This weekend sees the final official weekend of the Women's County Championship. However the reality is that there have been a number of cancelled games in Division 1 in particular, and any of these could be played before the 17th August cut-off date. I doubt that many of them will be played, unless counties are in with a shout of promotion or in the relegation zone.
This Sunday's fixtures are
Division 1
Berkshire v Warwickshire at Wokingham CC
Middlesex v Sussex at Edmonton CC
Surrey v Kent at Reed's School
Yorkshire v Notts at Harrogate CC
Division 2
Devon v Durham at Exmouth CC
Somerset v Ireland at Brislington CC
Wales v Cheshire at St Helen's Swansea
Staffordshire v Lancashire at Meakins
In Divison 1 the stand-out game is the top of the table clash between Surrey and Kent. Victory for Kent would seal their sixth Women's County Championship, equalling Sussex who took the title last year. Standing in their way seem to be Surrey's Nat Sciver (fresh from 154 last week on this same ground) with the bat and veteran leg-spinner Sarah Clarke (14 wickets to date). But as well as their England stars Kent have a leg-spinner of their own - New Zealand's Erin Bermingham - and they should have too much power for Surrey, who have punched above their weight all season. Even a defeat might not knock Kent off the top, depending on the bonus points scored, plus they have two cancelled games that they could still try and play.
At the bottom of the league Essex do not play so look down and out (their outstanding game is a cancelled game v Kent which is unlikely to be played you would think). Warwickshire, just above them take on Berkshire, knowing they need a win to boost their chances of avoiding the relegation play-off match with the Div 2 runners-up. A win for Berkshire will make sure they are safe and probably end their season, even though they have missed three games. It is a difficult one to call but if the side batting first can put 200+ on the board then they could win the day.
Meanwhile in North London Middlesex will be hoping that their T20 success translates into some 50 over form against a Sussex team that are in the doldrums, as they are just 1 point above Warwickshire. Middlesex will certainly be up for the game and they could consign Sussex to their third league defeat in a row.
In Harrogate Yorkshire take on a visiting Nott's side. Yorkshire are not completely out of the relegation picture, so could do with a win just to keep the wolves from the door. On paper it looks like quite an even match with the Yorkies keen to avenge being beaten to the T20 Finals by Notts. Should be a good contest.
In Divison 2 Lancashire are just about home and hosed at the top, but they will want to finish with a flourish against Staffs and confirm their place in Div 1 next year. They have been the standout team in the division and should take the win, even though Staffs have been on a decent run recently.
The question is who will finish second and gain the right to play-off against the second from bottom in Div 1 for the right to play Div 1 cricket next year. Devon's loss to Ireland last week opened up the door for both Ireland and Somerset, with Somerset in the driving seat, which makes the Somerset v Ireland game a must-see. Ireland have got stronger and stronger as the season has gone on, but so have Somerset after a slow start. They have Anya Shrubsole back with ball in hand and she might just be the difference. But not only do they need to win they need to pick up as many bonus points as possible. It will be an epic battle.
Devon have faltered of late, not helped by injuries to some key players. They need to make one final effort against lowly Durham and being at home may give them just that little edge. Someone in the Devon team apart from Roslie Fairbairn needs to stand up and be counted. A full bonus point win could take them back above Somerset into the prized second slot. If they fail to get there they do have another chance if they can re-arrange their cancelled match with Wales, but a defeat would effectively end their hopes.
The final game in Div 2 is the Wales v Cheshire match. Cheshire are currently sitting in the second from bottom spot above Worcestershire, who have finished their fixtures, and desperately need a win. If they could get it they might push Durham below them if they fail to get at least five points from their game with Devon. Wins for Durham and Cheshire could put Wales in a difficult spot, so they will not roll over and die.
It could be a very tense Sunday all over the country.
MD
24/VII/14
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Showing posts with label Cheshire. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cheshire. Show all posts
Thursday, 24 July 2014
Monday, 21 July 2014
Surrey keep up pressure on Kent; while Somerset leapfrog Devon into 2nd - WCC Week 5 Review
As you can see from the results below only one game survived the weather in Division 1, but it was a significant game as second-placed Surrey squeezed past Notts by just 7 runs. Surrey owed a huge debt of gratitude to Nat Sciver for their score of 242/9 - she scored 154 of their runs - as they recovered from 65/5 at one stage to post a very decent score. Sonia Odedra (4/43) and Megan Schutt (3/26) were the chief wicket-takers for Notts. In reply Notts got within a gnat's breath of pulling off the win with Jane Smit (77) and Danni Wyatt (43) leading the charge. Sarah Clake's great season with the ball continued as she took 4/47, bringing Surrey home. Surrey play Kent next Sunday at home in a top of the table clash, which should decide who finishes top of the division this year.
Div 1 Results
Essex v Middlesex abandoned
Kent v Berks cancelled
Surrey 242/9 beat Notts 235/9 by 7 runs
Warwickshire v Yorkshire cancelled
Div 2 Results
Somerset 111/4 beat Cheshire 110/10 by 6 wickets
Ireland 152/3 beat Devon 150/9 by 7 wickets
Staffs 214/7 beat Wales 160/10 by 54 runs
Durham 215/2 beat Worcestershire 104/10 by 111 runs
[Click here for up-to-date league tables]
With Lancs looking unassailable at the top and having a week off, the focus was on who will finish second in Div 2 and who will finish in the bottom two.
Ireland did their chances of finishing in the top two no harm at all with a comprehensive seven wicket win over rivals Devon. Having elected to bat Devon were soon in trouble at 30/3 with Laura Delany (5/30) doing the main damage, but Rosalie Fairbairn (65) and Vicky Bowden (26) took Devon to 124 before Bowden went. After that batsmen came and went with alarming regularity with Fairbairn the 9th to fall. Devon scraped to 150 and three batting points off the final ball of their 50 overs. But with Cecilia Joyce (53) and Delany (39) untroubled by the Devon attack Ireland cruised home with wickets and overs to spare.
Somerset took advantage of the defeat of their close neighbours Devon, and leapt into second in the league, with a comfortable five wicket win over Cheshire. Anya Shrubsole bowled her full compliment of overs for Somerset for just 14 runs and one wicket and the chief beneficiary of the pressure that she and fellow opener Cassie Coomes (seven overs for nine runs) applied was Jenny Withers who took 5/20, as only Jennifer Dunn (48) put up any serious resistance. Somerset raced to victory in the 26th over, but did manage to lose five wickets in the process, having been 48/3 at one stage. But the victory was never really in much doubt and next week's game between Somerset and Ireland assumes huge proportions.
At the bottom of the league Durham almost certainly consigned Worcestershire to Div 3 cricket next year when they defeated them by 111 runs to leave them at the foot of the table with only a potentially-reorganized cancelled game against Lancashire to save them. Durham posted 215/2 in their 50 overs with an undefeated 104 from Laura Hockaday the highlight. After openers Naomi Heywood (59*) and Charlotte North (29) Worcs had no answer to the bowling of Carloine Jamieson (4/18) and Elysa Hubbard (3/30) as they were blown away for 104 in the 38th over.
And finally in Div 2 Staffs clocked up their fourth win of their 2014 campaign by defeating Wales by 54 runs. Staffs posted 214/7 thanks to a patient 90 from skipper and opener Evelyn Jones and 40 from her fellow-opener Charlotte Whyle. Marsha Davies and Gwenan Davies each claimed two wickets for Wales. It was not a daunting target, but it was too much for Wales, who, having got off to a decent start through Gwenan Davies (43) and Megan Burton (40), subsided to 160 all out, with only one other batsmen making double figures. Kate Broadmore claimed 3/23 and Cheryl Allcock and Steph Butler each picked up a couple of wickets.
MD
21/VII/14
Div 1 Results
Essex v Middlesex abandoned
Kent v Berks cancelled
Surrey 242/9 beat Notts 235/9 by 7 runs
Warwickshire v Yorkshire cancelled
Div 2 Results
Somerset 111/4 beat Cheshire 110/10 by 6 wickets
Ireland 152/3 beat Devon 150/9 by 7 wickets
Staffs 214/7 beat Wales 160/10 by 54 runs
Durham 215/2 beat Worcestershire 104/10 by 111 runs
[Click here for up-to-date league tables]
With Lancs looking unassailable at the top and having a week off, the focus was on who will finish second in Div 2 and who will finish in the bottom two.
Ireland did their chances of finishing in the top two no harm at all with a comprehensive seven wicket win over rivals Devon. Having elected to bat Devon were soon in trouble at 30/3 with Laura Delany (5/30) doing the main damage, but Rosalie Fairbairn (65) and Vicky Bowden (26) took Devon to 124 before Bowden went. After that batsmen came and went with alarming regularity with Fairbairn the 9th to fall. Devon scraped to 150 and three batting points off the final ball of their 50 overs. But with Cecilia Joyce (53) and Delany (39) untroubled by the Devon attack Ireland cruised home with wickets and overs to spare.
Somerset took advantage of the defeat of their close neighbours Devon, and leapt into second in the league, with a comfortable five wicket win over Cheshire. Anya Shrubsole bowled her full compliment of overs for Somerset for just 14 runs and one wicket and the chief beneficiary of the pressure that she and fellow opener Cassie Coomes (seven overs for nine runs) applied was Jenny Withers who took 5/20, as only Jennifer Dunn (48) put up any serious resistance. Somerset raced to victory in the 26th over, but did manage to lose five wickets in the process, having been 48/3 at one stage. But the victory was never really in much doubt and next week's game between Somerset and Ireland assumes huge proportions.
At the bottom of the league Durham almost certainly consigned Worcestershire to Div 3 cricket next year when they defeated them by 111 runs to leave them at the foot of the table with only a potentially-reorganized cancelled game against Lancashire to save them. Durham posted 215/2 in their 50 overs with an undefeated 104 from Laura Hockaday the highlight. After openers Naomi Heywood (59*) and Charlotte North (29) Worcs had no answer to the bowling of Carloine Jamieson (4/18) and Elysa Hubbard (3/30) as they were blown away for 104 in the 38th over.
And finally in Div 2 Staffs clocked up their fourth win of their 2014 campaign by defeating Wales by 54 runs. Staffs posted 214/7 thanks to a patient 90 from skipper and opener Evelyn Jones and 40 from her fellow-opener Charlotte Whyle. Marsha Davies and Gwenan Davies each claimed two wickets for Wales. It was not a daunting target, but it was too much for Wales, who, having got off to a decent start through Gwenan Davies (43) and Megan Burton (40), subsided to 160 all out, with only one other batsmen making double figures. Kate Broadmore claimed 3/23 and Cheryl Allcock and Steph Butler each picked up a couple of wickets.
MD
21/VII/14
Tuesday, 15 July 2014
Women's County Championship Week 6 - Preview
There are just two official weekends left in the Women's County Championship (this Sunday (20th) and the following Sunday (27th)), so there is a great deal to play for this weekend. Sandwiched in between we have the first round of the new divisional T20 competition (Tues/Wed 22/23rd July - more here)
Division 1
Essex v Middlesex at Garon Park
Kent v Berkshire at Polo Farm
Surrey v Notts at Reed's School
Warwickshire v Yorkshire at King Edwards School, Birmingham
If Kent beat Berkshire they will set up their game the following weekend against Surrey to secure the championship. It is difficult to see Kent slipping up at home to Berkshire with Charlotte Edwards and Tammy Beaumont in such good form with the bat, but Berkshire picked up their second win of the season against Middlesex in the last round of games with Heather Knight finally in the runs. She and Beaumont may be competing for the England opener's slot in the forthcoming Test Match against India, so it will be interesting to see who has the better game. Kent have yet to drop a point in their campaign to date and they will be keen to maintain that record.
Surrey must win at home against Notts to keep up the pressure on Kent, who they then face in their last game of the season. They (and England) will be hoping that Nat Sciver can give them a few overs. She has not bowled for them for two months and they may need her if Dani Wyatt and Jenny Gunn can get going. They failed in the last round against Kent, who hammered Notts by nine wickets. This could be a tight game with one big performance helping their team to the take the honours. I think Notts might just pip it.
Warwickshire against Yorkshire is going to be a great scrap. Yorkshire scraped home against lowly Essex in their last game by just one wicket, chasing 183, thanks to another good knock by Kathryn Doherty (55*). Beyond the top four Yorkshire look vulnerable and if Warwickshire can take early wickets they could be in with a shout. Warwickshire will be desperate for the win, as they hover dangerously just two points above Essex at the bottom of the league with only a trip to Berkshire to come. Amy Jones (124) and Marie Kelly (63) helped themselves to some runs against Essex in Warwickshire's last game, but they will find Yorkshire's bowling a bit tougher. Seconds away - round one!
This could be Essex's last game of the season (if they fail to play their cancelled game v Kent). Defeat would almost certainly consign them to Division 2 cricket next year. Their batting is extremely fragile, but Sussex's Hannah Phelps has shored up the middle order, and Cordelia Griffith may make a comeback from injury with bat if not with ball, so Middlesex should not take this game too lightly. They too have only won one game (against Surrey) and losing to Essex would put them in a real scrap to avoid relegation. If they can hold their nerve Middlesex should win this one.
Division 2
Devon v Ireland at Axminster CC
Cheshire v Somerset at Cheadle CC
Durham v Worcestershire at Durham City CC
Staffs v Wales at Milford Hall
With Lancs away and clear at the top of the league and on a rest week, the focus turns to the three teams chasing for the all-important second spot and a tilt at Div 1 cricket next year (Devon, Somerset & Ireland), and the three teams battling it out at the bottom of the league trying to avoid relegation (Cheshire, Worcestershire & Durham). This makes the Devon v Ireland game a real humdinger. Devon have home advantage, of course, but they are without key players Jodie Dibble and Amara Carr, due to injury, and they will be relying on some young guns to get them through. Ireland had been struggling to get runs on the board, until their last game against Worcestershire, when they clocked up 256, with the top eight all getting into double figures. This could be a low-scoring tense afternoon of cricket.
Equally important at the bottom of the league is the clash between Durham and Worcestershire. This is potentially Worcestershire's last game of the season and they have only one more point than Durham, who still have Devon to play. Defeat for Worcestershire will almost certainly mean that they will be the automatically relegated team, unless they can pick up a hatful of bonus points in their defeat. Both teams only win of the year has come against Cheshire, who are just one point above Worcestershire with Somerset and Wales to play. Bonus points for runs and wickets may be almost as important as the win itself. It is going to be mighty close.
Somerset (in third) will expect to come away from Cheshire with full points in the bag. Unfortunately for Cheshire Anya Shrubsole seems to be back with ball in hand. She has yet to bowl a single over for Somerset, but did open the bowling on Sunday for Bath. A big win could see Somerset leapfrog over Devon into second and set up their final game of the season against Ireland as a real cracker.
MD
15/VII/14
Division 1
Essex v Middlesex at Garon Park
Kent v Berkshire at Polo Farm
Surrey v Notts at Reed's School
Warwickshire v Yorkshire at King Edwards School, Birmingham
If Kent beat Berkshire they will set up their game the following weekend against Surrey to secure the championship. It is difficult to see Kent slipping up at home to Berkshire with Charlotte Edwards and Tammy Beaumont in such good form with the bat, but Berkshire picked up their second win of the season against Middlesex in the last round of games with Heather Knight finally in the runs. She and Beaumont may be competing for the England opener's slot in the forthcoming Test Match against India, so it will be interesting to see who has the better game. Kent have yet to drop a point in their campaign to date and they will be keen to maintain that record.
Surrey must win at home against Notts to keep up the pressure on Kent, who they then face in their last game of the season. They (and England) will be hoping that Nat Sciver can give them a few overs. She has not bowled for them for two months and they may need her if Dani Wyatt and Jenny Gunn can get going. They failed in the last round against Kent, who hammered Notts by nine wickets. This could be a tight game with one big performance helping their team to the take the honours. I think Notts might just pip it.
Warwickshire against Yorkshire is going to be a great scrap. Yorkshire scraped home against lowly Essex in their last game by just one wicket, chasing 183, thanks to another good knock by Kathryn Doherty (55*). Beyond the top four Yorkshire look vulnerable and if Warwickshire can take early wickets they could be in with a shout. Warwickshire will be desperate for the win, as they hover dangerously just two points above Essex at the bottom of the league with only a trip to Berkshire to come. Amy Jones (124) and Marie Kelly (63) helped themselves to some runs against Essex in Warwickshire's last game, but they will find Yorkshire's bowling a bit tougher. Seconds away - round one!
This could be Essex's last game of the season (if they fail to play their cancelled game v Kent). Defeat would almost certainly consign them to Division 2 cricket next year. Their batting is extremely fragile, but Sussex's Hannah Phelps has shored up the middle order, and Cordelia Griffith may make a comeback from injury with bat if not with ball, so Middlesex should not take this game too lightly. They too have only won one game (against Surrey) and losing to Essex would put them in a real scrap to avoid relegation. If they can hold their nerve Middlesex should win this one.
Division 2
Devon v Ireland at Axminster CC
Cheshire v Somerset at Cheadle CC
Durham v Worcestershire at Durham City CC
Staffs v Wales at Milford Hall
With Lancs away and clear at the top of the league and on a rest week, the focus turns to the three teams chasing for the all-important second spot and a tilt at Div 1 cricket next year (Devon, Somerset & Ireland), and the three teams battling it out at the bottom of the league trying to avoid relegation (Cheshire, Worcestershire & Durham). This makes the Devon v Ireland game a real humdinger. Devon have home advantage, of course, but they are without key players Jodie Dibble and Amara Carr, due to injury, and they will be relying on some young guns to get them through. Ireland had been struggling to get runs on the board, until their last game against Worcestershire, when they clocked up 256, with the top eight all getting into double figures. This could be a low-scoring tense afternoon of cricket.
Equally important at the bottom of the league is the clash between Durham and Worcestershire. This is potentially Worcestershire's last game of the season and they have only one more point than Durham, who still have Devon to play. Defeat for Worcestershire will almost certainly mean that they will be the automatically relegated team, unless they can pick up a hatful of bonus points in their defeat. Both teams only win of the year has come against Cheshire, who are just one point above Worcestershire with Somerset and Wales to play. Bonus points for runs and wickets may be almost as important as the win itself. It is going to be mighty close.
Somerset (in third) will expect to come away from Cheshire with full points in the bag. Unfortunately for Cheshire Anya Shrubsole seems to be back with ball in hand. She has yet to bowl a single over for Somerset, but did open the bowling on Sunday for Bath. A big win could see Somerset leapfrog over Devon into second and set up their final game of the season against Ireland as a real cracker.
