Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 8^th December

The ECB has announced a provisional 30-man squad in preparation for the 2015 World Cup, which will be reduced to 15 before the start of the tournament. Alastair Cook has been named as captain, for me the right move.

No real surprises amongst the names, and thankfully England’s best bowler, James Anderson, is within the 30, and will surely figure in the 15 man squad for the World Cup. At least Anderson is accurate and will not give away pointless wides.

So far in this series England have conceded 43 runs in wides compared to the home country’s 20. If games go to the wire, fine margins like how many wides bowled may be the difference. It is not just an extra run it’s also that extra ball.

Sri Lanka won the 4^th ODI in the last over with three balls to spare. When I was watching it I couldn’t help think that after 48 overs the game should have finished and the home side was some 12 runs short, need I say anymore?

I think they would have still won as they timed the run chase to perfection, but who knows? Just give yourself a chance England, and that means ironing out the little things that make the difference.

Out of the 30 names, who will make the 15-man squad to compete and not get any further than the quarter-final? The only one who is certain to go will be Alastair Cook himself; the others are a bit of a lottery.

Who I would like to go and who will go are two completely different matters. I know who I would like, they are as follows: Alastair Cook, Moeen Ali, Alex Hales, James Taylor, Ian Bell, Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes, Chris Jordan, Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Liam Plunket, Jack Brooks and Chris Woakes.

Out of that lot, only 10 will go, with other places being filled by the likes of Steve Finn and Ravi Bopara. Why, just simply why?

Whoever is announced they will still have my support, and how many times between now and the end of the World Cup I will say something like: “I told you Bopara is rubbish” or “How many more wides?”

Frustrating times ahead, a bit like my skittles tonight I expect.

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 1^st December

I write this with a heavy heart, as, along with all off the cricketing world, I still find the tragic loss of Phillip Hughes very sad indeed.

Tributes have been made throughout the sporting world, with sportsmen and women alike getting out their bats, from Neil Robertson and the snooker yesterday to the Rugby autumn internationals over the weekend.

I have seen on the social networks local cricket club players paying their won tributes by supporting the #getoutyourbats #408 and #63notout campaigns.

Over Stowey, the Club I am associated with, paid their own tribute with the club flag being flown at half mast, along with bats and hats from the club.

While Australia mourns, cricket very respectfully carries on. For me, the most fitting tribute was from the New Zealand side in the third Test against Pakistan.

• They didn’t bowl one bouncer throughout the game.
• No fielder was in close wearing a helmet.
• No wickets were celebrated.
• No batting milestones were celebrated, only acknowledgements that they have reached that particular score.

Clearly still upset, the Kiwis played and won, but the result wasn’t important, just respect.

Phillip Hughes – R.I.P

Sellsy's Supplement

Phillip Hughes

1988 – 2014

R.I.P

 

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 24^th November

James Allenby signs for the mighty Somerset from Glamorgan, somehow we should have seen that one coming. The Matthew Maynard connection, plus subtle hints on his Twitter account.

So another all-rounder, just what Somerset needs. Great batting average, good bowling average, not a Nick Compton, but we shall see I suppose.

So as the year draws to a close the wonderful game of cricket is still being played throughout the globe. England kick-off their winter campaign on Wednesday with an ODI series against Sri Lanka. All before Christmas, then off to Australia for more ODI’s, all warm up matches before the World Cup.

Me thinks they could be confidence shattering, demoralising warm-up games as, they are playing against probably three of the four sides who will feature in the semi-finals of next year’s event: India, Australia and off course Sri Lanka.

The bookies usually have a good idea, and England are even below New Zealand in the betting list. Australia are firm favourites to win, I suppose with the World Cup being played in their own back yard, why not, plus they have gone top of the World ODI rankings.

You may think I sound pretty defeatist, you may be right. But having watched England for many a year I just seem to know that they just can’t compete when it comes to the World Cup. The last time they done anything of note is when they reached the final in 1992, when they lost to an inspired Pakistan team. Since then they have struggled to get to the quarter-finals, let alone the semis.

Looking at the odds for the forthcoming series in Sri Lanka the bookies think it will be a tight contest, 4-3 being the favourite score with most bookmakers in favour of the hosts. I think a 7-0 drubbing is more realistic, and at 25-1, well surely it is worth a small wager? Ravi Bopara is in the England squad.

Thankfully next winter back to normality, with a Test series in South Africa too look forward to.

Not much to say this week, let the cricket commence on Wednesday, and by next Monday I will be eating humble pie.

Time for skittles and Thatchers, I wonder if we can revenge our narrow home defeat of last week.

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 17^th November

I was sad and shocked to hear on Friday that Nick Compton is to leave Somerset by mutual consent. Nick has been a great servant for Somerset scoring bags of runs and rightly getting a well deserved England call up where he most certainly didn’t let his Country down.

From what I can understand Nick has become somewhat disillusioned with the County Game, hardly surprising the way England have treated him. How many runs does he have to score to get in the England side, and please don’t say Taunton is a friendly batting track, that was some years ago now.

So with Nick looking at other opportunities, the media and Middlesex looks favourite (please not Surrey, bunch of xxxx!), a hole has appeared in the Somerset batting line-up which is a major blow for the mighty Set.

With Arul Suppiah retiring due to injury, Chris Jones joining his family business and Jos Buttler going to Lancashire there seems to be a sudden shortness of batting within the county. Another added ingredient to the batting quandary is that Somerset have opted for an overseas bowler this summer rather than a batsman. That is fully understandable as Somerset struggled, in recent seasons, to bowl side out twice in the County Championship.

