Yesterday I worked from home in order to look after Hyena, the youngest, since her teachers were on strike. She was looking forward to it, but was soon bored by the reality as I had to concentrate on work and also had to come up with things for her to do.
To her credit she tidied her room, brushed her hair and started making her fancy dress for later in the week. Then, after an early lunch, she went off with a friend to her sister's sports day.
Later I listened to England crush Sri Lanka in a T20 International on BBC Radio 5 Extra, since these sports events have been sold off to Sky. I was washing up at the time, so it was a good way to get two things done at once, but I would prefer to be able to watch it on TV - however, I am not prepared to give Sky any more of my money. Since the rugby is also sold off I only got to know that we had beaten Australia 3-0 in Australia on the news later. If these international sports events were protected then we might be able to watch them. My worry is that if fewer people see these events, that will lead to less support for these sports in the future.
TTFN.
Showing posts with label Cricket. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cricket. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 06, 2016
Monday, April 18, 2016
Sunday 16-04-17
Yesterday was a bit of a funny day; TW was away at a Younique "share best practice to increase sales" day from early doors, so I was left in charge of the kids.
We only had two here, as the street had gone sleepover crazy, but those two each had a guest. We got up, I hung out some washing, offered to make the girls breakfast. I was considering pancakes but we were out of syrup (as a condiment) so offered bacon and egg sandwiches. Of course my two said yes, but the odd thing was that *both* our houseguests said they weren't hungry. A weird coincidence. So they ended up not eating.
Then the girls played happily for the rest of the morning while I followed the IPL on the laptop.
I had put a small bet on KXIP (King's XI Punjab) to win, and they weren't favourites, so I was a bit nervous, but as it turned out it was a good choice, as they won. I'd also picked Royal Challengers Bangalore to win the next match, and was fairly confident because they were favourites and scored 191 in their innings. However, Delhi Daredevils matched their rate and thwarted my plans - that put paid to my accumulator.
In the middle of the day we had to pop and see the GiL as her phone wasn't working. The MiL had called to say she thought that Joan had left it off the hook, but that wasn't the case - she had a dead line. So I called Carol who logged out with BT and we left.
I did ask the girls what they wanted for dinner but didn't get a proper response, so in the end I gave them three lasagne ready meals, which they liked. It was a bit of a cheat from me; well it was a complete acknowledgement of my lack of cooking prowess and inability to get the girls to agree on a single meal.
Then TW got back just in time for the bath and bed routine, and things returned to a semblance of normality.
I had some gnocchi and pesto later on, and watched an episode of Limitless. And then it was bedtime...
We only had two here, as the street had gone sleepover crazy, but those two each had a guest. We got up, I hung out some washing, offered to make the girls breakfast. I was considering pancakes but we were out of syrup (as a condiment) so offered bacon and egg sandwiches. Of course my two said yes, but the odd thing was that *both* our houseguests said they weren't hungry. A weird coincidence. So they ended up not eating.
Then the girls played happily for the rest of the morning while I followed the IPL on the laptop.
I had put a small bet on KXIP (King's XI Punjab) to win, and they weren't favourites, so I was a bit nervous, but as it turned out it was a good choice, as they won. I'd also picked Royal Challengers Bangalore to win the next match, and was fairly confident because they were favourites and scored 191 in their innings. However, Delhi Daredevils matched their rate and thwarted my plans - that put paid to my accumulator.
In the middle of the day we had to pop and see the GiL as her phone wasn't working. The MiL had called to say she thought that Joan had left it off the hook, but that wasn't the case - she had a dead line. So I called Carol who logged out with BT and we left.
I did ask the girls what they wanted for dinner but didn't get a proper response, so in the end I gave them three lasagne ready meals, which they liked. It was a bit of a cheat from me; well it was a complete acknowledgement of my lack of cooking prowess and inability to get the girls to agree on a single meal.
Then TW got back just in time for the bath and bed routine, and things returned to a semblance of normality.
I had some gnocchi and pesto later on, and watched an episode of Limitless. And then it was bedtime...
Saturday, July 18, 2015
Saturday 15-07-18 Sussex vs Hampshire at the Sussex County Ground
It was Friday night, and therefore time to head to the Sussex County Ground for another crucial T20 fixture. Sussex have done well considering where they were in the T20 league just a few weeks ago. With one match to go, it looks like Sussex are going to be in the quarter finals, but they may have missed their chance for a home quarter final.
It was another fine evening, despite the weather during the day being a bit grey and dreary. It had cleared up and the game was played under clear skies. Sussex won the toss and decided to bat second, a strategy which had worked for them previously, but on this occasion unfortunately the Hampshire openers were too good for our bowling. Carberry fell early, but Vince batted out the innings and finished on 90 not out. It was good to see Owais Shah's brief cameo, he scored 40 from 23, and eventually Hampshire posted a total of 204-3. The pressure was on...
Wright and Nash came out and started enjoying themselves; they scored 15 off the first over, and their intent was clear. They both played well. Wright was out in the eighth over for 42, bowled by Arafat somewhat ironically, as Arafat used to play for Sussex. Nash went on to get 88, and the win was still within reach.
Unfortunately Machan did not shine; he was out for one run, and Bailey made a useful 33, but in the end it wasn't enough. We needed five runs from the final delivery, and Ollie Robinson was at the wicket. Of course, it was a dot ball, and Sussex fell short.
We have one more game, tomorrow I think, so maybe we can get a home quarter final still, but I think that maybe the chance has gone. I sat in my usual position, in the third row back, at the end of a section, so that my view of the play was unimpeded, and I enjoyed it. I was sitting next to a particularly rowdy bunch of Sussex supporters who barracked the Hampshire players in the outfield. They were quite amusing at times, although their attempts to get a Mexican wave started were woeful.
Now we're getting into the one day season, and I have tickets for those games, so I am looking forward to those. They're more my pace; T20 games, while exciting and hectic, are over too quickly. The one day games give you time to luxuriate in the atmosphere and really unwind. Bring it on, I say...