MD
15/VII/14
Monday, 30 June 2014
Kent & Lancs march on - WCC Week 5 Review
[UPDATED LEAGUE TABLES ARE HERE]
Kent and Lancashire maintained their unbeaten status and their vice-like grip at the top of Divisions 1 and 2 respectively, with just a couple of matches to go. Sussex were unexpectedly beaten by Surrey in Div 1 and Devon and Somerset seem to be vying for the play-off spot in Div 2 behind Lancs.
Division 1 - Results
Berkshire 174/5 v Middlesex 173/10 - Berks won by 5 wickets
Essex 183/8 v Yorkshire 184/9 - Yorkshire won by 1 wicket
Surrey 102/5 v Sussex 101/10 - Surrey won by 5 wickets
Kent 143/1 v Notts 142/9 - Kent won by 9 wickets
Kent have one hand very firmly on the 2014 Women's County Championship trophy after another comprehensive win, this time over rivals Notts. Notts were invited to bat first by Kent and had made steady progress to 119/3, but they had lost both Danni Wyatt (0) and Jenny Gunn (10), the mainstays of the Notts' batting this season. Opener Olivia Thornton (56) battled hard, but when she was out with the score at 119 the Notts' innings collapsed to 142 all out. Charlotte Pape lapped up 4/24 for Kent. It was never going to be enough, although there was a brief glimmer of hope when Megan Schutt had Charlotte Edwards caught behind for 11 with the score at 31/1, but it was to be Notts' only success as the in-form Tammy Beaumont hit an unbeaten 92 to steer Kent to another win with full bonus points. They have Berkshire and Surrey to play, plus the cancelled Essex game.
Surrey inflicted defeat on a lack-lustre Sussex side on the rebound from defeat to Kent last week. It was a low-calibre game on a low-calibre wicket at a low-calibre ground with low-calibre umpires. Rain had got under the covers on a poor wicket and the start was delayed by 2 hours. The umpires, who clearly had other things they needed to do that day, decided this warranted reducing the match to 35 overs per team, despite the fact that the regulations indicated that a 45 over game should have been played. Surrey, perhaps a little short on bowlers, were very happy to have a 35 over game. As it was Sussex failed to last 34 overs as they were bowled out for 101 with Alexia Walker top-scoring with 21. It was a tricky track but it was not that bad. Veteran Sarah Clarke took 3/9. Surrey were never really under any great run pressure, although the wicket of Nat Sciver (18) opened up a brief window for Sussex, but Susie Rowe (27) manufactured a few shots to lead her side to victory.
Middlesex will be cursing the fact that Berkshire's Heather Knight decided to play her best knock of the season so far against them, effectively taking them to a significant second victory of the season and ease their relegation play-off worries a little. Middlesex batted first, but did not capitalise on a decent start by Tash Miles (41) and Helen Stolle (29), which took them to 83 without loss. After they both fell it was a regular procession of batsmen which left Middlesex on 173 all out in exactly 50 overs. Fi Morris took 3/17. In reply Heather Knight made a tentative start as she lost Rogers, MacLeod and Hall in quick succession to leave Berkshire in a hole at 36/3, but she and Amanda Potgeiter (38), steadily rebuilt the innings. Potgeiter fell with the score at 120, but Knight continued and with the generous assistance of 35 wides, saw her side home with more than six overs to spare.
Essex produced a much better performance at Garron Park against Yorkshire, but it was not quite enough to pull off the win. Having elected to bat Essex put 183/8 on the board thanks to several double figure contributions, including 40 from Maddy Villiers and 35 from Hannah Phelps. Dani Hazell claimed 3/11 off her 10 overs. In reply Yorkshire had good early order contributions from Jess Watson (41) and Dani Hazell (23), but when they went they left it to Kathryn Doherty (55*) to try and steer the holed Yorkshire ship home. Numbers 5-11 contributed only 27 runs between them, but Aimee Simms did survive for 30 balls for her 8, allowing Doherty to accumulate enough runs to secure victory with the last two at the crease. Essex have Middlesex (who have also won only one game this season) and Kent left to play, and Warwickshire, who are just above them in the table, have Yorkshire and Berkshire.
Division 2 - Results
Worcestershire 151/6 v Ireland 256/6 - Ireland won by 105 runs
Cheshire 172/9 v Devon 174/6 - Devon won by 4 wickets
Somerset 228/2 v Staffordshire 147/10 - Somerset won by 81 runs
Lancashire 167/8 v Wales 104/10 - Lancs won by 63 runs
Lancashire were probably a little disappointed to have been kept down to 167/8 in their 50 overs against Wales, but ultimately it proved to be plenty. The Lancs' innings was built around three decent scores - Emma Lamb (36), Kate Cross (35), and Laura Marshall (29) with some decent late-order support. The Welsh bowlers shared the wickets around amongst themselves. Having reached 53/1 the Welsh innings imploded as Nalisha Patel 4/25 and Hannah Jones 3/17 skittled Wales out for 104. Lancs just have Staffs left to play on the last day of the regular season (27th July) and barring a catastrophe should finish the season as champions.
Devon kept up their chances of Div 1 cricket next year (assuming the league format stays as it is, which is apparently not a given) with a comfortable win over Cheshire. Cheshire had managed to put 172/9 on the board aided by 35 wides bowled by Devon and 43 from opener Jennifer Dunn. Rebecca Donahue claimed 3/28 for Devon. Devon were cruising in reply at 141/2 thanks to Hazelle Garton (55) and Alli Kelly (51), but 141/2 became 151/6, as Garton and Kelly fell with Dibble and Hannah, but O'Keefe and Jones saw Devon over the line. Devon have Ireland, Durham and Wales to play.
Somerset won a key match against fellow promotion hopefuls Staffs, to keep the pressure up on Devon just above them in the league. Somerset put 228/2 on the board with all of the top four contributing - Wilson (71), Luff (69), Le Marchand (38), and Anya Shrubsole (30). It was too much for Staffs who never really recovered from a poor start losing three wickets for 31 runs. Kate Broadmore (35) and Francesca James (26) led a decent middle-order effort, but when four wickets fell with the score on 97 the game was up, despite a dogged 27 not out from number 9 Kathryn Whyle. She dragged the game into the 49th over before she lost her final partner with the score on 147.
Ireland moved above Staffs with a comprehensive win over Worcestershire. Ireland were inserted by their hosts and all the batsmen got into double figures, with Cecilia Joyce (62) and Laura Delany (44) the chief run scorers. In reply opener Naomi Heywood batted the entire innings for 70*, with Clare Boycott also contributing 41, but Worcestershire ended up 105 runs adrift with four wickets still in hand, and, with just one win to their credit, are hovering just above Durham at the bottom of the division.
MD
30/VI/14
Kent and Lancashire maintained their unbeaten status and their vice-like grip at the top of Divisions 1 and 2 respectively, with just a couple of matches to go. Sussex were unexpectedly beaten by Surrey in Div 1 and Devon and Somerset seem to be vying for the play-off spot in Div 2 behind Lancs.
Division 1 - Results
Berkshire 174/5 v Middlesex 173/10 - Berks won by 5 wickets
Essex 183/8 v Yorkshire 184/9 - Yorkshire won by 1 wicket
Surrey 102/5 v Sussex 101/10 - Surrey won by 5 wickets
Kent 143/1 v Notts 142/9 - Kent won by 9 wickets
Kent have one hand very firmly on the 2014 Women's County Championship trophy after another comprehensive win, this time over rivals Notts. Notts were invited to bat first by Kent and had made steady progress to 119/3, but they had lost both Danni Wyatt (0) and Jenny Gunn (10), the mainstays of the Notts' batting this season. Opener Olivia Thornton (56) battled hard, but when she was out with the score at 119 the Notts' innings collapsed to 142 all out. Charlotte Pape lapped up 4/24 for Kent. It was never going to be enough, although there was a brief glimmer of hope when Megan Schutt had Charlotte Edwards caught behind for 11 with the score at 31/1, but it was to be Notts' only success as the in-form Tammy Beaumont hit an unbeaten 92 to steer Kent to another win with full bonus points. They have Berkshire and Surrey to play, plus the cancelled Essex game.
Surrey inflicted defeat on a lack-lustre Sussex side on the rebound from defeat to Kent last week. It was a low-calibre game on a low-calibre wicket at a low-calibre ground with low-calibre umpires. Rain had got under the covers on a poor wicket and the start was delayed by 2 hours. The umpires, who clearly had other things they needed to do that day, decided this warranted reducing the match to 35 overs per team, despite the fact that the regulations indicated that a 45 over game should have been played. Surrey, perhaps a little short on bowlers, were very happy to have a 35 over game. As it was Sussex failed to last 34 overs as they were bowled out for 101 with Alexia Walker top-scoring with 21. It was a tricky track but it was not that bad. Veteran Sarah Clarke took 3/9. Surrey were never really under any great run pressure, although the wicket of Nat Sciver (18) opened up a brief window for Sussex, but Susie Rowe (27) manufactured a few shots to lead her side to victory.
Middlesex will be cursing the fact that Berkshire's Heather Knight decided to play her best knock of the season so far against them, effectively taking them to a significant second victory of the season and ease their relegation play-off worries a little. Middlesex batted first, but did not capitalise on a decent start by Tash Miles (41) and Helen Stolle (29), which took them to 83 without loss. After they both fell it was a regular procession of batsmen which left Middlesex on 173 all out in exactly 50 overs. Fi Morris took 3/17. In reply Heather Knight made a tentative start as she lost Rogers, MacLeod and Hall in quick succession to leave Berkshire in a hole at 36/3, but she and Amanda Potgeiter (38), steadily rebuilt the innings. Potgeiter fell with the score at 120, but Knight continued and with the generous assistance of 35 wides, saw her side home with more than six overs to spare.
Essex produced a much better performance at Garron Park against Yorkshire, but it was not quite enough to pull off the win. Having elected to bat Essex put 183/8 on the board thanks to several double figure contributions, including 40 from Maddy Villiers and 35 from Hannah Phelps. Dani Hazell claimed 3/11 off her 10 overs. In reply Yorkshire had good early order contributions from Jess Watson (41) and Dani Hazell (23), but when they went they left it to Kathryn Doherty (55*) to try and steer the holed Yorkshire ship home. Numbers 5-11 contributed only 27 runs between them, but Aimee Simms did survive for 30 balls for her 8, allowing Doherty to accumulate enough runs to secure victory with the last two at the crease. Essex have Middlesex (who have also won only one game this season) and Kent left to play, and Warwickshire, who are just above them in the table, have Yorkshire and Berkshire.
Division 2 - Results
Worcestershire 151/6 v Ireland 256/6 - Ireland won by 105 runs
Cheshire 172/9 v Devon 174/6 - Devon won by 4 wickets
Somerset 228/2 v Staffordshire 147/10 - Somerset won by 81 runs
Lancashire 167/8 v Wales 104/10 - Lancs won by 63 runs
Lancashire were probably a little disappointed to have been kept down to 167/8 in their 50 overs against Wales, but ultimately it proved to be plenty. The Lancs' innings was built around three decent scores - Emma Lamb (36), Kate Cross (35), and Laura Marshall (29) with some decent late-order support. The Welsh bowlers shared the wickets around amongst themselves. Having reached 53/1 the Welsh innings imploded as Nalisha Patel 4/25 and Hannah Jones 3/17 skittled Wales out for 104. Lancs just have Staffs left to play on the last day of the regular season (27th July) and barring a catastrophe should finish the season as champions.
Devon kept up their chances of Div 1 cricket next year (assuming the league format stays as it is, which is apparently not a given) with a comfortable win over Cheshire. Cheshire had managed to put 172/9 on the board aided by 35 wides bowled by Devon and 43 from opener Jennifer Dunn. Rebecca Donahue claimed 3/28 for Devon. Devon were cruising in reply at 141/2 thanks to Hazelle Garton (55) and Alli Kelly (51), but 141/2 became 151/6, as Garton and Kelly fell with Dibble and Hannah, but O'Keefe and Jones saw Devon over the line. Devon have Ireland, Durham and Wales to play.
Somerset won a key match against fellow promotion hopefuls Staffs, to keep the pressure up on Devon just above them in the league. Somerset put 228/2 on the board with all of the top four contributing - Wilson (71), Luff (69), Le Marchand (38), and Anya Shrubsole (30). It was too much for Staffs who never really recovered from a poor start losing three wickets for 31 runs. Kate Broadmore (35) and Francesca James (26) led a decent middle-order effort, but when four wickets fell with the score on 97 the game was up, despite a dogged 27 not out from number 9 Kathryn Whyle. She dragged the game into the 49th over before she lost her final partner with the score on 147.
Ireland moved above Staffs with a comprehensive win over Worcestershire. Ireland were inserted by their hosts and all the batsmen got into double figures, with Cecilia Joyce (62) and Laura Delany (44) the chief run scorers. In reply opener Naomi Heywood batted the entire innings for 70*, with Clare Boycott also contributing 41, but Worcestershire ended up 105 runs adrift with four wickets still in hand, and, with just one win to their credit, are hovering just above Durham at the bottom of the division.
MD
30/VI/14
Friday, 27 June 2014
Women's County Championship Week 5 - Preview
It is only the end of June but we are already getting to the nitty gritty end of the Women's County Championship. This weekend serves up some more tasty encounters. In Division 1 another win by Kent might just seal the County Championship for them, and in Division 2 promotion hopefuls Somerset and Staffs clash. Around 500 people watched the Sussex v Kent game last week. It would be good to see similar crowds at all the games this week.
Division 1
Berkshire v Middlesex at Wokingham CC
Essex v Yorkshire at Garon Park
Surrey v Sussex at Imber Court
Kent v Notts at Nevill Ground, Tunbridge Wells
Kent, fresh from their convincing win over Sussex last week, meet Notts, who just managed to hold on against Middlesex in their last fixture. Notts are still right up there at the top of the league (they will be kicking themselves that they lost to Berkshire by one run in their opening game of the season) and can afford to chuck everything they have at Kent. Charlotte Edwards is in imperious form (three hundreds in four games so far) but if they can catch her on an off day, then the Kent nerves may jangle. Danni Wyatt and Jenny Gunn have been the mainstay of the Notts batting and they will again be key.
Sussex travel to Surrey, who had last week off. Surrey started their season well with wins over Warwickshire, Yorkshire and Essex, but slipped up against Middlesex a couple of weeks back. Sussex will be keen to keep the pressure up on Kent at the top and take advantage of any slight mistake they may make, so they must go for the win. Surrey have won their games with team efforts, rather than individual brilliance. Only one Surrey batsmen has so far got past 50, and the wickets have generally been shared around. Sussex will hope to impose themselves on this game and take full points from it.
Since their opening win of the season at Notts, Berkshire have struggled, losing to both Essex and Yorkshire. This game against Middlesex is one they must be looking to win. Defeat would put them into the relegation mix with some tough games to comes - including Kent, Sussex and Surrey. The same can be said of Middlesex, who have also won only one game, although they probably should have beaten Notts last week. They will hope nerves don't get the better of them this week and that Heather Knight's poor run of form continues. I think the Middlesex Meatballs will come away with the win.
Finally Essex entertain Yorkshire. Essex's hopes of reviving their season must have been high after they defeated Berkshire two week's ago, but they came crashing back down to earth when they were bowled out for 49 last week by Warwickshire, who won by the small margin of 311 runs. Yorkshire won their first game of the season against Berkshire last week and should add to Essex's woes by inflicting another defeat on them.
Division 2
Worcestershire v Ireland at Stourbridge CC
Cheshire v Devon at Barnton CC
Somerset v Staffordshire at Nailsea CC
Lancashire v Wales at Sutton CC
Lancashire can cement their position at the top of Division 2 when they take on Wales at Sutton CC in their penultimate game of the season. After this week they will only have Staffordshire left to play and promotion to Division 1 is agonizingly close for them. Wales will be no pushover, but Lancs are likely to prove to be too strong for them.
With Lancs seemingly away at the top of the division, there are a number of teams jostling for the runners-up spot and a tilt at Division 1 status via the play-offs. Devon currently hold second spot, after defeat to Lancashire last week. They have the long journey to Cheshire, who are one of the three teams trying desperately to stave off relegation (along with Durham and Worcestershire). Devon have the players to win this game, but it might be tighter than they would like.
Somerset have recovered from a poor start to the season and have fought their way back into contention for the runners-up spot, but they find themselves against Staffordshire, who have exactly the same points tally as they do from the same number of games. The team that loses can probably wave goodbye to any chance of promotion, so this is the weekend's big clash. So far this season Anya Shrubsole has not bowled a ball for her county. Might she do so this weekend? Somerset have potentially the better batting line-up, but they have not always performed this season. Home advantage might just swing it their way and keep their promotion hopes alive.
Ireland are not out of the runners-up equation either. They are just four points behind Somerset and Staffs and they travel to Worcestershire. The Irish girls did not play last week, but they had hit some form in their game the previous week against Wales, and if their batsmen can back up what their bowlers do then a win should be on the cards for them, leaving the clash between Durham and Worcestershire in mid-July as a huge game.
MD
27/VI/14
Division 1
Berkshire v Middlesex at Wokingham CC
Essex v Yorkshire at Garon Park
Surrey v Sussex at Imber Court
Kent v Notts at Nevill Ground, Tunbridge Wells
Kent, fresh from their convincing win over Sussex last week, meet Notts, who just managed to hold on against Middlesex in their last fixture. Notts are still right up there at the top of the league (they will be kicking themselves that they lost to Berkshire by one run in their opening game of the season) and can afford to chuck everything they have at Kent. Charlotte Edwards is in imperious form (three hundreds in four games so far) but if they can catch her on an off day, then the Kent nerves may jangle. Danni Wyatt and Jenny Gunn have been the mainstay of the Notts batting and they will again be key.
Sussex travel to Surrey, who had last week off. Surrey started their season well with wins over Warwickshire, Yorkshire and Essex, but slipped up against Middlesex a couple of weeks back. Sussex will be keen to keep the pressure up on Kent at the top and take advantage of any slight mistake they may make, so they must go for the win. Surrey have won their games with team efforts, rather than individual brilliance. Only one Surrey batsmen has so far got past 50, and the wickets have generally been shared around. Sussex will hope to impose themselves on this game and take full points from it.
Since their opening win of the season at Notts, Berkshire have struggled, losing to both Essex and Yorkshire. This game against Middlesex is one they must be looking to win. Defeat would put them into the relegation mix with some tough games to comes - including Kent, Sussex and Surrey. The same can be said of Middlesex, who have also won only one game, although they probably should have beaten Notts last week. They will hope nerves don't get the better of them this week and that Heather Knight's poor run of form continues. I think the Middlesex Meatballs will come away with the win.