So who is going to replace Nick’s 1,000 First Class runs over the next season or two? And what will the bating line-up look like. Well at the moment it looks something this: Trescothick. Myburgh, Abell, Hildreth, Kieswetter, Trago, Gregory, Meschede, Overton, Thomas and Rehman. Not forgetting spinner's Jack Leach, Max Waller and George Dockrell could quite easily step in.

Ok, not a bad line-up what so ever, but somewhat inexperienced at the top, plus quite a few all-rounder’s which is ok for the shorter version of the game. Tom Abell most certainly deserves a chance, could this be the making off the youngster? You know the saying about doors closing and opening. Kieswetter at five? Somehow I like to see a wicketkeeper come in at six, saying that though Craig is a quality batsman.

Anyway, I have great faith in the squad, but will Matthew Maynard look to bring in someone who can give some balance to the side and score those 1,000 run? The next few months will be interesting indeed.

Anyway, I wish Nick well in whatever he does, a pleasure to watch him bat, but please do not go to Surrey.

Ok, Skittles and Thatchers, top of the table clash tonight, and it’s not even Christmas!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Tuesday 11^th November

At the weekend I heard the news that legendary cricket commentator Richie Benaud is undergoing radiation therapy for skin cancer.

Growing up with cricket during the 70’s onwards Benaud was the face of the BBC cricket coverage on the television. With such a unique style and an Australian twang, he was certainly one of the best commentators in his day.

For me the highlight was when he was commentating on Ian Botham during the historic Ashes series in 1981. Botham had just smashed Terry Alderman back over his head for six.  "Don't bother looking for that, let alone chasing it," said Benaud. "That's gone straight into the confectionary stall and out again." Pure genius and media professionalism from Benaud.

Other classic moments from Richie:

“The slow-motion replay doesn’t show how fast the ball was really travelling.”

“And Glenn McGrath dismissed for two, just ninety-eight runs short of his century.”

“Captaincy is 90 per cent luck and 10 per cent skill. But don't try it without that 10 per cent.”

“From our broadcasting box you can't see any grass at all. It is simply a carpet of humanity.”

On a Justin Langer sic: “He's not quite got hold of that one. If he had, it would have gone for nine”

“I think the batsman’s strategy is to make runs and not get out.”

“The hallmark of a great captain is the ability to win the toss at the right time.”

And finally, “Gatting at fine leg - that’s a contradiction in terms.”

Benaud has confirmed that his skin cancer is on his forehead and the top of his head and has urged people to protect themselves from the sun. I know I do, and I will carry on doing, as I have no hair on my head it is wise.

Hope all goes well Richie, and I hope this doesn’t sound like an obituary.

Thatchers time.

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 3^rd November

Well, well, well, the Aussies spanked again by Pakistan, well and truly. I wonder what the excuse will be this time. How about an over-rated Australian team playing against a well drilled Pakistani side. Or even a team who can’t bat, can’t bowl and can’t field. But I think men were playing against boy.

One thing of note from that game was the sheer brilliance of Pakistan’s batting, especially from Younis Khan, Azhar Ali and Misbah-ul-Haq, who really took the Aussies to the sword, with the latter equalling the fastest Test century, which was scored by West Indian great Viv Richards.

Back on the home front a lot has been going at the County Ground, the home of the mighty Somerset. Dave Houghton has left, the club doesn’t need two batting coaches and with Matthew Maynard coming in as Director of Cricket his position became a bit precarious indeed.

Pete Trego has signed another contract, keeping with Somerset until 2016. Well done Pete and you have a benefit next year as well, cracking. Craig Overton has been selected for the England Lions squad who tour South Africa in the New Year. More congratulations.

Most disturbingly I heard some alarming whispers I what has been said at recent AGM’s. How true this is, well I heard it from a good source.

It seems the priority of certain committee members is to be successful in as many T20 games as possible as it brings in revenue. I was taken aback somewhat when I heard these comments. You ask any true Somerset supporter what they want up mostly.

To win The County Championship, is what we all desire. Admittedly T20 cricket is fun to watch, but it is the longer format of the game us purist would like to see Somerset win. No wonder I hear advance orders for membership is down, not great noises coming out of the County Ground.

The majority of First Class cricketers, I am lead to believe, want success in the four day game, as it is cricket at its purist, with Test matches being the pinnacle. Who remembers stats from T20? Not me. I can recall some classic ODI’s, but the longer format is the one every cricket fan can recall famous matches, innings, bowling displays, statistics, records and even averages.

And on the subject of averages, that is what players strive for, bettering their First Class / Test match average.

Ok, on one a bit here, so me thinks it is Thatchers time!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 27^th October 2014

You may not know it but there is an awful lot of cricket being played around the world at present, some matches of which are noteworthy:

Australia being beaten by Pakistan in the 1stTest being played in Dubai. The old foe are getting in a few Test matches before the World Cup and more importantly before next year’s Ashes series here in England. Mitchell who?

By the looks of it things are not going to well as they were well beaten by some 200 runs, shame, it seems that the Aussies cannot play a straight delivery. With that in mind, I can’t think of any English spinner who can spin the ball, so with the Aussies unable to play a straight delivery, surely......let’s leave it at that.

It looks as if the Aussies are trying out a few new players: a left arm spinner by the name of Steve O’Keefe and a lower order batsman called Mitchell Marsh. Neither set the world alight on their debuts.

Are the Aussie struggling to find some decent players, or will these words come back to haunt me in the summer? Nothing like some early Ashes banter, come on, the 1^st Test is only nine months away.

The saddest thing for me which has happened recently is the West Indies leaving their tour of India early in a dispute about pay. Haven’t the West Indies done this before?