It was another fine evening, despite the weather during the day being a bit grey and dreary. It had cleared up and the game was played under clear skies. Sussex won the toss and decided to bat second, a strategy which had worked for them previously, but on this occasion unfortunately the Hampshire openers were too good for our bowling. Carberry fell early, but Vince batted out the innings and finished on 90 not out. It was good to see Owais Shah's brief cameo, he scored 40 from 23, and eventually Hampshire posted a total of 204-3. The pressure was on...
Wright and Nash came out and started enjoying themselves; they scored 15 off the first over, and their intent was clear. They both played well. Wright was out in the eighth over for 42, bowled by Arafat somewhat ironically, as Arafat used to play for Sussex. Nash went on to get 88, and the win was still within reach.
Unfortunately Machan did not shine; he was out for one run, and Bailey made a useful 33, but in the end it wasn't enough. We needed five runs from the final delivery, and Ollie Robinson was at the wicket. Of course, it was a dot ball, and Sussex fell short.
We have one more game, tomorrow I think, so maybe we can get a home quarter final still, but I think that maybe the chance has gone. I sat in my usual position, in the third row back, at the end of a section, so that my view of the play was unimpeded, and I enjoyed it. I was sitting next to a particularly rowdy bunch of Sussex supporters who barracked the Hampshire players in the outfield. They were quite amusing at times, although their attempts to get a Mexican wave started were woeful.
Now we're getting into the one day season, and I have tickets for those games, so I am looking forward to those. They're more my pace; T20 games, while exciting and hectic, are over too quickly. The one day games give you time to luxuriate in the atmosphere and really unwind. Bring it on, I say...
Saturday, July 11, 2015
Saturday 15-07-11 The Ashes First Test, Cardiff
Well, it should not be news to anyone by now that England won the first Ashes test in Cardiff against Australia. I think it was Botham who has the theory that the third day decides a test, and England won the third day decisively. Things were fairly well-balanced at the end of Day 2; England had put on a good score for their first innings and Australia were set fair to match it. They were 264-5 versus England's 430 all out. I did hope that if England could take three wickets by lunch, they would be in the box seat. As it was, Australia were all out for 308 before lunch, a deficit of 122.
England took their innings and lost Cook before lunch (I had a little £2 bet on Cook getting to 48, so I was disappointed). And they were all out at end of day for 289, but when the lead of 122 was added, that meant that Australia had to get to 411 to win in their final innings. England were all out with the final play of Day 3, and so Australia had two whole days, or 180 overs, to get to 411.
Unfortunately for Australia, they didn't even get to the end of Day 4 before they were all out. Only Mitchell Johnson and David Warner scored more than 50, and actually Johnson was the high-scorer with 77. But they couldn't muster more than 242 before they were all out. And so England were victorious.
I think there were small wins and benefits to both teams; Starc took five wickets in the first innings and appears to be the danger Aussie bowler. Johnson was wicketless but seemed to take it with good humour, he had a fairly good run rate of 4.44. Root, Stokes and Ali all scored highly, as did Ballance. So as expected.
It was good to see Bell get a 60 in the second innings, and I hope that is a return to form for Ronald. It is good to see him in the runs. Root also scored 60, probably without breaking a sweat, but such is the nature of cricket today.
I think at the end of Australia's first innings, the prediction was that this would be difficult for Australia to recover, and so it proved. I had a bet on Australia to win and obviously that has now fallen by the wayside, but I think an England win, so decisively, is worth a fiver...
TTFN
England took their innings and lost Cook before lunch (I had a little £2 bet on Cook getting to 48, so I was disappointed). And they were all out at end of day for 289, but when the lead of 122 was added, that meant that Australia had to get to 411 to win in their final innings. England were all out with the final play of Day 3, and so Australia had two whole days, or 180 overs, to get to 411.
Unfortunately for Australia, they didn't even get to the end of Day 4 before they were all out. Only Mitchell Johnson and David Warner scored more than 50, and actually Johnson was the high-scorer with 77. But they couldn't muster more than 242 before they were all out. And so England were victorious.
I think there were small wins and benefits to both teams; Starc took five wickets in the first innings and appears to be the danger Aussie bowler. Johnson was wicketless but seemed to take it with good humour, he had a fairly good run rate of 4.44. Root, Stokes and Ali all scored highly, as did Ballance. So as expected.
It was good to see Bell get a 60 in the second innings, and I hope that is a return to form for Ronald. It is good to see him in the runs. Root also scored 60, probably without breaking a sweat, but such is the nature of cricket today.
I think at the end of Australia's first innings, the prediction was that this would be difficult for Australia to recover, and so it proved. I had a bet on Australia to win and obviously that has now fallen by the wayside, but I think an England win, so decisively, is worth a fiver...
TTFN
Saturday 15-07-11 Sussex vs Glamorgan
Another Friday night, another T20 match. The weather was glorious, the beer was flowing freely and Glamorgan chose to bat first. That was a mistake, as Sussex like to chase, and so it proved. Glamorgan didn't score enough to make it a challenge for Sussex, Luke Wright scored 92 not out and was still in at the end (obvs). George Bailey had a bash once he got his eye on and hit the winning runs.
Sussex remain second in the table and with a home game again next Friday night, hopefully they can repeat last night's result and swing a home quarter-final.
Keepin' the dream alive...
Sussex remain second in the table and with a home game again next Friday night, hopefully they can repeat last night's result and swing a home quarter-final.
Keepin' the dream alive...
Sunday, June 14, 2015
Sunday 15-06-14 Sussex vs. Essex Friday Night T20
Friday night is cricket night around here, and so when work wrapped up it was off to the Hove County Ground for an evening's T20. A colleague gave me a lift into Hove, and I schlepped it to the ground after popping into Tesco to stock up on provisions. I was going to buy a ticket for the Euromillions lottery, as the jackpot was £92 millions, but unfortunately (or otherwise?) the branch of Tesco which I popped into didn't sell lottery tickets. It could have been me...
Anyway, to the ground, where I asked the stewards on my way in if it was going to rain. They reckoned not, apparently they had received word from the groundsman. I was sceptical; it had rained on and off during the day up to that point, and the clouds were hanging heavy and gray overhead. But so it turned out - we stayed dry throughout, and the rain only came once I had returned home.