Finally Essex entertain Yorkshire. Essex's hopes of reviving their season must have been high after they defeated Berkshire two week's ago, but they came crashing back down to earth when they were bowled out for 49 last week by Warwickshire, who won by the small margin of 311 runs. Yorkshire won their first game of the season against Berkshire last week and should add to Essex's woes by inflicting another defeat on them.
Division 2
Worcestershire v Ireland at Stourbridge CC
Cheshire v Devon at Barnton CC
Somerset v Staffordshire at Nailsea CC
Lancashire v Wales at Sutton CC
Lancashire can cement their position at the top of Division 2 when they take on Wales at Sutton CC in their penultimate game of the season. After this week they will only have Staffordshire left to play and promotion to Division 1 is agonizingly close for them. Wales will be no pushover, but Lancs are likely to prove to be too strong for them.
With Lancs seemingly away at the top of the division, there are a number of teams jostling for the runners-up spot and a tilt at Division 1 status via the play-offs. Devon currently hold second spot, after defeat to Lancashire last week. They have the long journey to Cheshire, who are one of the three teams trying desperately to stave off relegation (along with Durham and Worcestershire). Devon have the players to win this game, but it might be tighter than they would like.
Somerset have recovered from a poor start to the season and have fought their way back into contention for the runners-up spot, but they find themselves against Staffordshire, who have exactly the same points tally as they do from the same number of games. The team that loses can probably wave goodbye to any chance of promotion, so this is the weekend's big clash. So far this season Anya Shrubsole has not bowled a ball for her county. Might she do so this weekend? Somerset have potentially the better batting line-up, but they have not always performed this season. Home advantage might just swing it their way and keep their promotion hopes alive.
Ireland are not out of the runners-up equation either. They are just four points behind Somerset and Staffs and they travel to Worcestershire. The Irish girls did not play last week, but they had hit some form in their game the previous week against Wales, and if their batsmen can back up what their bowlers do then a win should be on the cards for them, leaving the clash between Durham and Worcestershire in mid-July as a huge game.
MD
27/VI/14
Tuesday, 24 June 2014
Women's County Championship - Week Four Round Up
A potentially decisive weekend in both top divisions with important wins for Kent and Lancashire at the top of their respective leagues, defeat for Essex at the bottom of Division 1 and a first win for Durham at the bottom of Division 2.
Division 1
Results
Kent 299/3 beat Sussex 217 all out by 82 runs
Notts 194/6 beat Middlesex 192 all out by 2 runs
Warwickshire 360/6 beat Essex 49 all out by 311 runs
Yorkshire 251/9 beat Berkshire 202 all out by 49 runs
Sussex will be ruing inviting Kent, with a top four batting line-up who all play for England, to come and play them on one of the best batting tracks in England at Arundel Castle. A good crowd of a couple of hundred saw Kent rack up 299/3 with Charlotte Edwards (151) and Tammy Beaumont (107) enjoying an opening partnership of 253. Sussex missed playing, but injured, Sarah Taylor behind the stumps (both openers were dropped); playing but injured Geogia Elwiss's bowling and Arran Brindle, absent for family reasons. In reply Sussex were going well after the early loss of Georgia Adams (4), with Elwiss (92) and Taylor (56) taking the score to 140/1 in the 26th over, before Taylor clipped a Megan Belt full-toss straight to Lydia Greenway at midwicket. A great deal now rested on Elwiss with Sussex fielding a very young middle order line-up. She and Izzy Collis (19) took the score to 187 at drinks at 34 overs. But first ball after drinks Laura Marsh claimed the vital wicket of Elwiss, given out lbw, and from there the Sussex innings subsided to 217 all out. New Zealand import Erin Birmingham claimed 4/28.
Notts just managed to cling on to beat Middlesex in a thriller at Welbeck CC. Notts had been restricted to 194/6 in their 50 overs with Jenny Gunn (57) and Danni Wyatt (49) again in the runs. Danni Warren (2/18) was the pick of the bowlers. In response Middlesex lost opener Helen Stolle to the second ball of the innings, but thereafter the top order accumulated runs nicely - Catherine Dalton (48), Tash Miles (42) and Emma Inglis (41) - and Middlesex seemed to be cruising to victory. But four wickets from Wyatt (4/41) saw Middlesex needing 12 from the last three overs with two wickets in hand. A run out left them needing six from the last and Amy Gauvrit won it for Notts with a wicket from the penultimate ball.
Yorkshire picked up their first win of the season against a Berkshire team that are slipping down the league table after successive defeats. Yorkshire owed their 253/9 to a magnificent 128 from opener Lauren Winfield. Fellow opener Jess Watson (33) and Kathryn Doherty (22) were the only other major contributors, in an innings which saw four Yorkshire players run out. Alice MacLeod (76) led the Berkshire reply, but Aimee Simms (3/42) claimed three crucial middle order wickets, including MacLeod's, which took the wind out of Berkshire's sails. They ended well short on 207/9.
Warwickshire too picked up their first win of their 2014 campaign against an Essex team that seem destined to play in Division 2 next year. Amy Jones hit an 80 ball 124, as Warwickshire amassed 360/6 in their 50 overs. Marie Kelly (63) and Minahil Zahoor (61) also enjoyed themselves. A demoralised Essex were bowled out for 49 in less then 20 overs with Georgia Hennessy (3/13) and Laura Crofts (3/17) the chief beneficiaries.
Division 2
Results
Durham beat Cheshire
Lancashire 230/5 beat Devon 227/7 by 5 wickets
Staffs 188/3 beat Worcestershire 187 all out by 7 wickets
Somerset 126/5 beat Wales 122 all out by 5 wickets
Lancashire were indebted to England's Kate Cross, who set up their victory over title challengers Devon not only with a three wicket haul, but then a vital 63 not out. Devon had put 227/7 on the board with in-form Rosalie Fairbairn (96*) and Linton Hannah (50) the major contributors. Cross claimed 3/40 and Jasmine Titmuss 2/29. Lancs might have wavered when they lost their third wicket at 102, but Cross came in to join Natalie Brown, who hit an equally important 66, before she became one of Jodie Dibble's three victims (3/39). But by this time the Lancs score had moved on to 194/4 and Cross guided her team home, and to the top of the league, with three overs to spare.
Staffs completed a comfortable victory over Worcestershire after bowling them out for 187 in the last of their 50 overs. New Zealander Kate Broadmore produced season best figures of 6/31 as only Sarvenaz Razavi (58) and Lauren Rowles (50) put up any great resistance for Worcestershire. Charlotte Whyle (106*) produced her best batting of the season as Staffs romped home with more than six overs to spare.
Somerset chased down Wales rather meager total of 122 all out, but only after having been a nervous 74/4 at one stage. Loraine Szcezepanski took 3/17 with only Gwenan Davies (29) and Megan Burton (20) getting out of the teens for Wales. Fran Wilson (45) anchored the Somerset reply before being run out trying to run the winning run.
Durham won what was a "must-win" game for them against Cheshire. Durham could only put 132 on the board with four batsmen getting into the 20s. Sophie Ecclestone took 4/31 and Cheshire probably felt confident they could send Durham crashing to 6th defeat, but Elysa Hubbard (4/12) and her fellow bowlers for Durham had other ideas. At 98/8 Durham must have felt confident of a victory, but that became 125/8, befoe Hailey Falla claimed her only, but the vital 9th wicket of Gaby McKeever (17), who looked like she was going to steal the game from under Durham's noses. Lynn McDonnell then wrapped up the Cheshire innings without any further runs scored. Durham remain bottom of the league, but are in touch with Worcestershire and Cheshire just above them.
scorecards are available here
up-to-date league tables are here
MD
24/VI/16
Division 1
Results
Kent 299/3 beat Sussex 217 all out by 82 runs
Notts 194/6 beat Middlesex 192 all out by 2 runs
Warwickshire 360/6 beat Essex 49 all out by 311 runs
Yorkshire 251/9 beat Berkshire 202 all out by 49 runs
Sussex will be ruing inviting Kent, with a top four batting line-up who all play for England, to come and play them on one of the best batting tracks in England at Arundel Castle. A good crowd of a couple of hundred saw Kent rack up 299/3 with Charlotte Edwards (151) and Tammy Beaumont (107) enjoying an opening partnership of 253. Sussex missed playing, but injured, Sarah Taylor behind the stumps (both openers were dropped); playing but injured Geogia Elwiss's bowling and Arran Brindle, absent for family reasons. In reply Sussex were going well after the early loss of Georgia Adams (4), with Elwiss (92) and Taylor (56) taking the score to 140/1 in the 26th over, before Taylor clipped a Megan Belt full-toss straight to Lydia Greenway at midwicket. A great deal now rested on Elwiss with Sussex fielding a very young middle order line-up. She and Izzy Collis (19) took the score to 187 at drinks at 34 overs. But first ball after drinks Laura Marsh claimed the vital wicket of Elwiss, given out lbw, and from there the Sussex innings subsided to 217 all out. New Zealand import Erin Birmingham claimed 4/28.
Notts just managed to cling on to beat Middlesex in a thriller at Welbeck CC. Notts had been restricted to 194/6 in their 50 overs with Jenny Gunn (57) and Danni Wyatt (49) again in the runs. Danni Warren (2/18) was the pick of the bowlers. In response Middlesex lost opener Helen Stolle to the second ball of the innings, but thereafter the top order accumulated runs nicely - Catherine Dalton (48), Tash Miles (42) and Emma Inglis (41) - and Middlesex seemed to be cruising to victory. But four wickets from Wyatt (4/41) saw Middlesex needing 12 from the last three overs with two wickets in hand. A run out left them needing six from the last and Amy Gauvrit won it for Notts with a wicket from the penultimate ball.
Yorkshire picked up their first win of the season against a Berkshire team that are slipping down the league table after successive defeats. Yorkshire owed their 253/9 to a magnificent 128 from opener Lauren Winfield. Fellow opener Jess Watson (33) and Kathryn Doherty (22) were the only other major contributors, in an innings which saw four Yorkshire players run out. Alice MacLeod (76) led the Berkshire reply, but Aimee Simms (3/42) claimed three crucial middle order wickets, including MacLeod's, which took the wind out of Berkshire's sails. They ended well short on 207/9.
Warwickshire too picked up their first win of their 2014 campaign against an Essex team that seem destined to play in Division 2 next year. Amy Jones hit an 80 ball 124, as Warwickshire amassed 360/6 in their 50 overs. Marie Kelly (63) and Minahil Zahoor (61) also enjoyed themselves. A demoralised Essex were bowled out for 49 in less then 20 overs with Georgia Hennessy (3/13) and Laura Crofts (3/17) the chief beneficiaries.
Division 2
Results
Durham beat Cheshire
Lancashire 230/5 beat Devon 227/7 by 5 wickets
Staffs 188/3 beat Worcestershire 187 all out by 7 wickets
Somerset 126/5 beat Wales 122 all out by 5 wickets
Lancashire were indebted to England's Kate Cross, who set up their victory over title challengers Devon not only with a three wicket haul, but then a vital 63 not out. Devon had put 227/7 on the board with in-form Rosalie Fairbairn (96*) and Linton Hannah (50) the major contributors. Cross claimed 3/40 and Jasmine Titmuss 2/29. Lancs might have wavered when they lost their third wicket at 102, but Cross came in to join Natalie Brown, who hit an equally important 66, before she became one of Jodie Dibble's three victims (3/39). But by this time the Lancs score had moved on to 194/4 and Cross guided her team home, and to the top of the league, with three overs to spare.
Staffs completed a comfortable victory over Worcestershire after bowling them out for 187 in the last of their 50 overs. New Zealander Kate Broadmore produced season best figures of 6/31 as only Sarvenaz Razavi (58) and Lauren Rowles (50) put up any great resistance for Worcestershire. Charlotte Whyle (106*) produced her best batting of the season as Staffs romped home with more than six overs to spare.
Somerset chased down Wales rather meager total of 122 all out, but only after having been a nervous 74/4 at one stage. Loraine Szcezepanski took 3/17 with only Gwenan Davies (29) and Megan Burton (20) getting out of the teens for Wales. Fran Wilson (45) anchored the Somerset reply before being run out trying to run the winning run.
Durham won what was a "must-win" game for them against Cheshire. Durham could only put 132 on the board with four batsmen getting into the 20s. Sophie Ecclestone took 4/31 and Cheshire probably felt confident they could send Durham crashing to 6th defeat, but Elysa Hubbard (4/12) and her fellow bowlers for Durham had other ideas. At 98/8 Durham must have felt confident of a victory, but that became 125/8, befoe Hailey Falla claimed her only, but the vital 9th wicket of Gaby McKeever (17), who looked like she was going to steal the game from under Durham's noses. Lynn McDonnell then wrapped up the Cheshire innings without any further runs scored. Durham remain bottom of the league, but are in touch with Worcestershire and Cheshire just above them.
scorecards are available here
up-to-date league tables are here
MD
24/VI/16
Friday, 20 June 2014
Women's County Championship - Week 4 - Preview
Some massive games at both the top and the bottom of both the first and the second divisions of the Women's County Championship this Sunday. It could well be that this weekend could end up being the decisive one in terms of who wins Division 1 and who gets the automatic promotion place from Division 2. As for relegation there are a few nervous sides out there in both divisions, who desperately need a win.
Division 1
Essex v Warwickshire at Garron Park
Notts v Middlesex at Welbeck CC
Sussex v Kent at Arundel Castle CC
Yorkshire v Berkshire at Harrogate CC
After Surrey's defeat to Middlesex last week, the two remaining unbeaten teams in Division 1 - Sussex and Kent - meet each other at the beautifully picturesque Arundel Castle ground. The two teams seem, as usual, to have just too much for the others in the league, and therefore you would think that whoever wins this game will go on to be crowned County Champions. Last year Sussex got the better of their local rivals, chasing down 200 with some ease. Kent, after a further loss to Yorkshire, failed to make the County Championship final for the first time in the last 10 years. They will be out for revenge.
We understand that they will be at full strength, with England internationals Charlotte Edwards, Tammy Beaumont, Lydia Greenway and Laura Marsh forming their top four with the bat. We also understand that former England international Lauren Griffith may well take the gloves for Kent for the first time. Sussex have injury worries over Sarah Taylor and Georgia Elwiss, who both missed last week's win over Yorkshire, but they will take heart from their performance at Harrogate and the fact that they won this fixture last year without Taylor and the then-injured Colvin. Arundel is renowned as a good batting deck and you would expect this to be a high-scoring game. If Sussex can get their full side on the pitch then they might just have the edge again.
Notts have a fascinating match against Middlesex, who will be looking to continue their climb up the table. Notts have relied heavily on Danni Wyatt and Jenny Gunn with the bat so far this season and may have injury worries with all-rounder Sonia Odedra. Middlesex need their top order to fire with the bat and to make early breakthroughs with the ball and they may well be in with a shout.
The bottom four are all in action against each other. Essex, fresh from their first win of the season last week against Berkshire, courtesy of Aussie Heather Graham, take on Warwickshire, who are currently winless. Yorkshire, also still without a win, take on Berkshire, who don't have the strongest of bowling attacks. Last week Warwickshire (Hennessy), Yorkshire (Winfield) and Berkshire (Knight) all started their games with first ball of the game ducks. They will be hoping for better this week. Ironically it is the two teams without a win - Warwickshire and Yorkshire, who may come away with the wins this week.
Division 2
Cheshire v Durham at Hawk Green CC
Lancashire v Devon at Urmston CC
Wales v Somerset at Aberdare CC
Worcestershire v Staffordshire at Coombs Wood Cricket Club
Div 2 also throws up a top of the table clash between undefeated teams - Devon and Lancashire. It should be a great game from two in-form teams, who are both desperate to be in Division 1 next year. Of course they may both end up making it, but finishing top of the league will mean certain promotion this year. Both teams have batsmen in form, but it may be a special performance by one of the bowlers that wins this for their county. I wouldn't like to call it. If you are in Lancashire on Sunday, get down and watch what will be a great game.
Wales will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Ireland last week and consign Somerset to their third defeat in five games. Anya Shrubsole led Somerset from the front last week, with the bat, rather than the ball. Can she do it again this week? Wales will be hoping not.
Worcs against Staffs will also be a tight one. Staffs had a poor start to the season, but picked up a couple of wins against Durham and, more noticeably, Ireland on the second Bank Holiday weekend. Worcs came close last week to pulling off a remarkable win against Devon, falling just nine runs short, chasing 261, so they should look at this game with some confidence, but Staffs might just have enough.
Finally at the bottom of the table Cheshire entertain Durham. Durham are without a win this season and this must be a game that they are targetting for a win. If they fail to do so that could effectively end their season, as they will have only Worcs and Devon left to play. Cheshire though are a tough side to beat on their own turf and may prove too strong.
MD
20/VI/14
Division 1
Essex v Warwickshire at Garron Park
Notts v Middlesex at Welbeck CC
Sussex v Kent at Arundel Castle CC
Yorkshire v Berkshire at Harrogate CC
After Surrey's defeat to Middlesex last week, the two remaining unbeaten teams in Division 1 - Sussex and Kent - meet each other at the beautifully picturesque Arundel Castle ground. The two teams seem, as usual, to have just too much for the others in the league, and therefore you would think that whoever wins this game will go on to be crowned County Champions. Last year Sussex got the better of their local rivals, chasing down 200 with some ease. Kent, after a further loss to Yorkshire, failed to make the County Championship final for the first time in the last 10 years. They will be out for revenge.
We understand that they will be at full strength, with England internationals Charlotte Edwards, Tammy Beaumont, Lydia Greenway and Laura Marsh forming their top four with the bat. We also understand that former England international Lauren Griffith may well take the gloves for Kent for the first time. Sussex have injury worries over Sarah Taylor and Georgia Elwiss, who both missed last week's win over Yorkshire, but they will take heart from their performance at Harrogate and the fact that they won this fixture last year without Taylor and the then-injured Colvin. Arundel is renowned as a good batting deck and you would expect this to be a high-scoring game. If Sussex can get their full side on the pitch then they might just have the edge again.
Notts have a fascinating match against Middlesex, who will be looking to continue their climb up the table. Notts have relied heavily on Danni Wyatt and Jenny Gunn with the bat so far this season and may have injury worries with all-rounder Sonia Odedra. Middlesex need their top order to fire with the bat and to make early breakthroughs with the ball and they may well be in with a shout.