I believe the financial situation of West Indies cricket is in some sort of precarious position and now that India have cancelled their tour to the West Indies in response to the West Indies actions the whole future of cricket in the Caribbean is in some sort of jeopardy.

Like England, India have a huge worldwide following and I am pretty sure there would have been sell out crowds in most of the ODI’s and T20 games in the Caribbean. Plus the TV rights which command big bucks, the WICB stand to lose millions, let alone being sued by the BCCI. The only saving grace, England are touring there after the World Cup, if that is some sort of comfort, I don’t know.

Moving on seamlessly, Ireland and Scotland have been down under preparing for next year’s World Cup by playing against some state sides in both Australia and New Zealand. Two Somerset players have been playing on these tours, George Dockrell and Josh Davey, playing for Ireland and Scotland respectively.

They have done ok. Both have been taking wickets and scoring runs, something and some players to look out for when the World Cup starts in February.

England start their World Cup warm up next month when they travel to Sri Lanka for a host of ODI’s, I think there are seven games in total. Then in the New Year they travel to Australia for a Triangular Series against the home country and India. Nothing like difficult warm up games before a major tournament, hopefully by then they would of realised Ravi Bopara is rubbish and drop him!

Right, enough of that, time for a Thatchers or two, but unfortunately, no skittles tonight, will have to wait until Friday, now that could be scary!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 20^th October 2014

Gary Thomas followed up his success at Over Stowey’s awards night last week by picking up the bowling award in Division Two of the West Somerset League, at an average of 9.86. Wow, that is some average, with his best return of six wickets for five runs in just under four overs. Great year for Gary well deserved.

Last night Over Stowey held its AGM, and as AGM’s go, this was quite a good one. It went smoothly, a few surprises and much to look forward to over the next few years.

The thing which caught my eye on the agenda was Cricket Tour 2015. And when the subject was brought up it was decided that there was enough interest within the club to proceed with a tour in 2015. How exciting, Torquay he we come, just hope our hotel isn’t on top of a cliff again!

Another thing we have to look forward to in 2015 is George Pike as 2^nd XI vice-captain. George comes up with some wonderful ideas, and now he has some sort of position within the club he’ll probably come up with some more. I already hear that he would like a team mascot in the form of a goat! I am not “kidding” you, he wants a goat to wear the club’s colours, plus take him on tour! Anyway, welcome aboard George, somehow I think the cricket club will never be the same.

Now I do like a good tea when I am at cricket and now that Wendy has stood down as Stowey’s tea lady, this position needs to be filled, probably the most important position within the club. It was discussed at length during the AGM and it seems there is no shortage of volunteers. Now Wendy’s teas were one of the best in the West Somerset League, so pressure there ladies, I will try not to judge, but I do like a scone or two!

Congratulations must go to Ryan Gamblin who has taken on the role as 1^st XI captain, with Stuart Duerden as his vice-captain. New faces new ideas, a bit like a fresh start for the forthcoming 2015 season. Well done to you both and best of luck.

So the 2015 season is going to be a busy and interesting one, with a whole list of friendlies, league fixtures, cup matches, youth cricket, plus all the events off the field, I am already looking forward to 2015. There will be plenty of umpiring for me to do no doubt.

One final thing, on the set of accounts we had to pay out £20 for a “mole.” Now can someone please explain what this is for; do we have a spy in another cricket club, has someone had one removed from their nose, or is this just expenses for our resident mole? Someone will explain no doubt!

Ok, time for me to lie on my back for the rest of the evening. No skittles for me I’m afraid, strained my back muscles picking up a bottle! Sounds ridiculous, but it’s bloody painful.

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 13^th October 2014

So my predictions were way off, so what do I know. Out of the 14 awards handed out I only managed to predict six correctly, oh well.

The Player’s Player award is the award I like to see who wins, as it is the only award not decided by the “group of four” and is voted for by the players. When I used to play, I was always guaranteed one vote, as I used to vote for myself. Wouldn’t it be great next year is that everyone votes for themselves, the look on Kelvin’s face when he is counting the votes would be priceless to witness.

The Clubman award is also another of my favourites, mainly because it is now the only one I can win. However, it gives recognition to unsung heroes within the club. It is not just turn up on a Saturday to play. A lot goes on behind the scenes to make the club tick.

In my case my work usually starts in February when I contact existing and potential new sponsors and vice-presidents and basically asking them for a contribution. Then the fixture brochure is then designed, organised and then printed off – that takes up most of my time. After all printed off, time to chill and do some umpiring for the rest of the season. Who says I am not committed, well really I’m just making a pitch for the 2015 award!

As for the Hole in the Hand – to be renamed the Dan “down on one knee” Butson award in recognition for the art of fielding and running between the wickets, I think it was rather fitting that the 1^st XI won that award for their performance in the first game of the season when 13 catches were spilled, 11 off one batsman (I think he won the lottery that night as well).

Stephen Miller came up to me after saying that he thought he was nailed on to win the Hole in the Hand, just the three dropped catches in a game, but to be fair they were very difficult chances.

Bumping in to Les Biffen on Saturday night made my evening somewhat. Les and myself reminisced about cricket tours, especially the Marldon trip. Drinking with the whole of Marldon, and I am a boxer are some of the phrases used on tour, more will be revealed once I have spoken to lawyers!

So the evening itself, a combination of good food, excellent company, quality cider, great speeches and worthy award winners. However I am a bit unsure about the 1^st Team batting award. The whole room was a bit shocked when Sorty’s name was read out, but I do understand the criteria for this award had changed. It was not given for averages, but for balls faced without scoring, only one winner there then.

