Problems and Solutions?

Hello again fans. Occasional readers? Anybody? Apologies for the long absence from blogland. I have been trying to console myself following recent results for England and the most recent result for Somerset. Both country and county seem to be so close to, yet failing to achieve glory. It would seem that just a few tweaks here and there would dramatically change things for the better.

England’s recent tour of New Zealand was disappointing, even though it contained reasons for encouragement in the form of a Root double hundred, ongoing grit from Burns and a contribution from Pope. This would seem to suggest that Root can still score big runs as captain, though I am not convinced. Personally I would like to see Buttler or Broad as captain, both of whom I think would thrive in the role, leaving Root to concentrate on making consistent runs.

I feel our strongest batting lineup is close to being cemented. Burns, Root, Pope, Buttler and Stokes are certainties. Bairstow is also a highly likely insertion into the middle order. The other gaps to be filled would seem to be determined by the form of Denley, Sibley and possibly Crawley in the upcoming series in South Africa. Obviously victory in South Africa is highly desired, but a settled lineup for the Ashes is paramount.

A strong bowling lineup for both South Africa and Australia is going to take some planning and some luck. The return of a fully fit James Anderson would be a massive bonus, as would that of Mark Wood and Olly Stone. Adil Rashid or another attacking spinner would be also be a desirable compliment to Jack Leach. Joffra Archer is clearly indespensible, though he needs to be managed well. At present he seems unclear as to his role and not fit enough to bowl long hostile spells. I would like to see him used in short spells, with the bouncer used as a surprise, rather than a stock ball.

It was also concerning how ineffective England’s bowlers were on flat pitches with the Kookaburra ball in hand. They struggled to take any wickets or extract any movement off the pitch or through the air. New Zealand’s bowlers all managed to find a small degree of sideways movement on the other hand. Clearly a lot of practice is required with the kookaburra ball!

Closer to (my) home, and Somerset were again denied a Championship title by the smallest of margins. This year the weather played a large and frustrating part. Now we learn that we have been docked 12 points before the next season has even begun due to a pitch that was adjudicated to be substandard for lasts season’s final two games. Will we ever win the Championship? The wait continues.