The bottom four are all in action against each other. Essex, fresh from their first win of the season last week against Berkshire, courtesy of Aussie Heather Graham, take on Warwickshire, who are currently winless. Yorkshire, also still without a win, take on Berkshire, who don't have the strongest of bowling attacks. Last week Warwickshire (Hennessy), Yorkshire (Winfield) and Berkshire (Knight) all started their games with first ball of the game ducks. They will be hoping for better this week. Ironically it is the two teams without a win - Warwickshire and Yorkshire, who may come away with the wins this week.
Division 2
Cheshire v Durham at Hawk Green CC
Lancashire v Devon at Urmston CC
Wales v Somerset at Aberdare CC
Worcestershire v Staffordshire at Coombs Wood Cricket Club
Div 2 also throws up a top of the table clash between undefeated teams - Devon and Lancashire. It should be a great game from two in-form teams, who are both desperate to be in Division 1 next year. Of course they may both end up making it, but finishing top of the league will mean certain promotion this year. Both teams have batsmen in form, but it may be a special performance by one of the bowlers that wins this for their county. I wouldn't like to call it. If you are in Lancashire on Sunday, get down and watch what will be a great game.
Wales will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Ireland last week and consign Somerset to their third defeat in five games. Anya Shrubsole led Somerset from the front last week, with the bat, rather than the ball. Can she do it again this week? Wales will be hoping not.
Worcs against Staffs will also be a tight one. Staffs had a poor start to the season, but picked up a couple of wins against Durham and, more noticeably, Ireland on the second Bank Holiday weekend. Worcs came close last week to pulling off a remarkable win against Devon, falling just nine runs short, chasing 261, so they should look at this game with some confidence, but Staffs might just have enough.
Finally at the bottom of the table Cheshire entertain Durham. Durham are without a win this season and this must be a game that they are targetting for a win. If they fail to do so that could effectively end their season, as they will have only Worcs and Devon left to play. Cheshire though are a tough side to beat on their own turf and may prove too strong.
MD
20/VI/14
Monday, 16 June 2014
Women's County Championship - Week Three Round-Up
Division 1
Results
Essex 194/6 beat Berkshire 193/10 by 4 wickets
Middlesex 178/6 beat Surrey 177/8 (50 overs) by 4 wickets
Notts 134/4 beat Warwickshire 133/10 by 6 wickets
Sussex 201/4 beat Yorkshire by 6 wickets
Sussex showed their strength in depth when they travelled to Harrogate to play Yorkshire without four frontline players - Brindle, Davies, Elwiss and Taylor - and still came away not only with a win, but full bonus points. Yorkshire managed to put 200 runs on the board thanks in the main part to a mature knock of 94 from the experienced Kathryn Doherty. Izi Noakes was the chief wicket-taker (4/38), with Rebecca Silk also claiming 3/31. In reply Georgia Adams (106), skippering the senior side for the first time, and Izzy Collis (41) got the visitors off to the perfect start putting on 92 for the first wicket before Collis fell. Adams lost Scholfield and Green, but continued to her maiden senior century, before she too fell, with just 24 needed for victory. Sussex eased home with five overs to spare to stay top of the league, leaving Yorkshire still without a win this year.
Surrey's unbeaten run this season came to an abrupt halt at Middlesex as they chased down Surrey's below-par 177/8 with four wickets in hand and two overs to spare. Middlesex owed their win to the batting of veteran England player and skipper Beth Morgan (79*), after Middlesex had been languishing at 61/5 with the top order batsmen all having departed. Morgan found willing allies down the order in Izzy Westbury (15) and Sophia Dunkley (26*) as she guided her team to their first win of the season. Surrey themselves had been 93/8 before New Zealander Rachel Candy (43*) and Katherine Robson (37*) added an unbeaten 84 for the ninth wicket. Nat Sciver (32) and Kirstie White (27) had earlier added 55 for the second wicket.
Notts consigned Warwickshire to their fourth defeat in four completed games and to bottom slot in the division with a comfortable six wicket win. Warwickshire could only manage to put 133 on the board against an accurate Notts' attack. Sonia Odedra (4/25) and Lucy Maxwell (3/22) were the chief wicket-takers. In reply the in-form Danni Wyatt (48) and Jenny Gunn (47) eased Notts over the line and up to fourth in the league breathing down Surrey's neck.
And Essex's batting finally showed up as they beat Berkshire by four wickets to claim their first win of the season. Berkshire owed a debt of gratitude to the returning Isa Guha (58*), who came to the crease with her side at 70/6 and refused to leave. Aussie import Heather Graham took 4/32. Guha dragged her team to 193, but Essex's middle order, strengthened by on loan Hannah Phelps (25) from Sussex, held firm, with Graham (52*) and Kara Toleman (44*) finishing the game with an unbeaten stand of 63 and with 18 balls to spare. Fi Morris was the pick of the Berkshire bowlers with 3/19.
Division 2
Results
Devon 261/5 beat Worcestershire 252/10 by 9 runs
Somerset 240/10 beat Durham 113/8 (50 overs) by 127 runs
Lancashire 209/4 beat Cheshire 105/10 by 104 runs
Ireland 116/4 beat Wales 114/10 by 6 wickets
Devon won a humdinger of a game against Worcestershire to maintain their position at the top of Division 2. They rattled up 261/5 with in-form Rosalie Fairbairn (76) leading from the front, ably supported by Alli Kelly (55) and Jodie Dibble (40). Clare Boycott took 2/32. They probably thought they had plenty, but the Worcestershire top order set up their team for an unlikely win as they raced onto 208/3, but Fairbairn (2/24) claimed a couple of important wickets and Jodie Dibble (2/28) put the brakes on. Worcestershire lost five wickets for 27 runs and eventually ended just agonisingly short, much to Devon's relief.
Lancs, who will take on Devon next Sunday, kept up the pressure with a very comfortable win over struggling Cheshire. Natalie Brown scored an undefeated 112 in Lancs' 209/4. Cheshire never really threatened and were all out for 105 in 44 overs. Nalisha Patel 3/25, Megan Fairclough 2/10 and Jasmine Titmuss 2/17 were in the wickets. Ellie Mason battled hard for a top-scoring 32.
Unbeaten Wales came unstuck against Ireland, who finally found their form with both bat and ball. Wales were in a hideous mess at 38/7 before Marsha Davies (34) put up some resistance. But she was the only Welsh player to get into double figures as they crumpled to 114 all out with just one ball of their 50 overs unused. Louise McCarthy picked up 3/13. A solid opening stand of 67 meant the result was never really in doubt, particularly as one of those openers was Cecilia Joyce (53). Ireland did lose four wickets but finished the game in the 37th over.
Somerset finally picked up their first win of the season against bottom side Durham. Anya Shrubsole was not fit enough to bowl, but she could bat. She scored her first century for Somerset (105) and added 176 for the third wicket with Fran Wilson (70). But Somerset ended on only 240 as the lower order were blown away by the returning Lynn McDonnell (3/35). However it was still far too many for Durham, who crawled to 113/7 in their 50 overs.
Full scorecards are here
Up-to-date league tables are here
MD
16/VI/14
Results
Essex 194/6 beat Berkshire 193/10 by 4 wickets
Middlesex 178/6 beat Surrey 177/8 (50 overs) by 4 wickets
Notts 134/4 beat Warwickshire 133/10 by 6 wickets
Sussex 201/4 beat Yorkshire by 6 wickets
Sussex showed their strength in depth when they travelled to Harrogate to play Yorkshire without four frontline players - Brindle, Davies, Elwiss and Taylor - and still came away not only with a win, but full bonus points. Yorkshire managed to put 200 runs on the board thanks in the main part to a mature knock of 94 from the experienced Kathryn Doherty. Izi Noakes was the chief wicket-taker (4/38), with Rebecca Silk also claiming 3/31. In reply Georgia Adams (106), skippering the senior side for the first time, and Izzy Collis (41) got the visitors off to the perfect start putting on 92 for the first wicket before Collis fell. Adams lost Scholfield and Green, but continued to her maiden senior century, before she too fell, with just 24 needed for victory. Sussex eased home with five overs to spare to stay top of the league, leaving Yorkshire still without a win this year.
Surrey's unbeaten run this season came to an abrupt halt at Middlesex as they chased down Surrey's below-par 177/8 with four wickets in hand and two overs to spare. Middlesex owed their win to the batting of veteran England player and skipper Beth Morgan (79*), after Middlesex had been languishing at 61/5 with the top order batsmen all having departed. Morgan found willing allies down the order in Izzy Westbury (15) and Sophia Dunkley (26*) as she guided her team to their first win of the season. Surrey themselves had been 93/8 before New Zealander Rachel Candy (43*) and Katherine Robson (37*) added an unbeaten 84 for the ninth wicket. Nat Sciver (32) and Kirstie White (27) had earlier added 55 for the second wicket.
Notts consigned Warwickshire to their fourth defeat in four completed games and to bottom slot in the division with a comfortable six wicket win. Warwickshire could only manage to put 133 on the board against an accurate Notts' attack. Sonia Odedra (4/25) and Lucy Maxwell (3/22) were the chief wicket-takers. In reply the in-form Danni Wyatt (48) and Jenny Gunn (47) eased Notts over the line and up to fourth in the league breathing down Surrey's neck.
And Essex's batting finally showed up as they beat Berkshire by four wickets to claim their first win of the season. Berkshire owed a debt of gratitude to the returning Isa Guha (58*), who came to the crease with her side at 70/6 and refused to leave. Aussie import Heather Graham took 4/32. Guha dragged her team to 193, but Essex's middle order, strengthened by on loan Hannah Phelps (25) from Sussex, held firm, with Graham (52*) and Kara Toleman (44*) finishing the game with an unbeaten stand of 63 and with 18 balls to spare. Fi Morris was the pick of the Berkshire bowlers with 3/19.
Division 2
Results
Devon 261/5 beat Worcestershire 252/10 by 9 runs
Somerset 240/10 beat Durham 113/8 (50 overs) by 127 runs
Lancashire 209/4 beat Cheshire 105/10 by 104 runs
Ireland 116/4 beat Wales 114/10 by 6 wickets
Devon won a humdinger of a game against Worcestershire to maintain their position at the top of Division 2. They rattled up 261/5 with in-form Rosalie Fairbairn (76) leading from the front, ably supported by Alli Kelly (55) and Jodie Dibble (40). Clare Boycott took 2/32. They probably thought they had plenty, but the Worcestershire top order set up their team for an unlikely win as they raced onto 208/3, but Fairbairn (2/24) claimed a couple of important wickets and Jodie Dibble (2/28) put the brakes on. Worcestershire lost five wickets for 27 runs and eventually ended just agonisingly short, much to Devon's relief.
Lancs, who will take on Devon next Sunday, kept up the pressure with a very comfortable win over struggling Cheshire. Natalie Brown scored an undefeated 112 in Lancs' 209/4. Cheshire never really threatened and were all out for 105 in 44 overs. Nalisha Patel 3/25, Megan Fairclough 2/10 and Jasmine Titmuss 2/17 were in the wickets. Ellie Mason battled hard for a top-scoring 32.
Unbeaten Wales came unstuck against Ireland, who finally found their form with both bat and ball. Wales were in a hideous mess at 38/7 before Marsha Davies (34) put up some resistance. But she was the only Welsh player to get into double figures as they crumpled to 114 all out with just one ball of their 50 overs unused. Louise McCarthy picked up 3/13. A solid opening stand of 67 meant the result was never really in doubt, particularly as one of those openers was Cecilia Joyce (53). Ireland did lose four wickets but finished the game in the 37th over.
Somerset finally picked up their first win of the season against bottom side Durham. Anya Shrubsole was not fit enough to bowl, but she could bat. She scored her first century for Somerset (105) and added 176 for the third wicket with Fran Wilson (70). But Somerset ended on only 240 as the lower order were blown away by the returning Lynn McDonnell (3/35). However it was still far too many for Durham, who crawled to 113/7 in their 50 overs.
Full scorecards are here
Up-to-date league tables are here
MD
16/VI/14
Thursday, 12 June 2014
Preview of Week Three of the Women's County Championship
Week Three of the Women's County Champs
Sunday 15th June is Week 3 of the Women's County Championship with just one round of games being played. Kent sit out the week in Division 1 and Staffs sit out in Division 2.
Division 1
Essex v Berkshire at Felsted School
Middlesex v Surrey at Edmonton CC
Warwickshire v Notts at Wellesbourne CC
Yorkshire v Sussex at Harrogate CC
Top of the table Sussex (on NRR) travel all the way to Harrogate for their clash with Yorkshire. They will be hoping that skipper Sarah Taylor is passed fit to play and will lead the side after sitting out a rain-soaked weekend two weeks ago. Yorkshire have their own injury worries with Dani Hazell unlikely to be in the starting line-up and Katherine Brunt already sidelined. This is a repeat of last year's Championship final, but Yorkshire have not had the best of starts this year, having been smashed by Kent and then dipping out to Surrey by just 7 runs, chasing 222. Lauren Winfield has been in good form with the bat, but she needs some support, and they will miss Hazell with the ball.
Surrey will look to keep their good start to the season going when they travel to Middlesex. Middlesex put in a decent performance against Kent in their only game of the season so far and this is likely to be a tight one. Surrey have wins against Warwickshire, Yorkshire and Essex under their belts, but are likely to find the Meatballs a stiffer test.
Notts will be looking to consign Warwickshire to their fourth defeat of the season after posting 248/5 against Sussex before the rain came. Danni Wyatt and Jenny Gunn have been in good form with the bat this season (although there seems some doubt over Gunn's fitness) and they may prove too strong for this young Warwickshire team, who have struggled so far this season.
Finally Essex host Berkshire. Essex are having a torrid time of things with three heavy defeats already this season. Berkshire have won the only game they have played, against Notts, and they look likely to remain unbeaten.
Division 2
Devon v Worcestershire at Sidmouth CC
Durham v Somerset at Durham City CC
Lancashire v Cheshire at Old Xaverians CC
Wales v Ireland at Newport CC
The three undefeated teams in the league - Devon, Lancashire and Wales will all be looking to maintain their clean starts to the 2014 season. Current table-toppers Devon are at home to Worcestershire, who suffered badly at the hands of Wales in the last round. Devon will be looking for a full 18 point win to keep them at the top.
Lancs take on local rivals Cheshire, who beat Staffs on the opening day of the season, but have subsequently lost to Worcestershire and Ireland. Provided Lancs don't collapse in a heap, as they nearly did against Durham in the last round, they should be comfortable winners.
Wales entertain Ireland, who have not made the start they would have liked to the season, finding runs, in particular, hard to come by. Wales have beaten Durham and Worcestershire quite comfortably, but their batting will be more thoroughly tested by the Irish bowlers. Could be a close one if Ireland bring their "A" game.
Finally Durham take on Somerset. Durham are 0/4, but Somerset have lost their last two games (to Lancs and Devon). It could be a nervy low-scoring game at Durham City CC. Either team needs one match-winning performance with the bat or the ball.
MD
12/VI/14
Sunday 15th June is Week 3 of the Women's County Championship with just one round of games being played. Kent sit out the week in Division 1 and Staffs sit out in Division 2.
Division 1
Essex v Berkshire at Felsted School
Middlesex v Surrey at Edmonton CC
Warwickshire v Notts at Wellesbourne CC
Yorkshire v Sussex at Harrogate CC
Top of the table Sussex (on NRR) travel all the way to Harrogate for their clash with Yorkshire. They will be hoping that skipper Sarah Taylor is passed fit to play and will lead the side after sitting out a rain-soaked weekend two weeks ago. Yorkshire have their own injury worries with Dani Hazell unlikely to be in the starting line-up and Katherine Brunt already sidelined. This is a repeat of last year's Championship final, but Yorkshire have not had the best of starts this year, having been smashed by Kent and then dipping out to Surrey by just 7 runs, chasing 222. Lauren Winfield has been in good form with the bat, but she needs some support, and they will miss Hazell with the ball.
Surrey will look to keep their good start to the season going when they travel to Middlesex. Middlesex put in a decent performance against Kent in their only game of the season so far and this is likely to be a tight one. Surrey have wins against Warwickshire, Yorkshire and Essex under their belts, but are likely to find the Meatballs a stiffer test.
Notts will be looking to consign Warwickshire to their fourth defeat of the season after posting 248/5 against Sussex before the rain came. Danni Wyatt and Jenny Gunn have been in good form with the bat this season (although there seems some doubt over Gunn's fitness) and they may prove too strong for this young Warwickshire team, who have struggled so far this season.
Finally Essex host Berkshire. Essex are having a torrid time of things with three heavy defeats already this season. Berkshire have won the only game they have played, against Notts, and they look likely to remain unbeaten.
Division 2
Devon v Worcestershire at Sidmouth CC
Durham v Somerset at Durham City CC
Lancashire v Cheshire at Old Xaverians CC
Wales v Ireland at Newport CC
The three undefeated teams in the league - Devon, Lancashire and Wales will all be looking to maintain their clean starts to the 2014 season. Current table-toppers Devon are at home to Worcestershire, who suffered badly at the hands of Wales in the last round. Devon will be looking for a full 18 point win to keep them at the top.
Lancs take on local rivals Cheshire, who beat Staffs on the opening day of the season, but have subsequently lost to Worcestershire and Ireland. Provided Lancs don't collapse in a heap, as they nearly did against Durham in the last round, they should be comfortable winners.
Wales entertain Ireland, who have not made the start they would have liked to the season, finding runs, in particular, hard to come by. Wales have beaten Durham and Worcestershire quite comfortably, but their batting will be more thoroughly tested by the Irish bowlers. Could be a close one if Ireland bring their "A" game.
Finally Durham take on Somerset. Durham are 0/4, but Somerset have lost their last two games (to Lancs and Devon). It could be a nervy low-scoring game at Durham City CC. Either team needs one match-winning performance with the bat or the ball.
MD
12/VI/14
Tuesday, 27 May 2014
Women's County Championship - Week Two Round-Up
The weather effectively ruined the second weekend of fixtures in Division One of the Royal London Women's County Championship, with only two games completed. In Division Two six of the eight games survived with Staffs the big winners and Lancashire only just squeaking past Durham.
Division One
The two games that survived the weather were Essex v Surrey and Kent v Warwickshire. Surrey demolished Essex, bowling them out for just 64 in 39 overs and knocking off the runs for the loss of two wickets in under 12 overs. Veteran leg-spinner Sarah Clarke picked up 5/11 (her fifth five wicket haul for Surrey) as only Lily Reynolds (12) and Karen Baker (10) got into double figures for Essex.
Thanks to 64 from Amy Jones and some late order resistance, Warwickshire managed to post a half-decent 158 all out against Kent at the St Lawrence Ground, for whom Grace Gibbs took 4/39. But Charlotte Edwards (100*) and Tammy Beaumont (50*) knocked them off in 32 overs without loss and gave Kent their third 18 point haul of the campaign.