Essex won the toss and decided to bowl, putting Sussex in to bat first. Of course the openers were Nash and Wright, and I really hoped that they would take the game away from Essex from the start. As it was, they got in, but then unfortunately they both got out, Wright for twenty and Nash for twenty-two. Then Jayawardene had a go, and scored 53, but unfortunately no-one could stay with him, and Sussex could only post 140 from their twenty overs. Topley took two wickets, as did Bopara, and Shaun Tait (used to play for Australia) took three.
I had a couple of pints of Amstel during the first innings, as I couldn't face the Sharks Gold bitter, apparently it's made by North Laines brewery, so it's a good local effort, and it's good for both partners, I reckon, but unfortunately I don't like the taste.
Sussex came out into the field then, for the second innings, and Essex were in. They opened with Jesse Ryder and Mark Pettini. I guess Jesse is New Zealand's answer to KP - explosive, exciting to watch, and with his own off-field issues. Tonight he hit two lovely sixes to get the innings off to a good start, and then was promptly out. No matter though, Pettini scored 48 and Westley 47, both at a pace, and so at the tail-end of the innings the required rate per over was two or thereabouts. As it was Essex wrapped it up within seventeen overs, and I was already at the train station by then, waiting to get home.
It was good to be able to see some stars of the game playing; Bopara, Ryder, Tait and Jayawardene. It was a shame that Sussex did so poorly, but to me the result is immaterial, really. I don't get into a fug about it. I had a nice chat with a Welsh guy who supported Glamorgan, of course, and was hoping for Wales to win against Belgium in the World Cup qualifiers. I was able to hook into the Sussex wi-fi and keep him updated on their progress (Wales won 1-0), and we discussed England's chances against New Zealand, and it was just a relaxed evening where I could focus on me and my wants. I have a fairly relaxed life any way, but there is something restorative about spending time at the cricket and aligning with the rhythms of the game. Focusing on the game and forgetting the demands of work and life at home takes me out of myself, and brings down the blood pressure, or at least it feels like that sometimes. I'm off again to see Sussex play Surrey at Arundel, I just hope they put on a better show today than they did on Friday.
TTFN.
Anyway, to the ground, where I asked the stewards on my way in if it was going to rain. They reckoned not, apparently they had received word from the groundsman. I was sceptical; it had rained on and off during the day up to that point, and the clouds were hanging heavy and gray overhead. But so it turned out - we stayed dry throughout, and the rain only came once I had returned home.
Essex won the toss and decided to bowl, putting Sussex in to bat first. Of course the openers were Nash and Wright, and I really hoped that they would take the game away from Essex from the start. As it was, they got in, but then unfortunately they both got out, Wright for twenty and Nash for twenty-two. Then Jayawardene had a go, and scored 53, but unfortunately no-one could stay with him, and Sussex could only post 140 from their twenty overs. Topley took two wickets, as did Bopara, and Shaun Tait (used to play for Australia) took three.
I had a couple of pints of Amstel during the first innings, as I couldn't face the Sharks Gold bitter, apparently it's made by North Laines brewery, so it's a good local effort, and it's good for both partners, I reckon, but unfortunately I don't like the taste.
Sussex came out into the field then, for the second innings, and Essex were in. They opened with Jesse Ryder and Mark Pettini. I guess Jesse is New Zealand's answer to KP - explosive, exciting to watch, and with his own off-field issues. Tonight he hit two lovely sixes to get the innings off to a good start, and then was promptly out. No matter though, Pettini scored 48 and Westley 47, both at a pace, and so at the tail-end of the innings the required rate per over was two or thereabouts. As it was Essex wrapped it up within seventeen overs, and I was already at the train station by then, waiting to get home.
It was good to be able to see some stars of the game playing; Bopara, Ryder, Tait and Jayawardene. It was a shame that Sussex did so poorly, but to me the result is immaterial, really. I don't get into a fug about it. I had a nice chat with a Welsh guy who supported Glamorgan, of course, and was hoping for Wales to win against Belgium in the World Cup qualifiers. I was able to hook into the Sussex wi-fi and keep him updated on their progress (Wales won 1-0), and we discussed England's chances against New Zealand, and it was just a relaxed evening where I could focus on me and my wants. I have a fairly relaxed life any way, but there is something restorative about spending time at the cricket and aligning with the rhythms of the game. Focusing on the game and forgetting the demands of work and life at home takes me out of myself, and brings down the blood pressure, or at least it feels like that sometimes. I'm off again to see Sussex play Surrey at Arundel, I just hope they put on a better show today than they did on Friday.
TTFN.
Sunday, May 31, 2015
Sunday 15-05-30 Sussex vs Middlesex Friday Night T20
Friday night was another chance to see Sussex in some T20 action. The day had been mostly grey and rainy, but I had faith in the weather forecast, and at ten minutes to four o'clock the rain stopped and the sun started to shine. Work had been a bit of a bind on Friday, so I didn't actually get stuff wrapped up until 5.30pm, and then I headed off to Hove.
I stopped in Tesco and did my usual pre-match stock up, taking advantage of the £3 meal deal, and then walked to the ground. Despite the fact that it was a quarter past six, I was able to get a seat in the third row at the end, in the general area at the Cromwell Road end, which gave me a completely unfettered view of the wicket. I was quite pleased with myself. The only trouble with going to the cricket by yourself, is a slight concern about leaving bags unattended while going to the loo / bar. I don't want to lose my seat, so I don't want to take them with me, but I don't want them to be stolen or taken by an attendant. So when I use the facilities, there is always a slight fear that my bags might not be there when I return. So far, this has been a completely unfounded fear, it has to be said.
Middlesex won the toss and decided to bat first. As it got closer to 7pm, I wandered up to the bar for an ale They had Shark's Ale, obviously brewed specifically for the cricket ground, but unfortunately it didn't taste that great, and so I only had the one pint. I had a second pint in Sussex's innings, Amstel that time, which was more refreshing.
Middlesex got off to a flyer, Dawid Malan and Paul Stirling piled on the runs for them. Stirling got 88, and Malan ended up not out on 115. Eoin Morgan came in at #3 and I was looking forward to seeing him play, but unfortunately he was out first ball - shame. Middlesex ended on 221-2, and it was going to be tricky for Sussex to equal that.