Carl seemed a bit embarrassed when he picked up the award for 2^nd Team batting, as he is a bowler. I know he tried his best not to win the award by being dismissed first ball of the game against Brompton Ralph in the 2^nd XI’s last game of the season, but to no avail, the award was his.

That’s about it for Over Stowey’s 2014 season, except for the AGM on Sunday. I will be back next week, and throughout the winter (a small matter of England playing in the World Cup – I wonder how many times I will mention Ravi Bopara?). 

Now time for Thatchers and skittles, now I wonder if I’ll make Team of the Week again?

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 6^th October 2014

Matthew Maynard as Somerset Director of Cricket, well I didn’t see that one coming I must admit. Somehow I feel a bit more positive about the appointment of Maynard than I did with David Nosworthy. The first thing in his inbox must be how to take 20 County Championship wickets in a game, so as to turn draws in to victories.

Maynard certainly has the pedigree for county cricket; his time with Glamorgan proves that. Plus his time with England and in South Africa shows what a capable coach he has been. Can he do it with Somerset? Can he bring that illusive County Championship trophy (or any trophy) to Taunton? Well, we shall see.

The close season has already seen a merry-go-round of players joining different counties, most notable are exodus of players from Gloucestershire and Leicestershire (do you blame them?). The most disappointing thing for me is that James Burke has left Somerset for Surrey. A genuine all-rounder with great potential, Nosworthy let that one go didn’t he? Instead we are left with the likes of Johann Myburgh.

Anyway, Somerset have a great crop of youngsters, all are vastly improving, now they need to make the next step up, it can be done, just look at Lewis Gregory during the 2014 season.

Right, on to more important things, Over Stowey Cricket Club’s annual presentation evening happening this Saturday, probably my favourite event of the cricket season, well it beats umpiring! The usual format, drinks before the meal, drinks during the meal, drinks during the speeches, drinks during the presentation of trophies and drinks after.

So who is going to win what on Saturday? More importantly is anyone going to win the 1^st XI award for batting? And if there is a winner will he be brave enough to go and collect it? Anyone who averaged more than 10 in the 1^st XI has a great chance in winning it. So George Pike you have a chance of winning a trophy.

So here we go, my predictions:

• 1^st XI Batting – Jack rich
• 2^nd XI Batting – Dave Rowsell
• 1^st Team Bowling – Gary Thomas
• 2^nd XI Bowling – Lee Rich
• 1^st Team Player of the Year – Gary Thomas
• 2^nd Team Player of the Year – Dan (down on one knee) Butson
• Club Most Improved Player – Stephen Miller
• Young Player – Stephen Miller or Lee Rich
• Club Batting – Matt Coombes
• Club Bowling – Gary Thomas
• Club Catches – No one
• Clubman – Simon Pickard
• Players Player – Probably the most prestigious award as voted by fellow players, surely it should go to Carl Woodley
• Umpire of the Year – Me
• Hole in the Hand – You will have to wait and see!

Let’s see how close I am, will let you know next week. Now Thatchers time and skittles, will I come top again?

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 29^th Sept 2014


The English cricket season is now over, plenty of winners, losers and a lot to look forward to over the winter, with plenty of speculation no doubt.

Somerset finished a respectable sixth in the County Championship, having been top of the table for period of about four days earlier in the season.  With Somerset only losing two County Championship games all season you would of thought they would be higher up the table, but 10 drawn games tells a tale.

It proves that Somerset are a tough unit and difficult to beat. It also shows that a few more wins could of seen them in contention for the County Championship. I am thinking back to those matches where the weather intervened when a victory was in Somerset’s grasp, games against Lancashire (twice) and Northants for example.

The recent draw against Yorkshire really annoyed me, not because of the result, but the headlines after. Somerset apparently held on for a draw. Bollocks. They went for a win, knowing a draw would always be there as back-up.

The might Set would of been disappointed not to off progressed to the knock-out stages of the T20 and the 50 over competitions. I know I certainly was, especially as they put themselves in some really good positions to qualify.

The highlight for me during the 2014 campaign was the emergence of some very talented youngsters, Lewis Gregory, Tom Abell (who I predicted would make an impact at the start of the season) to name but two. Lewis would count himself very unlucky indeed not to of been picked for the England Performance Programme Squad. Whereas Lewis misses out, Craig Overton will travel to South Africa with the EPP.

Lewis has also agreed to extend his Somerset contract, which is just excellent news. And to cap off a great season, he was voted Supporters Player of the Year for 2014, just richly deserved.

Alex Barrow, James Regan, Max Waller and Josh Davey have all been handed deals, again excellent news. Alex Barrow has done well behind the stumps in the absence of Craig Kieswetter; I believe he averaged around 40 in the County Championship. He also came on as 12^th man for England in a recent Test match against India, what great experience for the youngster.

On a sadder note, high performance director Andy Hurry is to leave the club to take up a role with England. Former coach Hurry has been named as the head of the England development programme and will leave Taunton after 13 years. Somerset’s loss will no doubt be England’s gain.

So what do we have to look forward or not look forward to during the winter months? Well, no Test matches to start, a huge disappointment, instead a host of One Day Internationals, and the World Cup early next year. With all the speculation about Cook’s captaincy and should he lead England to the World Cup, a certain Ravi Bopara has been selected in the One Day Squad for Sri Lanka and no doubt will figure in the World Cup next year.

So instead of Cook being a scapegoat for a dismal World Cup, the fingers should be pointed at the selectors for picking Ravi. He has just not performed as a One Day Cricketer, he has been dropped on so many occasions, and then recalled, the selectors must know he is just a County Cricketer and that’s all.