Two other games were started, but abandoned. On Monday Notts had put 248/5 on the board against Sussex on a great batting track at Wellbeck Colliery CC. Danni Wyatt (109) and Jenny Gunn (68*) made the most of it as they added 163 for the third Notts' wicket. In reply Sussex were going well at 57/0 after 13 overs, before the drizzle became a downpour and the game was called off.
The other game to start was the Warwickshire v Middlesex clash, where Warwickshire had struggled to 141/9 in 42 overs. Georgia Hennessy (27) and Fran Clakson (25) had top scored. Maia Bouchier had grabbed 3/24 on her Middlesex debut. But that was as far as the game got.
It is perhaps worth pointing out that abandoned games, although 5 points per team are given, cannot be replayed and are ignored for the purposes of calculating average points scored. Absolutely no point giving any team any points at all!
Division Two
Staffs were the big winners in Division Two as they managed to get both their games in and managed to win them both. On Sunday they bowled out Durham for just 50 - Amy Carnwell helped herself to 3/4 and Steph Butler 3/21. Only Catherine Chapman (23) put up much resistance for Durham. Staffs managed to lose four early wickets in reply (three to Rachel Petherick) to set the nerves jangling, before Francesca James (35*) blasted them to victory. On Monday they met Ireland and managed a three wicket win in another low-scorer. Ireland could only put 92 on the board after being 16/5 at one stage. Mary Waldron top-scored with 26. Cheryl Allcock (3/8) and Elsa-Marie Evans (3/31) did the damage with the ball. Ireland reduced Staffs to 61/7 at one stage, but number 9 Carnwell (13*) and a healthy smattering of wides saw Staffs home.
Top of the table Lancashire had a huge scare against the same Durham team on Monday. Durham were put into bat and Lancs were probably quite happy when they kept them down to 105/7 in their 50 overs. Six Lancs bowlers picked up a wicket apiece with wides (25) top scorer for Durham. But after an opening stand of 41 between Emma Lamb (18) and Laura Marshall (20) the wheels started to fall off the Lancs' reply. Lynn McDonnell (5/25) reduced Lancs to 56/7 before Bhumika Doshi (33) and number 9 Nalisha Patel (12) took them to within touching distance of the win at 101 before Patel was out. When Doshi went with the scores level the tie was on, but it was not to be as Lancs scraped home by one wicket.
Devon kept up their good start to the season with a comfortable 28 run win over last year's play-off winners Somerset. Devon would have liked more than the 155/8 they managed to put on the board, thanks in the main to 58 from Rosalie Fairbairn (formerly Rosalie Birch), but Cait O'Keefe (3/22) and Hazel Garton (3/10) kept taking wickets as Somerset slipped to 71/6. The tail wagged for Somerset, but not enough as they ended up well-short of Devon's target.
Unbeaten Wales also kept their 100% record intact after hammering Worcestershire in their only game of the weekend. Worcestershire were rolled over for 78 with Lauren Parfitt taking 5/20. Skipper Thea Brookes (36) desperately needed some support from her fellow batsmen. Gwenan Davies (35*) and Parfitt (31*) brought Wales safely home after Brookes had claimed Worcestershire's only wicket.
The final completed game saw Ireland clinch a nine wicket win over Cheshire in a game shortened to 26 overs per side. Cheshire scored 109/4 with Jennifer Dunn (45) top scorer. Clare Shillington (62) and Rebecca Rolfe (29) knocked them off with just one wicket down in just over 20 overs.
For full scorecards check out the Women's County Championship Play Cricket site
Current league tables according to me - please let me know if they are wrong!
MD
27/V/14
Division One
The two games that survived the weather were Essex v Surrey and Kent v Warwickshire. Surrey demolished Essex, bowling them out for just 64 in 39 overs and knocking off the runs for the loss of two wickets in under 12 overs. Veteran leg-spinner Sarah Clarke picked up 5/11 (her fifth five wicket haul for Surrey) as only Lily Reynolds (12) and Karen Baker (10) got into double figures for Essex.
Thanks to 64 from Amy Jones and some late order resistance, Warwickshire managed to post a half-decent 158 all out against Kent at the St Lawrence Ground, for whom Grace Gibbs took 4/39. But Charlotte Edwards (100*) and Tammy Beaumont (50*) knocked them off in 32 overs without loss and gave Kent their third 18 point haul of the campaign.
Two other games were started, but abandoned. On Monday Notts had put 248/5 on the board against Sussex on a great batting track at Wellbeck Colliery CC. Danni Wyatt (109) and Jenny Gunn (68*) made the most of it as they added 163 for the third Notts' wicket. In reply Sussex were going well at 57/0 after 13 overs, before the drizzle became a downpour and the game was called off.
The other game to start was the Warwickshire v Middlesex clash, where Warwickshire had struggled to 141/9 in 42 overs. Georgia Hennessy (27) and Fran Clakson (25) had top scored. Maia Bouchier had grabbed 3/24 on her Middlesex debut. But that was as far as the game got.
It is perhaps worth pointing out that abandoned games, although 5 points per team are given, cannot be replayed and are ignored for the purposes of calculating average points scored. Absolutely no point giving any team any points at all!
Division Two
Staffs were the big winners in Division Two as they managed to get both their games in and managed to win them both. On Sunday they bowled out Durham for just 50 - Amy Carnwell helped herself to 3/4 and Steph Butler 3/21. Only Catherine Chapman (23) put up much resistance for Durham. Staffs managed to lose four early wickets in reply (three to Rachel Petherick) to set the nerves jangling, before Francesca James (35*) blasted them to victory. On Monday they met Ireland and managed a three wicket win in another low-scorer. Ireland could only put 92 on the board after being 16/5 at one stage. Mary Waldron top-scored with 26. Cheryl Allcock (3/8) and Elsa-Marie Evans (3/31) did the damage with the ball. Ireland reduced Staffs to 61/7 at one stage, but number 9 Carnwell (13*) and a healthy smattering of wides saw Staffs home.
Top of the table Lancashire had a huge scare against the same Durham team on Monday. Durham were put into bat and Lancs were probably quite happy when they kept them down to 105/7 in their 50 overs. Six Lancs bowlers picked up a wicket apiece with wides (25) top scorer for Durham. But after an opening stand of 41 between Emma Lamb (18) and Laura Marshall (20) the wheels started to fall off the Lancs' reply. Lynn McDonnell (5/25) reduced Lancs to 56/7 before Bhumika Doshi (33) and number 9 Nalisha Patel (12) took them to within touching distance of the win at 101 before Patel was out. When Doshi went with the scores level the tie was on, but it was not to be as Lancs scraped home by one wicket.
Devon kept up their good start to the season with a comfortable 28 run win over last year's play-off winners Somerset. Devon would have liked more than the 155/8 they managed to put on the board, thanks in the main to 58 from Rosalie Fairbairn (formerly Rosalie Birch), but Cait O'Keefe (3/22) and Hazel Garton (3/10) kept taking wickets as Somerset slipped to 71/6. The tail wagged for Somerset, but not enough as they ended up well-short of Devon's target.
Unbeaten Wales also kept their 100% record intact after hammering Worcestershire in their only game of the weekend. Worcestershire were rolled over for 78 with Lauren Parfitt taking 5/20. Skipper Thea Brookes (36) desperately needed some support from her fellow batsmen. Gwenan Davies (35*) and Parfitt (31*) brought Wales safely home after Brookes had claimed Worcestershire's only wicket.
The final completed game saw Ireland clinch a nine wicket win over Cheshire in a game shortened to 26 overs per side. Cheshire scored 109/4 with Jennifer Dunn (45) top scorer. Clare Shillington (62) and Rebecca Rolfe (29) knocked them off with just one wicket down in just over 20 overs.
For full scorecards check out the Women's County Championship Play Cricket site
Current league tables according to me - please let me know if they are wrong!
MD
27/V/14
Friday, 9 May 2014
Lancs in charge in Div 2 after Week One!
Div 2 County Championship Results Round-Up
Week One
Lancashire have stamped their authority all over Division Two of the County Championship with two convincing wins over possible title challengers Somerset and Ireland. They were the only team to win both their games and sit proudly at the top of the league with maximum bonus points. It seems unlikely that they will be shifted from this spot. Hard on their heels though are Devon and Wales, who put the disappointment of last year's campaigns behind them to start their seasons with thumping wins. At the bottom Staffs and Durham lost both their opening games.
Lancashire started their promotion campaign against Ireland on Sunday. Inserted by Lancs' skipper Jasmine Titmuss Ireland's innings never really got going as they lost wickets at regular intervals, mainly to England's Kate Cross (4/29). Bhumika Doshi and Nalisha Patel also picked up a couple of wickets each. Only the experience of Isobel Joyce (35) and Mary Waldron (25) saw Ireland through to an under-par 122/10. Lancs lost Laura Marshall early in their reply, but from then on the win was never in doubt as Emma Lamb (57) and Eleanor Threlkeld (31) steadily accumulated the runs. Both eventually fell but not before the game was effectively won, which it duly was in the 31st over with four wickets down.
On Monday Lancs turned their attention to Somerset, who surprisingly beat them in the top of the table play-off last year. Despite being so early in the campaign this was potentially the promotion-winning match. Lancs sailed through it with flying colours. Again they inserted their opponents and 31 overs later they were all out for just 103. Only Sophie Luff (35) put up any meaningful resistance to the rampant Lancs' bowlers. Megan Fairclough took 4/24 as all the Lancs' bowlers chipped in. Lamb (62*) and Marshall (32) put on 84 for the first wicket in reply and victory was secured by eight wickets in the 25th over. Job done.
Devon had to be better this year than they were last, and they started with a crushing 167 run win over Staffs. Put into bat their top six all got starts with Amara Carr (53) and Jodie Dibble (49) making the most of their time at the crease. After 50 overs they had accumulated 228/6. Elsa-Marie Evans claimed 2/41. Thanks to Jodie Dibble (4/11) and two wickets each for Rebecca Donahue and Hazelle Garton, Staffs were shot out for 61 in reply with six ducks for their batsmen. Only Evelyn Jones (26) and Francesca James (12) made double figures for the Midlands side.
It was a disappointing end to the weekend for Staffs who had lost a tight match the day before against Cheshire. Electing to bat Cheshire made 175/6 from their 50 overs with the top four all making contributions. Opener and skipper Jennifer Dunn set the tone with a 136 ball 54. Stephanie Butler claimed 2/10 from her 10 overs. Butler (43) then opened the batting, but lost her opening five partners getting to just 60 runs. At 114/8 the game looked done and dusted in Cheshire's favour, but number 10 Elsa-Marie Evans had other ideas as she hit a run a ball 27, including the only 6 of the game. But with an improbable victory in sight she was stumped with six balls remaining and just eight runs short of the Cheshire total.
Fresh from their victory the previous day Cheshire then travelled to Worcestershire for their second game of the weekend. Inserted by Worcestershire they made 119/10 - Jennifer Dunn, Kate Coppack and Ellie Mason all got into the twenties, but could not go on. Rachel Baldwin took 3/20 and Vicky Evans and Abigail Houghton both took a couple of wickets each. A 70 run partnership between Worcestershire opener Naomi Heywood (46) and number three Thea Brookes (34) put the game to bed and despite a late flurry of wickets to Kate Coppack (3/25) Worcestershire won by four wickets with nine overs in hand.
The day before Worcestershire had lost by three wickets to Somerset. Put into bat Worcs could only make 112/9 in their 50 overs against an accurate Somerset attack lacking Anya Shrubsole. The only release was the bowling of Anya's sister Lauren, but she had the last laugh claiming four Worcs wickets for 42 runs. Somerset made hard work of getting the runs they needed and had Sophie Luff (42*) to thank for anchoring an innings that was drifting onto the rocks at one stage. Thea Brookes (3/29) was the best bowler for Worcs as they claimed seven Somerset wickets (and 3 bowling bonus points) before they reached the required 113 in 30 overs.
Durham joined Staffs at the bottom of the league after defeats to both Wales and Ireland. In the opening game of the season they were bowled out by Wales for just 79. Lauren Parfitt took 3/18, Marsha Davies 2/7 and Naomi Williams-Wadley 2/18. Only three Durham batsmen crawled into double figures. Wales got the runs they needed, but not without losing four wickets and taking up 32 overs. The game with Ireland the following day was a much closer affair, even if runs were still not in great supply. Ireland batted first and made 108/10 in 44 overs with Loughborough's Emma Flannagan (23) the top scorer. In reply Durham staggered to 37/7 and then 66/9, before a brave last wicket partnership took them passed 100 and within touching distance of victory. But a direct hit run out from Amy Kenealy at mid-off ended the spirited Durham fightback and won the game for Ireland.
scorecards - here
league table - here
MD
09/IV/14
Week One
Lancashire have stamped their authority all over Division Two of the County Championship with two convincing wins over possible title challengers Somerset and Ireland. They were the only team to win both their games and sit proudly at the top of the league with maximum bonus points. It seems unlikely that they will be shifted from this spot. Hard on their heels though are Devon and Wales, who put the disappointment of last year's campaigns behind them to start their seasons with thumping wins. At the bottom Staffs and Durham lost both their opening games.
Lancashire started their promotion campaign against Ireland on Sunday. Inserted by Lancs' skipper Jasmine Titmuss Ireland's innings never really got going as they lost wickets at regular intervals, mainly to England's Kate Cross (4/29). Bhumika Doshi and Nalisha Patel also picked up a couple of wickets each. Only the experience of Isobel Joyce (35) and Mary Waldron (25) saw Ireland through to an under-par 122/10. Lancs lost Laura Marshall early in their reply, but from then on the win was never in doubt as Emma Lamb (57) and Eleanor Threlkeld (31) steadily accumulated the runs. Both eventually fell but not before the game was effectively won, which it duly was in the 31st over with four wickets down.
On Monday Lancs turned their attention to Somerset, who surprisingly beat them in the top of the table play-off last year. Despite being so early in the campaign this was potentially the promotion-winning match. Lancs sailed through it with flying colours. Again they inserted their opponents and 31 overs later they were all out for just 103. Only Sophie Luff (35) put up any meaningful resistance to the rampant Lancs' bowlers. Megan Fairclough took 4/24 as all the Lancs' bowlers chipped in. Lamb (62*) and Marshall (32) put on 84 for the first wicket in reply and victory was secured by eight wickets in the 25th over. Job done.
Devon had to be better this year than they were last, and they started with a crushing 167 run win over Staffs. Put into bat their top six all got starts with Amara Carr (53) and Jodie Dibble (49) making the most of their time at the crease. After 50 overs they had accumulated 228/6. Elsa-Marie Evans claimed 2/41. Thanks to Jodie Dibble (4/11) and two wickets each for Rebecca Donahue and Hazelle Garton, Staffs were shot out for 61 in reply with six ducks for their batsmen. Only Evelyn Jones (26) and Francesca James (12) made double figures for the Midlands side.
It was a disappointing end to the weekend for Staffs who had lost a tight match the day before against Cheshire. Electing to bat Cheshire made 175/6 from their 50 overs with the top four all making contributions. Opener and skipper Jennifer Dunn set the tone with a 136 ball 54. Stephanie Butler claimed 2/10 from her 10 overs. Butler (43) then opened the batting, but lost her opening five partners getting to just 60 runs. At 114/8 the game looked done and dusted in Cheshire's favour, but number 10 Elsa-Marie Evans had other ideas as she hit a run a ball 27, including the only 6 of the game. But with an improbable victory in sight she was stumped with six balls remaining and just eight runs short of the Cheshire total.
Fresh from their victory the previous day Cheshire then travelled to Worcestershire for their second game of the weekend. Inserted by Worcestershire they made 119/10 - Jennifer Dunn, Kate Coppack and Ellie Mason all got into the twenties, but could not go on. Rachel Baldwin took 3/20 and Vicky Evans and Abigail Houghton both took a couple of wickets each. A 70 run partnership between Worcestershire opener Naomi Heywood (46) and number three Thea Brookes (34) put the game to bed and despite a late flurry of wickets to Kate Coppack (3/25) Worcestershire won by four wickets with nine overs in hand.
The day before Worcestershire had lost by three wickets to Somerset. Put into bat Worcs could only make 112/9 in their 50 overs against an accurate Somerset attack lacking Anya Shrubsole. The only release was the bowling of Anya's sister Lauren, but she had the last laugh claiming four Worcs wickets for 42 runs. Somerset made hard work of getting the runs they needed and had Sophie Luff (42*) to thank for anchoring an innings that was drifting onto the rocks at one stage. Thea Brookes (3/29) was the best bowler for Worcs as they claimed seven Somerset wickets (and 3 bowling bonus points) before they reached the required 113 in 30 overs.
Durham joined Staffs at the bottom of the league after defeats to both Wales and Ireland. In the opening game of the season they were bowled out by Wales for just 79. Lauren Parfitt took 3/18, Marsha Davies 2/7 and Naomi Williams-Wadley 2/18. Only three Durham batsmen crawled into double figures. Wales got the runs they needed, but not without losing four wickets and taking up 32 overs. The game with Ireland the following day was a much closer affair, even if runs were still not in great supply. Ireland batted first and made 108/10 in 44 overs with Loughborough's Emma Flannagan (23) the top scorer. In reply Durham staggered to 37/7 and then 66/9, before a brave last wicket partnership took them passed 100 and within touching distance of victory. But a direct hit run out from Amy Kenealy at mid-off ended the spirited Durham fightback and won the game for Ireland.
scorecards - here
league table - here
MD
09/IV/14
Tuesday, 22 April 2014
2014 Women's County Championship Division Two Preview & Fixtures
As with Division One (see below), it will be the same nine teams that competed in Division Two last year that go head to head with each other this year, playing each other just once. The nine teams are Cheshire, Devon, Durham, Ireland, Lancashire, Somerset, Staffordshire, Wales and Worcestershire.
Both Lancashire and Somerset will be desperate for top spot in the division which will mean that they are automatically promoted to Division One in 2015. Last year Lancashire went through the season unbeaten, but came unstuck in the required play-off with runners-up Somerset. Somerset too were then denied a promotion they deserved when their promotion play-off game with Essex was called off without a ball being bowled. It meant Essex got to stay in Division One for another season.
Worcester, Ireland and Staffs all won four games last year and Cheshire three, which left Wales, Durham and Devon slugging it out at the bottom of the league with just one win apiece. Devon comfortably beat Durham in the bottom of the table play-off game, but Durham retained their place in Div 2 by beating the Netherlands in the promotion/relegation play-off match.