I was glad I took my fleece, because although it was sunny, as soon as the sun disappeared, either behind a tree or a building, the heat went out of the day. After all, it is still May, and so there isn't really any underlying warmth. Bring on July, I say...
Sussex tried, but failed. Luke Wright did well though, he got 91, and when he partnered with Chris Jordan I thought they might be in with a chance. The required rate was 15, but it was sticking at 15, and they were doing well. I had to pop off for a minute though, and when I got back they were both out. It was all over at that stage really, but I stayed another over and saw Beer fall, and that sealed it, it was time to head off.
I do like going to the cricket, regardless of the outcome, although it is nice when Sussex win. It's a combination of things I suppose; the atmosphere, the fact that it's outside, the communal focus on the action, the lack of distractions (i.e., kids, I suppose), the pace of it... Even with T20 and its insistence that an innings take no longer than 1hr 15mins, it is still relaxing. And it was certainly what was required on Friday night after a tough day at work. More to come over the next few weeks about cricket, hopefully better news for Sussex. They're in the bottom half of the table, but with a few good results, they could get back on top.
TTFN.
I stopped in Tesco and did my usual pre-match stock up, taking advantage of the £3 meal deal, and then walked to the ground. Despite the fact that it was a quarter past six, I was able to get a seat in the third row at the end, in the general area at the Cromwell Road end, which gave me a completely unfettered view of the wicket. I was quite pleased with myself. The only trouble with going to the cricket by yourself, is a slight concern about leaving bags unattended while going to the loo / bar. I don't want to lose my seat, so I don't want to take them with me, but I don't want them to be stolen or taken by an attendant. So when I use the facilities, there is always a slight fear that my bags might not be there when I return. So far, this has been a completely unfounded fear, it has to be said.
Middlesex won the toss and decided to bat first. As it got closer to 7pm, I wandered up to the bar for an ale They had Shark's Ale, obviously brewed specifically for the cricket ground, but unfortunately it didn't taste that great, and so I only had the one pint. I had a second pint in Sussex's innings, Amstel that time, which was more refreshing.
Middlesex got off to a flyer, Dawid Malan and Paul Stirling piled on the runs for them. Stirling got 88, and Malan ended up not out on 115. Eoin Morgan came in at #3 and I was looking forward to seeing him play, but unfortunately he was out first ball - shame. Middlesex ended on 221-2, and it was going to be tricky for Sussex to equal that.
I was glad I took my fleece, because although it was sunny, as soon as the sun disappeared, either behind a tree or a building, the heat went out of the day. After all, it is still May, and so there isn't really any underlying warmth. Bring on July, I say...
Sussex tried, but failed. Luke Wright did well though, he got 91, and when he partnered with Chris Jordan I thought they might be in with a chance. The required rate was 15, but it was sticking at 15, and they were doing well. I had to pop off for a minute though, and when I got back they were both out. It was all over at that stage really, but I stayed another over and saw Beer fall, and that sealed it, it was time to head off.
I do like going to the cricket, regardless of the outcome, although it is nice when Sussex win. It's a combination of things I suppose; the atmosphere, the fact that it's outside, the communal focus on the action, the lack of distractions (i.e., kids, I suppose), the pace of it... Even with T20 and its insistence that an innings take no longer than 1hr 15mins, it is still relaxing. And it was certainly what was required on Friday night after a tough day at work. More to come over the next few weeks about cricket, hopefully better news for Sussex. They're in the bottom half of the table, but with a few good results, they could get back on top.
TTFN.
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Tuesday 15-05-19 A Win for Sussex
Sunday saw the start of the cricket season, for me. They have already played several county games, and last Friday saw their first T20 game away from home (they lost to Kent), but as this was the first T20 match at home, this was my opener. I have again bought a Sharks Membership, although they have renamed it to T20+ this year, as it includes the home One-Day Cup games as well.
I packed my old rucksack, brushed down my wide-brimmed Sussex cricket hat, ferreted out my binoculars and the old red fleece, and set off to the station. We were held up at Worthing for a few minutes, but eventually moved on. We got to Hove and I headed to Tesco to stock up on supplies; I had already made myself a sandwich but I fancied a little something extra. I searched for a pork pie, but they were sold out. I briefly considered a sausage roll, but quickly dismissed that idea as there was no brown sauce, and moved on to the sweets. I surveyed the pastry shelves but at that time of day (14:00) they were pretty thin on the ground. I settled on a Reese's Nut Bar and scuttled out (after paying, of course).
As I got to the ground, I thought they should have been playing Slight Return by Bluetones, with its refrain of "I'm coming home...". I was immediately relaxed and the weather certainly helped; it was sunny with a slight breeze and still had the coolness that you expect in May. Gloucestershire had already won the toss and decided to field first, so I found a seat and sat down sharp-ish, as play got underway.
Wright was out pretty quickly, but Nash stuck in and partnered Jayawardene pretty successfully; coincidentally they both got 43 each before they lost their wickets. Jayawardene was bowled, and Nash succumbed to an injury before he was caught. The rest of the batting was nothing to write home about, so I won't, and Sussex got to 167 for 5, which I thought was a bit low. I seem to remember Gloucs ran Sussex's score down fairly easily last time, so I was worried for Sussex.
So Gloucs came into bat, and Dent was out first ball, which was a good start. Cockbain was out in the third over, and they weren't scoring quickly, so they started to appear to be under the cosh. But Marshall and his improbable hair dug Gloucs out of a tricky situation; eventually he was out for 45 off 29 deliveries. After that, Sussex always had the upper hand; Gloucs came back at the end and needed 19 off the last two overs. They stayed in touch too, until the penultimate delivery; they still needed 8 to win but only scored one. The crowd, who were subdued most of the day, cheered, and then the final delivery fizzled out and Sussex had won their first T20 game of the season.
During the Gloucs innings they did manage to smash a six, and it came pretty close to me. I ducked out of the way, and another spectator tried to catch the ball - but failed. That was quite exciting, but I've been going for a few years now, I suppose it was going to happen one day.
A brilliant day, in summary, and I am looking forward to more games during the summer. Possibly more reports to come.