Enough said, I want to enjoy skittles and Thatchers tonight. Cheers

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 15^th Sept 2014

Who exactly are the champions of the West Somerset Cricket League? Divisions Two to Five have all been resolved, but Division One is still a bit of a quandary!

According to the League website, Holford are sitting pretty at the top, but Bridgetown still have their game against Roadwater to go on, which, I believe, they won. But how many points did they pick up?

Then according to the local newspaper Bridgetown gained enough points in their victory against Roadwater to clinch the title. A massive write-up submitted by Bridgetown was published, but hey, did they forget to inform the league? The league website isn’t happy about it!

And to put another spanner in the works, my sources tell me that Bridgetown’s points are incorrect by two points, and the League have been notified about this. This will make Holford champions.

Like in all sports we as punters want the right results, right decisions and especially in this case the right information, so does anyone know who has won the West Somerset League? If it is Holford, I can understand why they’ve won, their side is packed full of former Over Stowey players!

On the subject of league champions, congratulations must go to Yorkshire who became the 2014 County Champions last week, and with a game to spare. Consistently the best side throughout the County Championship season, deservedly winners – but they didn’t beat Somerset, now that is the kiss of death as Somerset play Yorkshire next week.

The only thing that has put a dampener on Yorkshire’s triumph is that their club captain, Andrew Gale, was banned by the ECB from lifting the trophy as he was currently serving a two match ban. A lot has been said, written etc about Gale not being able to be presented with the trophy, mostly from Yorkshire folk, but what does the ECB do?

Gale was banned as he breached the ECB code of conduct by hurling abuse towards Lancashire’s Ashwell Prince during their recent County Championship game. Serves him right, especially as he is captain. Somehow I think the ECB are right, as captain you should lead by example, uphold the values of cricket and things like that, so a ban is well in order. I wonder if the ECB will relent though, and do something during the Somerset game next week.

Enough of Yorkshire, back to the mighty Somerset. Two games left, all still to play for and Craig Kieswetter is back in the Somerset line-up, his first game since is horrific injury he picked-up against Northamptonshire. Two wins will do nicely, perhaps then third place and a small payout, perhaps my money back even.

Ok, Thatchers time. No supplement next week, on my jolly holidays, sampling cider in Cornwall, now that’s what I call a holiday!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Monday 8^th Sept 2014

During the summer months while I have been concentrating on Over Stowey’s 2^nd XI Grand Tour of the West Somerset League a lot has happened in the cricketing world, especially with my county, Somerset and my country, England of course.

So where do I start, I have so much to choose from:

·         Nosworthy – gone

·         Somerset’s average season

·         Somerset’s average signings

·         My bet, now worthless

·         Alastair Cook – should he stay, or should he go

·         Sam Robson v Alex Hales to open in Test’s

This is to name just a few.

The official line about Nosworthy’s departure was it was by mutual consent, in others words he was sacked and got a nice little pay off. He has taken Somerset backwards – it would be nice to think that other counties have caught up with Somerset’s ideas, but alas not, backwards seems to be the word mostly used about his tenure in charge.

I am not going to rip him apart, I am not like that; at the end of the day he done his best, words like rabbit in the headlights come to mind. Average signings, average performances (albeit one or two run chases), and my pre season bet has now gone down the pan.

I suppose one good thing is that Somerset avoided the drop last season, and this season they were fighting for the title, well up until the Warwickshire game, and was at one stage top for a day or two. Looks as if Yorkshire are nailed on to win the league now, with Somerset scrapping it out for 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th. 

So who is going to replace Nosworthy? Jamie Cox? Ashley Giles? Justin Langer? These are just three name bounded about at present, and we could quite easily add Jason Kerr’s name to the list. Cox and Langer have brought success to the county and Giles brought County Championship to Warwickshire.

Langer and Brian Rose built up a formidable partnership as Captain and Director of Cricket, dragging Somerset from division two mediocrity (remember that?) to a side who would challenge on all domestic fronts, and even taking them to the Champions League on a couple of occasions.

I suppose now here at Somerset we had got somewhat complacent expecting the side to qualify for knock-out stages or even going to finals in one day competitions, as we did under Langer & Rose, also somewhat with Trescothick & Rose. But has reality set in? Am I seeing the light? I don’t know, but the past two seasons seems to me to be a bit of a waste and a step backwards. Plus we have lost Jos Buttler.

But on a brighter note we do have some promising youngsters, it is nice to see the likes of Lewis Gregory, Jamie and Craig Overton, Tom Abell making a names for themselves. Especially Lewis; surely an England player in the making?

Enough of that, last home game at the end of this week, where has the summer gone? And then a trip to Yorkshire. Come on Somerset; make it two out of two and hopefully a runners-up spot (again). 

Right, Thatchers time, I shall not even attempt to talk about England and the absolute trash written in the media about Alastair Cook, they have always got to find fault. What did Derek Pringle exactly do for England?

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Now I am not great fan of Adil Rashid, but every run he made on Sunday and Monday for Yorkshire against Somerset made my teeth grind and my stomach churn. He seems to do it all the time against Somerset and will now say that he should be in contention for an England call-up.

Well only he says that. The last time he held a bat and bowled a ball for his country he was absolutely rubbish, a bit like Ravi Bopara, and was carrying a bit of weight. No wonder he was dropped.

So the 2014 County Championship season is now truly up and running, with Sussex showing some good form early on. They hammered Middlesex by and innings, and have recently skittled out Warwickshire for 87, ok they were 229 all out themselves and 20 wickets fell on a day, but hey they are in a commanding position.