Cheshire (last year 6th)
Cheshire finished with a respectable three wins out of seven games they played last year with victories over Wales, Devon and Durham. They will do well to repeat that performance this year. Dawn Prestidge was easily the top wicket-taker (including 6/28 v Ireland) and finished second in the batting averages behind Jennifer Halstead, but beyond these two runs were a bit of a struggle especially against the better bowling outfits.
Squad - no details available
Devon (last year 9th)
Devon had a torrid time of it in 2013, despite having what appeared to be one of the stronger squads in the division. They were missing some key players throughout the season, notably recent England debutant Jodie Dibble and fellow left arm spinner Hazelle Garton. They must hope for a much improved performance in 2014, although the potential loss for the whole of the season of leading batsman Aylish Cranstone is a big blow. In an effort to bridge this gap Devon have brought in seamer Phoebe Graham from Yorkshire on loan. In addition Hannah Linton from Canterbury Magicians in New Zealand is likely to be Devon's overseas player for 2014. If Devon can get their full side out on the park often enough then they should be capable of a much stronger showing this year.
Squad - Rebecca Bertrand (3), Vicky Bowden (5), Amara Carr (1), Aylish Cranstone (44), Jodie Dibble (48), Rebecca Donohue (11), Rosalie Fairbairn (21), Hazelle Garton (6),Phoebe Graham (25), Lydia Harris (2), Lily Helston (9), Jessie Jones (7), Ali Kelly (8), Cait O'Keefe (10), Hannah Linton (23), Lottie Miles (4), Claire Varcoe (28), Emily Ward (17)
Durham (last year 8th)
Durham's sole victory in 2013 was over the Irish, although potentially close games against fellow strugglers Wales and Devon were cancelled. They struggled to score runs all year with just 10 batting bonus points in six games played. Having finished bottom of the league they had to play Devon in the bottom of the table play-off game and lost by 108 runs. They then had to play Div 3 winners the Netherlands and managed to chase down 121 with just eight balls and two wickets to spare to prolong their stay in Division 2. 2014 is likely to be just as tough for them.
Squad
Ireland (last year 4th)
Hopefully Ireland will have come away from the WWT20 in a positive rather than a negative fashion. True they lost all their games in the tournament, but it was their first time playing with the big guns and they made a good fist of it. It will have been a fantastic experience for all the players, but especially the youngsters - 14 year old Lucy O'Reilly and 16 year old Elena Tice, who both enhanced their embryonic careers.They have some good experience in their squad in Isobel and Cecilia Joyce, Clare Shillington and Eimar Richardson and after playing on the big stage I would expect them to go well this season.
Squad - no details available
Lancashire (last year 1st)
If Somerset felt miffed at not getting a chance to play in Div 1 this year (see below), imagine how Lancashire felt having gone through the "regular season" unbeaten, finishing top of the league and then losing in the play-off to second-placed Somerset. Lancashire have a young strong squad with England's Kate Cross the new talisman. The experienced Jasmine Titmuss had her best season with the ball. Opening bat Emma Lamb is one to watch this season. At 15 last year she was opening the batting and was the division's top scorer, including 113* v Durham. Another season in Div 2 might not do her cricket any harm, but she will be hoping it will be her last before pitting herself against the best in Division 1. Favourites to finish top.
Squad - Natalie Brown, Jessica Couser, Kathryn Cross, Rachel Dickinson, Bhumika Doshi, Megan Fairclough, Georgia Holmes, Hannah Knowles, Emma Lamb, Laura Marshall, Olivia McCusker, Shachi Pai, Nalisha Patel, Hannah Till, Jasmine Titmuss, Chloe Wallwork, Rachael Walsh, Maddy White
Somerset (last year 2nd)
Somerset looked primed for promotion last year, having beaten the previously unbeaten Lancashire in the top of the table play-off game, but they were kiboshed by the weather, which meant their play-off with Div 1 losers Essex was abandoned. The rules had no provision for any replay so Essex survived. It means they have to do it all again this year and that the likes of Anya Shrubsole, Fran Wilson and Sophie Luff will not be playing in the highest league. Somerset probably do not have the depth in their squad that Lancashire have and they will rely again on Jenny Withers' leg-spin (18 wickets) and short bursts from Shrubsole to win them matches. They might have cruelly missed their chance at a spot in the top league.
Squad - no details available
Staffordshire (last year 5th)
Solid performance from the team in 2013 with wins over Cheshire, Durham, Ireland and Wales. Last year West Indian Shanel Daley turned out for the team, but without too much success. This year they have Aussie Anna Lanning as their overseas player who will probably add a competitive edge and may win them some games on her own. Don't think they have enough strength in depth though to trouble the likes of Lancashire, Somerset and Ireland for the top spots.
Squad -Elsa-Marie Evans (capt), Franki James, Evelyn Jones, Steph Butler, Looby Lally, Amy Carnwell, Alex Hale, Charlotte Whyle, Kathryn Whyle, Cheryl Allcock, Laura Malkin, Amber Sandhu, Charlotte Steele, Kate Ecclestone, Anna Lanning, Lucy Kelsall, Charlotte Mincher, Hettie Piggot
Wales (last year 7th)
The second national squad in the league, but have a way to go to catch up with the Irish. They managed only one win last year and that was against fellow strugglers Devon. Loughborough's Gwenan Davies top-scored with the bat (164 runs) and Clare Thomas was the top wicket-taker with 11 wickets. They will have their work cut out against the likes of Lancs, Somerset and Ireland, but it should be a good scrap with Cheshire, Durham and Staffs.
Squad - no details available
Worcestershire (last year 3rd)
Worcestershire will be without influential skipper Katie Blunt this summer as she goes travelling, but Thea Brookes takes over the reigns and will look to push on from last year's great efforts with both bat and ball. Exciting new faces include Jo Cull who joins from Gloucester, and Charlotte North - on loan from Nottinghamshire. Emerging talent includes Emily Arlott, Jess Humby and Abbie Houghton, who will all undoubtedly have benefited from playing senior cricket last year.
Squad - Thea Brookes (cpt), Emily Arlott, Rachel Baldwin, Katie Barnes, Clare Boycott, Salma Bi, Jo Cull, Vicky Evans, Martha Farnworth, Jo Greaves, Abbie Houghton, Naomi Heyward, Jess Humby, Millie Marriot, Charlotte North, Sarvi Razavi, Lauren Rowles
Sunday 4th May
Cheshire v Staffordshire
Durham v Wales
Lancashire v Ireland
Somerset v Worcestershire
Monday 5th May
Devon v Staffordshire
Durham v Ireland
Somerset v Lancashire
Worcestershire v Cheshire
Sunday 25th May
Cheshire v Ireland
Staffordshire v Durham
Wales v Devon
Worcestershire v Lancashire
Monday 26th May
Devon v Somerset
Durham v Lancashire
Staffordshire v Ireland
Wales v Worcestershire
Sunday 15th June
Devon v Worcestershire
Durham v Somerset
Lancashire v Cheshire
Wales v Ireland
Sunday 22nd June
Cheshire v Durham
Lancashire v Devon
Wales v Somerset
Worcestershire v Staffordshire
Sunday 29th June
Cheshire v Devon
Lancashire v Wales
Somerset v Staffordshire
Worcestershire v Ireland
Sunday 20th July
Cheshire v Somerset
Devon v Ireland
Durham v Worcestershire
Staffordshire v Wales
Sunday 27th July
Devon v Durham
Somerset v Ireland
Staffordshire v Lancashire
Wales v Cheshire
Both Lancashire and Somerset will be desperate for top spot in the division which will mean that they are automatically promoted to Division One in 2015. Last year Lancashire went through the season unbeaten, but came unstuck in the required play-off with runners-up Somerset. Somerset too were then denied a promotion they deserved when their promotion play-off game with Essex was called off without a ball being bowled. It meant Essex got to stay in Division One for another season.
Worcester, Ireland and Staffs all won four games last year and Cheshire three, which left Wales, Durham and Devon slugging it out at the bottom of the league with just one win apiece. Devon comfortably beat Durham in the bottom of the table play-off game, but Durham retained their place in Div 2 by beating the Netherlands in the promotion/relegation play-off match.
Cheshire (last year 6th)
Cheshire finished with a respectable three wins out of seven games they played last year with victories over Wales, Devon and Durham. They will do well to repeat that performance this year. Dawn Prestidge was easily the top wicket-taker (including 6/28 v Ireland) and finished second in the batting averages behind Jennifer Halstead, but beyond these two runs were a bit of a struggle especially against the better bowling outfits.
Squad - no details available
Devon (last year 9th)
Devon had a torrid time of it in 2013, despite having what appeared to be one of the stronger squads in the division. They were missing some key players throughout the season, notably recent England debutant Jodie Dibble and fellow left arm spinner Hazelle Garton. They must hope for a much improved performance in 2014, although the potential loss for the whole of the season of leading batsman Aylish Cranstone is a big blow. In an effort to bridge this gap Devon have brought in seamer Phoebe Graham from Yorkshire on loan. In addition Hannah Linton from Canterbury Magicians in New Zealand is likely to be Devon's overseas player for 2014. If Devon can get their full side out on the park often enough then they should be capable of a much stronger showing this year.
Squad - Rebecca Bertrand (3), Vicky Bowden (5), Amara Carr (1), Aylish Cranstone (44), Jodie Dibble (48), Rebecca Donohue (11), Rosalie Fairbairn (21), Hazelle Garton (6),Phoebe Graham (25), Lydia Harris (2), Lily Helston (9), Jessie Jones (7), Ali Kelly (8), Cait O'Keefe (10), Hannah Linton (23), Lottie Miles (4), Claire Varcoe (28), Emily Ward (17)
Durham (last year 8th)
Durham's sole victory in 2013 was over the Irish, although potentially close games against fellow strugglers Wales and Devon were cancelled. They struggled to score runs all year with just 10 batting bonus points in six games played. Having finished bottom of the league they had to play Devon in the bottom of the table play-off game and lost by 108 runs. They then had to play Div 3 winners the Netherlands and managed to chase down 121 with just eight balls and two wickets to spare to prolong their stay in Division 2. 2014 is likely to be just as tough for them.
Squad
Ireland (last year 4th)
Hopefully Ireland will have come away from the WWT20 in a positive rather than a negative fashion. True they lost all their games in the tournament, but it was their first time playing with the big guns and they made a good fist of it. It will have been a fantastic experience for all the players, but especially the youngsters - 14 year old Lucy O'Reilly and 16 year old Elena Tice, who both enhanced their embryonic careers.They have some good experience in their squad in Isobel and Cecilia Joyce, Clare Shillington and Eimar Richardson and after playing on the big stage I would expect them to go well this season.
Squad - no details available
Lancashire (last year 1st)
If Somerset felt miffed at not getting a chance to play in Div 1 this year (see below), imagine how Lancashire felt having gone through the "regular season" unbeaten, finishing top of the league and then losing in the play-off to second-placed Somerset. Lancashire have a young strong squad with England's Kate Cross the new talisman. The experienced Jasmine Titmuss had her best season with the ball. Opening bat Emma Lamb is one to watch this season. At 15 last year she was opening the batting and was the division's top scorer, including 113* v Durham. Another season in Div 2 might not do her cricket any harm, but she will be hoping it will be her last before pitting herself against the best in Division 1. Favourites to finish top.
Squad - Natalie Brown, Jessica Couser, Kathryn Cross, Rachel Dickinson, Bhumika Doshi, Megan Fairclough, Georgia Holmes, Hannah Knowles, Emma Lamb, Laura Marshall, Olivia McCusker, Shachi Pai, Nalisha Patel, Hannah Till, Jasmine Titmuss, Chloe Wallwork, Rachael Walsh, Maddy White
Somerset (last year 2nd)
Somerset looked primed for promotion last year, having beaten the previously unbeaten Lancashire in the top of the table play-off game, but they were kiboshed by the weather, which meant their play-off with Div 1 losers Essex was abandoned. The rules had no provision for any replay so Essex survived. It means they have to do it all again this year and that the likes of Anya Shrubsole, Fran Wilson and Sophie Luff will not be playing in the highest league. Somerset probably do not have the depth in their squad that Lancashire have and they will rely again on Jenny Withers' leg-spin (18 wickets) and short bursts from Shrubsole to win them matches. They might have cruelly missed their chance at a spot in the top league.
Squad - no details available
Staffordshire (last year 5th)
Solid performance from the team in 2013 with wins over Cheshire, Durham, Ireland and Wales. Last year West Indian Shanel Daley turned out for the team, but without too much success. This year they have Aussie Anna Lanning as their overseas player who will probably add a competitive edge and may win them some games on her own. Don't think they have enough strength in depth though to trouble the likes of Lancashire, Somerset and Ireland for the top spots.
Squad -Elsa-Marie Evans (capt), Franki James, Evelyn Jones, Steph Butler, Looby Lally, Amy Carnwell, Alex Hale, Charlotte Whyle, Kathryn Whyle, Cheryl Allcock, Laura Malkin, Amber Sandhu, Charlotte Steele, Kate Ecclestone, Anna Lanning, Lucy Kelsall, Charlotte Mincher, Hettie Piggot
Wales (last year 7th)
The second national squad in the league, but have a way to go to catch up with the Irish. They managed only one win last year and that was against fellow strugglers Devon. Loughborough's Gwenan Davies top-scored with the bat (164 runs) and Clare Thomas was the top wicket-taker with 11 wickets. They will have their work cut out against the likes of Lancs, Somerset and Ireland, but it should be a good scrap with Cheshire, Durham and Staffs.
Squad - no details available
Worcestershire (last year 3rd)
Worcestershire will be without influential skipper Katie Blunt this summer as she goes travelling, but Thea Brookes takes over the reigns and will look to push on from last year's great efforts with both bat and ball. Exciting new faces include Jo Cull who joins from Gloucester, and Charlotte North - on loan from Nottinghamshire. Emerging talent includes Emily Arlott, Jess Humby and Abbie Houghton, who will all undoubtedly have benefited from playing senior cricket last year.
Squad - Thea Brookes (cpt), Emily Arlott, Rachel Baldwin, Katie Barnes, Clare Boycott, Salma Bi, Jo Cull, Vicky Evans, Martha Farnworth, Jo Greaves, Abbie Houghton, Naomi Heyward, Jess Humby, Millie Marriot, Charlotte North, Sarvi Razavi, Lauren Rowles
Sunday 4th May
Cheshire v Staffordshire
Durham v Wales
Lancashire v Ireland
Somerset v Worcestershire
Monday 5th May
Devon v Staffordshire
Durham v Ireland
Somerset v Lancashire
Worcestershire v Cheshire
Sunday 25th May
Cheshire v Ireland
Staffordshire v Durham
Wales v Devon
Worcestershire v Lancashire
Monday 26th May
Devon v Somerset
Durham v Lancashire
Staffordshire v Ireland
Wales v Worcestershire
Sunday 15th June
Devon v Worcestershire
Durham v Somerset
Lancashire v Cheshire
Wales v Ireland
Sunday 22nd June
Cheshire v Durham
Lancashire v Devon
Wales v Somerset
Worcestershire v Staffordshire
Sunday 29th June
Cheshire v Devon
Lancashire v Wales
Somerset v Staffordshire
Worcestershire v Ireland
Sunday 20th July
Cheshire v Somerset
Devon v Ireland
Durham v Worcestershire
Staffordshire v Wales
Sunday 27th July
Devon v Durham
Somerset v Ireland
Staffordshire v Lancashire
Wales v Cheshire
Tuesday, 10 December 2013
WCC14 - Full Div 1 & Div 2 Fixtures
The full fixture list for Divisions 1 and 2 of the Women's County Championship 2014 (WCC14) are below:-
Sunday 4th May
Division 1
Surrey v Warwickshire
Notts v Berkshire
Sussex v Essex
Kent v Yorkshire
Division 2
Somerset v Worcestershire
Durham v Wales
Lancashire v Ireland
Cheshire v Staffordshire
Monday 5th May
Division 1
Sussex v Warwickshire
Middlesex v Kent
Surrey v Yorkshire
Notts v Essex
Division 2
Somerset v Lancashire
Devon v Staffordshire
Worcestershire v Cheshire
Durham v Ireland
Sunday 25th May
Division 1
Essex v Surrey
Yorkshire v Middlesex
Kent v Warwickshire
Berkshire v Sussex
Division 2
Wales v Devon
Worcestershire v Lancashire
Staffordshire v Durham
Cheshire v Ireland
Monday 26th May
Division 1
Kent v Essex
Notts v Sussex
Berkshire v Surrey
Warwickshire v Middlesex
Division 2
Staffordshire v Ireland
Durham v Lancashire
Wales v Worcestershire
Devon v Somerset
Sunday 15th June
Division 1
Yorkshire v Sussex
Essex v Berkshire
Warwickshire v Notts
Middlesex v Surrey
Division 2
Lancashire v Cheshire
Wales v Ireland
Durham v Somerset
Devon v Worcestershire
Sunday 22nd June
Division 1
Notts v Middlesex
Essex v Warwickshire
Yorkshire v Berkshire
Sussex v Kent
Division 2
Cheshire v Durham
Worcestershire v Staffordshire
Lancashire v Devon
Wales v Somerset
Sunday 29th June
Division 1
Berkshire v Middlesex
Surrey v Sussex
Kent v Notts
Essex v Yorkshire
Division 2
Worcestershire v Ireland
Cheshire v Devon
Somerset v Staffordshire
Lancashire v Wales
Sunday 20th July
Division 1
Kent v Berkshire
Warwickshire v Yorkshire
Essex v Middlesex
Surrey v Notts
Division 2
Staffordshire v Wales
Cheshire v Somerset
Devon v Ireland
Durham v Worcestershire
Sunday 27th July
Division 1
Yorkshire v Notts
Surrey v Kent
Middlesex v Sussex
Berkshire v Warwickshire
Division 2
Devon v Durham
Somerset v Ireland
Wales v Cheshire
Staffordshire v Lancashire
MD
10/XII/13
Sunday 4th May
Division 1
Surrey v Warwickshire
Notts v Berkshire
Sussex v Essex
Kent v Yorkshire
Division 2
Somerset v Worcestershire
Durham v Wales
Lancashire v Ireland
Cheshire v Staffordshire
Monday 5th May
Division 1
Sussex v Warwickshire
Middlesex v Kent
Surrey v Yorkshire
Notts v Essex
Division 2
Somerset v Lancashire
Devon v Staffordshire
Worcestershire v Cheshire
Durham v Ireland
Sunday 25th May
Division 1
Essex v Surrey
Yorkshire v Middlesex
Kent v Warwickshire
Berkshire v Sussex
Division 2
Wales v Devon
Worcestershire v Lancashire
Staffordshire v Durham
Cheshire v Ireland
Monday 26th May
Division 1
Kent v Essex
Notts v Sussex
Berkshire v Surrey
Warwickshire v Middlesex
Division 2
Staffordshire v Ireland
Durham v Lancashire
Wales v Worcestershire
Devon v Somerset
Sunday 15th June
Division 1
Yorkshire v Sussex
Essex v Berkshire
Warwickshire v Notts
Middlesex v Surrey
Division 2
Lancashire v Cheshire
Wales v Ireland
Durham v Somerset
Devon v Worcestershire
Sunday 22nd June
Division 1
Notts v Middlesex
Essex v Warwickshire
Yorkshire v Berkshire
Sussex v Kent
Division 2
Cheshire v Durham
Worcestershire v Staffordshire
Lancashire v Devon
Wales v Somerset
Sunday 29th June
Division 1
Berkshire v Middlesex
Surrey v Sussex
Kent v Notts
Essex v Yorkshire
Division 2
Worcestershire v Ireland
Cheshire v Devon
Somerset v Staffordshire
Lancashire v Wales
Sunday 20th July
Division 1
Kent v Berkshire
Warwickshire v Yorkshire
Essex v Middlesex
Surrey v Notts
Division 2
Staffordshire v Wales
Cheshire v Somerset
Devon v Ireland
Durham v Worcestershire
Sunday 27th July
Division 1
Yorkshire v Notts
Surrey v Kent
Middlesex v Sussex
Berkshire v Warwickshire
Division 2
Devon v Durham
Somerset v Ireland
Wales v Cheshire
Staffordshire v Lancashire
MD
10/XII/13
Monday, 8 July 2013
Lancs and Somerset heading for title showdown
Results went pretty much the way of form this weekend as the Division Two Championship heads towards its closing matches of the season
Lancashire beat Devon by 8 wickets
Devon have been having a horrible season and it got worse against unbeaten Lancashire. Having won the toss Devon decided to bat, but within 28 overs they had been skittled out by Lancashire for just 69, mainly in the shape of opening bowlers Jasmine Titmuss who claimed 5/22, and Kathyrn Cross (3/29). Only three of the Devon batsmen made it into double figures (just). Lancashire made sure they picked up full points wrapping up victory in the 18th over for the loss of just two wickets (both claimed by Jessie Jones). Laura Marshall top scored with 34.
