Backfired

Middlesex 507-7 declared
Drew with
Essex 295 all out
Middlesex 239-3 declared
Essex 160-8

County Championship Division One

Played at Lord's

Monday 24 April 2017

Twitter @ball_sup

In a sense that ended unsatisfactorily. Although, because two results were possible. And, because there was WEATHER. Some of the passages of play were reasonably gripping. I broadly understand the regs. But, the sight of the Umpire taking a light reading at the end of every over is somewhat unedifying. It looks like they're trying to find a reason to get 'em off. Rather than keep 'em on.

And, remember, this is at a ground with state of the art floodlights. Which, they're not allowed to switch on for every game. Yes, mate, you read that right.

The Umps will have set the light standard on Day 1. When ten Doeschate seemed to ignore the plea to get the spinners on. That helped Essex, as Middle Saxon were running away with it then. So, to be scrupulously fair. They had to help to help Essex AGAIN on Day 4. It's all by the regs. But, it doesn't look good.

Anyway. Franklin took 36 overs out by batting again. His choice. Backfired. Quite a few Essex lads chipped in. Either runs, or sucking up balls.

Lervig, Lucky Jack, American Pale Ale from a tin at 4.7%.

469/979