Nottinghamshire have also made a winning start, beating newly promoted Lancashire in their first game and now scoring heavily against Middlesex in their current match. Saying that, Steve Finn and James Harris have taken four wickets a piece for Middlesex, giving the England selectors a nudge. Just glad to see Samit Patel failing for the second innings in a row for Notts – no you are not good enough for England, let alone batting as high as five for Notts.

You’d have to look in to Division Two for the best result of the opening round of matches, our friends from Glamorgan thumping money bags Surrey by 10 wickets. Great result and welcome to the real world Surrey, ha bloody ha!

Now, Gloucestershire, a county which rarely gets any column inches from me, but did you see a player called Tavare scoring a ton. Now, when I see the name Tavare my minds go back to Chris, the former Somerset captain, who will score slower than Boycott, but apparently the Gloucester youngster is his nephew, Will, and it’s his debut.  Looking at some pictures I see he has the Tavare trade mark moustache!

Back to Somerset, looks like taking wickets could be the problem, or have the ground curators produced an absolute belter for a change, well the next few days we’ll find out. But can anyone tell me why Peter Trego is not playing, just hope he is injured not dropped.

Ok, that’s enough from me, not much to say you’ll be relieved to read, cricket to watch, cider to drink!!!!!!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Before I start this week my thoughts go to the family off Derbyshire’s Tom Poynton who was involved in a fatal car crash on Friday where his father killed. Such a tragedy on the eve of the County Championship season just puts things into perspective.

+++++

The wait is almost over, Somerset start their County Championship campaign on Sunday when they host Yorkshire, so do we wish to believe that this will be Somerset’s year? Let’s blooming well hope so.

Well for all those who have parted with some well earned cash for my annual bet, thank you. Those who didn’t well, we will see if you are right to keep the monies in your pocket or not. I must admit I nearly put it all on for Somerset to win everything, but each-way will suffice, how difficult can it be to just to get to a final or two and then we’ll be quid’s in.

So who will be in Somerset’s line-up on Sunday? Well the University game which started today will hopefully give us some indication on the starting line-up, but who’s available, who’s fit, can we take 20 wickets?

So my punt is the following: Trescothick, Jones, Compton, Hildreth, Kieswetter, Trego, Meschede, Thomas, Overton, Overton and Dockrell. But what do I know? Lewis Gregory has shown a lot of promise pre-season, Jack Leach seems to improving leaps and bounds, Johnann Myburgh is a season campaigner, and don’t forget Alviro Petersen has to come in to the equation once he arrives.

And then how can we forget the whole-hearted Steve Kirby, who I believe is on the treatment table at the moment, plus he is preparing for the quiz night in aid of the recent flood victims. Then there are the likes of Alex Barrow, Adam Dibble, James Regan and Max Waller, all will be looking to push for a starting place in the first XI.

However, there is one player who I will keep a close eye on this season, and he is yet to make any sort of 1^st team appearances. This youngster scored in excess of 1,000 runs for the 2^nd XI last year, and surely a good start for the second string will not be ignored by the Somerset hierarchy. Tom Abell had a fantastic second half to the 2013 season. Jason Kerr, who was last season Academy Director and now 1^st XI bowling coach, knows all about Tom and his ability. Let’s see what happens eh?

Anyway, time for a cider me thinks, see you at the County Ground later in the week.

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Ashley Giles England’s new Head Coach is like saying Jade Dernbach is a world class T20 cricket player. For crying out loud, what kind of performance was that against Holland? The less said about it the better, but I am sure plenty of critics have got their pencils sharpened right now!

England have yet to appoint a successor to Andy Flower, and with the lack of strong candidates coming forward it looks as if “The King of Spain” is nailed on for the position. From what I can pick-up in the social media the likes of Gary Kirsten, Ottis Gibson and Stephen Fleming have made themselves unavailable – do you blame them, the choice between IPL riches or the highest profile job in international cricket? Think I know what I would choose.

Why not go back to Peter Moores. Since he parted his way with England over the Kevin Pietersen affair he has done a remarkable job at Lancashire (albeit one relegation) or even Nottinghamshire’s Mick Newell, but not Giles.

I know he has enjoyed success with Warwickshire; hence he got the position of ODI and T20 coach for England. But what has he done for England since? Not a great deal, I don’t know the statistics, but I would like to wager England have lost more than they have won in the shorter version of the game.

So England bow out woefully off World T20 at the Super 10 stage, did we really think they would win, I suppose the Sri Lanka game and the brilliance of Alex Hales gave us supporters some hope, but surely reality is England have gone backwards somewhat under Giles.

Ok, they were unlucky against New Zealand, they ran South Africa close and there have been a host of injuries, but this tournament and the Dutch result sums up England’s miserable winter, a winter where we all had high hopes.

The rebuilding of England’s Test side should be happening now, but without a Head Coach how can this be possible? Sri Lanka are over here from May for a T20, a host of ODI’s and then a couple of Test matches in June, but who will be in charge and who will line-up for England in the first Test?

Well here is my punt at the England starting XI for the first Test in June: Alastair Cook, Sam Robson, Jonathan Trott, Ian Bell, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Stuart Broad, Jimmy Anderson, Scott Borthwick and Steven Finn.

As you can see, some survivors from the Ashes, some new faces and a welcome return to Trott, he is England’s best batsman, so he should be picked despite walking out on the Ashes tour in the winter because he was burnt out – but how will the dressing room react to his selection, if picked off course!

Middlesex’s Sam Robson just looks class, he scored a shed load of runs for his County last summer, and when I have seen him at Taunton he just looks so at ease and comfortable, a natural opener. SO to select him poses a question in what to do with Joe Root, down the order I think, he does adapt well.