I packed my old rucksack, brushed down my wide-brimmed Sussex cricket hat, ferreted out my binoculars and the old red fleece, and set off to the station. We were held up at Worthing for a few minutes, but eventually moved on. We got to Hove and I headed to Tesco to stock up on supplies; I had already made myself a sandwich but I fancied a little something extra. I searched for a pork pie, but they were sold out. I briefly considered a sausage roll, but quickly dismissed that idea as there was no brown sauce, and moved on to the sweets. I surveyed the pastry shelves but at that time of day (14:00) they were pretty thin on the ground. I settled on a Reese's Nut Bar and scuttled out (after paying, of course).
As I got to the ground, I thought they should have been playing Slight Return by Bluetones, with its refrain of "I'm coming home...". I was immediately relaxed and the weather certainly helped; it was sunny with a slight breeze and still had the coolness that you expect in May. Gloucestershire had already won the toss and decided to field first, so I found a seat and sat down sharp-ish, as play got underway.
Wright was out pretty quickly, but Nash stuck in and partnered Jayawardene pretty successfully; coincidentally they both got 43 each before they lost their wickets. Jayawardene was bowled, and Nash succumbed to an injury before he was caught. The rest of the batting was nothing to write home about, so I won't, and Sussex got to 167 for 5, which I thought was a bit low. I seem to remember Gloucs ran Sussex's score down fairly easily last time, so I was worried for Sussex.
So Gloucs came into bat, and Dent was out first ball, which was a good start. Cockbain was out in the third over, and they weren't scoring quickly, so they started to appear to be under the cosh. But Marshall and his improbable hair dug Gloucs out of a tricky situation; eventually he was out for 45 off 29 deliveries. After that, Sussex always had the upper hand; Gloucs came back at the end and needed 19 off the last two overs. They stayed in touch too, until the penultimate delivery; they still needed 8 to win but only scored one. The crowd, who were subdued most of the day, cheered, and then the final delivery fizzled out and Sussex had won their first T20 game of the season.
During the Gloucs innings they did manage to smash a six, and it came pretty close to me. I ducked out of the way, and another spectator tried to catch the ball - but failed. That was quite exciting, but I've been going for a few years now, I suppose it was going to happen one day.
A brilliant day, in summary, and I am looking forward to more games during the summer. Possibly more reports to come.
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Saturday 15-02-14 Cricket World Cup Australia vs England
Just a quick thought on this... I initially thought that actually, if the umpire had declared lbw, Anderson was right to give up and therefore his stumping was due to the umpire's decision. If the umpire's decision was wrong, or classed as wrong after the fact, the ball should have been called dead or replayed. Unfortunately, on the field, the run out was given. I came to the conclusion that because Australia had continued playing, and Anderson had stopped, actually Australia were in the right and they had won the game correctly.
Later the laws were clarified and the ball should have been called dead, but by then it was too late. Taylor missed out on his century, which was the main issue. With eight overs to go, England would never have won, let alone survived, so it would not have been a big deal to replay the ball.
England were never going to win but it would have been good for Taylor.
I expect that with review systems and video replays, etc., it will go towards my view on things, where the ball will be played and all sides will have to play until the ball is called dead, then the video refs can review the play and determine if any foul or notable play occurred.
Now, lets see the highlights on ITV...
Later the laws were clarified and the ball should have been called dead, but by then it was too late. Taylor missed out on his century, which was the main issue. With eight overs to go, England would never have won, let alone survived, so it would not have been a big deal to replay the ball.
England were never going to win but it would have been good for Taylor.
I expect that with review systems and video replays, etc., it will go towards my view on things, where the ball will be played and all sides will have to play until the ball is called dead, then the video refs can review the play and determine if any foul or notable play occurred.
Now, lets see the highlights on ITV...
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Wednesday 14-08-20 - Sunshine and Showers
At Sussex County Cricket Ground again, for the last game of the season. We've already had a shower, although it was nothing really to talk of.
So here I sit, mellowing in the afternoon tranquil atmosphere, in my raincoat and sandals. I brought my sandals with me because I thought it might be warm enough; as it is my shoes and socks were too warm, so I've decided to dress down.
So here I sit, mellowing in the afternoon tranquil atmosphere, in my raincoat and sandals. I brought my sandals with me because I thought it might be warm enough; as it is my shoes and socks were too warm, so I've decided to dress down.
Wednesday, July 02, 2014
Friday 14-06-27 - Sussex vs. Middlesex at Hove County Ground
Friday came as a bit of a surprise; as I had taken Thursday off, I was in full-on weekend mode, and not really in the right frame of mind to be in the office with my nose to the grindstone. But I struggled through and made it to 4:50pm.
On a Friday it's one of my customs/traditions/habits to get a sausage sandwich from the canteen in the morning, but unfortunately on this occasion by the time I got to work they had run out. Just lately they've been pushing the breakfast items - sausage and egg muffins, bacon and cheese croissants, and I think they've created a bit of demand for cooked goods early in the morning. I had to take the second-choice option of a Danish, which is probably just as enjoyable, but it wasn't a sausage sandwich.
At lunch I decided to save my sandwiches (homemade by TW) for the evening, and I had a salt beef ciabatta with piccalilli. It was delicious, but I think that was down to the piccalilli rather than anything else; the salt beef was a bit chewy, but I managed it nonetheless.
So, anyway, on to the cricket. As ever, I left work slightly early and tried to get to the Hove County Ground in time for the opening of the gates. Of course I missed that, but I got there early enough to get a front row seat, which was pleasing to me.
The cricket was okay; Sussex managed to restrict Middlesex in the first innings, which was a surprise after seeing how Middlesex performed on Sky on Thursday night. One of Middlesex's sure-fire boundaries was stopped by a seagull, and the moment was captured for posterity by the cameras:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&CMP=EMCSPTEML942&v=g2C22nbwg2s
Sussex's response was pretty good, but inevitable. They completed their run chase in 16 overs. On the way out, people were saying that it was the best game of the season; somehow I don't think they were right. The first game of the season was a real thriller and that one was nip and tuck all the way, with Sussex winning off the last ball of the innings. I think that is the best game I've seen so far this year - and possibly for a number of years.