Somerset beat Wales by 9 wickets
Wales have had almost as torrid a time as Devon this year and Somerset duly dispatched them, despite the lack of Anya Shrubsole in their team. Having elected to bat Wales stumbled along to 151 before they were all out in the 41st over. There was only one real partnership of any note (65 runs) between Gwenan Davies (50) and Megan Burton (24). Gemma Mumby (21) also enjoyed herself at number 10. The reliable Bath duo of Sophie Le Marchand (79*) and Sophie Luff (39*) saw Somerset comfortably home in 36 overs.
Worcestershire beat Staffordshire by 7 wickets
Staffordshire were bundled out for 140 in just over 44 overs with Thea Brookes taking 3/34. West Indian import Shanel Daley was top scorer with 35. Brookes was an early casualty in Worcestershire's reply, but Naomi Heywood (59*) and Clare Boycott (37) took the Worcester total passed 100 and Heywood hung around to finish the job off in 34 overs with the loss of just three wickets.
Cheshire beat Durham by 104 runs
Neither team have been particularly adept at amassing big totals this season and Cheshire's innings of 198 all out, based around a fine opening partnership of 92 between Jenny Halstead (44) and Helen Smith (40), always looked to be too many for Durham. They made it to 60/3 but that soon became 67/9 as 14 year old left arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone got to work. She claimed 4/14 in a controlled spell of 10 overs which included six maidens - five of them on the trot. Only opener Laura Ellison (26) and number 11 Lynn McDonnell (15*) put up any real resistance as Durham were bowled out for 94.
It is difficult to see beyond Lancashire and Somerset for the Division Two title. Somerset only have Devon to play and a slip-up there seems unlikely. Lancashire have Durham and Ireland to play and would have to lose both games badly to be in any trouble. Ireland are still theoretically in the hunt and must play Staffs as well as Lancashire.
At the bottom its a dogfight between Durham, Wales and Devon for the last two spots. Durham still have three to play including potential clashes with Wales and Devon. Their destiny may be in their own hands.
The current Division Two table looks like this.
MD
8/VII/13
Lancashire beat Devon by 8 wickets
Devon have been having a horrible season and it got worse against unbeaten Lancashire. Having won the toss Devon decided to bat, but within 28 overs they had been skittled out by Lancashire for just 69, mainly in the shape of opening bowlers Jasmine Titmuss who claimed 5/22, and Kathyrn Cross (3/29). Only three of the Devon batsmen made it into double figures (just). Lancashire made sure they picked up full points wrapping up victory in the 18th over for the loss of just two wickets (both claimed by Jessie Jones). Laura Marshall top scored with 34.
Somerset beat Wales by 9 wickets
Wales have had almost as torrid a time as Devon this year and Somerset duly dispatched them, despite the lack of Anya Shrubsole in their team. Having elected to bat Wales stumbled along to 151 before they were all out in the 41st over. There was only one real partnership of any note (65 runs) between Gwenan Davies (50) and Megan Burton (24). Gemma Mumby (21) also enjoyed herself at number 10. The reliable Bath duo of Sophie Le Marchand (79*) and Sophie Luff (39*) saw Somerset comfortably home in 36 overs.
Worcestershire beat Staffordshire by 7 wickets
Staffordshire were bundled out for 140 in just over 44 overs with Thea Brookes taking 3/34. West Indian import Shanel Daley was top scorer with 35. Brookes was an early casualty in Worcestershire's reply, but Naomi Heywood (59*) and Clare Boycott (37) took the Worcester total passed 100 and Heywood hung around to finish the job off in 34 overs with the loss of just three wickets.
Cheshire beat Durham by 104 runs
Neither team have been particularly adept at amassing big totals this season and Cheshire's innings of 198 all out, based around a fine opening partnership of 92 between Jenny Halstead (44) and Helen Smith (40), always looked to be too many for Durham. They made it to 60/3 but that soon became 67/9 as 14 year old left arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone got to work. She claimed 4/14 in a controlled spell of 10 overs which included six maidens - five of them on the trot. Only opener Laura Ellison (26) and number 11 Lynn McDonnell (15*) put up any real resistance as Durham were bowled out for 94.
It is difficult to see beyond Lancashire and Somerset for the Division Two title. Somerset only have Devon to play and a slip-up there seems unlikely. Lancashire have Durham and Ireland to play and would have to lose both games badly to be in any trouble. Ireland are still theoretically in the hunt and must play Staffs as well as Lancashire.
At the bottom its a dogfight between Durham, Wales and Devon for the last two spots. Durham still have three to play including potential clashes with Wales and Devon. Their destiny may be in their own hands.
The current Division Two table looks like this.
| Division Two | |||||||||||
| Team | P | W | L | T | A | C | win points | bonus bat | bonus bowl | total points | avge points |
| Lancashire | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 60 | 19 | 24 | 103 | 17.17 |
| Somerset | 7 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 60 | 22 | 19 | 101 | 14.43 |
| Ireland | 6 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 40 | 18 | 18 | 76 | 12.67 |
| Worcestershire | 6 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 30 | 14 | 18 | 62 | 10.33 |
| Cheshire | 7 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 30 | 17 | 21 | 68 | 9.71 |
| Staffordshire | 7 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 30 | 17 | 14 | 61 | 8.71 |
| Durham | 5 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 10 | 7 | 16 | 33 | 6.60 |
| Wales | 6 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 10 | 16 | 13 | 39 | 6.50 |
| Devon | 6 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 10 | 15 | 13 | 38 | 6.33 |
MD
8/VII/13
Friday, 5 July 2013
Just two weekends of the County Championship to go!
As the England women take on the Pakistanis in two T20s today at Loughborough the rest of the county circuit players are gearing up for another round of County Championship matches on Sunday. This is the penultimate weekend of County Championship fixtures and things at the top and the bottom of Divisions One and Two are still very much up for grabs - take a look at the league tables here - http://womens-cricket.blogspot.co.uk/p/womens-county-championship-league.html
Division One
It looks like Sussex and Kent are heading to the Division One play-off, but both have tricky fixtures this weekend.
Sussex take on a resurgent Middlesex, fresh from their resounding eight wicket win over Warwickshire two weeks ago. It may be their only win to date, but their top order have batted consistently throughout the season with Natasha Miles, Cath Dalton and Helen Stolle all in the top 10 run-getters in the Division. They have made decent totals but not been able to bowl out their opponents. Sussex have been strong, but are severely hampered by injuries to key players. This could be a tight game.
Kent are at home to Surrey who have a similar problem to Middlesex - they can get runs, but cannot restrict the opposition. Nat Sciver will be on a high from her England performances this week and a big knock from her, and maybe some wickets too, could mean Kent won't have it all their own way, but Kent will be confident.
Third-placed Notts take on Yorkshire, who could leap-frog over them if they win. Whichever team loses is probably out of contention for the top two places. Notts were riding high, but suffered at the hands of Sussex two weeks ago. Yorkshire have lacked consistency - they beat Sussex, but lost badly to Berkshire and Warwickshire with some fragile batting. I think this is likely to be an edgy affair and one good knock could win it for either side.
Warwickshire take on Berkshire, who are still in with a shout of the top two places, having only lost two games this season to Kent and Essex. Warwickshire have struggled to put decent scores on the board and Berkshire should be favourites to win this one.
Division Two
Lancashire make the trip down to Devon in great form. They have won five out of five and should not really slip up against Devon who have had a torrid season. Devon have the potential to cause an upset though and they really need a win. I think this could be a good game to watch in the Devon sun.
Second-placed Somerset are at home to Wales and will be looking to keep the pressure on Lancashire and keep themselves above Ireland (who don't play this weekend). Wales are battling it out at the bottom of the league, but are unlikely to get much change out of a well-drilled Somerset team.
Staffs take on Worcestershire in a mid-table clash. Staffs have struggled for runs this season and Worcestershire will hope to capitalise on this and sneak up a place in the league.
Durham meet Cheshire, who have performed admirably this season. Both sides have struggled with the bat and this could be a low-scoring affair.
MD
5/VII/13
Division One
It looks like Sussex and Kent are heading to the Division One play-off, but both have tricky fixtures this weekend.
Sussex take on a resurgent Middlesex, fresh from their resounding eight wicket win over Warwickshire two weeks ago. It may be their only win to date, but their top order have batted consistently throughout the season with Natasha Miles, Cath Dalton and Helen Stolle all in the top 10 run-getters in the Division. They have made decent totals but not been able to bowl out their opponents. Sussex have been strong, but are severely hampered by injuries to key players. This could be a tight game.
Kent are at home to Surrey who have a similar problem to Middlesex - they can get runs, but cannot restrict the opposition. Nat Sciver will be on a high from her England performances this week and a big knock from her, and maybe some wickets too, could mean Kent won't have it all their own way, but Kent will be confident.
Third-placed Notts take on Yorkshire, who could leap-frog over them if they win. Whichever team loses is probably out of contention for the top two places. Notts were riding high, but suffered at the hands of Sussex two weeks ago. Yorkshire have lacked consistency - they beat Sussex, but lost badly to Berkshire and Warwickshire with some fragile batting. I think this is likely to be an edgy affair and one good knock could win it for either side.
Warwickshire take on Berkshire, who are still in with a shout of the top two places, having only lost two games this season to Kent and Essex. Warwickshire have struggled to put decent scores on the board and Berkshire should be favourites to win this one.
Division Two
Lancashire make the trip down to Devon in great form. They have won five out of five and should not really slip up against Devon who have had a torrid season. Devon have the potential to cause an upset though and they really need a win. I think this could be a good game to watch in the Devon sun.
Second-placed Somerset are at home to Wales and will be looking to keep the pressure on Lancashire and keep themselves above Ireland (who don't play this weekend). Wales are battling it out at the bottom of the league, but are unlikely to get much change out of a well-drilled Somerset team.
Staffs take on Worcestershire in a mid-table clash. Staffs have struggled for runs this season and Worcestershire will hope to capitalise on this and sneak up a place in the league.
Durham meet Cheshire, who have performed admirably this season. Both sides have struggled with the bat and this could be a low-scoring affair.
MD
5/VII/13
Monday, 24 June 2013
Lancs take stranglehold on Div 2
After another great weekend of games it looks like Lancashire and Somerset are heading for the top of the table decider and a chance at getting into Div 1 next year, while Devon, Wales and Durham slug it out at the other end of the table. Here are the match details:-
Lancashire beat Wales by 80 runs
Lancashire made it five wins out of five with a convincing effort against Wales, who have struggled so far this season. Asked to bat Lancashire scored a respectable, if unspectacular, 198/8 based around solid knocks from Kate Cross (58), Natalie Brown (37) and Emma Lamb (35). Rebecca Struthers was the best of the Welsh bowlers with 3/30. But Wales were soon in trouble in reply losing their top three batsmen with just 28 runs on the board. Megan Burton (42) and Gwenan Davies (24) did their best to restore some sanity, but got little support and Wales slumped to their fourth defeat in five games when they were all out in the 43rd over for just 118. Bhumika Doshi mopped up the tail with a quick 3/9 off just 16 balls.
Lancashire are comfortably top of the league and seem unlikely to relinquish their hold on one of the playoff places.
Wales are in the dogfight at the bottom of the table with just one win to their name and some tough fixtures to come. They will need to find some form and quickly.
Games to play
Lancs - v Devon, v Durham and v Ireland
Wales - v Somerset and v Worcestershire
Cheshire beat Devon by 15 runsA vital clash at the bottom of the table went the way of Cheshire thanks to a heroic eighth wicket stand of 102 from Lauren Griffiths (59) and Kate Harvey (44*). They rescued Cheshire from 70/7 to end on 172/9 and set Devon, who have struggled to win games they should have this year, a competitive target. Rebecca Donahue (3/27) and Aylish Cranstone (3/30) were the main wicket-takers for Wales. Cranstone (48) and the experienced Rosalie Birch (31) took Devon to 81/1 before Birch ran herself out and when Cranstone fell at 102 the Devon boat began to rock. Spinners Griffiths (3/25) and Raffaella Rodighiero (3/37) gradually whittled their way through the lower order and Devon's boat finally sank with 11 balls left of their innings, and with 15 runs still required.
Cheshire will be breathing a little easier after this win, but will need to beat bottom of the table Durham in their final game to be sure of safety from the relegation playoffs.
Devon on the other hand still have the top two teams in the league to play so their relegation worries remain. A win or big bonus points for Wales or Durham below them and they may be playing again at the end of the season to keep their place in Div 2.
Games to play
Cheshire - v Durham
Devon - v Lancashire and v Somerset
Somerset beat Staffordshire by 7 wicketsSecond-placed Somerset completed a comfortable win over Staffordshire in a game reduced to 36 overs per side, thanks to a mature knock of 55 from former England star and team manager Caroline Atkins. Staffs had scored a slow 130/6 with Charlotte Whyle hitting 40. Atkins and Sophie Luff (25) kept Somerset on course for the win, before they both fell in quick succession. But it was a minor blip and Somerset got home with 16 balls to spare.
Somerset continue to edge out Ireland for the second playoff place at the top of the league and finish with games against two teams at the bottom of the league.
Staffordshire look destined to finish mid-table but will be hoping to finish on a high in their last two games.
Games to play
Somerset - v Wales and v Devon
Staffs - v Worcestershire and v Ireland
Ireland beat Worcestershire by 7 wicketsIreland kept up the pressure on Somerset with a convincing win of their own against a Worcester team that have not lived-up to last year's potential. They skittled them out for 147 after an opening stand of 59 in which Thea Brookes (34) was the main contributor. After her departure wickets fell at regular intervals to Melissa Scott-Hayward (3/33) and the rest of the Irish bowlers. Isobel Joyce (44) and Kim Garth (40*) set up the win with Cecelia Joyce (37) also contributing as Ireland lost just three wickets in the chase and won with 14 overs in hand.
Ireland will need to win their last two games and hope that Somerset slip up in order to make the playoffs, unless Lancashire implode at the top of the table.
Worcestershire will look to finish strongly against two counties currently below them in the table, but mid-table is where they are now likely to finish.Games to play
Ireland - v Staffs and v Lancashire
Worcestershire - v Staffs and v Wales
MD
24/VI/13
Lancashire beat Wales by 80 runs
Lancashire made it five wins out of five with a convincing effort against Wales, who have struggled so far this season. Asked to bat Lancashire scored a respectable, if unspectacular, 198/8 based around solid knocks from Kate Cross (58), Natalie Brown (37) and Emma Lamb (35). Rebecca Struthers was the best of the Welsh bowlers with 3/30. But Wales were soon in trouble in reply losing their top three batsmen with just 28 runs on the board. Megan Burton (42) and Gwenan Davies (24) did their best to restore some sanity, but got little support and Wales slumped to their fourth defeat in five games when they were all out in the 43rd over for just 118. Bhumika Doshi mopped up the tail with a quick 3/9 off just 16 balls.
Lancashire are comfortably top of the league and seem unlikely to relinquish their hold on one of the playoff places.
Wales are in the dogfight at the bottom of the table with just one win to their name and some tough fixtures to come. They will need to find some form and quickly.
Games to play
Lancs - v Devon, v Durham and v Ireland
Wales - v Somerset and v Worcestershire
Cheshire beat Devon by 15 runsA vital clash at the bottom of the table went the way of Cheshire thanks to a heroic eighth wicket stand of 102 from Lauren Griffiths (59) and Kate Harvey (44*). They rescued Cheshire from 70/7 to end on 172/9 and set Devon, who have struggled to win games they should have this year, a competitive target. Rebecca Donahue (3/27) and Aylish Cranstone (3/30) were the main wicket-takers for Wales. Cranstone (48) and the experienced Rosalie Birch (31) took Devon to 81/1 before Birch ran herself out and when Cranstone fell at 102 the Devon boat began to rock. Spinners Griffiths (3/25) and Raffaella Rodighiero (3/37) gradually whittled their way through the lower order and Devon's boat finally sank with 11 balls left of their innings, and with 15 runs still required.
Cheshire will be breathing a little easier after this win, but will need to beat bottom of the table Durham in their final game to be sure of safety from the relegation playoffs.
Devon on the other hand still have the top two teams in the league to play so their relegation worries remain. A win or big bonus points for Wales or Durham below them and they may be playing again at the end of the season to keep their place in Div 2.
