that Bob Taylor and Fred Swarbrook performed in the 1970's, as 85-7 became 165-8. You could still win matches with those scores at that time, before pinch hitters, power plays, reverse sweeps and heavy bats made 165 a standard 20-over tally. I feel a piece in homage to 40-over cricket coming on, but that's for another day.
Fingers crossed for tonight.
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