So I headed home a happy man that night :)
On a Friday it's one of my customs/traditions/habits to get a sausage sandwich from the canteen in the morning, but unfortunately on this occasion by the time I got to work they had run out. Just lately they've been pushing the breakfast items - sausage and egg muffins, bacon and cheese croissants, and I think they've created a bit of demand for cooked goods early in the morning. I had to take the second-choice option of a Danish, which is probably just as enjoyable, but it wasn't a sausage sandwich.
At lunch I decided to save my sandwiches (homemade by TW) for the evening, and I had a salt beef ciabatta with piccalilli. It was delicious, but I think that was down to the piccalilli rather than anything else; the salt beef was a bit chewy, but I managed it nonetheless.
So, anyway, on to the cricket. As ever, I left work slightly early and tried to get to the Hove County Ground in time for the opening of the gates. Of course I missed that, but I got there early enough to get a front row seat, which was pleasing to me.
The cricket was okay; Sussex managed to restrict Middlesex in the first innings, which was a surprise after seeing how Middlesex performed on Sky on Thursday night. One of Middlesex's sure-fire boundaries was stopped by a seagull, and the moment was captured for posterity by the cameras:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&CMP=EMCSPTEML942&v=g2C22nbwg2s
Sussex's response was pretty good, but inevitable. They completed their run chase in 16 overs. On the way out, people were saying that it was the best game of the season; somehow I don't think they were right. The first game of the season was a real thriller and that one was nip and tuck all the way, with Sussex winning off the last ball of the innings. I think that is the best game I've seen so far this year - and possibly for a number of years.
So I headed home a happy man that night :)
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Sunday 14-06-15
So I have decided to try and write more often in this forum, and it seems like I chose the right day. I went with a friend to watch Sussex play Somerset at Arundel, and although it wasn't sunny, the clouds refused to share their load with us and we had a relaxed and enjoyable time. The only fly in the ointment was Sussex's refusal to win.
Unfortunately when we got home The Wife had to go to see her grandmother who had smoked out her house. She's still at the hospital now, so we'll have to see how things go there. I think that physically she's okay, we'll have to see what the doctors say.
The children all got on well and enjoyed each other's company. Because a friend was with TW, I and his partner had to wait at home with the kids until he returned. That was about nine pm, the two youngest had already gone to bed but our eldest who isn't nine years old yet was still up. I hope that they're all okay getting up in the morning. I shall be heading to bed very soon... Tomorrow looks like I might be working from home to ensure that The Wife gets a rest and I'm around in case I'm needed. I'm beginning to like working from home, it is a bit more relaxed and on occasion I actually get more done than I would in the office.
So, nighty night and maybe more of an update tomorrow - who knows?
Unfortunately when we got home The Wife had to go to see her grandmother who had smoked out her house. She's still at the hospital now, so we'll have to see how things go there. I think that physically she's okay, we'll have to see what the doctors say.
The children all got on well and enjoyed each other's company. Because a friend was with TW, I and his partner had to wait at home with the kids until he returned. That was about nine pm, the two youngest had already gone to bed but our eldest who isn't nine years old yet was still up. I hope that they're all okay getting up in the morning. I shall be heading to bed very soon... Tomorrow looks like I might be working from home to ensure that The Wife gets a rest and I'm around in case I'm needed. I'm beginning to like working from home, it is a bit more relaxed and on occasion I actually get more done than I would in the office.
So, nighty night and maybe more of an update tomorrow - who knows?
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Sussex vs. Surrey, May 16th, 2014
And so to Hove County Cricket Ground for the opening match in Sussex's bid for T20 glory.
Gates opened at 17:30, and I was in the ground by 17:40. I chose a nice spot in the second row in the General Admittance area, at the Cromwell Road end. I did choose to sit in the Pavilion area once last season, and it wasn't all that... I had purchased a chicken pasta dish and an Orange Fanta from the Tesco at the station, so I tucked into that as I caught up on last Saturday's Times. Get me; reading the Times and watching cricket - am I old before my time? Anyway, it was a lovely sunny day and so I applied the suntan lotion liberally several times. It seems to have worked, I'm not sunburnt today. The ground filled up around me as I caught up with what used to be current affairs, and then it was time for the match.
Surrey won the toss and decided to bat first, led by Graeme Smith. I was struck (and continued to be struck throughout the match) by how tall he was. I know Sussex are a short side, with Yardy, Wright and now Zaidi, but Smith towered over his own players as well. Very tall. Apart from that, Smith didn't trouble us much; he was out for seven in the fifth over. The rest of the Surrey players were a bit of an unknown to me; Smith's opening partner was Roy, who stealthily accrued runs and got a half-century while no-one was watching. Davies, who I did recognise, was out quickly, and Roy was then partnered by Wilson, who again accumulated the runs without anyone noticing. He also scored a half century. O'Brien, who troubled England a while ago didn't trouble the scoreboard at all; he was in and out quicker than the Hokey Cokey.
Towards the end of the Surrey innings it seemed that they were just getting more runs than they should have done. Sussex had done well to limit Surrey's scoring ambitions, but they had seemed to let Surrey away with it in the last overs. When Azhar Mahmood came in to bat, he managed a bright n' jaunty 23 off 12, and all of a sudden Surrey had managed to get 171 for 7. It was probably 20 or so more than I expected them to get, but that did include a six run penalty because Sussex were bowling their overs slowly. We were all watching the clock tick down, but Sussex showed no signs of hurrying. And then, when the clock ran out they got pinged. It was a silly piece of organisation; we were all concerned in the crowd but it didn't seem to bother Joyce.
After a shortened interval, Wright and Machan came out to open the batting for Sussex, and to start the run chase. It was getting colder now, so out came the fleece on top of the jumper I was already wearing. Machan and Wright had to keep up a run rate of nine an over, and they were managing to keep at about eight. I say 'they', Machan was out for one, Joyce was out for seven - just like the illustrious Smith, and Yardy was out for five. Hamilton-Brown came in and tried to keep Wright company for a bit, and I thought they were having a boundary competition between themselves, and unfortunately Wright then got himself out - but not before getting 56 off 31, and losing a ball over the hospitality area (south-east corner).