Ben Stokes had a cracking winter so deserves his place. Whereas Matt Prior didn’t and doesn’t, hence the selection off Jos Buttler. But it is the bowling that worries me and taking 20 wickets. Jimmy Anderson will love the English conditions and will take a hatful. Borthwick to me is a very rare commodity, an English legspinner, and we need someone to replace Graeme Swann. And as for Steve Finn, somehow I think playing county cricket for six weeks at the start of the County Championship season may do him more good than harm. But somehow there seems to be a lack of quality English bowlers.

Ok, enough of that, time for a cider me thinks, well it is 5.27ish! Next week a Somerset preview.

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

Just as I predicted last week, the winner of the Ireland Netherlands game would go through, but admittedly I didn’t predict the circumstances in which the Dutch would qualify! Cracking game and boy did the men in Orange give the ball a thump!

Now off course England got off to an expected defeat against New Zealand on Saturday, but the circumstances were very harsh indeed. Nobody wants to see games decided on the “Jack” Duckworth method and whether England would off won is a different matter. For once I agree with Stuart Broad, players were at risk with all the lightning flying about, the players should off come of earlier and one point each would have been fair.

So who next for England, Sri Lanka, talk about a must win game. Don’t worry England, Craig Kieswetter is on the way. By the time he gets out there, England will be packing their bags to come home! Oh what a pessimist I am.

So who is going to win the T20 World Cup? Me thinks either India or New Zealand. The Indians play this style of the game nearly all the time and the Kiwis have a very good unit led by the awesome Brendon McCullum. But in this format who knows, Pakistan could throw up a surprise, like they did when they beat Australia the other day, shame.

On the domestic front Somerset had a bit of a interesting start in their warm up match against Worcestershire last week. At 82-7 at lunch on the first day I began to wonder, but in the second innings Nick Compton showed his international class by scoring a classy century, with contributions from Kieswetter, Marcus Trescothick and James Hildreth.

As you may know to win the County Championship you need to win First Class games and to win First Class game you need to take 20 wickets. For me Somerset have an ideal attack to achieve this. The pace of the Overton twins, the guile of Alfonso Thomas the trickery of Pete Trego, the ever improving Craig Meschede and the spin of George Dockrell. Watch out Division One, Somerset are going to prove a lot of people wrong this season.

Meschede has come on leaps and bounds over the past two seasons. Not only is he improving with the ball, but is also a handy batsman coming in lower down the order. This could be a defining season for Craig. Can the likes of Alex Barrow and Chris Jones step up a level as well, if so, what a team Somerset will have.

Ok, those who have decided to bet on Somerset to win all three monies by the end of the week please, contact me via Facebook or my mobile and I’ll tell you how much and how to get payment to myself.

5.27....time for a cider me thinks!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

First some disturbing news, my Twitter account has seemed to hijacked by person or persons unknown, I have never heard of Nugraha Jalu Pratama, Pudrete Flanders or anyone whose name I can’t pronounce let alone read, and it seems that I am following them. Well, as from now I am not!

Ok, rant over. You may be (or may not) be aware that the ICC World Twenty 20 has started in Bangladesh, where England are looking to regain the trophy they won some four years ago. Yes four years when England won their first International piece of silverware; how long until the next one?

At the moment there is a host of First Round matched being played; two groups of four, with the top of each group going into the Super 10 stage, which includes England. Ireland is one of the sides who are playing on the Group stages and had earlier today won their first match against, arguably, their biggest threat by three wickets, winning off the last ball. Happy St Patrick’s Day!

They now face the UAE on Wednesday then the Netherlands on Friday, which is likely to be a winner-takes-all match if the Dutch win their opening two games. The group winners will then go in the same group as England in the Super 10 stage, and we don’t need reminding in what happened in the World Cup a couple of years ago when Kevin O’Brien thrashed England single handed. Oh well, something to look forward too I suppose.

England have been decimated with injuries, Stuart Broad, Joe Root and now Ben Stokes due to a hand injury when he punched a locker! Stokes, I believe, was sent home for disciplinary reasons when he was on tour with the England Lions back in January last year. Not a great start to his England career, but hey I have fait in him, he was the only bright light from the recent Ashes tour and I believe he will be one of England’s greats in years come.

Oh well, roll on Saturday when England take on New Zealand, Brendon McCullum and all that, but no Jessie Ryder!

That’s it for me this week, a bit under the weather at the moment, but hey, I am sure England will hep to improve my condition over the next few weeks, come on England!

5.27....time for a cider me thinks!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

With the cricket season just around the corner I am at lost in what to write about this week. It’s not because I have nothing in my locker to express my views and opinions, but some of it just seems so repetitive.

For example, England doing poorly before a major international tournament; why is Ravi Bopara even in the England set-up, let alone playing for the Three Lions!

Then we have Surrey, or should I say Division Two Surrey, or even Money Bags Surrey, and what’s the other one, Batty’s ..............??!? With Kevin Pietersen and Graeme Smith playing, surely they cannot fail this year – let’s hope so, roll on Sunday May 18th.

Next up is the mighty Over Stowey and preparations for the forthcoming season, training starts Sunday, new faces welcome etc..... On the subject of Stowey, and following on from last week, it was nice to see Chairman Phil Rich at Buckingham Palace at the weekend, picking up another award no doubt.

One thing which has caught my eye this week is former Over Stowey player Nik Kosy taking cricket to another corner of the world, representing England’s Barmy Army against a Chilean XI in Chile itself. Fascinating updates from Santiago via social media, shame about the results, but well done to you Nik, I believe you can call yourself an International Cricketer?