Games to play
Cheshire - v Durham
Devon - v Lancashire and v Somerset
Somerset beat Staffordshire by 7 wicketsSecond-placed Somerset completed a comfortable win over Staffordshire in a game reduced to 36 overs per side, thanks to a mature knock of 55 from former England star and team manager Caroline Atkins. Staffs had scored a slow 130/6 with Charlotte Whyle hitting 40. Atkins and Sophie Luff (25) kept Somerset on course for the win, before they both fell in quick succession. But it was a minor blip and Somerset got home with 16 balls to spare.
Somerset continue to edge out Ireland for the second playoff place at the top of the league and finish with games against two teams at the bottom of the league.
Staffordshire look destined to finish mid-table but will be hoping to finish on a high in their last two games.
Games to play
Somerset - v Wales and v Devon
Staffs - v Worcestershire and v Ireland
Ireland beat Worcestershire by 7 wicketsIreland kept up the pressure on Somerset with a convincing win of their own against a Worcester team that have not lived-up to last year's potential. They skittled them out for 147 after an opening stand of 59 in which Thea Brookes (34) was the main contributor. After her departure wickets fell at regular intervals to Melissa Scott-Hayward (3/33) and the rest of the Irish bowlers. Isobel Joyce (44) and Kim Garth (40*) set up the win with Cecelia Joyce (37) also contributing as Ireland lost just three wickets in the chase and won with 14 overs in hand.
Ireland will need to win their last two games and hope that Somerset slip up in order to make the playoffs, unless Lancashire implode at the top of the table.
Worcestershire will look to finish strongly against two counties currently below them in the table, but mid-table is where they are now likely to finish.Games to play
Ireland - v Staffs and v Lancashire
Worcestershire - v Staffs and v Wales
MD
24/VI/13
Tuesday, 28 May 2013
Lancashire make hay while the sun shines
Division Two - Second Bank Holiday Double-Header Review
[updated Div 2 table here - http://womens-cricket.blogspot.co.uk/p/womens-county-championship-league.html]
Lancashire were the big winners in the second Bank Holiday double-header set of fixtures. They maintained their 100% record with wins over Worcestershire, and a big win over previously unbeaten Somerset. It puts them in a commanding position with chasers Ireland, Worcester and Staffordshire all losing another game over the weekend.
Lancashire beat Worcestershire by 6 wickets - Worcestershire probably regretted their decision to bat first when they were bowled out for 102 in 38 overs. Bhumika Doshi (4/17) skittled out the middle order after Worcestershire's top order had failed to fire with the exception of Clare Boycott (31) and Thea Brookes (26). Fifteen year old Emma Lamb led the Lancashire reply with a mature 54 not out as Lancashire reached their target in 28 overs with four wickets down, three of them to Jo Greaves (3/18).
Ireland beat Cheshire by 13 runs in a low-scoring affair at Hawk Green. Ireland could only muster 129 before they were bowled out by the impressive Dawn Prestidge (6/28), including a hat-trick. Ireland can thank Rebecca Rolfe (39) and Amy Kenealy (25) for at least giving their bowlers something to bowl at. Cheshire looked in good shape as the openers took the score to 31 without loss, but when Hannah Gradwell (31) fell at 49, it was left to Prestidge (42) to try and hold things together. But Melissa Scott-Hayward (5/12) ran through the lower order, including Prestige as the ninth wicket, as Cheshire slumped to 116 all out.
Wales beat Devon by 52 runs to clock up their first win of the season, based around a solid, if rather slow, opening partnership of 139 between Lauren Parfitt (52) and Joanne Westwood (55). They fell within one run of each other, from when the rest of the Welsh batting struggled to 199/8. Devon made a reasonable start and had got to 101/3 when the wheels fell off thanks to Claire Thomas (5/20 in 10 overs), who reduced them to 114/8. Lydia Harris (21*) tried to hold it together with the lower order, but they ended well short on 147 all out.
Staffs beat Durham by 115 runs. Invited to bat Staffs scored a respectable 194/3 in their 50 overs thanks to workmanlike knocks from Charlotte Whyle (52) and Stephanie Butler (46*). Durham never really got going in reply with only Laura Hockaday (17) and Becky Glen (24) reaching double figures before they were all out for 79 in the 30th over. Shanel Daley claimed 5/25 and Butler 3/23.
Lancashire beat Somerset by 6 wickets in the big clash of the weekend. Invited to bat Somerset were soon in all sorts of trouble at 14/6 with three wickets apiece for Jasmine Titmuss (3/8) and Kathryn Cross (4/20). The lower order tried their best to rescue the situation, but it was not to be as Somerset crashed to 60 all out. Lancashire made steady headway towards victory before a late clatter of wickets to Jenny Withers (3/4), but it was too little too late as Emma Lamb (37*) completed another good weekend for her and for Lancashire.
Durham beat Ireland by 19 runs. In a second low-scoring match of the weekend Ireland this time came out on the losing side. Having restricted Durham to just 118/7 in their 50 overs Ireland must have felt the game was theirs to win, but Durham, and Rachel Petherick (6/17) in particular, had other ideas. Batsmen came and went as Ireland slumped to 38/8 and only a rearguard action by Louise McCarthy (21) and Mary Waldron (20) at nine and ten got Ireland anywhere close, before they were bowled out for 99 with 10 overs to go, to give Durham their first win of the season and dent Ireland's play-off hopes.
Devon beat Staffs by 8 wickets to finally notch their first win of the season. Staffs would have been hoping to secure their place in the top half of the league against a winless Devon, but their total of 133 all out was woefully short of what they needed. Elysse Lally (38) and Shanel Daley (30) were the only two significant scorers. Rebecca Donahue finished with 4/30 for Devon, who then proceeded to knock off the required runs in 30 overs and with eight wickets to spare. Top three Amara Carr (48), Aylish Cranstone (35) and Rosalie Birch (32*) saw them home.
Cheshire v Worcestershire was abandoned after Cheshire had been bowled out for 107. Worcester never got a chance to start their reply before play was called off.
[updated Div 2 table here - http://womens-cricket.blogspot.co.uk/p/womens-county-championship-league.html]
The County Championship takes a break for the next four weeks as the Super 4s tournament takes place over the next three weekends, involving the top players in England.
MD
28/V/13
[updated Div 2 table here - http://womens-cricket.blogspot.co.uk/p/womens-county-championship-league.html]
Lancashire were the big winners in the second Bank Holiday double-header set of fixtures. They maintained their 100% record with wins over Worcestershire, and a big win over previously unbeaten Somerset. It puts them in a commanding position with chasers Ireland, Worcester and Staffordshire all losing another game over the weekend.
Lancashire beat Worcestershire by 6 wickets - Worcestershire probably regretted their decision to bat first when they were bowled out for 102 in 38 overs. Bhumika Doshi (4/17) skittled out the middle order after Worcestershire's top order had failed to fire with the exception of Clare Boycott (31) and Thea Brookes (26). Fifteen year old Emma Lamb led the Lancashire reply with a mature 54 not out as Lancashire reached their target in 28 overs with four wickets down, three of them to Jo Greaves (3/18).
Ireland beat Cheshire by 13 runs in a low-scoring affair at Hawk Green. Ireland could only muster 129 before they were bowled out by the impressive Dawn Prestidge (6/28), including a hat-trick. Ireland can thank Rebecca Rolfe (39) and Amy Kenealy (25) for at least giving their bowlers something to bowl at. Cheshire looked in good shape as the openers took the score to 31 without loss, but when Hannah Gradwell (31) fell at 49, it was left to Prestidge (42) to try and hold things together. But Melissa Scott-Hayward (5/12) ran through the lower order, including Prestige as the ninth wicket, as Cheshire slumped to 116 all out.
Wales beat Devon by 52 runs to clock up their first win of the season, based around a solid, if rather slow, opening partnership of 139 between Lauren Parfitt (52) and Joanne Westwood (55). They fell within one run of each other, from when the rest of the Welsh batting struggled to 199/8. Devon made a reasonable start and had got to 101/3 when the wheels fell off thanks to Claire Thomas (5/20 in 10 overs), who reduced them to 114/8. Lydia Harris (21*) tried to hold it together with the lower order, but they ended well short on 147 all out.
Staffs beat Durham by 115 runs. Invited to bat Staffs scored a respectable 194/3 in their 50 overs thanks to workmanlike knocks from Charlotte Whyle (52) and Stephanie Butler (46*). Durham never really got going in reply with only Laura Hockaday (17) and Becky Glen (24) reaching double figures before they were all out for 79 in the 30th over. Shanel Daley claimed 5/25 and Butler 3/23.
Lancashire beat Somerset by 6 wickets in the big clash of the weekend. Invited to bat Somerset were soon in all sorts of trouble at 14/6 with three wickets apiece for Jasmine Titmuss (3/8) and Kathryn Cross (4/20). The lower order tried their best to rescue the situation, but it was not to be as Somerset crashed to 60 all out. Lancashire made steady headway towards victory before a late clatter of wickets to Jenny Withers (3/4), but it was too little too late as Emma Lamb (37*) completed another good weekend for her and for Lancashire.
Durham beat Ireland by 19 runs. In a second low-scoring match of the weekend Ireland this time came out on the losing side. Having restricted Durham to just 118/7 in their 50 overs Ireland must have felt the game was theirs to win, but Durham, and Rachel Petherick (6/17) in particular, had other ideas. Batsmen came and went as Ireland slumped to 38/8 and only a rearguard action by Louise McCarthy (21) and Mary Waldron (20) at nine and ten got Ireland anywhere close, before they were bowled out for 99 with 10 overs to go, to give Durham their first win of the season and dent Ireland's play-off hopes.
Devon beat Staffs by 8 wickets to finally notch their first win of the season. Staffs would have been hoping to secure their place in the top half of the league against a winless Devon, but their total of 133 all out was woefully short of what they needed. Elysse Lally (38) and Shanel Daley (30) were the only two significant scorers. Rebecca Donahue finished with 4/30 for Devon, who then proceeded to knock off the required runs in 30 overs and with eight wickets to spare. Top three Amara Carr (48), Aylish Cranstone (35) and Rosalie Birch (32*) saw them home.
Cheshire v Worcestershire was abandoned after Cheshire had been bowled out for 107. Worcester never got a chance to start their reply before play was called off.
[updated Div 2 table here - http://womens-cricket.blogspot.co.uk/p/womens-county-championship-league.html]
The County Championship takes a break for the next four weeks as the Super 4s tournament takes place over the next three weekends, involving the top players in England.
MD
28/V/13
Thursday, 23 May 2013
Key weekend in Women's County Championship
It may not even be the end of May, but this is another massive weekend in the Women's County Championship with games being played on Sunday and Monday. By Monday most teams will have played more than half of their fixtures for this season and the teams in the running for the play-offs and relegation will be much clearer.
Key matches will be Kent v Sussex in Div 1 on Monday - these are the two teams that look like they are heading for the Championship play-off again this season. The side that wins will almost certainly have one foot in the play-off. The loser will not be able to afford any more slip-ups before the end of the season, with Notts and Warwickshire breathing down their necks. At the other end of the table Surrey take on Middlesex on Monday with both teams desperate to notch up their first win.
In Div 2 Monday sees the much-anticipated clash between currently unbeaten Lancashire and Somerset, and Devon take on Wales on Sunday to try and keep themselves off the bottom of the table.
I'll run through all the games on both days below, but it is perhaps just worth reiterating what happens once all the league games have been played, as it is not as straightforward as you might think.
The top two teams in Divisions 1, 2 and 3 will play off against each other. The winner of the Division 1 play-off will be the County Champions.
The bottom two teams in Divisions 1, 2 and 3 will also play-off against each other. The winner of each play-off will avoid relegation. The loser will meet the winner of the top two play-off in the division below. The winner of this match will go into the higher division and the loser will go into the lower division next season.
All of which means that it is pretty tough to get promotion (you have to finish top two and then win your play-off and then win another play-off against the relegaion battle loser from the division above), and that the bottom two teams in each of division (1,2 and 3) get two play-off chances to avoid relegation.
Division One - Matches and Preview
Sunday 26th May (11am)
Berks v Essex
Notts v Warwickshire
Surrey v Middlesex
Sussex v Yorkshire
Monday 27th May (11am)
Berks v Yorks
Kent v Sussex
Middlesex v Notts
Warwickshire v Essex
Berkshire will be hoping to pick up wins against both Essex and Yorkshire, but after their fragile batting effort against Kent last week they may come unstuck in at least one of those games.
Warwickshire finally got their season off the ground last week against Yorkshire. They have a tough game against Notts on Saturday, but I expect them to pull off a win there and then consolidate their place in the County Championship table with a further win over Essex on Sunday.
Surrey will be desperate to win their only game of the weekend against Middlesex on Sunday. Middlesex will have other ideas and if their batting can fire they may consign Surrey to the bottom spot in the league. Middlesex play Notts on Monday which should be a tight match. Notts may just nick it.
Sussex warm up for their big clash with Kent on Monday, with a tough match against Yorkshire, but they will back themselves to win both games. Much could depend on the fitness and form of their England players - Taylor, Colvin, Elwiss and Brindle - playing two games in two days. Kent have the advantage that they can rest their players on Sunday and come out all guns blazing on Monday. Charlotte Edwards batting for Kent may again be key.
Division Two - Matches and Preview
Sunday 26th May (11am)
Cheshire v Ireland
Devon v Wales
Durham v Staffs
Lancashire v Worcestershire
Monday 27th May (11am)
Cheshire v Worcestershire
Durham v Ireland
Lancashire v Somerset
Staffs v Devon
With unbeaten Somerset only playing one match over the weekend the chance is there for others to make ground on them this weekend. If Lancashire can beat Worcester on Sunday and then overcome Somerset themselves on Monday they will have won four from four and will be the only unbeaten team in Div 2. But that is a big "if". Worcester have wins over Durham and Devon under their belts already and could be a tough start to the weekend for Lancashire. Somerset will be no easier and they will be desperate to maintain their 100% record and go to the top of the league. Both games will be tense affairs.
Devon and Wales have had miserable starts to their seasons. Devon may add to Wales' woes in Wales' only game of the weekend on Sunday. They will then hope to beat Staffs on Sunday, who lost out to Lancashire last week.
Durham have a tough weekend ahead of them as they meet Staffs on Sunday and Ireland on Monday, with Isobel Joyce back in the Ireland team. It will take one or two fine individual performances for Durham to get off the mark against either team.
Ireland may be the biggest gainers of the weekend. If they can overcome Durham on Monday, they may already have another win under the belts from the previous day when they take on a young Cheshire side. Cheshire won their first match last weekend against Wales, but Ireland and Worcester this week could make it a disappointing weekend for the North Easterners.
MD
23/V/13
Key matches will be Kent v Sussex in Div 1 on Monday - these are the two teams that look like they are heading for the Championship play-off again this season. The side that wins will almost certainly have one foot in the play-off. The loser will not be able to afford any more slip-ups before the end of the season, with Notts and Warwickshire breathing down their necks. At the other end of the table Surrey take on Middlesex on Monday with both teams desperate to notch up their first win.
In Div 2 Monday sees the much-anticipated clash between currently unbeaten Lancashire and Somerset, and Devon take on Wales on Sunday to try and keep themselves off the bottom of the table.
I'll run through all the games on both days below, but it is perhaps just worth reiterating what happens once all the league games have been played, as it is not as straightforward as you might think.
The top two teams in Divisions 1, 2 and 3 will play off against each other. The winner of the Division 1 play-off will be the County Champions.
The bottom two teams in Divisions 1, 2 and 3 will also play-off against each other. The winner of each play-off will avoid relegation. The loser will meet the winner of the top two play-off in the division below. The winner of this match will go into the higher division and the loser will go into the lower division next season.
All of which means that it is pretty tough to get promotion (you have to finish top two and then win your play-off and then win another play-off against the relegaion battle loser from the division above), and that the bottom two teams in each of division (1,2 and 3) get two play-off chances to avoid relegation.
Division One - Matches and Preview
Sunday 26th May (11am)
Berks v Essex
Notts v Warwickshire
Surrey v Middlesex
Sussex v Yorkshire
Monday 27th May (11am)
Berks v Yorks
Kent v Sussex
Middlesex v Notts
Warwickshire v Essex
Berkshire will be hoping to pick up wins against both Essex and Yorkshire, but after their fragile batting effort against Kent last week they may come unstuck in at least one of those games.
Warwickshire finally got their season off the ground last week against Yorkshire. They have a tough game against Notts on Saturday, but I expect them to pull off a win there and then consolidate their place in the County Championship table with a further win over Essex on Sunday.
Surrey will be desperate to win their only game of the weekend against Middlesex on Sunday. Middlesex will have other ideas and if their batting can fire they may consign Surrey to the bottom spot in the league. Middlesex play Notts on Monday which should be a tight match. Notts may just nick it.
Sussex warm up for their big clash with Kent on Monday, with a tough match against Yorkshire, but they will back themselves to win both games. Much could depend on the fitness and form of their England players - Taylor, Colvin, Elwiss and Brindle - playing two games in two days. Kent have the advantage that they can rest their players on Sunday and come out all guns blazing on Monday. Charlotte Edwards batting for Kent may again be key.
Division Two - Matches and Preview
Sunday 26th May (11am)
Cheshire v Ireland
Devon v Wales
Durham v Staffs
Lancashire v Worcestershire
Monday 27th May (11am)
Cheshire v Worcestershire
Durham v Ireland
Lancashire v Somerset
Staffs v Devon
With unbeaten Somerset only playing one match over the weekend the chance is there for others to make ground on them this weekend. If Lancashire can beat Worcester on Sunday and then overcome Somerset themselves on Monday they will have won four from four and will be the only unbeaten team in Div 2. But that is a big "if". Worcester have wins over Durham and Devon under their belts already and could be a tough start to the weekend for Lancashire. Somerset will be no easier and they will be desperate to maintain their 100% record and go to the top of the league. Both games will be tense affairs.
Devon and Wales have had miserable starts to their seasons. Devon may add to Wales' woes in Wales' only game of the weekend on Sunday. They will then hope to beat Staffs on Sunday, who lost out to Lancashire last week.
Durham have a tough weekend ahead of them as they meet Staffs on Sunday and Ireland on Monday, with Isobel Joyce back in the Ireland team. It will take one or two fine individual performances for Durham to get off the mark against either team.
Ireland may be the biggest gainers of the weekend. If they can overcome Durham on Monday, they may already have another win under the belts from the previous day when they take on a young Cheshire side. Cheshire won their first match last weekend against Wales, but Ireland and Worcester this week could make it a disappointing weekend for the North Easterners.
MD
23/V/13
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