It always felt that Sussex were on the back foot, and after Wright went that didn't change - in fact, it became more apparent. RHB tried his best but was only able to hold steady, and not push Sussex ahead. Nash caused himself an injury and Joyce had to come on as a runner. Things never end well when runners are involved, but actually he did okay. 21 off 20 wasn't good enough, but it kept Sussex in the game.
In the final overs, Sussex needed 30 off 12. In the 19th over Jordan hit the only boundary, and then Nash was out. Brown came in, Jordan was out, Brown hit a six to put Arafat on strike and eight required off the last two deliveries. Given their performance to that point, I wasn't holding my breath. But they had stayed in the game, and it had been a brilliant start to the season. Dernbach ran up and bowled, and Arafat hit it to the boundary. So from the final delivery he needed to do the same again. Dernbach delivered the final ball and Arafat nudged it behind to the boundary for four runs. It was a great match, Sussex managed to come from behind and take the match away from Surrey right at the last second - you might optimistically call it good timing, but I think Sussex only just managed to stumble over the line in time. It was thrilling to watch, and Sussex managed to achieve the impossible, which you only see rarely in sporting fixtures. They didn't give up but kept on playing, hoping that things would turn their way - until they did.
Unfortunately I am going to miss next Friday's fixture against Hampshire, which is a shame, but I'm looking forward to the next chance I get to see Sussex play.
Gates opened at 17:30, and I was in the ground by 17:40. I chose a nice spot in the second row in the General Admittance area, at the Cromwell Road end. I did choose to sit in the Pavilion area once last season, and it wasn't all that... I had purchased a chicken pasta dish and an Orange Fanta from the Tesco at the station, so I tucked into that as I caught up on last Saturday's Times. Get me; reading the Times and watching cricket - am I old before my time? Anyway, it was a lovely sunny day and so I applied the suntan lotion liberally several times. It seems to have worked, I'm not sunburnt today. The ground filled up around me as I caught up with what used to be current affairs, and then it was time for the match.
Surrey won the toss and decided to bat first, led by Graeme Smith. I was struck (and continued to be struck throughout the match) by how tall he was. I know Sussex are a short side, with Yardy, Wright and now Zaidi, but Smith towered over his own players as well. Very tall. Apart from that, Smith didn't trouble us much; he was out for seven in the fifth over. The rest of the Surrey players were a bit of an unknown to me; Smith's opening partner was Roy, who stealthily accrued runs and got a half-century while no-one was watching. Davies, who I did recognise, was out quickly, and Roy was then partnered by Wilson, who again accumulated the runs without anyone noticing. He also scored a half century. O'Brien, who troubled England a while ago didn't trouble the scoreboard at all; he was in and out quicker than the Hokey Cokey.
Towards the end of the Surrey innings it seemed that they were just getting more runs than they should have done. Sussex had done well to limit Surrey's scoring ambitions, but they had seemed to let Surrey away with it in the last overs. When Azhar Mahmood came in to bat, he managed a bright n' jaunty 23 off 12, and all of a sudden Surrey had managed to get 171 for 7. It was probably 20 or so more than I expected them to get, but that did include a six run penalty because Sussex were bowling their overs slowly. We were all watching the clock tick down, but Sussex showed no signs of hurrying. And then, when the clock ran out they got pinged. It was a silly piece of organisation; we were all concerned in the crowd but it didn't seem to bother Joyce.
After a shortened interval, Wright and Machan came out to open the batting for Sussex, and to start the run chase. It was getting colder now, so out came the fleece on top of the jumper I was already wearing. Machan and Wright had to keep up a run rate of nine an over, and they were managing to keep at about eight. I say 'they', Machan was out for one, Joyce was out for seven - just like the illustrious Smith, and Yardy was out for five. Hamilton-Brown came in and tried to keep Wright company for a bit, and I thought they were having a boundary competition between themselves, and unfortunately Wright then got himself out - but not before getting 56 off 31, and losing a ball over the hospitality area (south-east corner).
It always felt that Sussex were on the back foot, and after Wright went that didn't change - in fact, it became more apparent. RHB tried his best but was only able to hold steady, and not push Sussex ahead. Nash caused himself an injury and Joyce had to come on as a runner. Things never end well when runners are involved, but actually he did okay. 21 off 20 wasn't good enough, but it kept Sussex in the game.
In the final overs, Sussex needed 30 off 12. In the 19th over Jordan hit the only boundary, and then Nash was out. Brown came in, Jordan was out, Brown hit a six to put Arafat on strike and eight required off the last two deliveries. Given their performance to that point, I wasn't holding my breath. But they had stayed in the game, and it had been a brilliant start to the season. Dernbach ran up and bowled, and Arafat hit it to the boundary. So from the final delivery he needed to do the same again. Dernbach delivered the final ball and Arafat nudged it behind to the boundary for four runs. It was a great match, Sussex managed to come from behind and take the match away from Surrey right at the last second - you might optimistically call it good timing, but I think Sussex only just managed to stumble over the line in time. It was thrilling to watch, and Sussex managed to achieve the impossible, which you only see rarely in sporting fixtures. They didn't give up but kept on playing, hoping that things would turn their way - until they did.
Unfortunately I am going to miss next Friday's fixture against Hampshire, which is a shame, but I'm looking forward to the next chance I get to see Sussex play.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Farewell Strauss
I read with surprise the news yesterday morning, suggesting that Strauss was about to resign as captain of the England cricket team. As the morning wore on, articles and items on the Guardian website and Sky News persuaded me that it was not just an idle flight of fancy.
And then at 12 midday the press conference took place and Strauss resigned from the captaincy and all international and domestic cricket.
It was a real shock. I can understand resigning from the captaincy and the England team entirely - although if he only resigned the captaincy in order to concentrate on his batting, that would have been okay. But a complete break with the England team makes sense - he won't be a shadow, interfering in Cook's decision-making. He's done the decent thing and given Cook a clear run, so well done to him.
I am surprised that he won't be returning to Middlesex though, I would have thought another season or two could have cushioned the blow of his England departure. But again, I suppose we are coming to the end of the season, and he wouldn't play again until March next year.
I know Cook is the anointed one, and he's been groomed for this role, but I'm not sure. And his first experience will be against India in India - not the easiest way to bed yourself in. In fact, it may be a bit of a baptism of fire. But let's wait and see, I suppose.
