Whilst that would be nice, I doubt it will matter. Even if they thrashed us, I still can't see them overtaking Surrey. It might not even go down to the final round of matches next week, particularly considering Northants' desperation to win. (Similar to last week vs Warks, if it comes to Northants needing to set something up, they'll have basically no cards to play in that negotiation.)
A magnificent batting performance by Middlesex today against Warwickshire fine bowling attack. It was no mean achievement, reaching 121 all.out. Hopefully, Warwickshire will score 400 plus. The onus is on Kent to get more bonus points in their game against Somerset.
So Kent’s gamble on inserting Somerset at Taunton didn’t pay off. Som 214-2 COP, only 53.2 overs bowled. Lammonby got 109 before being caught behind off Bell-Drummond.
I hope this ends in a draw and Warwickshire win.against Middlesex. I, for oñe, have not forgotten the shabby way that Middlesex and Yorkshire colluded to deprive Somerset of the CC in.2016. Both deserve a long stay at the bottom.of División 2!!
This could well be more than enough for Essex to seize control of the match and go on to win. It is arguable that Essex have the most potent attack as they have proved they are capable of bowling out sides twice.. Surrey are under pressure.
Well we certainly know how to disappoint. After that shambles of a finish to the one-day cup, which I had the misfortune to see first hand, they're now collapsing in their usual heap at Chelmsford after a promising start. I can't see Surrey beating Northants now so Essex and Surrey will be pretty much level coming into the last round. At least Surrey will have the boost of knowing they're playing us and any sort of win will likely be enough.
Even though both us and Surrey are up against it, it's not inconceivable that either or both of us could still win (if the weather allows). Northants are desperate for a win. And Essex can only really afford to draw if Surrey lose. So both sides could be open to trying to set something up - in which case both us and Surrey would hold quite a few of the cards. That said, there is still just enough time for either side to win their games naturally.
Essex will probably dangle the carrot more than normal. If they set us 300+ to win we'll just play for the draw. But 250 I can see us going for.
I think the latter which Hampshire could well chase. At least it is not the revolting contrived way of Middlesex and Yorkshire.