Now, with my Somerset membership recently arriving in the post, plus I got a car sticker to go with it as well, the season is in touching distance. Somerset are due back from South Africa where they have been preparing for the new campaign. And guess what, looking for some outside preparation, and it rains, whereas back here in Blighty the weather is scorching!

Oh well, the countdown is on, and the Sellsy annual bet is soon to be placed. Thanks to those who also are coming in with the bet, will be asking for your stake money soon.

5.27....oh and England won a game of cricket!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

The Chairman turned 50 years at the weekend, happy days! Yes, Over Stowey Cricket Club’s Chairman, Phil Rich, has reached another half century, this time without smashing a ball to kingdom come! Happy birthday Phil, here’s to the next 50!

Phil has been the backbone of Over Stowey cricket for some years now, leading the way with bat and ball when he was younger, fitter and slimmer; now in more recent years chairing a very active and vibrant cricket club – and he still turns out every Saturday.

It’s only right we reflect on a few highlights in Phil’s illustrious career at Over Stowey, crikey, this sounds like an obituary!

Cricket tour to Torquay, when Phil slayed bowlers all around Devon. One six against Marldon cleared the ground, bounced on the road, went through the pub window and ended up in someone’s lunch! However it was the innings on the Sunday against Cockington which stands out most for me on that tour.

Phil had just scored back to back centuries against a Duke of Marldon XI, then Marldon themselves and then it was the match on Sunday. Now, I will say what goes on tour, stays on tour especially what happened on that Saturday night. Everyone was very rough on the Sunday and no one really wanted to play cricket, and to make matters worse the sun was beating down.

We were in the field first, the home side piled on the runs and to say we were a little lethargic was somewhat an understatement. Chasing 280 was a very tall order, Phil said: “leave it to me!” and literally we did. 190 not out with balls flying all over Cockington, we mustered the other 91 runs, with help to byes, wides and leg-byes and  Stowey won and stayed undefeated on tour!

Another occasion was when I had the privilege in sharing a 153 opening partnership with Phil, of which I scored 13! This was against North Newton in a Sunday friendly fixture. Stowey won the toss, batted and I was chosen to open with Phil. He faced the first over and promptly smacked the first ball for six.

Phil reached his 50 within four overs, I hadn’t even scored a run and in fact I can’t remember if I hit the ball off the square or even hit the darn thing. Balls were smashed all round North Newton, at one stage he was on for six sixes in an over, only to miss time one which went for four instead! After I was out, Phil went onto hit a double ton and retired.

Phil has scored countless tons and double tons, plus has taken hatfuls’ of wickets as a bowler. He has represented the pick-of-the-league at least twice and won numerous awards through the league and has picked up countless trophies at the presentation evenings at Over Stowey.

To say it has been a privilege is an understatement, well his character off the pitch just sums him up, very warm and welcoming, with a few social drinks to go with it. Here’s to your next 50 Phil!

5.27....oh and England won a game of cricket!

Sellsy's Monday Supplement

The cricketers who represent the mighty Somerset flew out to South Africa at the weekend for a two week training camp. Warmer climate, no rain and training outdoors on grass, instead of being confined to indoor practice in Taunton, well it was great forward thinking by Dave Nosworthy.

It seems that the training centre is a high performance place; international athletes use the facilities, with state of the art technology to help improve things like fitness (what?). Dave has also recruited extra specialist coaches in batting, bowling, fielding and wicketkeeping; sounds as if it is going to be a serious intense fortnight for the players.

Alfonso Thomas coming back from Australia saying buoyant things are within the squad; lots of positive coverage about the Overton twins in various media publications; and lots of positive talk from younger players like Alex Barrow and Chris Jones, surely this is going to be Somerset’s season, surely?

Now call me long in the tooth, but I feel I have been here before, but somehow I am a bit more positive this season than I have been for some time. Let me tell you why.

Firstly, there will be no England distractions. Players like Nick Compton, Craig Kieswetter are no longer in the fore front minds of the England selectors, which is a shame for them and their careers, but good for Somerset.

Next, the youngsters would off gained a lot of experience last season. The afore mentioned Overton twins are a lot stronger and fitter than the last campaign, plus they have been with the England Performance squad, gaining valuable experience. The 2013 campaign proved the youngsters could hold their own in the top flight of First Class cricket, even though it was touch and go towards the end of the season whether Somerset would keep their top flight status, but now they need to take their game to the next level.

Thirdly, Dave Nosworthy being shrewd with his tinkering of the backroom staff. Andy Hurry has been pushed to one side and Dave has appointed specialist batting and bowling coaches who report directly to him. A more hands on approach perhaps? But he will have a lot more say this season over selection than last.

Lastly, Craig Kieswetter will have the gloves all season. There has been a lot of debate last year who was the better keeper, Craig or Jos Buttler, with both players sharing the responsibility. Completely unsatisfactory, Jos made a decision at the end of the season to go to Lancashire, which saddened many, but it now gives Somerset clarity about the wicketkeeping position – Alex Barrow might have a say in that!

With all this in mind, I have been trawling through bookmaker’s websites to see what prices Somerset are for the various competitions for the forthcoming season and they are good value. 9-1 for the County Championship, 15-2 for the 50 over competition and 10-1 for the T20. With this in mind along with my renewed optimism, my annual bet on Somerset to win all three will be placed with a bookie over the next week or so. Does anyone want to join in, if so, get in touch, the more the merrier, and I will let you know what type of bet I am doing.

So the lads have definitely got to walk the walk now!

5.27, enough of that, time for Thatchers and skittles.......!