That is a big hole to fill, but Root has a team of fighters and as Buttler and Woakes proved, there are others capable of stepping up to the plate.
Can we get 158? We've essentially got the same batting line-up as last week - no Dawson or Stevenson (presumably) is a huge blow, but compared to last week it's only the loss of Crane and Dale - and they made 153 and 150...
Not that he's the greatest bowler in the world, but it's good to see that Wheal is back in the country. I guess it comes down to how match training he's done as to whether he can play next week. I presume he hasn't had the same visa issues as Abbott - as someone who plays for Scotland, I would assume he has a UK passport - and hence getting him back over here has been much easier.
The Middlesex attack these days is not the most frightening. The batsmen just need to be disciplined when facing Murtagh who gives next to nothing away.
We had set off quite positively. But more recently, especially since the wicket, we've slowed right down. Although 4 runs from Alsop as I type.
I'd make Middlesex very marginal favourites at the moment. 55-45. If either Weatherley or Northeast go on and make a 50 or 60, you would expect us to get there. But if they both fall fairly early tomorrow, I don't see anyone us taking us to victory.
I'd make us favourites tbh. Only need 98. New ball has been negotiated. If Middlesex had a decent spinner then I would be a bit concerned. But they don't.
Trying hard not to get out, 40 runs off 138 balls is a bit extreme, but others are falling around him, we are two batters short as well.
Not getting out is all well and good but you've got to look to score as well. Him and Barker have done that which has reduced the runs required quite quickly.
Both sides are what you would say as average at the present time due to injuries, absences and rebuilding. In Middlesex's case it might be due to too many "old school" ties at the executive level, which contrasta with the dynamic Bransgrove of Hampshire.
If Weatherley had got out playing an aggressive shot then the match would already be over, he is doing his job as an Opener and has a chance to win carrying his bat. Let's not forget his massive contribution in the first innings too there are plenty of other candidates to blame if we fall short. As Brendy says score a 50 or 60 and we had a chance at the start of today.