Fingers crossed he makes a good fist of it. I'm looking forward to it.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Saddened
Kevin Pietersen. I know that pretty much everything has been written already, but I wanted to say that I will miss watching him play. And it's a shame England can't accommodate him because I still think he has a contribution to make to English cricket.
Can't they just accept he's not a team-player and give him his own dressing room or something? That might seem like special treatment, but he wouldn't get to share the highs and he would have to internalise the lows.
That could be seen as a punishment rather than a privilege. And we'd still get to see him play for England.
Can't they just accept he's not a team-player and give him his own dressing room or something? That might seem like special treatment, but he wouldn't get to share the highs and he would have to internalise the lows.
That could be seen as a punishment rather than a privilege. And we'd still get to see him play for England.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Same Ol', Same Ol'...
Another night at the cricket, another crushing victory for Sussex.
What was different about tonight was that it came on the back of England winning the first ODI vs. Australia. Perfect.
What was different about tonight was that it came on the back of England winning the first ODI vs. Australia. Perfect.
Saturday, June 09, 2012
Pietersen, Retirement & ODIs
Having followed the news over the last couple of days, I'm saddened by the fact of Kevin Pietersen's retirement from international limited overs cricket.
Apparently the fella wanted to continue playing T20 for England, but the ECB advised that to be eligible for T20 he had to be available for ODIs (50 over cricket) as well.
ODIs can be a bit tiresome on occasion, but they are still a good way to pass a day. Especially with people of Pietersen's callibre playing, who can sense that the game is dying or becoming dull, and inject a bit of adrenalin into the situation. KP and his ilk can turn a game and make it exciting.
A few days ago, I believe it was Thursday, while we watched the rain at Edgbaston, I listened to Andy Flower talking about the medium- and long-term interests of the team. And I think Flowers and the ECB have got it right.
You can't make an exception for individuals. And I think there is a concern that ODI cricket is the poor relation to Test and T20 cricket. If they (the ECB) allow KP to pick and choose, they will have to let all players pick and choose. And especially with the strains that modern bowling inflicts on the body, I could see the entire first-class England bowling attack retiring with immediate effect from ODI cricket.
T20 is the glamourous form of the game; Test cricket is the strategic mind game. Fifty over cricket is a way to watch a complete game in a day, but it isn't differentiated; it needs to build its own reputation. I don't think that cricketers are crying out to play ODIs, and that needs to change. ODI cricket needs its own image, its own brand and specialists.
Until it does that, ODIs, for England at least, will always be a secondary thought. They might attract large crowds in the sub-continent, but so do T20 matches.
I'll miss KP and the anticipation of his appearance. But his performance was always hit-and-miss. He could be out for a low score or hit a quick 50. The team as a unit needs to be reliable. And with the strength and depth of the English team as it is at the moment, perhaps now is the best time for KP to retire. At the age of 31. Lucky git.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Sussex Cricket Season Opens
Last Sunday was the first of many trips this summer to the Probiz County Ground in Hove. Of course to see Sussex play cricket in a CB40 match against the Unicorns, who are (as I understand it) an ECB development side which was formed to give exposure to potential stars of the cricketing future.
As such, Sussex walloped them. 291 from 40 overs, with centuries for Joyce and Machan. When the Unicorns were 45 from 15 overs I realised the jig was up and made my excuses.
It was a good day; the sun was out, it wasn't too hot - in fact when the wind blew it was quite chilly. I had a fleece on for much of the later afternoon. I managed to read a couple of old Guardian Weekends which I've been hoarding for years, and I got to road-test my new, bigger and more powerful binoculars.
I saw a girl from work, M, and exchanged a few words with my fellow spectators. I enjoyed a couple of pork pies courtesy of the Tesco Express by Hove station, washed down with a couple of bottles of Coke - no alcohol was taken! I also enjoyed a cold homemade burger which TW had prepared the night before.
All in all it was a lovely day, a good start to the season and a taste of things to come. Apart from Machan's innings, it wasn't a compelling match, and I'm hoping for better atmospheres and more gripping cricket as the season continues. But there's no better way to spend a sunny afternoon than at the Probiz - especially with Sussex in control.
As such, Sussex walloped them. 291 from 40 overs, with centuries for Joyce and Machan. When the Unicorns were 45 from 15 overs I realised the jig was up and made my excuses.
It was a good day; the sun was out, it wasn't too hot - in fact when the wind blew it was quite chilly. I had a fleece on for much of the later afternoon. I managed to read a couple of old Guardian Weekends which I've been hoarding for years, and I got to road-test my new, bigger and more powerful binoculars.
I saw a girl from work, M, and exchanged a few words with my fellow spectators. I enjoyed a couple of pork pies courtesy of the Tesco Express by Hove station, washed down with a couple of bottles of Coke - no alcohol was taken! I also enjoyed a cold homemade burger which TW had prepared the night before.
All in all it was a lovely day, a good start to the season and a taste of things to come. Apart from Machan's innings, it wasn't a compelling match, and I'm hoping for better atmospheres and more gripping cricket as the season continues. But there's no better way to spend a sunny afternoon than at the Probiz - especially with Sussex in control.
Friday, March 30, 2012
England Falter
I started today in a very optimistic fashion. Trott and Bell were at the crease and playing sensibly. Then I made the mistake of showering, and upon my return I learned that Bell was out for 13. A sad day.
Then my hopes were revived again by Prior, who managed an impressive 41 before his wicket fell. But it was okay, I told myself, Trott was still in and Broad & Swann could back up.
I guess I knew it was over when Trott fell. Broad and Swann could have made a go of it, but Swann was out sharpish. And from there it was only a matter of time.
Then my hopes were revived again by Prior, who managed an impressive 41 before his wicket fell. But it was okay, I told myself, Trott was still in and Broad & Swann could back up.
I guess I knew it was over when Trott fell. Broad and Swann could have made a go of it, but Swann was out sharpish. And from there it was only a matter of time.
Shame. TTFN.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Sussex Sharks
So, today I finally had the courage of my convictions and bought a season ticket to see all one-day home games for Sussex Sharks. That means I can see all Twenty20 matches and all CB40 matches played at Hove, Arundel or Horsham. You beauty.
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